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 Port Blair

Top Port Blair Tours

Sightseeing Spots in Port Blair
Places to Visit in Port Blair

The base to explore most of the exotic sites of Andamans, Port Blair offers more than your usual capital does. Port Blair, the portal to all other islands of the archipelago, is connected to mainland India by air as well as sea. While the flight takes 2-3 hours to reach the airport, a ship takes 3–4 days to arrive at the jetty. Port Blair lies approximately 1551 miles from New Delhi, 1417 miles from Mumbai, and 778 miles from Kolkata. Flights are the best way to reach Port Blair, as they are convenient and hassle-free. Veer Savarkar International Airport dwells about 2 kilometres south of Port Blair. Ship services frequent from Chennai, sailing 3-4 times every month. Sailing cuts down the cost significantly but at the expense of the time taken.

What's Noteworthy-

  1. One must consider factors such as Sea Sickness, Weather, Food, and Clean Cabins before booking a sailing trip to Andamans.
  2. Flights are more convenient and comfortable than ships.

Getting to Other Islands -

Andaman Trunk Road connects Port Blair to Northern Andamans. Ferries frequent between Middle and Southern Andamans. While Government buses shuttle in the former route, government ferries commute in the latter. Though locals get preference in government transport, private transit and cruises cater to the tourists. Private ferries also deliver a promise of premium travel experience and are equipped for tourism.

Port Blair -> Neil Island

In lack of connectivity via roads, Port Blair and Neil Island connect via sea route through a govt ferry or private cruise.

Port Blair -> Havelock Island

Havelock is an isolated island and therefore remains detached to Port Blair physically via any road. The only way to commute is via ferry and cruise operating through the route daily.

Port Blair -> North Andamans (Baratang, Rangat, Mayabunder, and Diglipur)

Port Blair is well connected via Andamans Trunk Road to most of the North Andaman Islands. The route encompasses a bus journey along with the vehicle ferry to cover the distance faster.

Port Blair -> Jolly Buoy Island

One can obtain boat tickets and forest permit from the IP&T office and reach Wandoor Beach where the journey originates.

Port Blair -> North Bay Island

One can firstly reach the Water Sports Complex and then hire a boat to North Bay Island.

Getting Around -

  • Cabs: One of the most convenient means to cover the ground on Andamans, cabs are readily available near the jetty and the airport.
  • Bus: Both government and private buses operate throughout Port Blair for inter-city as well as intra-city travel.
  • Ferry / Cruise: Port Blair connects three crucial routes where almost 45 trips operate. Ferries are available to destinations ideal for one-day trips and overnight cruises for long journeys.
  • Auto Rickshaws: Tuk-tuks are in abundance and available throughout the day in most parts of Port Blair. Though the charge is nominal for locals, they often overcharge tourists.
  • Walking: A great option as long as you remember your trail and some landmark.

What's Noteworthy -

  1. It is better to book everything in advance.
  2. Fix the prices before the onset of your journey.
  • Places to Visit in Port Blair

    About Port Blair

    From providing a smooth sailing entry into Andamans to being a comfortable base to explore most of the island's exotic sites, Port Blair is more than just the capital city. It is your one-stop introduction or gateway to Andamanese culture, lifestyle and of course, beauty. Whether a backpacker or a group of thrill-seeking friends, Andamans deem to be a haven for everyone seeking to elope from the monotonous 9 to 5 life. How to Reach Port Blair? Connected to mainland India by both air and sea, it takes 2-3 hours to reach Port Blair's Veer Savarkar International Airport via flight, and 3–4 days to arrive at the jetty via sea. The capital city provides easy access to most of the must-do things on an Andamans itinerary.

    Port Blair itself holds quite a lot for travellers, who mainly come here to go down the historical lane, for museum hopping, experience the glorious beaches, or to commence their journey into the rest of the archipelago. Port Blair welcomes all sorts of vacationers be it honeymooners, food and culture partisans, nature enthusiasts, party animals or serious backpackers. Tourist Attractions in Port Blair have something for everyone. The markets and streets of Port Blair can be quite impressive with a blend of hotels, restaurants, resorts, shops and more. Port Blair is fitting to set up base and then move on to explore the other things to do and places to visit in Andamans. Places to Visit in Port Blair are -

    The highest point in South Andamans, Mount Harriet stands 1200 feet tall, 15 kilometres from Port Blair. The sightseeing spots in Port Blair - From tribes and their unique lifestyle to archives of the colonial history of the island; From information on the biodiversity of the island to its marine life, the museums here are a gateway to history and culture. Out of the three beaches that the city houses, namely Carbyn's Cove Beach, Wandoor Beach, and Mundapahar Beach, Corbyn's Cove is the only beach where swimming is permissible. Cellular Jail is a national memorial of great historical significance for India and is the most prominent tourist spot in Andamans. Once used by the British for deporting political prisoners from India, it was then known as Kaalapani. The light and sound show display after sunset is a must-watch.

    Corbyn's Cove beach is one of the cleanest beaches in the Andamans and is the hub for all water activity in Port Blair. Chidiya Tapu as the name signifies is a haven for bird-watchers and finds mention in the offbeat day-trips from Port Blair. Andamans is way up on the list when it comes to thinking of dream destinations for a beach holiday - even its the name is magical. Port Blair is a tangle of winding streets that seem to lead everywhere and nowhere. In the early morning hours, when the tourist shops are closed, life in the town remains as it has for years. It is not difficult to imagine travellers combing its streets, looking for souvenirs and eateries. Blessed with the panoramic view of the beach, blazing sun, white sand and the sea, Port Blair lies exactly where a capital city should lie - in the heart of Andamans.

  • 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 Port Blair

    • Q1.   Is Port Blair worth visiting? If yes, then how many days should I spend there?

      This question always crops up among tourists when they decide to travel to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The capital of the union territory is known for its rich history along with natural beauty. We would recommend you to make up your mind to stay in Port Blair for two days at least. Ultimately, apart from knowing about the historical events that this place has witnessed, you will also see a fair share of nature and beauty.

    • Q2.   What can I see in Port Blair?

      Port Blair, the capital city, is the entryway to the rich expanse of beauty and serenity that the Andaman Islands have to offer. Here, you can visit various museums, explore flora and fauna along with the rich marine life, and take a stroll at Marina Park to enjoy the tropical breeze. When in Port Blair, you can walk past the Japanese bunkers, go for exciting water sports, see the island’s high peaks, and know about its rich culture and diversity. Spending a couple of days here is the cherry on the cake of your beach vacation.

    • Q3.   What is the best time 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.

    • Q4.   How can I 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 Delhi, 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.

    • Q5.   How will I get around 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
      • Bike rentals
      • Auto rickshaws
      • Public transport
      • Airport/hotel pick-up and drop off
    • Q6.   How can I transfer from Port Blair to other islands in the Andamans?

      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. Some of the cruises available are Makruzz, Coastal Cruise, Green Ocean, etc.
      • Government ferries- These ferries connect Port Blair to Havelock, Neil Island, Little Andaman, Diglipur, and Nicobar (not accessible to tourists).
      • By Road- Only North Andaman comprising Baratang, Rangat, Mayabundar, and Diglipur are connected via road. Cabs and buses are available here.
    • Q7.   What are the best places to see in Port Blair?

      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. Include the below-mentioned places in your travel itinerary:

      • Cellular Jail- The jail was constructed as solitary confinement for Indian political prisoners. It was the most dreaded and grueling colonial jail, which was also referred to as Kala Pani.
      • Corbyn’s Cove Beach- One of the most famous beaches in Port Blair, people come here for boating, water scooters, and jet skiing as well. 
      • Veer Savarkar Park- You can witness the pride of the past in the form of a really good collection of statues of our freedom fighters. The park also has a few rides for kids. 
      • Murugan Temple- It is the biggest pilgrim site of the Andaman Islands, which is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva.
      • Samudrika Naval Marine Museum- You will see there an aquarium with fish of all shapes and sizes ranging from parrotfish to the rare and venomous species of stonefish and corals.
      • Japanese Bunkers- Reminiscent of World War II, these relics of the bygone era can be easily spotted across Port Blair tourist places.
      • Chatham Saw Mill- A well-known wood processor in Asia, the British administration set up this mill in 1883.
      • Manglutan Village- This village is located in the southern region of the Andaman Islands that is known for its rubber plantations covering an area of 60 acres.
    • Q8.   What are the most popular water sports in Port Blair?

      Port Blair is a hub of water adventure activities in Andaman Islands. 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.

    • Q9.   What are some beautiful places to visit around Port Blair?

      If you have got more time in hand, then you can also explore the following beaches and islands around Port Blair:

      • Chidiya Tapu
      • Ferar Beach
      • Parrot Island
      • Katchal Island
      • Amkunj Beach
      • Rutland Island 
      • Cinque Island
      • Diglipur Island
      • Butler Bay Beach
      • Karmatang Beach
      • Lamiya Bay Beach
      • Little Andaman Island
    • Q10.   Where should I stay in Port Blair?

      Some of the best hotels and resorts in Port Blair are mentioned below:

      1-Star

      • Hotel Kavitha Regent
      • Hotel Shreesh
      • Hotel Rhishabh

      2-Star

      • Sun Sea Resort
      • Hotel TSG Emerald View
      • Hotel NK International
      • Hotel Holiday Inn
      • Hotel Blue Sea
      • J Hotel 
      • Hotel Blue Mmarlin

      3-Star

      • Hotel Aparupa
      • Hotel Sentinel
      • Peerless Sarovar Portico
      • The North Reef
      • Hotel Silver Spring
      • Hotel TSG Grand
      • Hotel SR Castle
      • Hotel Luxor Grand

      4-Star

      • Sea Shell Resorts
      • ITC Fortune Resort Bay Island
      • Keys Select Hotel Aqua Green
      • Sea Princess Beach Resort
    • Q11.   How much does it cost 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)
    • Q12.   Where to eat in Port Blair?

      There are a number of restaurants and food outlets in the capital town that cater to all kinds of tourists. Whether you are looking for a fine dining place or a pocket-friendly outlet that serves good food, you are sure to get here what you are looking for. Some of the highly recommended food outlets and restaurants in Port Blair along with their highlighting feature are as follows:

      • New Lighthouse Residency 
      • Annapurna Restaurant 
      • Ananda Multi-Cuisine Restaurant
      • Rola Costa Restaurant & Juice Center 
      • Gagan Restaurant
      • Icy Spicy family Restaurant
      • Sea Food Delight 
      • Tandoor 
      • Cafe Down Under 
      • TRIO - The Family Restaurant
      • Bella Bay Dinner Cruise
      • Anju Coco Family Restaurant 
      • Rajasthani Dhaba
      • Happy Belly
      • Gem Continental
    • Q13.   How is the communication and internet in Port Blair?

      Network is a luxury in Port Blair, especially the internet. Only the 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.

    • Q14.   How is the weather in Port Blair?

      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 in a slightly elevated area, and thus experiences a little lower temperature as compared to the other islands.

    • Q15.   Which language is mainly spoken in Port Blair?

      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.