Latest Information on Travelling to Andaman Islands?
  • Runway Status for Port Blair Airport From October,22 to February, 23

    Updated: 19 Sep 2022
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  • Andaman Tourism Opens

    Updated: 14 Aug 2021

    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.

  • RT PCR report on arrival

    Updated: 14 Aug 2021

    A negative RT PCR report has to be presented by all passengers on arrival.

  • What is the advisory to travel to North & Middle Andaman District?

    Updated: 14 Aug 2021

    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

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  • All asymptomatic fully vaccinated persons coming to these islands from mainland are exempted from the requirement of carrying RT-PCR negative test report,irrespective of the type of vaccine received and country of origin. Such fullyvaccinated individuals shall produce the final vaccination certificate at the origin airport, sea port in the mainland and at Port Blair Airport / sea port.
  • Alt asymptomatic children below 5 years of age are exempted from carrying RT-PCR negative test report and further RT-PCR testing at Port Blair Airport.
  • 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 to travel to Port Blair from the mainland, as is the practice now. Such an RT-PCR test should have been taken within 48 hours prior to commencement of journey from the origin airport connecting Port Blair. Such passengers will also have to undergo additional RT-PCR test on arrival at Port Blair. Such passengers shall remain in self-quarantine till the arrival of the test report.
  • If a passenger on arrival is tested positive then, the prescribed quarantine protocol is to be followed.
  • All Airlines shall ensure strict compliance of this order and observance of COVID Appropriate Behaviour. Any non-compliance shall invite action under Disaster Management Act and other applicable laws. 
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General Guidelines defined for traveling to Andaman Islands during COVID :

  1. The Tourism Activities are permitted only in South Andaman & North & Middle Andaman District except Nicobar District.
  2. Persons above 65 years of age, persons with home co-morbidities, pregnant women and children below the age of 10 years advised not to travel for tourism purposes.
  3. Tourists/Visitors who are at higher risk due to some medical history are advised to take extra precautions.
  4. Tourists/visitors shall minimize contact with other staff and visitors as far as possible and zero contact policy should be followed at all tourist destinations.
  5. All tourists/visitors shall be briefed by the hotel concerned about do’s & don’ts to be mandatorily followed during their stay and movements.
  6. While travelling tourists/visitors should wear a face mask and carry their own sanitizer and wet wipes for personal use.
  7. At all tourist destinations, staff must wear face masks and wash/sanitize hands regularly while performing their duties.
  8. Arogya Setu App shall be mandatory for all incoming tourists/visitors.
  9. Respiratory etiquettes to be strictly followed. This involves strict practice of covering one’s mouth and nose while coughing/sneezing with a tissue handkerchief/flexed elbow and disposing off used tissues properly after use.
  10. 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 rate as specified or to the designated hospital/ Covid 19 care centre on case to case basis.
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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.

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  • Regular flights to Port Blair (the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands) are operational now.
  • There are direct flights from Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Delhi.
  • Public transports like cabs, taxis, and bus services are also functional.
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Travellers should carefully follow social distancing norms and wear masks as well. Also, before making any booking, they should refer to the latest travel news on the government website of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

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Places to Visit in Neil Island

Places to Visit in Neil Island

Neil Island lies at a distance of 40 kilometres from the capital city, Port Blair. On account of its location, Neil island is aloof from other islands via roads, and the only way to reach here is via sea route. The journey from Port Blair to Neil island takes about 2 hours. Travellers can choose between government/private ferries that run daily shifts.

  • Government Ferries - Government ferries are readily available to commute from Port Blair to Neil. Although they are more economical, locals get preference during bookings. The journey takes about 2 hours, and two boats make a round trip from the Phoenix Bay Jetty to Neil Island every day at 06:30 and 11:00 respectively.
  • Private Ferries/Cruises- Since government ferries are mostly opted by islanders, an easygoing commute to Neil Island is via cruise/private ferries. Cruises also traverse from Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) to reach Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep).
  • Helicopter - A government-run helicopter service called Pawan Hans is operational currently that flies roundtrip from Port Blair to Neil Island. To provide a faster and safer inter-island travel, it is now usually reserved for officials and medical emergencies.

What's noteworthy -

  1. Do not leave ferry bookings for the last moment.
  2. The timings are subject to change/cancellation due to weather conditions.
  3. Tickets for government ferries are available at the counters while one can book tickets for cruises/private cruises online.
  4. Some of the prominent cruise operators are Sea Link Cruise, Makruzz, Green Ocean Cruise and ITT Majestic.

Getting Around

Getting around Neil Island, to say the least is delightful. The island is about 7 km from one corner to another. The roads are well built and pretty easy to steer. When unsure of yourself, feel free to ask for directions to friendly locals. When in Neil Island, one can avail a few options for inbound transfers. Walking, however, is the best way to go about discovering the beauty of this quaint island.

  • Cabs: One of the most convenient and comfortable means to travel within Neil Island, chauffeured cars are readily available for hire. Best suited for families and group travellers, cabs give you the freedom to take your time and explore the sight at your own pace.
  • Two Wheelers: What can make the experience of a quaint island even better? Traversing its streets on a moped/cycle/bike sounds pretty close. While bicycles are budget and eco-friendly, the roads are scooter and bike-friendly. One can find vendors for the same near the jetty and throughout the island.
  • Auto-rickshaws: Readily available, tuk-tuks or auto-rickshaws are another means to travel within the island. One can hail them at the jetty and marketplace.
  • Buses: There is one government bus on the island. The route commences from the main bazaar and goes till Sitapur Beach. While one can choose to travel via bus, it primarily runs for the locals.

What's Noteworthy -

  1. A valid license is a prerequisite to rent a vehicle.
  2. Rickshaws are apt for short trips as the driver charges additional money for waiting time.
  • Places to Visit in Neil Island

    About

    Neil island is romance taken neat. The changing colours of the endless horizon and turquoise waters stretching beyond one’s gaze; Neil island offers detachment from the chaos of the real world and invites you into the romance of being nowhere. This must be why this island finds its way into most itineraries in Andamans. With its laid-back temper and coherent charm, Neil island is soothingly different from its neighbour, Havelock. How to Reach Neil Island from Port Blair? The island expands over an area of 13.7 square kilometres and lies blissfully in South Andamans nearly at a distance of 40 kilometres. Given the extent and nature of the sightseeing spots in Neil Island, Neil can be bicycled around with minimal effort. Prime Minister renamed Neil Island to Shaheed Dweep as a tribute to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose in 2018.

    Best known for its unparalleled biodiversity, magnificent coral reefs, the unexplored span of dense tropical forests. Banana plantations, paddy fields and a medley of vegetable yields encircle the roads on the journey to the island, also earning it the title of the vegetable bowl of Andaman. Agriculture is the primary line of business for the islanders, and the production of fruits and vegetables is in generous quantities. Due to its abundant yield, Neil island then supplies vegetables to the rest of Andamans.

    Uninhabited until the 1960s, followed by the arrival of native Indians and refugees from Bangladesh, Neil island is the rustic masterpiece of Andamans. With a population of 2675, Neil island is a world of complete serenity where the locals lead quite a simple life. One can tour the entire island in about an hour or two. With its carefree vibe, desolate beaches and little bustle, Neil island is where travellers arrive to have a laid-back vacation in Andaman. Most of the hotels and resorts here dwell near the beaches or in the jungles, further compliment the ambience of the island.

    A ride through winding and twisting village roads as the sun comes up is one of the best to experience in the island, and the morning view of the beach gets even better! Not a single soul for miles, and no swarm of beach shacks! Cycling around the island has become both a means of getting around as well as a form of recreation. Tourist Attractions in Neil Island? Considering that Neil island is all about beaches, to make the most of it, tourists can indulge in water sports such as diving, snorkelling, jet-skiing, and glass-bottom boat rides at Bharatpur beach.

    If you’re looking for a quiet holiday or a secluded but idyllic getaway, this is the place for you. With its gorgeous vistas, stunning sea and an array of water sports, places to visit in Neil Island are more than enough to whisk you away for a vacation. Certainly one of the most commercially unexploited and serene beaches in Andamans, Neil Island has luxurious coral reefs, this hidden gem is a perfect place for beach-bums as well. Havelock island often overshadows the allure of Neil island, and it gets limited to being a one-day trip destination on the itinerary. Pack your bathing suits and smear that suntan lotion, Neil island awaits your presence!

  • Do's & Don'ts

    Do's :

    1. Take a copy of your tickets and permits with you at all times.
    2. Check the certification of the tour operator before booking.
    3. Carry sunscreen because the tropical sea wind along with sun is harmful to the skin.
    4. Carry a waterproof bag to keep important documents.
    5. Contact Tourist information centres in the islands for any assistance.
    6. While driving, Carry legal documents like driving license, permit, passport and follow traffic rules.
    7. Do wear a helmet while riding two-wheeler motor vehicles.
    8. Swim in safe areas only. And Consult lifeguards at the coast before entering the sea.
    9. Remember to carry all the necessary items like sunscreen lotion, comfortable footwear, camera and sunglasses.
    10. If you want to capture a photo/video in any tourist attraction, then obtain permission. All the tourist attractions spots will carry notice boards about approval.
    11. Use the dustbins for disposing of garbage. Help keep the Andaman Islands litter-free, please do not throw waste in parks, on beaches, into the sea or public places.
    12. Carry essential documents like permits and driving license with you at all times while travelling in the Andaman Islands.
    13. Get necessary permits from the authorities for visiting National Parks of the island.
    14. Be sensitive to the privacy and lifestyle of the local tribes.
    15. Avail the service of qualified Instructors having certification of international organizations (PADI, CMAS, NAUI) for a safe scuba diving session.
    16. Inform authorities if you notice any illegal/undesirable activity on the island.
    17. Foreign nationals must keep their restricted area permit with them at all times.

    Don'ts :

    1. Do not smoke in public areas.
    2. Plastic carry-bags are prohibited in the Andaman Islands, kindly consider jute/ recycled bags for your comfort.
    3. The island is renowned for its flora and fauna - Do not hunt birds and animals both on land and on the sea.
    4. Travelling to tribal reserves without a special pass is prohibited.
    5. Overnight Stays in forest areas or beaches are not allowed. We advise you to return before the sunset.
    6. Unless permitted, Camping on the islands and lighting bonfires in beaches or forests is a punishable offence.
    7. Breaking and touching a live coral is prohibited. Visitors are advised not to collect any dead coral as well.
    8. Please do not take pictures of the aboriginal tribes of Andaman or record their activities. It is a punishable crime under the Indian Penal Code.
    9. Do not swim when drunk, it is not safe, and there are massive repercussions against the offender.
    10. Nudity is not acceptable on all Andaman beaches and public areas.
    11. Do not overstay at the islands past your permit time.
    12. Be very careful when visiting specific beaches where the crocodile sign is up. There have been some instances of people who ignored it and ended up getting attacked by the crocodile.
    13. Do not ride a bike or scooter without a helmet. The authorities in Andaman are strict about Road safety - both the rider and pillion must wear a helmet.
    14. Do not go for snorkelling by yourself, especially at prohibited areas of the beaches in Andaman island.

  • FAQs About Neil Island

    • Q1.   How can I reach Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)?

      Neil Island is located at a distance of 30 kilometers from the main islands of the Andamans, and is known for some of the most unique sights. You can reach the island via ferries. Check the details below:

      • Ferry to Neil Island- There are government ferries plying from Port Blair to Neil Island. Every day, two ferries leave in the morning. 
      • Ferry from Rangat- Daily ferry service is available from Rangat.
      • Private Boat- There are two private boat service providers, Makruzz and Ocean Green, that have scheduled and private departures for Neil Island. 
    • Q2.   When should I visit Neil Island?

      The best time to visit Neil Island is from October to April when the weather is pleasurable. Most of the people preferring to come here plan their Andaman trip during this time. The summer and monsoon seasons are likely to be avoided.

    • Q3.   What is Neil Island famous for?

      Neil Island is home to thriving biodiversity, unexploited coral reefs, white sandy beaches, adventurous experiences, a notable population of birds and animal life, and so much more. Some of the prettiest beaches in the Andamans are located on this island. Its scenic beaches boast of white sands and uninterrupted views of the clear blue skies.

    • Q4.   Which are the most beautiful beaches in Neil Island?

      The beaches of Neil Island are amazingly gorgeous. They are sure to spellbind you. For an incredible beach experience in the Andamans, you have to visit the below-mentioned beaches:

      • Sitapur Beach
      • Bharatpur Beach
      • Lakshmanpur Beach
      • Sir Hugh Rose Island
    • Q5.   Where can I stay in Neil Island?

      You can book your stay nearby Lakshmanpur Beach or Sitapur Beach at a fancy resort.

    • Q6.   Where can I see turtles on Neil Island?

      Neil Island’s untouched beauty makes it a perfect nesting ground for marine turtles. Head to Sir Hugh Rose Island if you want to see these amazing creatures. They are found in abundance there. Located at the tip of Neil Island, this tiny island is often known as Small Neil in the local language. You will need permits to visit there as it is a protected region.

    • Q7.   Which water sports are available in Neil Island?

      You can enjoy the following adventure water sports in Shaheed Dweep:

      Glass-Bottom Boat

      Neil Island is famous for glass-bottom boating. Bharatpur Beach here is known for its beautiful and colorful coral formation. That’s why the population of fishes is more here. This beach is a must-visit on this island owing to the coral population. The place is a popular spot for fishing and angling as well. 

      Snorkeling

      For snorkeling, pristine clear water is required, which is in abundance on Neil Island. Its water proves to be an ideal setting for adventurous water activities. When you are at Neil Island, you can see a wide diversity of colorful fishes with your naked eyes. 

      Sea Walking

      The corals are present in abundance here. There are certain beach resorts also that offer private sea walking sessions to their guests. 

      Scuba Diving

      In India, Andaman Island is the best place that provides scuba diving experience and certification courses. Neil Island has advanced scuba diving facilities. The crystal clear water of its beaches makes underwater sighting even easier. The experience of scuba diving at Neil Island is a memorable one. The underwater marine life surrounds you so closely that you can literally touch it (but you are not supposed to!). The resorts on this island offer scuba training and gear lending as per your requirements.

    • Q8.   Which other adventure activity can be done in Neil Island?

      Trekking to Howrah Bridge is something that invites all adrenaline junkies to Neil Island. It is among the most popular things to do here. Resembling a bridge, Howrah Bridge is an arch-like structure. Trekkers reach its tip that goes through a small artificial garden and a muddy path. Let us warn you in advance that the route to the bridge is closed during the monsoon season.

    • Q9.   Is Neil Island a romantic destination?

      Neil Island offers the most romantic experience to the newlyweds (and others as well!) Its beaches are known for the most beautiful sunsets and sunrises. Here, you can witness a glorious pink and red sunset. Head to Lakashmanpur Beach to enjoy such a fantastic marvel of nature. Evenings here are the best moments to view nature at its best. And if you are an early riser, then you can visit Sitapur Beach to catch the most beautiful sunrise of your life. The sky is painted in various hues here.

    • Q10.   Which kind of food is available in Neil Island?

      If you are a foodie, then you should definitely visit Neil Island. Food lovers call it the vegetable bowl of the Andaman Islands. Whereas its neighbor, Havelock Island, is more famed for seafood, Neil Island provides excellent choices in fresh and vegetarian meals. You can also purchase a fresh supply of your veggies from the local market of Neil Kendra. Along with mouth-watering vegetarian and vegan dishes, you can also try a variety of cuisines ranging from Chinese, Israeli, Continental, Italian, and Nepali.

    • Q11.   Is Neil Island good for having a destination wedding?

      A destination wedding in Neil Island promises couples the natural marvel of the place and the virgin beaches with turquoise blue waters. Its beaches are clean and are dotted with secluded and peaceful resorts, thus allowing the couple and their guests to enjoy total peace of mind in such tranquility. Neil Island has not been commercialised yet as a trending exotic wedding destination, and that is why, not everyone knows about this hidden pearl being a hot spot for destination weddings. So, you can easily plan the wedding of your dreams on an affordable budget.

    • Q12.   How can I get around Neil Island?

      With an area of only 13.7 square kilometers and a flat landscape, you can travel across Neil Island on a bicycle with minimal effort. Roads in Neil Island are very easy to ride as there are no sharp curves or elevations. It is navigation friendly, and thus you can easily cycle or ride through the island. You can rent mopeds from the jetty. Moreover, many resorts have their own cycles and motorbikes available for rent.

    • Q13.   How much do I need to spend on hotels in Neil Island?

      Neil Island features affordable and basic huts along with lavish resorts that resonate with the warmth of tropical vibes, stunning views, and contemporary settings. Budget stays are available at Sitapur Beach and Bharatpur Beach ranging from Rs. 500 to Rs. 800. For mid-range rooms with AC, the price tariff ranges from Rs. 1500 to Rs. 3000. One has to pay Rs. 5000 and more for luxury hotels with swimming pools and fabulous views.

    • Q14.   How long should I stay in Neil Island?

      It is tough to specify a timeline for Neil Island owing to its secluded beauty. On their way back to Port Blair from Havelock Island, tourists will little time in their hands visit this island for one day. It has laid-back vibes and natural enthusiasts and backpackers come here for a longer duration and stay for weeks.

    • Q15.   How much does it cost per day in Neil Island?

      Neil Island is a popular backpacker destination. It has been developed as a tourist destination in recent years with all the investment by entrepreneurs on the island. If you are looking for an extravagant resort experience during your beach vacation, then Neil Island is a great place. A budget-friendly location having basic restaurants and other facilities, this island would be a great addition to your travel diaries. It depends on the kind of accommodation if you want to know how much does it cost in one day. Hotel tariffs begin from as low as Rs. 500 per day.

    • Q16.   How is the local transport in Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)?

      A little island, it is very much easy to navigate in Neil Island. The following are the ways by which you can get around Neil Island via local transport:

      • Bus
      • Autos
      • Car rentals
    • Q17.   Where to eat in Neil Island?

      There are a number of eating places in Neil Island and you get to choose from many options. The food of the island is highly delicious and is loved by everyone. Whether you are a non-vegetarian or vegetarian, the choices are many.

      To relish the local and authentic food, try out these restaurants across the island below:

      • Hungry Stone Restaurant 
      • Seashell Restaurant
      • Ripon Sea foods 
      • Yatri Dhaba 
      • Full Moon Café 
      • Dugong Restaurant 
      • Sea Zaika