Port Blair vs Havelock Island

Port Blair vs Havelock Island: Exploring The Capital or Escaping Into Scuba Heaven?

Planning your Andaman holiday  but unsure whether to choose Port Blair or Havelock Island? Port Blair is wrappedin history, and Havelock is a paradise for divers and beach lovers. Here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing the best of both — or deciding which one fits your travel vibe perfectly.

Find Your Vibe

Port Blair = History + Bustling Hub
Havelock Island = Calm Beaches + Thrilling Adventure

Who Should Go Where? Your Traveler Profile Guide

✅ Adventure Seekers → Havelock (scuba diving capital)

✅ Time-Pressed Travelers → Port Blair (maximize limited time)

✅ Nature Purists → Havelock (untouched natural beauty)

✅ Honeymooners → Havelock (Intimate and Secluded)

✅ Family Travellers → Port Blair (Historical attractions, Water Sports, Museums, Parks)

At a Glance

Getting There & Getting Around

Port Blair

How to Reach:

• By Air: Port Blair is home to the Veer Savarkar International Airport, well-connected to major Indian cities like Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, and Bangalore.

Getting Around Locally:

• Choose from autos, taxis, rental cars, bikes, and city buses.

• Autos are great for short distances, while rental scooters give you the freedom to explore on your own.

Havelock Island

How to Reach:

By Ferry from Port Blair:

• Duration: Approx. 90 minutes
• Private Ferries: Comfortable, faster, and easier to book online.
  Cost: ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 depending on class (Economy, Premium, Royal).
• Government Ferries: Budget-friendly, but limited seats.
  Cost: ₹500 to ₹800. Booking usually in-person and subject to availability.

Getting Around Locally:

• Rent a scooter or bike at the jetty or your hotel.

• Taxis and jeeps are available for longer trips or if you’re in a group.

#Go2Andaman Tips: Network connectivity is patchy in Havelock, so access offline maps to get around.

Attractions & Natural Beauty

Port Blair

The Light and Sound Show  held at Cellular Jail invokes the freedom struggle and the plight of political prisoners through lights and intriguing music. Days: The show is open on all days except national holidays. Cost: INR 30/- for Cellular Jail INR 300/- (Adults) for Light and Sound Show INR 150/- (Children) for Light and Sound Show

#GoodToKnow: Carrying a Camera and professional video camera is chargeable.

Museums and More in Port Blair

Children, history buffs and anyone with an interest in the Andaman experience will deeply enjoy visiting the multiple museums sprinkled across the island.

1. Forest Museum & Chatham Saw Mill – Walk through India’s oldest saw mill to better understand its importance. The Forest Museum is located within the premises and houses many artifacts made from the wide array of tree species present in the Andamans.
2. Zonal Anthropological Museum – Nothing gives you a better tour of Andamans complete history quite like the Anthropological museum. Learn about the islands, its many tribes and their way of life, here.
3. Naval Marine Museum – Greeted by the skeleton of a massive blue whale sets the premise for the history you will see as you walk through the 5 rooms in the museum. Each room is dedicated to the history of the islands, its diverse marine life and also information on the tribal life.
4. Cellular Jail Museum – Visit the museum within the Cellular Jail to see artifacts and memorabilia that speak of the freedom struggle.
5. Traffic Park – This small park is great for children to learn about the traffic rules and regulations.

Nature Expeditions

Explore Chidiya Tapu & Mount Harriet: If you’re craving nature, sunsets, and quiet escapes, head to Chidiya Tapu, also known as the Sunset Point of the Andamans. Surrounded by mangroves and dense forest, it’s a peaceful spot to relax after sightseeing. For panoramic views, plan a visit to Mount Harriet National Park, the third-highest peak in the islands and once the summer retreat of British officers. With nature trails and viewpoints overlooking turquoise waters, it’s a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike. If you’re in Port Blair for 2–3 days, you can also take a day trip to Ross Island, where British colonial ruins stand frozen in time among thick tree roots.

Port Blair Travel Tips

• Accommodation: Book hotels near Aberdeen Bazaar, the city centre for convenience.
• Airport transfers: Pre-arrange through hotels or book prepaid taxis.
• Ferry tickets: Book Havelock ferries immediately upon Port Blair arrival or book your tickets with us.

Havelock Island

Glimpse history and the culture of the land through the many serene beaches in Havelock Island. Starting with:

The most popular dive destination in the Andamans is Havelock. Here you can experiment with both shore and boat dives. The island is home to reputed PADI certified resorts which offer a well-rounded diving experience. There are many coral-rich dive sites in Havelock that are home to stunning corals and marine life. If you are a seasoned diver then advanced sites like Junction and K-Rock might be interesting to you. Beginners can dive at the Aquarium, Elephant Beach, and Lighthouse.

#GoodToKnow: If you plan to do an Open Water Course then extend your stay in Havelock and go home with a whole new skill.

Beach Hopping and More in Havelock

1. Radhanagar Beach: Touted as the 7th best beach in Asia by TIME magazine, the beach lives up to the hype. White sands meet turquoise waters enveloping you in warmth and relaxation.
2. Elephant Beach Visit and Trek: You can take a 2.5 KM long, approx 30 KM, trek through the jungle to reach Elephant Beach. The beach is a haven for water sport enthusiasts with options to try Snorkeling, Scuba Diving and Glass Bottom Boat Rides.
3. Kalapathar Beach: The big, black rocks scattered across the beach, give it its unique name. The beach is crowded during peak seasons but if you head to the South side, you will find its fairly secluded.
4. Mangrove Treks: Havelock island is rich in mangroves and the trail from Kalapathar offers the perfect opportunity to explore these. Walk through dense mangrove vegetation that offers glimpses into diverse wildlife.

Adventures in Havelock

If scuba diving isn’t your thing, Havelock still has plenty of water sports to offer. Try snorkeling, sea walking, or kayaking through mangroves for close encounters with marine life. Jet ski rides, banana boats, and speedboats bring in the adrenaline rush. You can even try your hand at game fishing for a truly unique island adventure.

Havelock Travel Tips

• Ferry booking: Book your private ferry with us for a hassle-free experience.
• Resort selection: Prioritise whether you want beach proximity or amenities and choose accordingly.
• Activity bookings: Scuba diving courses fill up weeks ahead during peak season, so book in advance.
• Cash planning: Carry sufficient cash as ATM availability is limited.

Accommodation and Dining

Port Blair’s Offerings

Port Blair is the capital and hence has a more urban infrastructure in place. You will find modern amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning and good hospitals too (in case of an emergency). The accommodation options are diverse with premium and budget spots available.

Top Places to Stay in Port Blair (Premium to Mid-Budget)

• SeaShell Hotel – Premium sea-facing rooms with rooftop dining and modern comforts.

• TSG Grand Hotel – Great for families and business travelers, centrally located with all key amenities.

• Hotel Shompen – Mid-range option near Aberdeen Bazaar, known for its cozy and convenient setup.

Where to Dine in Port Blair

From vibrant food trucks to elegant rooftop restaurants, Port Blair offers a rich mix of flavors.

• Amaya by SeaShell – Upscale rooftop dining with seafood, Indian, and continental delights.

• Excel Restaurant – A relaxed setup offering a mix of global cuisine.

• New Lighthouse Restaurant – Known for fresh seafood and local dishes.

#GoodToKnow: Most restaurants are open till 10–11 PM. For alcohol, head to licensed bars and lounges.

Havelock’s Offerings

Havelock has an air of seclusion and the resorts here match the vibe. You can choose from luxury eco-resorts or budget beach huts depending on your travel budget. Here are some options for you:

Top Places to Stay in Havelock

• Taj Exotica – A 5-star beachfront resort nestled in tropical greenery.

• Dolphin Resort – Government-run, beachfront property ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

• Wild Orchid Beach Resort – Boutique stay with beach access and tropical décor.

• Barefoot at Havelock – An eco-resort close to Radhanagar Beach, offering immersive jungle experiences.

Where to Dine in Havelock Island

Enjoy a laid-back dining scene with island-inspired menus and fresh seafood.

• Something Different Cafe – Great ambience, fusion dishes, and creative cocktails.

• Anju Coco – A backpacker favorite serving generous portions of Indian and global fare.

• Full Moon Café – Candle-lit café with a relaxing vibe, excellent seafood, and wood-fired pizzas.

#GoodToKnow: Restaurants usually close by 9–10 PM, so plan your dinner early.

Choose Your Andaman Destination

Port Blair Tourist Profile

Are you someone who…

✅ Loves exploring historic sites and colonial architecture?
✅ Is traveling with family and prefers urban conveniences like hospitals, shopping, and Wi-Fi?
✅ Seeks a culturally immersive experience, including museums and local markets?
✅ Enjoys relaxed water sports but isn’t necessarily into diving?

→ Port Blair is your ideal starting point. It offers rich history, museums, accessible beaches, and a more connected experience of the Andaman Islands.

Havelock Tourist Profile

Are you someone who…

✅ Loves the ocean and can’t wait to dive into coral reefs or try water sports?
✅ Wants a peaceful, laid-back island atmosphere far from the city buzz?
✅ Is on a romantic getaway and looking for beachside candlelight dinners?
✅ Dreams of staying in luxury eco-resorts tucked away in tropical serenity?

→ Havelock Island is your perfect escape — ideal for honeymooners, diving enthusiasts, and nature lovers.

Port Blair & Havelock: Covering Both Destinations

Tourists often start their journey in Port Blair, covering the museums and other experiences, before hopping on a ferry towards Havelock. This helps appreciate the differences of both spots. You can either:

• Start in Port Blair, then move on to Havelock (and Neil Island if you have extra time), or

• Head straight to Havelock first and circle back to Port Blair before your return flight.

1. How Many Days Should You Spend?

To truly enjoy the islands without rushing:

• Port Blair: 2 days minimum — Ideal for visiting historic sites, Corbyn’s Cove, Cellular Jail, and Ross Island.

• Havelock Island: 2 days minimum — Perfect for scuba diving, beach hopping, and soaking in island serenity.

Planning multiple dives or day trips? Add an extra day or two to your Havelock stay.

2. Budget

Here’s an average per day budget for tourists staying in mid-budget properties.

Port Blair – INR 3000-5000/- per day- includes accommodation, meals, exploring. Does not include additional costs of shopping for souvenirs at local markets like Aberdeen Bazar.

Havelock – INR 5,000 to 8,000/- per day. With 8000/- as your budget you can participate in 1 shore dive, though boat dives are more expensive.

#GoodToKnow: Budget-friendly stays and local eateries help cut costs, while premium resorts and dive activities can add to your daily spend.