Andaman Tourism Opens: The Andaman & Nicobar administration has announced that all tourist spots in the South Andaman district will be opened for tourism activities with immediate effect 8 Feb 2022.
The tourists are allowed to visit Baratang/North & Middle Andaman on production of double dose covid certificate/ All other passengers viz. unvaccinated and partially vaccinated passengers (those who have taken only 1S1 dose of COVID vaccine) shall have to produce RT-PCR negative test report
General Guidelines defined for traveling to Andaman Islands during COVID :
What are the guidelines for testing for tourists coming to Andaman after August 03 2021?
On arrival at Port Blair :
1. The tourists need to carry COVID-19 negative test report from mainland based 1CMR approved lab using Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RTPCR). However, the sample for RTPCR test should have been taken within 48 hours prior to starting the journey from the origin station. (For e.g. if the tourist takes a flight from Delhi at 0600 hrs. on 1st September, 2021, the sample for RTPCR test should have been taken not before 0600 hrs. on 30th August, 2021).
2. The tourists/visitors on arrival at Port Blair airport have to undergo mandatory Covid-19 screening with RTPCR test free of cost. Thereafter the tourists/visitors are allowed to move to their respective hotels. However, they will have to be under quarantine at Port Blair in their hotel rooms until the result of RTPCR tests are received. In case of RTPCR positive test results, the tourists/visitors shall remain in
institutional quarantine in hotels notified by the Hoteliers Association in consent with the A&N Administration, on rates as specified or to the designated hospital/ Covid-19 care centre on case-to-case basis.
3. Tourists may also have to undergo random Rapid Antigen Test conducted from time to time on payment basis as prescribed by A8N Administration.
What if the tourists test positive after arriving at the Andaman Islands?
If the tourists tests positive during their stay in the Islands, he/she will need to undergo institutional isolation as per existing health protocols. The
cost of such isolation for govt. facility will be paid by the tourists as fixed by the administration from time to time.
If the patient wants to stay at hotels, he/she can stay in the hotels if all the conditions below are met:
a) Patients are not symptomatic and not more than 60 years old.
b) Request/ undertaking is made by patient in writing.
c)lf allowed by doctors.
Hotels will make necessary arrangements to designate a part of their rooms for institutional isolation for this purpose.
Havelock Island lies 70 kilometres northeast of the capital city, Port Blair. Owing to its geography, Havelock is not connected to other islands via roads, tendering sea route as the likely mode of transport. The journey from Port Blair to Havelock takes less than 2 hours. Travellers can choose between government/private ferries.
What's Noteworthy -
Getting around on an island is a tad bit different from travelling within a city. To begin with, people here are a whole lot helpful, not that you would require much help owing to the simple local transport system. The beaches in Havelock have numbers assigned to their names, and the roads are set-straight devoid of any traffic. Walking remains one of the most popular means of travel within the island and if your time permits, the best one to explore the island.
What's Noteworthy -
Known as the jewel of the Andaman, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) has grown from being a little known idyllic island to a modern and bustling hub for travellers from all across the world. And for, good reason. Although there is a myriad of experiences to indulge in, on this island, the underwater action tops the charts. With heavenly silken-blonde beaches, glimmering teal waters and some of the best diving in South Asia, Havelock is what lures most travellers across the Bay of Bengal to Andamans. How to Reach Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) from Port Blair? Officially named Swaraj island, the island covers a massive area of 114 square kilometres and lies roughly 70 kilometres north-east of the capital city Port Blair.
Prime Minister renamed Havelock Island to Swaraj Dweep as a tribute to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose in 2018. Tourist Attractions in Havelock Island are blessed with a tropical climate and characterized by warm, sunny, humid days. However, the time between November and May sees a slight slump in the humidity and the temperature, making it the best season to visit the island. February and March are the ideal months for water sports due to low tides and better visibility. By all means, avoid a trip during June through September to steer clear of the monsoons that hit the island then. For beach bums, Havelock Island is a utopic land with over seven idyllic beaches, to spend a week visiting a new one each day.
The beaches in Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) are known more by their numbers than their names. Undoubtedly, Beach number seven a.k.a Radhanagar beach is the most popular beach of the lot, after it bagged the title of Asia's fourth-best beach by TIME magazine in 2004. Elephant beach and Kalapathar beach are the two most sought-after beaches on the island for sunrise and sunsets. Beach number five a.k.a Vijaynagar beach has some of the best eateries serving scrumptious meals. The island flaunts some of the most well-defined sightseeing spots in Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) with a perfect blend of tropical wilderness and pristine white sandy beaches.
The beaches here are glorious, no doubt! Places to visit in Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)? But if you really want to see Havelock like a local, look beyond them. Long strips of fields covered with rice and paddies, sweeping coconut-palm groves, rich coral reef, tropical jungles, and the arresting views on the island itself, make the visit worth every penny! The pristine ambience of the island allows for a peaceful retreat, and the low population density adds to the calm. The coastal roads offer great rides on rental scooters, and that alone is a reason to make Havelock the next place to tick off your list.
Relishing the well-deserved reputation of being a travellers' paradise, Havelock has been developing fast in recent years with a sharp rise in domestic tourism. Havelock has been in the limelight of Andaman tourism for more than a decade. Being an island comes with its share of benefits - a lush canopy of greenery, ocean with infinite shades of blue melting into the sky-blue sky at the horizon, and the sugary white stretches of sandy beaches. Laze around on its secluded beaches, or explore its thick mangroves; float among exotic corals while you revel in diving or explore the wilderness on long trekking expeditions – Havelock has it all!
During your vacations in the stunning Andaman Island, don’t forget to go for one of the finest scuba diving experiences in India that you can have in Havelock Island. The island is known for having a total of nine outstanding locations that are great spots for diving. Going under the depths of these waters is exactly the type of experience that you are looking for.
The best diving sites in Havelock Islands are as follows:
Other scuba diving sites in Havelock Island are mentioned below:
Havelock Island receives the maximum footfall in the Andaman Islands owing to its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. There are a number of beaches in Havelock Island, and the most gorgeous ones are listed below: Vijay Nagar, Beach, Elephant Beach, Radhanagar Beach, Kalapathar Beach, Neil’s Cove, Govind Nagar Beach
When in this gorgeous place, you should definitely include Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, and Kalapathar beach along with other spots in your travel itinerary. Moreover, it is a hub of water sports as well. Adrenaline junkies, take a note! We would recommend staying for at least two-three days in Swaraj Dweep if you want to explore and appreciate the beauty of this natural marvel.
You can reach Havelock Island by sea as well as by air. However, the best and the easiest way to travel would be by the sea. Private and Government ferries operate from Port Blair and Neil Island, which are the neighboring islands. Booking from private ferries is stress-free and you don’t need to wait in long queues. These are the lifeline of the Andaman Islands as they connect so many islands with each other. Make the booking in advance for an easy and worry-free experience.
Getting around via local transport in Swaraj Dweep is quite easy. Roads are well set and straight. The chances of getting lost are almost impossible as everything is by road. Moreover, locals are very helpful. The best ways to commute around the island are as follows:
Havelock Island is home to serene beaches, crystal clear waters, and diverse water sports. It is like a fun magnet that attracts everyone towards its splendor. Below mentioned are the most sought-after adventure water activities in Swaraj Dweep:
Scuba Diving- The Andaman Islands have a number of scuba diving centers from where you can get your PADI certification (basic and advanced levels). But to go for your first fun dive, you don’t need any kind of certification. If you don’t know swimming, even then it is absolutely fine. The miraculous natural marine life under the enchanting waters of the island is waiting for you. Scuba diving is the best water activity in the world, and doing it for the first time in Havelock Island would be an experience of a lifetime for you. Whether you are a swimmer or a non-swimmer, this activity is an excellent option for you. To enjoy it to the fullest, always listen to your instructor and follow his instructions. Do not take a flight the same day you dive.
Cost: Starting from Rs.3,500 per person
Snorkeling- Havelock Island has some of the best spots for snorkeling in India. You will notice the colorful reefs of the ocean shining through your underwater goggles. You can have a look at the marine life and the rarest corals while performing this activity on this island.
Cost: Starting from Rs.1,000 per person
Underwater Sea Walking- Sea walking is the most exclusive and unique water activity as in India, it can only be done in Havelock Island. It can be done by people of all age groups and with anyone—family, partner, friends, or alone. You can explore the magical marine life as you go down and walk on the seabed of a serene beach of the island. You can walk past the exotic aqua life and the breathtaking coral reefs with the help of a visor and a special helmet.
Cost: Starting from Rs.3,500 per person
Kayaking- Kayak your way through the fabulous mangrove forests. You can also choose to club kayaking with snorkeling or going for a night kayaking tour. Anyone can do this fun activity as you don’t need to be a swimming expert. But make sure that you do it with a certified instructor for an exciting and fun-filled experience.
Cost: Starting from Rs.3,500 per person
Game Fishing- You can go for an enthralling fishing adventure in the great Andaman Sea. The whole activity will take two-four hours. Right from the very beginning, learn how to fish while cruising along the sea.
Cost: Starting from Rs.13,000 per person
Travelling to Havelock Island means a lot of shopping, especially if you are travelling with your girl gang. Girls’ eternal connection with shopping cannot be understood by anyone else. Just go out to its popular markets in Havelock, Andaman like Aberdeen Bazaar or Sagarika Emporium to buy stunning shell-based products, cane artifacts and superb jewelry. Even window shopping with your squad will make your beach holidays truly memorable.
Of course! Enjoying a romantic candlelight dinner by the pristine waters of Havelock Island is something that can be cherished lifelong. When the cool breeze in the atmosphere touches your face while you take a sip of your favorite wine and eat the delectable dishes, all your worries will vanish in no time. As you enjoy the comforts of this excursion, appreciating the reflection of the moon on the sea would be a memorable experience.
Among all the islands in the Andamans, the infrastructure for tourists is the best in Havelock Island. You can choose to stay at a beach resort in Havelock Island at affordable rates or a highly luxurious cottage at a premium cost. The prices vary depending on the off and peak tourist seasons. During peak season, the best places get filled up quite fast and prices go up. Thus, it is advisable to book in advance.
Low Budget: INR 500- 3000
Mid-range: INR 4000- 8000
Premium stays: INR 15000- 25000
Some of the best beachfront properties to stay in Havelock Island are as follows:
Mentioned below are the other stays that we recommend in Havelock Island:
1-star
2-Star
3-Star
4-Star
Known for its calm beaches, pristine waters, and romantic vibes, Havelock Island has gained popularity as a pristine beach destination all over the world. Along with that, the island is a great party destination as well and offers you an exciting nightlife and dining experience. There are several restaurants and clubs that host incredible events and parties. The vibrant nightlife of the Andaman Islands can be best witnessed in Havelock Island. Entertainment on this island is not too loud and offers a unique experience to everyone. In case you want to experience more than the tranquility of this island, then this is your one-stop destination.
Top nightlife spots in Havelock Island are mentioned below:
The best restaurants and food outlets in Havelock Island are as follows:
Some important information about Havelock Island is as follows:
Havelock Island can be visited at any time of the year as it has a moderate climate. However, the best time to plan a vacation here is between October and May.
For basic treatment facilities and a pharmacy, a government-run Primary Healthcare Center (PHC) is there. Special treatment and emergency cases are transferred to Port Blair Hospital. For emergencies and inter-island transportation, the government-run helicopter is available. The service is used for medical emergencies along with other emergencies such as VIP transportation, local islanders’ transportation, etc.
Yes, it is the only place in India where you can have an underwater wedding. Not a very much popular trend in the country yet, but Havelock Island is slowly gaining acceptance as being the destination for underwater weddings. The tiny island is a diver’s paradise and one of the best places in the country for shore diving as well.
Havelock Island Beach Resort is your go-to property for an underwater wedding and their in-house diving facilities are totally worth your money. The marine life is extremely rich there. The resort also offers beach wedding services. It has cottoned on to the underwater wedding trend and offers packages as per your requirements that take the stress of planning the details off your hands. There are a lot of things to be kept in mind while making arrangements for your underwater wedding. Thus, hiring the resort’s expert team to make the biggest day of your life even more special would be the best thing to do. You should only focus on enjoying your D-Day!
Capturing memories with their soulmate when they are starting a new journey of their life is what every couple desires to do. But if you want to make this an incredible and once in a lifetime experience for both of you, then go for a pre-wedding shoot in Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep). Nothing can ever beat the natural splendor of this island that comprises white land and a blue water backdrop. Plan your pre-wedding shoot on the exotic beaches of Havelock Island to have the most fun-filled time of your life. Top choices include Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, and Kalapathar Beach.
A perfect blend of crystal clear water, scenic beach beauty, and awesome breathtaking views, Havelock Island offers the best location for an amazing photoshoot. No one can resist its dreamy backdrop displaying the beauty of silky white sand and azure waters. It is the best couple-friendly and honeymoon destination in India that is visited by newlyweds before and after getting married to share their love with each other and strengthen the bond even more.
