Welcome to a traveler’s heaven, where turquoise waters kiss sun-kissed beaches and adventure is always a ferry ride away. The Andaman Islands, nestled in the Bay of Bengal, are packed with history, natural wonders, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Whether you crave relaxation, wildlife, or water sports, the Andamans promise a slice of paradise waiting to be explored.

Get ready to discover the top 10 must-visit islands in the Andaman archipelago, each with its own charm, beauty, and story.

 1. Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)

If the Andamans are a crown, Havelock Island is its most brilliant jewel. Famous for its dazzling white beaches, radiant coral reefs, and lush inland forests, Havelock offers both adventure and relaxation. Radhanagar Beach, acclaimed as one of the world’s best, will win your heart with powder-soft sands and hypnotic sunsets.

Why Visit?

·        Scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking provide unparalleled access to marine wonders.

·        Radhanagar Beach is ideal for sunbathing and evening strolls.

·        Elephant Beach offers shallow waters for snorkeling, while Kalapathar Beach is perfect for tranquil escapes.

 2. Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)

Nicknamed the “vegetable bowl of Andaman,” Neil Island is all about slow travel. Fewer tourists mean pristine stretches of white sand and a captivating calm. Visit Laxmanpur Beach for sunset views, marvel at the natural rock formations, or snorkel at Bharatpur Beach’s crystal-clear lagoon.

What’s Special?

·        Explorable by bicycle in a day—encounter quiet seaside villages, fishermen’s boats, and friendly locals.

·        The coral reefs here are vibrant yet uncrowded, perfect for both novice and expert snorkelers.

·        Don’t miss a photoshoot by the famous Natural Bridge, a geological marvel.

3. Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island)

Just a boat ride from Port Blair, Ross Island is a living museum. Once the British administrative capital, its eerie colonial ruins now share space with wild deer and peacocks. Walk through tree-shaded trails past abandoned churches, barracks, and ballrooms—nature has reclaimed this slice of history.

Highlights

·        Photographers adore the island’s blend of nature and ruined architecture.

·        Easy half-day trip from Port Blair.

·        Discover stories behind the island’s moniker, “Paris of the East.”

4. Baratang Island

Adventure seekers, take note! Baratang is your gateway to nature’s oddities—visit the awe-inspiring limestone caves, thrill at the active mud volcanoes, and journey through dense mangrove creeks where crocodiles may lurk. It’s the raw side of Andaman, away from the crowds.

Experience

·        Take a boat ride through hauntingly beautiful mangrove tunnels.

·        Walk inside limestone caves that resemble scenes from fantasy tales.

·        The island supports indigenous Jarwa tribes—respect boundaries and regulations.

 5. North Bay Island

A quick hop from Port Blair, North Bay is beloved for snorkeling and glass-bottom boat rides. Its coral gardens host a riot of colorful fish, making it a go-to spot for those curious about underwater life. Water sports like sea walking are now a big draw here.

Don’t Miss

·        The North Bay Lighthouse, featured on the ₹20 Indian note.

·        Water activities for all ages—no swimming skills required.

·        Picnic spots and food shacks line the beachfront.

6. Ross and Smith Islands

Linked by a natural sandbar, these twin islands off the coast of Diglipur make for a dreamy day trip. Wade across the shimmering sandbar at low tide between two green islands. The calm, transparent water is ideal for swimming, and the sense of isolation is simply magical.

What to Explore?

·        Picnic on the sandbar and feel like a castaway.

·        Turtle nesting sites during the right season.

·        Lush forest walks on Smith Island.

 7. Little Andaman Island

One of the largest islands, it is nevertheless off the mainstream track. Home to cascading waterfalls, sprawling beaches like Butler Bay, and great surfing waves, Little Andaman is a haven for offbeat travelers. The surrounding rainforests are also teeming with wildlife.

Adventures

·        White surf waterfalls for a cool dip.

·        Elephant safaris and bird-watching expeditions.

·        Local Nicobari settlements showcase unique cultures.

 8. Jolly Buoy Island

Part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, this tiny island is only accessible by permit—but it’s worth the extra effort. Jolly Buoy is famed for its transparent waters, dazzling coral reefs, and strict “no plastic” policy.

Special Attractions

·        Only open for a few months annually (usually November–May) to protect marine life.

·        Snorkeling and underwater viewing available even for non-swimmers.

·        Pristine, untouched beaches—no hotels or food stalls, so plan accordingly.

 9. Cinque Island

Uninhabited and mysterious, Cinque Island is a diver’s paradise. Its two parts, North and South Cinque, are joined by a sandbar and ringed by coral gardens that attract marine life enthusiasts from around the world.

Why Visit?

·        Day trips only—pack your supplies; no amenities exist here.

·        Waters are renowned for visibility and biodiversity.

·        Photographers love the dramatic rock formations and unspoiled scenery.

 10. Diglipur Island

Venture north to discover Diglipur, the Andamans’ rural heartland. Climb to the peak of Saddle Peak (the territory’s highest), hunt for turtle eggs on secluded beaches, and marvel at the unique sandbar islands.

Activities

·        Trekking in lush, bird-filled rainforests.

·        Visit Ramnagar Beach to see turtle nesting (Nov–Mar).

·        Ride to Ross and Smith Islands for the ultimate “escape.”

Conclusion: Your Andaman Adventure Awaits!

The Andaman Islands are more than just beaches—they are a tapestry of nature, adventure, and cultural discovery. From buzzing Havelock to offbeat Little Andaman, each island offers its own flavor, stories, and secrets. Ready to plan your adventure? Let Fascinating Andaman Tours & Travels craft your perfect escape, so all you need to worry about is how many sunsets you can watch before you have to leave.

Don’t just visit. Immerse, explore, and fall in love with the Andaman Islands. Your journey of a lifetime starts here!

Ready to explore these awe-inspiring islands? Contact Fascinating Andaman Tours & Travels for a seamless, unforgettable experience.