Imagine a place where turquoise waters kiss white sand beaches, where coral reefs teem with life just below the surface, and where time slows down as nature takes center stage. Welcome to the Andaman Islands — a hidden gem in the Bay of Bengal. For the adventure-hungry traveler, island hopping through Havelock, Neil, and Diglipur offers a once-in-a-lifetime journey filled with unforgettable sights, serenity, and a splash of adrenaline.

Let’s dive into what makes these three islands distinct yet interconnected pieces of tropical paradise.

Havelock Island: A Beach Lover’s Dream

If there’s a heart to the Andamans, it beats strongly in Havelock Island (officially known as Swaraj Dweep). Famed for its pristine beaches and world-class diving spots, this island is a must-visit for every island hopper.

Radhanagar Beach – Where Time Stands Still

Once ranked as Asia’s Best Beach by Time Magazine, Radhanagar Beach is more than a picture-perfect spot — it’s a sensory experience. The softest white sands, swaying palms, and rhythmic waves create the ultimate relaxation zone.

Dive Into Adventure

Havelock is also a diver’s paradise. Whether you're a seasoned scuba diver or a curious first-timer, sites like Elephant Beach and The Wall offer some of the best coral gardens in India. Expect to swim alongside manta rays, sea turtles, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish.

Best Experiences in Havelock:

·        Scuba diving and snorkeling

·        Kayaking through mangroves

·        Candle-lit beach dinners

·        Sunset at Kalapathar Beach

Neil Island: Nature’s Peaceful Playground

Just an hour’s ferry ride from Havelock lies Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) – smaller, quieter, and incredibly laid-back. It’s the ideal spot for travelers seeking tranquility, eco-experiences, and a closer connection with nature.

The Three Wonders: Natural Bridge, Laxmanpur & Bharatpur Beaches

Neil is best known for its Natural Rock Formation, also called the "Howrah Bridge" by locals. It appears at low tide and is surrounded by tide pools rich in marine life.

Nearby, Laxmanpur Beach offers dramatic sunsets, while Bharatpur Beach is great for swimming and glass-bottom boat rides.

Sustainable Vibes

Neil Island has embraced eco-tourism beautifully. Many resorts use solar energy, organic farming is widespread, and the community is deeply committed to conservation.

Best Experiences in Neil:

·        Walking trails through paddy fields and forest

·        Tidepooling at Natural Bridge

·        Snorkeling at Sitapur Beach

·        Relaxing in eco-resorts

Diglipur: The Road Less Traveled

Located in North Andaman, Diglipur is often skipped by hurried tourists — but those who make the journey are rewarded with unspoiled nature, volcanic wonders, and raw Andaman charm.

Saddle Peak – The Roof of Andaman

At 732 meters, Saddle Peak is the highest point in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The trek to the top winds through the Saddle Peak National Park, home to endemic birds, butterflies, and orchids.

On a clear day, you’ll see neighboring islands from the summit — a rewarding payoff for the 6-7 hour hike.

Twin Islands: Ross and Smith

Ross and Smith Islands, connected by a natural sandbar that appears at low tide, are among India’s most photogenic coastal treasures. With crystal-clear water and minimal human interference, it’s a slice of paradise that’s surprisingly quiet.

Offbeat Adventure

Diglipur also offers:

·        Alfred Caves, a network of limestone caverns with colonies of swiftlets

·        Kalipur Beach, a nesting site for sea turtles (Nov–Mar)

·        Authentic village experiences

How to Plan Your Island-Hopping Itinerary

Planning a trip to three different islands might sound complex, but with the right flow, it’s simple and rewarding.

Suggested Route:

1.     Start in Port Blair – Arrive via flight

2.     Havelock Island (2–3 days) – Scuba, beach relaxation

3.     Neil Island (1–2 days) – Sightseeing and serenity

4.     Back to Port Blair (1 night)

5.     Head to Diglipur (via road or boat, 1 day travel) – Stay for 2–3 days

Travel Tips:

·        Ferry tickets get booked quickly during peak season (Oct–Apr). Book early!

·        Consider private cruises for added comfort and flexibility.

·        Internet connectivity can be weak — perfect time to disconnect and unwind.

When to Visit the Islands

The best time to island hop in the Andamans is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant, the seas are calm, and visibility is high for diving.

Avoid the monsoon season (May–August) due to rough seas and potential ferry cancellations.

Where to Stay

Each island has accommodation to suit different travel styles:

·        Havelock: Luxury resorts (Taj Exotica, Barefoot), beach cottages, and budget hotels

·        Neil: Boutique eco-stays like Summer Sands, SeaShell, and local homestays

·        Diglipur: Limited options but charming — Pristine Beach Resort, Turtle Resort

 Responsible Travel Tips

The Andamans are ecologically sensitive. Help preserve their magic:

·        Don’t touch coral or marine life while snorkeling/diving

·        Avoid single-use plastic

·        Support local businesses and sustainable stays

·        Don’t litter – take your trash with you

·        Respect local customs and indigenous communities

 Conclusion

Havelock mesmerizes with its beaches, Neil soothes the soul with simplicity, and Diglipur awakens your sense of discovery. Island hopping through these gems offers a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and connection with nature.

Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway, a solo traveler chasing unique experiences, or a family searching for safe fun – this island-hopping journey has something magical for everyone.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your island-hopping adventure with Fascinating Andaman and unlock the secrets of the sea.

Ready to plan your trip? Visit Fascinating Andaman to explore guided night kayaking packages and other hidden wonders of the islands.