Andaman vs Maldives: Which One’s Worth Your Trip?

Andaman vs Maldives: Which One’s Worth Your Trip?

Maldives is ‘the’ honeymoon destination. Quaint resort islands with uber luxurious facilities and complete access to the clear blue waters – Maldives promises seclusion with luxury. Andaman Islands are about diverse experiences for all types of travellers. The luxury resorts merge with trekking trails, adventure sports, natural wonders and underwater experiences that leave you enamored.

It’s hard to choose between the two – but we make it easy for you with info on where to go, what to do and experiences to expect.

Best Time to Visit Andaman vs Maldives

Andaman Islands

October to March is a great time to visit Andamans. The winter months are ideal for exploring the islands and the waters with dry days, clear skies and calm seas.  April to June isn’t tourist season owing to the tropical heat and humidity but it’s cheaper – backpackers we are looking at you. July to September is when rains hit the archipelago, and travel becomes limited even as the landscape turns lush and green.

Maldives

November and April is the perfect time for a visit. You can expect tropical weather with sunshine and clear waters. The wet monsoon sets in from May to November, so we don’t recommend travelling Maldives during this time since frequent rains can dampen your holiday mood.

Places to Visit in Andaman vs Maldives

Where to Go in Andaman?

1. The Classic Circuit: Port Blair – Havelock – Neil

This is the golden triangle of Andaman travel. Start in Port Blair, the capital, where history comes alive at the Cellular Jail and the many small but insightful museums. Don’t miss Corbyn’s Cove, a breezy beach close to town, perfect for sunset strolls.

Next, take a ferry to Havelock Island, known for scuba diving and stunning beaches. Snorkel at Elephant Beach or watch the sky turn pink at Radhanagar Beach, this is where the magic happens.

Then comes Neil Island, the laid-back cousin. Slow down and cycle through paddy fields, watch the sunrise at Sitapur Beach and laze the day away at Laxmanpur Beach.

2. Offbeat Islands & Hidden Gems

Want to go beyond the usual? Head north. Long Island is raw, rustic and dotted with jungle trails. Middle and North Andaman take you through lesser-seen coastal villages and scenic drives, Kalipur Beach, turtle nesting grounds and Alfred Caves. If you’re chasing waterfalls and surf spots, Little Andaman is your place. And if you want the ultimate bragging rights, take a cruise to Barren Island, India’s only active volcano.

3. A Glimpse into the Past

Andaman isn’t just beaches,  it’s full of stories. Visit the Cellular Jail to know the struggle of freedom fighters in India, explore old Chatham Saw Mill, still in operation since British times. Walk through the eerie ruins of Ross Island, once the colonial capital. The Anthropological Museum, Samudrika Naval Museum and Forest Museum in Port Blair offer glimpses into the islands’ indigenous tribes, marine life and history, a side of the Andamans most people miss.

Where to Go in Maldives?

1. Male – Culture & History in the Capital

Male might be small, but it packs in the capital’s soul. Spend a day here before heading to your resort, visit the Grand Friday Mosque, walk along the Artificial Beach, and pause at the Tsunami Monument. Majeedhee Magu, the local shopping street, gives you a taste of everyday island life. You won’t find nightclubs or beach bars here, but there’s something grounding about watching school kids bike home and locals sipping coffee by the water.

2. Island Hopping with Seaplanes, Speedboats & Stays

Resort islands are the Maldives’ main draw, but you’re not limited to just one. Island hopping is easy and worth doing. Take a seaplane to a luxe escape, or hop on a speedboat for a budget-friendly local island. Baros Island is known for its unique fossilized sand, while Mirihi is famous for intimate overwater villas. Visit Maafushi for a more local vibe, or cruise to Vaadhoo Island to witness the surreal glow of bioluminescent beaches at night.

3. Vaadhoo & Dhaalu Atoll

Vaadhoo’s “Glowing Beach” feels unreal with waves glow blue as they touch the shore, thanks to bioluminescent plankton. The sight is best on moonless nights, and it’s not just for the ‘instagram ‘ it’s genuinely amazing. In Dhaalu Atoll, Angsana Velavaru is where you can snorkel with stingrays and spot clownfish in calm, clear waters. These islands are less crowded, offering that postcard version of Maldives.

4. Bandos Island & Biyadhoo

Bandos Island is perfect for relaxed stays with some of the best reef access right off the beach. You can snorkel, scuba dive, or even join a night fishing trip with local guides. Biyadhoo is an older resort but loved for its lush greenery and quiet beaches. These islands don’t seem luxury, but they quietly deliver everything that matters – clear water, coral gardens, and fresh seafood.

Expert Insights – “I stayed a night in Male before heading out to the islands, and honestly, I’m glad I did. Watching locals offer evening prayers at the mosque, walking the quiet harbourfront, it felt different from the postcard Maldives. Then the next day, I took a speedboat to Baros, and the water turned from deep blue to neon turquoise in minutes. That contrast? That’s what makes this place hit differently.”
– Ishita, Creative Head, Go2Andaman

Things to Do in Andaman vs Maldives

What Activities to Try in Andaman?

1. Scuba Diving & Snorkelling

The waters around the Andaman Islands are unbelievably clear and what lies beneath is just as impressive. Coral reefs here are thriving, colourful, and filled with marine life. You don’t need to be an swimmer or expert either for scuba diving in Andaman. If you’re diving for the first time or have your logbook full, places like Havelock, Neil, and Chidiya Tapu have dive sites and snorkel spots for every level. Expect calm waters, helpful instructors, and some truly memorable underwater moments.

2. Barren Island – Day Trip

Barren Island, a black-sand beauty far out at sea, is home to the only active volcano in India. While reaching it requires good weather and a private charter for a private or shared trip, it’s a rare, once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience. The surrounding waters are also rich with marine life, making it a surreal spot for advanced scuba divers and game fishing enthusiasts.

Expert Insight – “I’ve been on boat rides before, but this one was something else. Hours into the open sea, and suddenly there it was  a smoking volcano rising out of nowhere. The sight was unbelievable, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Dolphins raced alongside our boat, we tried our hand at game fishing, and snorkelled in some of the clearest waters I’ve seen. The day was full of surprises and the memories, tattooed for life.”
– Umang, Founder, Go2Andaman

3. Trekking & Caving in North Andaman

Trek to Saddle Peak through dense evergreen forest and spot rare birds, reptiles, and orchids. Or explore Alfred Caves near Diglipur, a maze of 40+ limestone caves that are still wild and relatively untouched. It’s humid and raw, but that’s the point. The trail winds through tangled roots, bamboo thickets, and quiet clearings where hornbills sometimes perch overhead. Early starts are best, the forest comes alive at dawn, and the humidity hits hard by midday.

4. Night Kayaking (Bioluminescence)

This one’s pure magic. On moonless nights near Havelock, the water lights up with bioluminescent plankton – tiny organisms that glow when disturbed. While doing Night Kayakaing, you’ll paddle through still creeks as your oar leaves trails of light. It’s calm, eerie, beautiful and one of the most memorable things you can do in the Andamans.

5. Heritage Visits

There’s more to Andaman than beaches and blue water, the islands have a layered, emotional history too. A visit to the Cellular Jail in Port Blair is a must, especially if you catch the evening light and sound show. Around town, you’ll also find small but interesting museums on tribal life, marine ecosystems, and the colonial era. It’s a meaningful break from all the sun and sea.

Read More: Top Things to do in Andaman.

What Activities to Try in Maldives?

1. Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Water babies assemble because Maldives is for you! The underwater landscape is stunning with vibrant coral, exotic marine life and plenty of color fish. This makes scuba diving and snorkeling a refreshing experience. Also since the atolls are at a distance, the waters are not crowded with tourists.

2. Flyboarding & Underwater Scooters

An underwater scooter ride is an experience quite unique to the Maldives. It takes underwater adventure to the next level where you pedal your bicycle on the sea bed. Sounds crazy? Trust us, it’s a lot of fun. You can try flyboarding too if soaring above the waters is your idea of a good time.

3. Sunset Cruises, Dolphin Cruises Catamaran Sailing

Do you enjoy laidback experiences that allow you to soak in the Maldivian life? The many cruise options are a great way to do just this and also enjoy a quiet moment with your partner and yourself. A trip on Dolphin cruise is quite the experience – your eyes are glued to the waters in hopes of spotting these gentle creatures.

4. Fishing Trips

Want a glimpse into the lives and challenges of the local fishing communities? Get on a fishing trip to truly understand the skillset that fishing demands. Who knows you might just catch a big fish during your expedition.

5. Destination Weddings

Getting married in the Maldives isn’t just romantic, it’s ridiculously scenic. Most resorts offer full wedding packages, right from barefoot beach ceremonies to candlelit dinners on a private sandbank. Some even throw in a traditional Boduberu performance or a flower-strewn dhoni ride. It’s quiet, personal, and way more ‘wow’ than a ballroom with fairy lights.

Where to Stay in Andaman vs Maldives

Accommodation in Andaman:

Andaman stays are rooted in simplicity. Wooden cottages sit under coconut trees, just a short walk from quiet beaches. Eco-resorts use natural materials, letting the sea breeze and bird calls set the mood. Small guesthouses and hostels run on island time with friendly hosts, minimal fuss, and rooms that open to forest or ocean. Lot of luxury options exist too with clean lines, wide balconies, and sea view. Not fancy, just well-designed spaces that let you slow down.

Read more: Top Hotels in Andaman

Accommodation in Maldives:

Maldives offers luxurious resort options like Soneva Fushi, Baros, Gili Lankanfushi, Taj Exotica, and COMO Cocoa Island. If you are looking for mid-range options, then boutique hotels on local islands might be for you. Budget stays are hard to find, but basic stays are scattered on islands like Maafushi and Thulusdhoo.

Where & What to Eat in Andaman vs Maldives

Eating in Andaman

You’re not coming to Andaman for white tablecloth service. You’re coming for smoky beachside barbecues, coconut curries bubbling over open flames, and catch-of-the-day grilled while you wait. island thalis with white rice, daal sabzi, and chutneys made from tamarind. There are family-run dhabas serving squid fry and fish fry, and pop-up stalls near the jetties selling hot samosas and puchkas. The vibe is Casual, coastal, and always fresh.

Read More: Best Restaurants in Port Blair, Havelock & Neil Island.

Eating in Maldives

Maldives culture is a unique mix of African, Arabian and Indian cultures This influence is seen in the food of the region. It goes without saying that fresh seafood is a must try. Dishes like Smoked Tuna, Bis Keemiya, Rihaakuru, Gulha, Boshi Mashuni are popular local delicacies. 

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose Andaman if:

• You want raw nature, coral reefs, and unfiltered island experiences.

• You’re on a budget and want to DIY your trip.

• You prefer cultural immersion and some offbeat adventure.

Choose Maldives if:

• You want a luxurious, relaxing holiday in overwater villas.

• You’re a couple on a honeymoon or looking to unplug.

• You enjoy curated, resort-centric experiences with high-end dining and privacy

We would love to hear back from you about what we can do to improve our content. Let us know if you’d like us to write about specific topics or if we can do something to improve existing blogs. If you like something we’re doing on our website right now, give us a shout-out on Instagram or let us know at editor@go2andaman.com. It’s always heart-warming to hear travel stories from travellers who’ve used our blogs as a guide to the Andamans!