| From | To | Status |
|---|---|---|
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18-Oct |
21-Oct |
Closed |
|
22-Oct |
31-Oct |
Operational |
|
01-Nov |
04-Nov |
Closed |
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05-Nov |
14-Nov |
Operational |
|
15-Nov |
18-Nov |
Closed |
|
19-Nov |
28-Nov |
Operational |
|
29-Nov |
02-Dec |
Closed |
|
03-Dec |
12-Dec |
Operational |
|
13-Dec |
16-Dec |
Closed |
|
17-Dec |
26-Dec |
Operational |
|
27-Dec |
30-Dec |
Closed |
|
31-Dec |
09-Jan |
Operational |
|
10-Jan |
13-Jan |
Closed |
|
14-Jan |
23-Jan |
Operational |
|
24-Jan |
27-Jan |
Closed |
|
28-Jan |
06-Feb |
Operational |
|
07-Feb |
10-Feb |
Closed |
|
11-Feb |
20-Feb |
Operational |
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.
A negative RT PCR report has to be presented by all passengers on arrival.
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.
Port Blair is the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and is also the entrance to the natural beauty and serenity of this little paradise on earth. Here you can explore historic museums, diverse flora and fauna, and rich marine life. Enjoy taking a stroll at Marina Park to enjoy the sweet sea breeze. You can also choose to walk past the Japanese bunkers, try water activities, trek to the island’s high peaks, and know about the affluent diversity and culture of the land. Port Blair would be your first stop in the Andaman Islands and you can begin your beach vacation on a high note from here.
Veer Savarkar International Airport is the Andaman Island’s only commercial airport located in Port Blair. Thus, it serves as the only entry and exit point into the islands. It is connected to various islands by ferries. North Andaman Islands (Diglipur Island, Baratang Island, Rangat Island, and Mayabunder Island) is connected to Port Blair by road. If you are interested in knowing about the culture and heritage of the Andamans, then Port Blair is your one-stop destination.
When to visit Port Blair?
The best time to visit Port Blair is between November and March. The monsoon season falls between June and September. However, you should expect light showers even during other seasons as well since it is a tropical island.
How to reach Port Blair?
You can reach Port Blair via two ways- by air and by sea. Veer Savarkar International Airport, the only commercial airport of the Andaman Islands, is located in Port Blair. Direct flights to/from Chennai, Kolkata, and Bangalore are available easily. Flights are faster and more comfortable. Thus, it is a preferred option. Ships are cheaper but general passenger ships are more troublesome. However, if you want to experience a voyage on the sea, then we recommend a ship journey. It is an unusual adventure in itself.
Getting around in Port Blair
Commuting by local transport in Port Blair is very convenient. Roads are well-built and you will not get lost as every spot is just by the road. Moreover, the locals are also very helpful. You can carry a map or an offline map here as the internet doesn’t work properly here. Some of the recommended options for getting around Port Blair are as follows:
Tourist taxis- You can rent a tourist cab from anywhere in Port Blair. The drivers will be waiting at the jetty. It is the best option for getting around. You can book a cab in advance from Andaman Island Travels in order to save your time and effort.
Bike rentals- Bikes can also be hired in Port Blair on a daily basis at around Rs. 500 per day. Petrol pumps are not opened till late night here. So, keep the tank full. During monsoons, avoid renting a bike as roads can get slippery.
Auto rickshaws- Auto rickshaws are available for short and long rides at affordable rates.
Public transport- Budget travellers prefer commuting via public buses in Port Blair. However, it may get a bit exhaustive for you. It is not advised as the best mode of transport for tourists.
Airport/hotel pick-up and drop off- Andaman Island Travels is the best platform to book a taxi for your airport/hotel transfers or sightseeing on the island. The pre-arranged transportation will be provided to you between the airport and your final destination, whether it is a hotel, cruise port, or another local point of interest. You can also book the transfer at the end of your trip when you have to head back to the airport.
How to travel from Port Blair to other islands?
All other islands that are open to tourists are connected to Port Blair by land and sea. Transfers between islands are possible in the following four ways:
Private ferries- These ferries connect Port Blair, Havelock, Baratang, and Neil Island. It takes nearly 1.5-2 hours to reach the respective island. A bit expensive, ferries are the most convenient and preferred modes of transport in the Andaman Islands. Some of the cruises available are Makruzz, Coastal Cruise, Green Ocean, etc. These ferries operate daily and offer easy accessibility to the islands.
Government ferries- These ferries connect Port Blair to Havelock Island, Neil Island, Little Andaman Islands, Diglipur Island, and Nicobar (not accessible to tourists).
Helicopter- Pavan Hans flies from Port Blair to Havelock Island, Diglipur Island, Hutbay in Little Andaman Island, and Neil Island. However, the service is mainly for government officials and medical emergencies. Travellers are allowed to fly only on very rare occasions.
By Road- Only North Andaman Islands comprising Baratang Island, Rangat Island, Mayabundar Island, and Diglipur Island are connected via road. The national highway connects Port Blair to Diglipur Island. Cabs and buses are also available. Before ferry services started to Baratang Island, this was the only way to reach there.
Top things to do and places to see in Port Blair
However, the majority of the tourists visit Port Blair as a port of transit to other islands but the capital city has so much to offer than it has been credited for. The place has it all ranging from historical museums to water sports.
Cellular Jail
Port Blair is famous for the historic Cellular Jail that was built by the Britishers in ten years. It was constructed as solitary confinement for Indian political prisoners. This was the most dreaded and grueling colonial jail, which was also referred to as Kala Pani. It has witnessed the most atrocious punishments imposed on innumerable freedom fighters of India. It is open to the public as a national memorial.
Veer Savarkar Park
This park is located right in front of the Cellular Jail. You can come here to get some rest after your visit to the jail or while you are waiting for your chance to attend the light and sound show. You can witness the pride of the past in the form of a really good collection of statues of our freedom fighters. Refreshments like green coconuts and tea are sold by vendors there. The park also has a few rides for kids.
Corbyn’s Cove Beach
Port Blair has a number of options for beach bums who are looking for the best beaches and islands to relax under the sun and laze around. Its nearby beaches are perfect for a rejuvenating escape that lets travellers soak in the beauty of Mother Nature.
After a long day, all everyone wants is to take a leisurely stroll surrounded by peaceful beach vibes. Corbyn Cove is one of the most famous beaches in Port Blair. People come here for boating, water scooters, and jet skiing as well. It is easily accessible, and you can spend hours here while relaxing, shopping, and eating.
Murugan Temple
Located centrally in Port Blair, this temple offers a religious excursion to its visitors. It is the biggest pilgrim site of the Andaman Islands, which is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva. The temple displays Dravidian architecture at its best. If you want to witness a grand occasion, then you should plan your visit to the temple during festival time. Don’t forget to try the delicious vegetarian or the non-vegetarian platter around the temple complex. Authentic food from different cultures is served there which is surely worth a try if you are a foodie.
Samudrika Naval Marine Museum
A perfect blend of historical and modern Andaman Island, this museum greets its visitors with the skeleton of a massive blue whale as you enter. You will see there an aquarium with fish of all shapes and sizes ranging from a parrotfish to the rare and venomous species of stonefish and corals. The place is an ideal visit for kids. If you love collecting souvenirs while travelling, then you can buy a lot of interesting stuff from the gift shop for your loved ones back at home.
Japanese Bunkers
Reminiscent of World War II, these relics of the bygone era can be easily spotted across Port Blair tourist places. They attest to the time when a siege on these islands was attempted. A popular place to be visited in Port Blair, these bunkers are situated on the way to Ross Island and Corbyn Cove beach.
Chatham Saw Mill
Chatham Saw Mill displays the rustic beauty of the pre-independence days. A well-known wood processor in Asia, the British administration set up this mill in 1883. Among so many places to visit in these cluster islands, Chatham Saw Mill is quite an attraction for everyone.
Manglutan Village
This village is located in the southern region of the Andaman Islands that is known for its rubber plantations. It offers stunning views of natural beauty including a stream that flows through the village. The rubber plantation covers an area of 60 acres, and it is the major source of income for the locals. You can learn about the plantation process, from seed to extraction and production level, during your visit to this village.
Local shopping
Port Blair is the best place in the Andaman Islands for shopping. The main roads in several areas are dotted with small shops that offer trinkets made of bamboo, seashells, and the local mahua wood. You can also visit Sagarika, which is a huge government-run handicraft store in Andaman.
Water sports and boat rides
Port Blair is a hub of water adventure activities. You can try jet skiing, glass-bottom boating, and seaplane ride here. If you love doing adventurous activities, then Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex is the perfect place for enjoying different exciting water sports. Here, you will find paddleboats, rowboats, parasailing, speed boats, banana boats, and a lot more. The best time to visit the complex would be summers so that you can enjoy being in the water even more.
Banana boat rides are known to have the perfect blend of fun and adventure. This splendid and exciting activity is a must-try in Andaman Island. These boats are shaped like a banana and are tied behind a speed boat to gain speed. A total of six people can ride on these boats, and that includes an instructor as well. It is absolutely safe as everyone is given a life jacket. Don’t hold yourself back and go for this activity when in Andaman Islands. It is counted among the best sports here.
Parasailing is an incredible water sport that anyone can enjoy in Andaman Islands. It offers a fantastic combo of water and airborne adventure. While harnessed in a parachute, you are tied behind a motorboat with a rope. As the boat speeds off into the sea, you start flying like a kite in the sky! You may get to dip into the water as well. The whole experience is extremely enthralling! This activity is something that you should not miss at any cost in Andaman Islands. And yes, wear clothes in which you can move comfortably.
Jet skiing definitely stands out among all the water sports in Port Blair. However, it depends on weather conditions. It should not be done during a heavy downpour or a storm; otherwise it would be highly dangerous. Therefore, before heading out to enjoy this superb activity, don’t forget to check the weather conditions first. And for your own safety, don’t stand up while driving the jet ski.
If you are someone who wants to be in the waters but doesn’t want to get in, then this activity is particularly for you. By speed boating, you can experience the thrill but still be completely safe. This is the perfect water sport for you. While the speed boat splashes through the waters at a fast pace, you will be inside, safety and in your life jacket. Swimmer or otherwise, you just cannot miss this water activity when in Andaman Islands.
In glass-bottom boating, you have to be in a tiny boat with the bottom made up of glass. As it sails through the sea, you can have a glimpse of the water. This is very popular in Port Blair. One can enjoy glass-bottom boat rides from Water Sports Complex to North Bay Coral Island or from Port Blair to Jolly Buoy Island. You have to wear a life jacket. One of the finest sea sports, it is a magical experience for sure. When in Port Blair, do not miss this activity.
Want to have an awesome experience of being in a commercial seaplane? Port Blair is your one-stop destination to fulfill this dream of yours. One of the best adventure sports, a ride in a seaplane should not be missed by you at any cost. These planes carry a total of nine passengers at a time and take you from Port Blair to Havelock Island. In just 15 minutes, you will reach your destination which otherwise takes two hours via ferry. Just check the weather forecast before going for the adventurous ride.
Excited to try any one of these water activities? All you have to do is contact Andaman Island Travels to make all the bookings for you. Its experienced tour operators will take care of all your travel requirements including accommodation as well.
If you have got more time in hand, then you can also explore the following beaches and islands from Port Blair:
Little Andaman Island
Butler Bay Beach
Karmatang Beach
Katchal Island
Rutland Island
Parrot Island
Chidiya Tapu
Ferar Beach
Diglipur Island
Cinque Island
Lamiya Bay Beach
Amkunj Beach
Where to stay in Port Blair?
Whether you are on a budget trip or a luxurious vacation, properties in Port Blair cater to all requirements when it comes to accommodation. Depending on the tourist seasons, tariff varies between peak and low. It is highly recommended that you make your booking in advance as the prices may shoot up during peak season and the best places will get full.
Low Budget- INR 500- 3000 (per night)
Mid-range- INR 4000- 8000 (per night)
Premium stays- INR 9000- 12000 (per night)
Some of the best hotels and resorts in Port Blair are mentioned below:
1-star hotels
Hotel Kavitha Regent
Hotel Shreesh
Hotel Rishabh
2-star hotels and resorts
Sunsea Resort
Hotel TSG Emerald View
Hotel NK International
Hotel Holiday Inn
Hotel Blue Sea
Hotel J
Hotel Blue Mmarlin
3-star hotels and resorts
Hotel Aparupa
Hotel Sentinel
Peerless Sarovar Portico
The North Reef
Hotel Silver Spring
Hotel TSG Grand
Hotel SR Castle
Hotel Luxor Grand
4-star hotels and resorts
Sea Shell Resorts
ITC Fortune Resort Bay Island
Hotel Keys Aquagreen
Sea Princess Beach Resort
Where to eat in Port Blair?
Check out the best restaurants & food outlets in Port Blair below:
1. New Lighthouse Residency
2. Annapurna Restaurant
3. Ananda Multi Cuisine Restaurant
4. Rola Costa Restaurant & Juice Center
5. Gagan Restaurant
6. Icy Spicy family Restaurant
7. Sea Food Delight
8. Tandoor
9. Cafe Down Under
10. TRIO - The family restaurant
11. Bella Bay Dinner Cruise
12. Anju Coco Family Restaurant
13. Rajasthani Dhaba
14. Happy Belly
15. Gem Continental
Important Information about Port Blair
Weather- Port Blair witnesses mainly three seasons- summer, tropical winter, and monsoon. Located in the Bay of Bengal, it experiences heavy winds during the monsoon and a tropical climate otherwise. The best weather can be enjoyed in the islands from early November to mid-May. The capital city is situated at a slightly elevated area, and thus experiences a little lower temperature as compared to the other islands.
Communication and internet- Network is a luxury in Port Blair, especially the internet. Only BSNL network works here, and the internet is extremely slow. Many cafes, restaurants, and hotels do provide WiFi facility but that is often disrupted. If you are thinking of buying a local number in the islands, then buy a BSNL sim card that will be easily available there.
Safety- The efficient Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police take care of the discipline department in the union territory of Andaman. You can get in touch with them in case of an emergency.
Supermarkets and bazaars- The most developed markets and bazaars in the islands are present in Port Blair. They are not so fancy but all the necessary items are available there.
Fruits and vegetables- If you want to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, then the Sunday market lining the Junglighat Jetty is the best place. You can also purchase these from the shops situated in Gandhi Market.
Hardware, electronics, groceries, and spices- You can buy these from small wholesale and retail shops located in Ratnam Market.
Large departmental stores- The departmental stores in Port Blair offer everything ranging from cosmetics to medicines and packed food to milk, bread, and other daily requirements.
Clothing and apparels- Most of the garment shops in Port Blair are owned by the locals. Now some branded clothing shops such as Fab India and Raymonds have also opened outlets here.
Language- Port Blair is a blend of various religions, cultures, and linguistic groups. Hindi, Bengali, and Tamil are the most commonly spoken languages here. English is less preferred. Getting around here is very easy if you know any of these languages.
Airport and port facilities- Port Blair is home to the only airport of the Andamans–Veer Savarkar International Airport. There are direct flights from Chennai, Kolkata, and Bangalore.
Port Blair has the following three main ports aka jetties:
1. Phoenix Bay Jetty connecting Port Blair to Havelock Island, Neil Island, and Rangat Island. All private ferries leave from here.
2. Aberdeen Jetty connecting Port Blair to Ross Island, North Bay Beach, and Viper Island
3. Haddo Jetty connecting Port Blair to long-distance islands like Little Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
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