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.
“You are the one that possesses the keys to your being. You carry the passport to your own happiness.”
This quote by the famous Belgian designer, Diane von Furstenberg, has motivated a lot of travellers across the world to go on a solo trip at least once in their lives. If you love travelling, then it is quite obvious that you must have taken journeys with your partner, friends, and family. But what about discovering your own self? As far as your whole life is concerned, isn’t that also necessary?
A solo trip to a beautiful destination is your ticket to knowing yourself on deeper levels, and of course, having fun simultaneously. That is why, you should include a solo trip to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in your travel bucket list. The most beautiful union territory of India, the islands are very popular across the world for being the perfect honeymoon destination. But solo travellers too deserve to surround themselves with its splendor of white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and blue skies. Isn’t it?
For solo backpackers, including solo female travellers, the Andaman Island is like a gold mine. Out of nearly 600 islands, only a few are open for tourists. Also, we would like to clarify that it is absolutely a misconception that the place is highly expensive and completely out of budget for a solo traveller. You can make your vacation as costly or pocket-friendly as per your own preferences. The islands have something for everyone.
In this article, we present the ultimate guide for a solo backpacking trip to the Andamans along with the cost involved.
Cost of flying to the Andaman Islands from major cities of India
If you are travelling on your own to the Andaman Islands, then you should know that the journey is going to be extremely smooth. There are direct flights from all metropolitan cities of India. The flight duration varies between 2 hours and 3 hours 30 minutes. One-way flight ticket starts from Rs.3000.
Check out the table given below to get a fair idea:
Departure city |
Airfare (one-way) |
Flight duration (fastest) |
Delhi |
Starting from Rs.6000 |
3 hours 35 minutes |
Mumbai |
Starting from Rs.4500 (layover in Chennai) Direct flight also available at Rs.12500 |
3 hours 30 minutes |
Bengaluru |
Starting from Rs.3500 |
2 hours 25 minutes |
Kolkata |
Starting from Rs.3500 |
2 hours 10 minutes |
Chennai |
Starting from Rs.3000 |
1 hour 50 minutes |
Cost of Adventure Sports in the Andaman Islands
Travelling solo to the Andaman Islands is in itself a big adventure. To put the cherry on the cake, you should definitely try various adventure sports here as the island is popular for being the storehouse of adventure sports for adrenaline junkies from all over the world. There are a number of water sports available that can be enjoyed by swimmers as well as non-swimmers. If you are an adrenaline junkie, then there is a diversity of water sports that you can experience here. There is so much to do and you can never get bored on this little piece of paradise. The cost of visiting the Andaman Islands for solo travellers also includes the cost of different enthralling water activities. You can go through the detailed rate list below:
S.No. |
Water Sport |
Price |
1 |
Parasailing |
Starting from Rs.3,500 per person |
2 |
Sea Walking |
Starting from Rs.3,500 per person |
3 |
Snorkeling |
Starting from Rs.1,000 per person |
4 |
Kayaking |
Starting from Rs.3,500 per person |
5 |
Jet Skiing |
Starting from Rs.750 per person |
6 |
Glass Bottom Boat Ride |
Starting from Rs.600 per person |
7 |
Banana Boat Ride |
Starting from Rs.1,000 per person |
8 |
Scuba Diving |
Starting from Rs.3,500 per person |
9 |
Game Fishing |
Starting from Rs.13,000 per person |
10 |
Sea Kart |
Starting from Rs.3,500 per person |
11 |
Semi Submarine Ride |
Starting from Rs.1,850 per person |
Best resorts and hotels in the Andaman Islands for solo travellers
There are properties in the Andaman Islands for all kinds of travellers, ranging from luxury seekers to backpackers. Whether you want to spend your days at a beachfront lavish resort or a budget room well-equipped with all facilities, you will have so many choices here.
Below-mentioned is the list of the best properties across the top tourist hotspots in the Andamans:
Top Hotels & Resorts in Port Blair
1-Star
2-Star
3-Star
4-Star
Top Hotels & Resorts in Havelock Island
1-star
2-Star
3-Star
4-Star
Top Hotels & Resorts in Neil Island
1-Star
2-Star
3-Star
4-Star
Top Hotels & Resorts in Baratang Island
Top Hotels & Resorts in Rangat
Top Hotels & Resorts in Mayabunder
Top Hotels & Resorts in Diglipur
Best time to visit the Andaman Islands
You can visit the Andaman Islands at any time of the year but the best time to visit would be between October and May. The weather is pleasant during this time and ideal for doing various water activities. The blue sky and white cotton-like clouds are the major highlights of this time period.
Top places to see in the Andaman Islands
If you want to see the best of the Andamans on your solo trip, then include the following attractions in your travel itinerary.
Port Blair
The capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the first stop of your vacation will be Port Blair. The town is the most commercialised part of the islands, thus a little bit crowded.
Also known as Kaala Paani, Cellular Jail is a major attraction here that is very important from the historic point of view. The British used the jail to exile political prisoners. It will take you to India’s political, pre-independence past. Giving an uncommon insight into the subtle nuance of how the local tribes live, the Anthropological Museum is also a must-visit. If you are a foodie, then visit the Main Bazaar where the local bars serve mouth-watering royal faloodas that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Other places to see when in Port Blair are as follows:
Havelock Island (officially known as Swaraj Dweep now)
Havelock Island is the most frequented island in the Andamans owing to its gorgeous natural charm. Being a solo traveller, you will have a lot to explore here. If you are a budget backpacker, then you will be happy to know that there are economical stays and affordable food options for you. And as far as appreciating the beauty of the island is concerned, you have to go and see Radhanagar Beach. It is also counted among the best beaches in the world. Catch the most stunning sunset here. Elephant Beach is another mesmerising spot here that is known for its azure waters and clear sky. You can go there via ferry or hiking (highly recommended!). Another lovely beach is Kalapathar Beach, which is a fantastic picnic spot and is away from the main town. On one side, it has a lush green forest and a heavenly silvery beach on the other. If you are into souvenir collections, then you will be happy to know that there are a number of shops selling local handicrafts and other lovely items by the roadside.
Govindnagar Beach and Vijaynagar Beach are other beautiful beaches in Havelock Island. For beach hopping, you can rent a scooty or bike for yourself. It would be a great experience for sure as you will feel the tropical breeze on your face.
The island is a hub of the most amazing water sports. Go for fun diving or an advanced course offered by PADI to explore the wonderful marine life of the Andamans. If not scuba diving, then you can try your hands at other activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, jet-skiing, glass-bottom boating, etc.
Other places to see when in Havelock Island are as follows:
Neil Island
Officially known as Shaheed Dweep, Neil Island is home to superbly beautiful beaches. It is the one-stop destination for you if you prefer a rather quaint spot that is bursting with flora and fauna. This pristine location is perfect for solo travellers craving peaceful alone time. Here, spend a day at Bharatpur Beach to relax or go for snorkeling, scuba diving, or jet skiing. You can also take a glass-bottom boat tour here which is one of the most unique activities. The bottom of the boat is made of glass that allows you to take a look at the rich aquatic life of Neil Island. Laxmanpur Beach is another attraction here. This beach is known for the best sunsets in the Andamans. You can see a sky full of several shades of orange. When in Neil Island, you can also visit Sitapur Beach and Howrah Bridge.
Diglipur
Diglipur is a must-visit place for those travelling solo. It is a small town in the Northern part of the Andaman Islands. A popular destination among offbeat travellers and nature lovers, Diglipur is far from all the crowd and commercialisation. It is a great place for those solo travellers who want to take the road less travelled. Trek to Saddle Peak, which is located at the northernmost point of the Andamans near Diglipur. It will take nearly two hours to reach this beautiful top. The stunning view from there is simply mesmerising. Witnessing the sunrise from there will make you drop your jaw. It’s absolutely spellbinding!
Other places to see when in Diglipur are as follows:
Baratang Island
This island is the first gateway up north from Port Blair. It is located between the South and Middle Andaman. Take a day trip to the island and explore its unique beauty. This wonderful natural delight is slightly less developed which is a blessing in itself.
Places to see when in Baratang Island are as follows:
Get ready to dive into this amazing jewel of the Bay of Bengal! Get set go for an ultimate solo backpacking journey!
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