How to Reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located in the Bay of Bengal about 1,200 kilometers from mainland India, offers pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and tropical paradise experiences. These islands have become increasingly popular as a premier tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors annually seeking adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.
Getting to this island group requires careful planning since limited transportation options mean you’ll need to choose your route wisely based on budget, time, and comfort preferences.
Must Read: Top 20 Best Places to Visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands by Ship from Major Indian Ports
Reaching the Andaman and Nicobar Islands by ship is one of the most scenic and memorable travel experiences for visitors who love sea voyages. Unlike quick flights, traveling by ship allows you to enjoy the vastness of the Bay of Bengal, stunning sunsets, and the thrill of ocean travel. Regular passenger and cargo ships operate between mainland India and Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman Islands, making this journey both adventurous and affordable.
Major Ports Offering Ship Services to Andaman
Passenger ships to the Andaman Islands are available from three major Indian ports — Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam. These routes are managed by the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) and Andaman & Nicobar Administration, offering safe and comfortable journeys for travelers.
1. Chennai Port (Tamil Nadu):
- Ships depart from the Chennai Port Trust to Port Blair every 7–10 days.
- The journey takes around 60 to 70 hours (about 3 days), depending on weather and sea conditions.
- Common ships: MV Nancowry, MV Nicobar, MV Swaraj Dweep.
2. Kolkata Port (West Bengal):
- Kolkata to Port Blair ships sail approximately twice a month.
- Travel time is around 66 to 70 hours, slightly longer due to the distance.
- This route offers scenic views of the Bay of Bengal and calm sailing during winter months.
3. Visakhapatnam Port (Andhra Pradesh):
- Ships operate once or twice a month depending on demand.
- The sailing duration is around 55 to 60 hours, one of the fastest sea routes to Andaman.
- It’s an excellent choice for travelers from South and East India.
Travel Tips and Booking Information
- Tickets can be booked through the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) in Port Blair or respective port offices.
- Advance booking (at least 15–20 days) is recommended during peak tourist season (November–April).
- Choose from three travel classes: Deluxe Cabin, First-Class Cabin, and Bunk Class.
- Carry valid ID proof, water, light snacks, and motion sickness medication if needed.
- Food and basic facilities like restrooms and a small cafeteria are available onboard.
How to Reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands by Air
Traveling to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands by air is the fastest and most convenient way to reach this tropical paradise. Regular flights connect Port Blair, the capital city of the islands, with several major Indian cities throughout the week. With smooth air connectivity and multiple airline options, visiting Andaman has become easier than ever for both domestic and international tourists.
Port Blair Airport Details
The main airport in the Andaman Islands is Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), located in Port Blair. It serves as the only commercial airport connecting the islands to mainland India. Several major Indian cities offer direct and connecting flights to Port Blair operated by popular airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Vistara, and Akasa Air.
Direct Flight Routes and Duration:
- Delhi to Port Blair: 2.5 to 3 hours (multiple daily flights)
- Mumbai to Port Blair: 3.5 to 4 hours (usually connects via Bangalore or Delhi)
- Kolkata to Port Blair: 2 hours (direct flights available)
- Bangalore to Port Blair: 3 hours (direct and connecting flights)
- Chennai to Port Blair: 1.5 to 2 hours (direct flights available)
- Hyderabad to Port Blair: 2.5 to 3 hours (usually connects through Chennai or Bangalore)
1. From Chennai (Tamil Nadu):
- Chennai is one of the primary gateways to Andaman.
- Direct flights operate daily and take about 2 hours 15 minutes to reach Port Blair.
- Airlines: IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India, Vistara.
2. From Kolkata (West Bengal):
- Another major hub with multiple daily flights to Andaman.
- Flight duration is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Ideal for travelers from North and East India.
3. From Bengaluru (Karnataka):
- Direct flights are available almost every day.
- Travel time is around 2 hours 45 minutes.
- A convenient option for South Indian travelers.
4. From Delhi (National Capital Region):
- Direct flights take about 4 hours, while connecting flights via Chennai or Kolkata are also available.
- Several airlines operate this route daily.
5. From Hyderabad (Telangana):
- Flights take around 2 hours 40 minutes.
- Hyderabad provides good connectivity with both direct and one-stop options.
Airlines Operating to Port Blair
Several airlines operate regular services to Andaman:
Air India: The national carrier operates the maximum frequency of flights to Port Blair, particularly from Delhi and other major hubs. Air India flight costs typically range from ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 depending on advance booking and seasonal demand.
IndiGo: This budget carrier offers competitive pricing and regular flights from multiple Indian cities. Expect fares around ₹4,500 to ₹12,000 for economy class depending on booking timing.
SpiceJet: Another budget option providing frequent services with competitive rates. Flight costs generally hover between ₹4,000 to ₹11,000 for advance bookings.
Vistara: Full-service carrier offering premium experience with higher prices ranging from ₹8,000 to ₹18,000. Superior in-flight services and seating comfort justify the higher fares.
Airport Transportation to Port Blair City
From Veer Savarkar International Airport, several transportation options connect to Port Blair’s city center:
Prepaid Taxi Service: The airport operates official prepaid taxi counters where you can book vehicles to any hotel or location in Port Blair. Fares range from ₹600 to ₹1,000 depending on destination. The journey typically takes 20 to 30 minutes to reach downtown Port Blair.
Airport Bus Service: AC buses operated by Andaman Tourism Development Corporation connect the airport to Port Blair’s main bus stand and major hotel zones. These buses charge ₹50 to ₹100 per person and operate on fixed schedules throughout the day.
Car Rental: Multiple car rental agencies operate at the airport, offering self-drive or driver-included packages. Daily rental rates range from ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 depending on vehicle type and rental duration.
Ride-Sharing Apps: Uber and local cab-hailing services now operate in Port Blair, providing convenient booking through smartphones with transparent pricing.
Important Air Travel Information
Book flights at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance during peak tourist seasons (December to February and May to July) to secure better rates and confirmed seats. Return flights should be booked with flexibility as occasional weather disruptions or mechanical issues can affect schedules. Carry your original ID proof and booking confirmation to the airport. Domestic flights require arriving 90 minutes before departure for check-in and security clearance.
How to Reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands by Train
Reaching Andaman by train requires traveling to a major Indian city with flight connections to Port Blair, as no direct rail lines extend to the islands.
Nearest Railway Stations for Andaman Travel
The closest major railway stations providing connections to Port Blair are:
Port Blair itself has no railway station. Instead, travelers must reach railway stations in mainland India and then fly to Port Blair.
Major Railway Junctions Connecting to Andaman:
Kolkata Howrah Railway Station: Located approximately 1,200 kilometers from Port Blair by air. Multiple trains connect Kolkata to other Indian cities. Kolkata to Port Blair flights take approximately 2 hours.
Chennai Central Railway Station: About 1,000 kilometers away by air from Port Blair. Chennai hosts hundreds of trains daily connecting to various Indian cities. Chennai to Port Blair flights take 1.5 to 2 hours.
Delhi New Railway Station: Approximately 2,600 kilometers from Port Blair by air. Delhi is India’s best-connected railway hub with thousands of trains daily. Delhi to Port Blair flights take 2.5 to 3 hours.
Bangalore City Railway Station: Around 1,800 kilometers away by air. Bangalore has good connectivity to major Indian cities. Bangalore to Port Blair flights take approximately 3 hours.
Train Routes to Major Indian Cities
From your origin, you can take trains to any of these major railway junctions and then book flights to Port Blair:
From Northern India: Take trains like Rajdhani Express, Shatabdi Express, or other long-distance trains to Delhi, then fly to Port Blair. Journey duration from various North Indian cities to Delhi ranges from 8 to 24 hours depending on distance.
From Southern India: Take trains to Chennai or Bangalore, then fly to Port Blair. This often represents a more economical option for South Indian travelers.
From Eastern India: Take trains directly to Kolkata, then fly to Port Blair. This is typically the shortest train journey for eastern travelers before flying.
How to Reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands by Road
Reaching Andaman by road requires traveling to a major Indian port city (usually Port Blair’s ferry terminal after flying) or driving to coastal points with ferry connections.
Road Routes to Ferry Terminals
To Chennai Port: Drive to Chennai using highways connecting to major Indian cities. Once in Chennai, you can catch ferries to Port Blair. This represents a longer but more adventurous option.
To Kolkata Port: Drive to Kolkata, then arrange ferry service. Kolkata to Port Blair ferries are less frequent than flights but offer unique travel experiences.
To Port Blair via Air: Most road travelers eventually reach airports in major cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore) and fly to Port Blair, as road travel is significantly longer than flying.
Ferry Services from Mainland Ports
Chennai to Port Blair Ferry: Government operates occasional ferry services covering approximately 1,300 kilometers over 2 to 3 days. Fares range from ₹1,500 to ₹4,000 for basic accommodation. These ferries operate irregularly, so advance confirmation is essential.
Kolkata to Port Blair Ferry: Occasional government ferries operate this route covering about 2,000 kilometers over 3 to 4 days. Fares start from ₹2,000. Like Chennai ferries, these services are infrequent and subject to schedule changes.
Self-Driving Considerations
Self-driving to Andaman is impractical as vehicles cannot be driven on water to reach the islands. However, some tourists drive to Chennai or Kolkata, then arrange ferry transportation for vehicles if operating. This requires extensive advance planning and coordination with ferry operators.
How to Reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands by Bus
Reaching Andaman by direct bus is impossible since buses cannot travel across water. However, buses can take you to major cities with flight or ferry connections to Port Blair.
Bus Routes to Major Indian Cities
Delhi to Andaman Connection: Long-distance buses from various North Indian cities reach Delhi in 12 to 24 hours. From Delhi, you must fly or take trains to port cities before reaching Andaman.
Mumbai to Andaman Connection: Buses connect various Indian cities to Mumbai in 12 to 36 hours depending on origin. From Mumbai, flights to Port Blair take 3 to 4 hours.
Bangalore to Andaman Connection: Buses from South Indian cities reach Bangalore in 8 to 20 hours. Bangalore to Port Blair flights take approximately 3 hours.
Chennai to Andaman Connection: Buses connect various cities to Chennai. From Chennai, you can fly to Port Blair (1.5 to 2 hours) or catch ferries for longer but economical journeys.
Long-Distance Bus Operators
Government Bus Services: State Road Transport Corporations operate buses in various states. These are economical but generally slower than private operators.
Private Bus Companies: Companies like Travels, Ashoka Travels, and others offer AC coaches with better comfort. Ticket prices range from ₹1,500 to ₹5,000 depending on route and coach category.
Online Booking Platforms: Redbus, ixigo, and other platforms simplify booking bus tickets across India, often providing discount codes and easy cancellation policies.
Booking Tips: Reserve bus tickets 3 to 5 days in advance for better rates. Peak season bookings should happen 7 to 10 days ahead. Verify the bus operator’s rating and reviews before booking.
Nearest Airport and Railway Station
| Facility | Name | Distance from Port Blair | Travel Time to Port Blair |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport | Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), Port Blair | 4 km | 20-30 minutes (taxi) |
| Railway Station | Kolkata Howrah (KOLKATA) | 1,200 km | 2 hours (flight) |
| Railway Station | Chennai Central (MAS) | 1,000 km | 1.5-2 hours (flight) |
| Railway Station | Delhi New Delhi (NDLS) | 2,600 km | 2.5-3 hours (flight) |
| Railway Station | Bangalore City (SBC) | 1,800 km | 3 hours (flight) |
| Ferry Terminal | Chennai Port | 1,300 km | 2-3 days (ferry) |
| Ferry Terminal | Kolkata Port | 2,000 km | 3-4 days (ferry) |
Local Transportation Options in Andaman
Upon arrival in Port Blair, several transportation modes help you explore the islands:
Auto-Rickshaws: Three-wheeled vehicles common throughout Port Blair charge ₹10 to ₹50 for short distances. Negotiate rates before boarding or use meter-based autos.
Taxis and Cabs: Prepaid taxi stands operate at major locations. City rides cost ₹200 to ₹500. Ride-sharing apps like Uber operate limited services in Port Blair.
Government Buses: The Andaman Tourism Development Corporation operates buses connecting various islands and attractions. Fares range from ₹20 to ₹100 depending on distance.
Ferries Between Islands: Regular ferry services connect Port Blair to other islands like Havelock, Neil Island, and Long Island. Ferry tickets range from ₹300 to ₹800 depending on destination and ferry type.
Vehicle Rentals: Car, scooter, and bicycle rentals are available throughout Port Blair. Daily rates: cars (₹1,500 to ₹3,000), scooters (₹300 to ₹600), bicycles (₹100 to ₹300).
Water Taxi: For island hopping and reaching specific beaches, water taxis operate on demand. Hourly rates range from ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 depending on destination and passenger capacity.
Best Time to Visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Peak Season (October to May): Clear skies, calm seas, and pleasant temperatures (24°C to 28°C) make this ideal for visiting. Water visibility reaches 30+ meters, perfect for diving and snorkeling. This period sees maximum tourist traffic and highest accommodation prices.
Summer (June to September): Monsoon brings heavy rainfall and rough seas, limiting water activities. However, lush greenery, fewer crowds, and lower prices attract budget travelers. Many water sports operations close during this period.
Monsoon (June to September): Occasional rough seas and rain make boating risky. However, this is the best time for whale watching as marine life becomes more active. Accommodation rates drop by 40-50% during this period.
Specific Highlights:
- October to November: Perfect for water sports and beach activities
- December to January: Ideal for diving and snorkeling with excellent visibility
- February to March: Great for trekking and island exploration
- April to May: Still good for most activities but increasingly hot
Travel Tips for Andaman and Nicobar Islands Visitors
- Book Accommodations in Advance: Reserve hotels and resorts at least 4 weeks ahead during peak season to secure preferred properties at better rates. Many budget guesthouses fill quickly during holidays.
- Pack Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Regular sunscreens damage coral reefs. Use reef-safe sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide based) to protect marine ecosystems. Carry SPF 50+ sunscreen as tropical sun is intense.
- Carry Valid ID and Permits: Bring original identification for checking into hotels and visiting certain attractions. Some restricted islands require special permits available from the administration office.
- Stay Hydrated and Manage Heat: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration in the tropical climate. Take breaks during midday heat, typically between 11 AM and 3 PM.
- Respect Marine Life and Coral Reefs: Don’t touch or step on coral reefs as they’re fragile and protected. Don’t feed fish or other marine animals. Maintain a safe distance from wild animals and sea creatures.
- Be Cautious of Strong Currents: Many beaches have strong currents and undertows. Swim only in designated areas with lifeguards present. Ask locals about safe swimming spots before entering water.
- Use Registered Tour Operators: Book island tours, water sports, and diving activities only through licensed, registered operators with proper safety certifications. Verify their insurance and safety equipment before booking.
- Practice Responsible Tourism: Don’t litter beaches or underwater areas. Use designated dustbins for waste. Avoid single-use plastics by carrying reusable bags and water bottles.
- Understand Restricted Areas: Certain islands like North Sentinel Island are strictly off-limits to protect indigenous tribes. Don’t attempt unauthorized trips to restricted zones.
- Get Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering water sports, diving, and medical emergencies. Island medical facilities are limited; serious cases require helicopter evacuation to mainland hospitals.
Distance Chart to Andaman from Major Cities
| City | Distance to Port Blair | Travel Time (Flight) | Travel Time (Train + Flight) | Travel Time (Ferry) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 2,600 km | 2.5-3 hours | 20-24 hours | N/A |
| Mumbai | 2,100 km | 3-4 hours | 24-30 hours | N/A |
| Bangalore | 1,800 km | 3 hours | 20-26 hours | N/A |
| Kolkata | 1,200 km | 2 hours | 12-18 hours | 2-3 days (ferry) |
| Chennai | 1,000 km | 1.5-2 hours | 10-14 hours | 2-3 days (ferry) |
| Hyderabad | 1,600 km | 2.5-3 hours | 18-24 hours | N/A |
| Pune | 1,800 km | 3-3.5 hours | 22-28 hours | N/A |
| Goa | 1,400 km | 2.5-3 hours | 18-24 hours | N/A |
Popular Attractions Near Andaman
- Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep): Located 50 kilometers from Port Blair, this island features world-class beaches like Radhanagar Beach (also called Beach No. 7). Popular for water sports, diving, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The island offers multiple resorts, restaurants, and water sports facilities.
- Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep): Situated 40 kilometers from Port Blair, Neil Island attracts visitors seeking quieter beaches and laid-back atmospheres. Popular for snorkeling, coral reef viewing, and relaxation. The island has budget guesthouses and mid-range resorts.
- Cellular Jail: Located in Port Blair city center, this notorious British jail now stands as a national monument documenting India’s freedom struggle. The Sound and Light Show in the evening provides powerful historical narratives. Visiting hours are typically 9 AM to 5 PM.
- Baratang Island: Situated 30 kilometers from Port Blair, this island features limestone caves, tidal mud volcanoes, and mangrove forests. Accessible by ferry service, it attracts adventure seekers and nature photographers. Island tours usually operate in morning batches.
- Corbyns Cove Beach: Located just 8 kilometers from Port Blair, this calm beach offers safe swimming and water sports facilities. Popular for families and those seeking convenient beach experiences near the city. Beach facilities include restaurants and changing rooms.
- Ross Island: Once the British administrative center, Ross Island now hosts ruins of colonial buildings surrounded by nature. Accessible by ferry from Port Blair (30-minute journey), it offers snorkeling, scuba diving, and historical exploration.
- Chidiya Tapu (Bird Island): This small island located 30 kilometers from Port Blair attracts birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Best visited during early morning hours for maximum bird sightings. Sunset views from this island are particularly spectacular.
- Radhanagar Beach: Consistently ranked among Asia’s best beaches, Radhanagar features pristine white sand and turquoise waters. Located on Havelock Island, it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach photography. The beach is particularly beautiful during sunset hours.
Where to Stay in Andaman
Budget Accommodations: Guesthouses and budget hotels in Port Blair and Havelock Island offer basic amenities starting from ₹600 to ₹1,500 per night. These are suitable for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers. Rooms feature simple furnishings, fan cooling, and shared or private bathrooms. Popular budget areas include Port Blair’s main bazaar and Havelock Island’s main settlement.
Mid-Range Hotels: Mid-range properties across Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil Island range from ₹2,000 to ₹6,000 per night. These hotels offer comfortable rooms, AC, WiFi, and in-house restaurants. Many include water sports packages or island tour arrangements. Popular mid-range areas include Boulevard Road in Port Blair and Havelock’s beach areas.
Luxury Resorts: Five-star resorts and luxury properties, particularly on Havelock Island, range from ₹8,000 to ₹30,000+ per night. These offer premium amenities including spa facilities, diving centers, multi-cuisine restaurants, and water sports packages. Luxury properties typically feature beachfront locations and personalized services.
Homestays and Guesthouses: Family-run homestays offer personalized experiences and authentic local cuisine starting from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 per night. These are particularly popular on Neil Island and smaller islands. Homestays often include homemade meals and local insights about island life.
Resort Selection Tips:
- Book accommodations during off-season (June-September) for 40-50% discounts
- Reserve beachfront properties 4-6 weeks ahead during peak season
- Check reviews specifically mentioning cleanliness, water supply, and staff helpfulness
- Verify facilities like AC, WiFi, and backup power availability
- Compare prices across multiple booking platforms to ensure best rates
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best and quickest way to reach Andaman from Delhi?
Flying directly from Delhi to Port Blair is quickest, taking 2.5-3 hours. Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet operate regular flights. Book 3-4 weeks in advance for better rates. Alternative routes via train and ferry take 24-48 hours but cost less.
Do I need any special permits or passes to visit Andaman Islands?
Indian nationals need basic identification like Aadhar or passport. Foreign nationals need valid passports and Indian visas. Restricted islands require special permits from the administration office, not required for main tourist areas like Port Blair.
Is it possible to bring vehicles to Andaman Islands?
Vehicle ferries occasionally operate for private vehicles, but arrangements are complicated requiring advance coordination. Most visitors rent vehicles in Port Blair upon arrival. Personal vehicles rarely travel to Andaman due to limited ferry slots and high transportation costs.
What is the cost of flights to Andaman during peak and off-season?
Peak season (December-February) flights cost ₹8,000-₹15,000 per person. Off-season (June-September) fares drop to ₹4,000-₹8,000. Booking 3-4 weeks in advance secures better rates. Last-minute bookings typically cost more unless special promotions occur.
Are ferry services to Andaman available from mainland ports?
Yes, ferries operate from Chennai and Kolkata ports covering 1,300 km and 2,000 km respectively. Journey takes 2-3 days from Chennai and 3-4 days from Kolkata. Services are infrequent; check schedules 2-3 months in advance. Ferries cost ₹1,500-₹4,000 per person for basic accommodation.
What should I pack for visiting Andaman during peak season?
Pack lightweight cotton clothes, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and flip-flops. Bring insect repellent for evening mosquitoes. Pack waterproof bag for beach activities. Carry medications for seasickness if prone to it. Bring adequate cash as ATMs can be crowded.
Is travel insurance necessary for Andaman visit?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance covering water sports, diving, medical emergencies, and flight cancellations is strongly recommended. Island medical facilities are limited. Serious medical cases require helicopter evacuation to mainland hospitals at high costs.
How far is Andaman from India’s mainland?
Andaman is located approximately 1,200 kilometers south of mainland India in the Bay of Bengal. The nearest mainland ports are Chennai (1,300 km) and Kolkata (2,000 km). Port Blair is the archipelago’s largest city and primary tourism hub.
Reaching Andaman and Nicobar Islands is most convenient by flying from major Indian cities, with flights taking 1.5 to 3 hours from various departure points. Ferry and train options exist for budget travelers willing to sacrifice time for savings. Plan your island getaway today by booking flights through trusted travel agencies.
Explore our comprehensive Andaman tour packages offering island hopping, water sports, and cultural experiences perfectly suited to your vacation dreams and budget requirements.
For official information about Andaman and Nicobar Islands, flight schedules, ferry services, and tourism guidelines, visit the Andaman and Nicobar Tourism Website.
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