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Syrupy apples floating in Blue Curacao – what the Andaman and Nicobar Islands look like from a distance. 37 golden nuggets brimming with infinite possibilities. The archipelago that defined the 3 S’s - Snorkelling, Surfing, Scuba diving. A wonderland of teal… read more
Andaman being an island enjoys a tropical climate. Best thing about Andaman is that it is a year-round destination, where fluctuations in temperatures are minimal and stay pleasant throughout. The best time to visit Andaman & Nicobar Islands is considered between October and May as the weather is pleasant, just perfect for sightseeing, water sports, and beach excursion. Monsoons (July to September) are not always recommended because of the high tidal waves, incessant rains and strong winds. During July to September, that there are high tidal waves.
Travel Months | Min/Max Temperature | Season |
---|---|---|
April to June | 24°c - 37°c | Summer |
July to September | 22°c - 35°c | Monsoon |
October to March | 20°c - 30°c | Winter |
You can divide the seasons in Andaman into two;Summer and Monsoon. Being a tropical island, Andaman doesn’t witness the winter season. If you’ve been to Vishakhapatnam or Bengaluru, you can identify with the kind of climate prevalent in the islands. It’s pleasant, mildly humid and offers good sea-breeze for tourists to just chill out, sinking into the vast expanse of the ocean. During summers, the clear blue sky and the turquoise water reflect hues of blue, contrasted by the white sands. This makes for a picturesque destination not just for couples on their honeymoon but for families who have elderly people in their groups as well. The place is not too sweaty or sultry and is perfect to grab a beverage and layback on the shacks.
Summer is considered to be the best time to visit Andaman. With absolutely zero rainfall, the weather conditions are perfect for dives, sightseeing or just a relaxed day in your resort. The season starts in the month of January and lasts till late April. Being a vacation for most schools and colleges in India, this is the time tourists flock the island for holidaying. This is also the time watersports are open for Andaman tourists. You can also check out more ways on how to reach during the best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar.
During summer, the mean temperature ranges between a minimum of 25 degrees Celsius to 32 degrees Celsius. With an average relative humidity of 80%, this is the popular time to visit Andaman and check off all your beach goals from your travel bucket list.
The weather is very, very calm during this time and in the month of October allowing you take part in watersports like jet skiing, parasailing, scuba diving, snorkeling and more.
You should visit Andaman during the summers to witness this pristine destination in all its glory. If you’re a beach person, you’ll love the ambience, the crowd and the environment that gets set up naturally during the summers. Andaman during summers is that one picture you see on blogs and magazines that have boats anchored on white sandy shores of clear turquoise waters; it’s that image of hammocks facing the Bay of Bengal tied to coconut trees and it’s that image of an infinity pool with a glass of Riesling overlooking the limitless of the ocean. Imagine that!
You should also visit Andaman now to witness the festive spirit of the island through its festivals and events like the Island Tourism Festival, which is a two-week celebration showcasing the rich cultures and traditions of the region. Another must-see event is the Subash Mela, held to commemorate the birth of Subash Chandra Bose. Additionally, the Block Mela offers a glimpse into the diverse lifestyle and cultural heritage of the locals. Among these vibrant celebrations, the Andaman Festival stands out as a remarkable event, bringing together music, dance, and local artistry to highlight the unique charm of the islands.
Highlight location
Here are some places you must visit during your visit around the best season to visit Andaman and Nicobar.
Know Before Your Visit
As mentioned, the weather in Andaman is very calm at this time and you don’t have to let your paranoia get the best of you. Just pack your bags and get lost in this paradise. This is the best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar and be there!
Being sunny, carry light cloths and flip-flops. Keep all your heavy apparels at home and travel light with a baggage or two. Carry sunglasses, sunscreens, hats, deodorants and always carry adequate water to keep yourself hydrated. You tend to dehydrate soon in tropical climates.
Monsoon is second of the two seasons Andaman experiences. If you didn’t know, Andaman receives rainfall from the monsoons twice. Yes, it gets rainfall from both the northeast monsoon and the southwest monsoon. While northeast monsoon lasts from November to January, the southwest monsoon lasts from May to September. If you didn’t know, the southwest monsoon occurs first in the Andaman and then reaches the mainland of India.
During this time, you can see the temperatures going up or down between 22 degrees to 30 degrees Celsius, making it good for both citrus-based drinks and a cup of hot chocolate.
Andaman during the monsoons is comparatively a little dull. Thanks to the tropical storms and rough rainfall that lasts to an average of 180 days a year, there is reduced influx of tourists. Travelers who are really seeking some unique experiences and want to unwind from their routine, mundane city life visit Andaman forrejuvenation and self-exploration. The times of solitude in resorts and beaches with a book in a hand are compelling for a lot of travelers out there to reach Andaman.
For a few golden moments of silence, solitude and bliss! Regardless of whether you are traveling solo or with a group of friends, the vibe during this time in Andaman will seek a better you and get you into introspection. A perfect time to evolve in the middle of nowhere.
Highlight location
Here are some places you must visit during your trip around the best season to visit Andaman and Nicobar.
As this is not a popular tourist season, water sports may not be available. It is during this time that there are huge tidal ways and unpredictably fierce winds. Hotels give out there rooms at reduced prices to attract more tourists. However, it’s also the time ferry operations are disrupted frequently by the rough waves so keep that in mind. If you had imagined the visuals we suggested, now do the same with dark hovering clouds instead of blue and the magnificence you will come up with will be your Andaman during the monsoon.
Though not risky to venture out to Andaman at this time, you may not have the perfect vacation if you come with a touristy mind. If youare into traveling raw and experience people, culture, and lifestyle in their purest form, this is the best time to visit Andaman. Carry windcheaters, raincoats, umbrellas, mosquito repellants, power banks, torch light and enough snickers during the monsoon. If you are not able to go out for food, you can probably fill your stomach with nutrition bars until the rains stop. Avoid bringing expensive cameras and gadgets in this season.
Havelock Island is one of the largest and famous islands on Andaman and Nicobar Islands with a colossal area of 113 sq. kms. and 41 kms. from Port Blair. A picturesque natural paradise with pristine white sand beaches, rich coral reefs, azure sea, tranquil ambience, verdant forests and thrilling water adventures, it draws a major populace towards its splendid calm environment away from the city's hustle bustle.
The major attractions at the island are:
1.Radhanagar Beach
A gem of Havelock Island, Radhanagar beach (also known as beach no.7) is a stellar beach that has been bestowed as the best beach in Asia and seventh best beach in the world by Time Magazine in 2004. Known for its turquoise blue waters, vast stretches of white sand, lush verdant tropical forest and spectacular sunset, it is a riveting sight that leaves one awestruck. 500 meters away from the beach, one can see the vast expanse of clear blue sea and lush greenery but as one gets closer the sheer breathtaking beauty is a sight to behold. It is the popular destination with honeymoon couples and families and photographers for its picturesque exquisiteness. Some of the activities one can indulge on this beach are swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, boating, etc. Scuba diving is more popular as it has rich corals and marine life such as turtles, dolphins and fishes. It is one of the closest beach to Havelock Island ferry tier and it can be reached by taking a seaplane from Port Blair. The best time to visit this beach is from October to February.
2.Elephant Beach
Elephant beach is an exemplary beach for snorkelling and water sports with turquoise crystal water, rich marine life, exotic coral reefs and shining shorelines. The clear waters offer an opportunity to get a close view of the abundant coral reef formations and underwater marine life. The serene waves and sight of diverse species of fishes and corals is a spellbinding experience. Other activities undertaken are an underwater sea walk, jet skiing, scuba diving, kayaking, glass-bottom boats and banana rides. A peaceful white silky sand beach with the cool breeze, and less crowd, it is ideal for relaxing, sunbathing and taking a stroll along the brilliant shoreline. Elephant beach can be reached by a half hour trek from Port Blair or by small cruise boat from Havelock Jetty in about 40 minutes.
3.Kalapathar Beach
Kalapathar beach located 12km from Havelock Jetty, is a quaint and charming offbeat beach with black stones found in abundance adorning its landscape. The emerald water, silvery sand and luxuriant green tropical trees lining the beach and majestic sunrise and sunsets offers a stunning view. The beach is ideal for sunbathing, scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming or just taking a quiet stroll along the esplanade lined with coconut trees. As it is relatively less crowded, it is perfect for those who love peace and calmness. The beauty and calmness of the beach engulf and refreshes one’s mind and soul. Kalapathar beach is located at a distance of 61 kms from Port Blair.
4.Vijaynagar Beach
Vijaynagar beach also known as beach no.5 is an exceptionally beautiful beach with sapphire blue water, white sand and collection of Mahua trees lining the coastline. Remote from the crowded beaches, it attracts tourists looking for peace and tranquility surrounded with spectacular nature. One of the magnificent beaches of Havelock Island, it is popular for its breathtaking sunrise. The clear transparent water glimmers in vivid colours under the brilliant radiance emanating from the sun while the azure sky is speckled with birds making it an unparalleled magnificent sight to be witnessed. The beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, bird watching, kayaking, game fishing, beachcombing, surf riding and sailing. The Beach is located at a distance of about 38 kms from Port Blair and 9km from Havelock jetty. The best time to visit this beach is from January to May.Havelock Island is a paradise on earth offering a rich, blissful and rejuvenating experience enriching the soul.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744211
https://www.google.co.in/maps/place/Havelock+Island/@11.9656084,92.9194242,12z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x3088d3d85e0fe039:0x25c8aaaa513ef4bf!8m2!3d11.9760503!4d92.9875565
A short getaway to the finest beaches and enjoying water sport activities.
Air: The nearest airport is the Port Blair Airport, Andaman and Nicobar Island and from there a ferry ride or seaplane can be taken to reach Havelock Island.
Road: buses and jeeps can be used to travel from one place to another in the Havelock Island. Private taxi can also be hired.
As the name suggests, the Mini Zoo at Andaman is a modest and compact zoo that still manages to give its visitors a taste of the exotic creatures that inhabit the Andaman Islands. It contains animals, birds and reptiles too. The zoo has been designed to help visitors understand the ecology and diverse ecosystems of the islands. After the opening of the Chidiyatapu Biological Park, several animals were relocated. There are still many species that visitors can see at the Mini Zoo.
Highlights of the Mini Zoo
Inclusions
Admission to the Mini Zoo
The Mini Zoo is housed inside the Forest Museum and you can visit both on the same day. The tickets are just a formality and will barely cost you anything.
Price
Recommended for
The Mini Zoo is the perfect place to visit with families and kids, to give the youngsters an idea about the various birds and animals native to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. One of the highlights of Port Blair, the zoo gets several visitors daily. Your trip to Andaman & Nicobar will be incomplete without a visit to the Mini Zoo.
How to get to Mini Zoo
Getting the zoo is really easy. Its location on the Haddo Road at Port Blair makes it well known. Also, it is within the premises of the famous Forest Museum, so you just walk to it from the museum.
Location
Haddo, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744102
Timings
The Mini Zoo is located inside the Forest Museum and it is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm except on Mondays. Don’t let the name Mini Zoo mislead you. If you really want to spend time and go through every animal and bird enclosure thoroughly, we recommend setting aside 2.30-3 hours at least for this trip.
About the Mini Zoo
The Mini Zoo at Port Blair is home to exotic animals and birds, indigenous to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and you will be able to view many of them as you walk past the various enclosures. You will be pleased to know that much effort has been taken to conserve some of the more rare species that are native only to the Andaman Islands. The zoo houses about 200 varieties of birds and animals. It once housed many more, but since the opening of the Chidiyatapu Botanical Garden, many species have been relocated to those premises. However, the zoo still has many attractions that make it certainly worth a visit.
You might be disappointed by the plain façade of the zoo when you see from the outside. However, do not let that stop you. Once inside you will be truly amazed by the several species of birds, and animals such as pigs, macaque, alligators and many more in their natural surroundings. Visitors to the zoo can also expect to see the Malayan box turtle.
The Mini Zoo accords the visitor an opportunity to spot rare species, such as the Andaman pig and the Andaman gecko, that have been protected from the outside world. At the crocodile breeding farm you will see these majestic dinosaur-era creatures sunbathing or simply watching visitors with a dispassionate eye. The crocodiles are released into the coastal mangrove swamps after reaching a certain age.
The birding area is home to exotic birds such as the Andaman dark serpent eagle, white bellied sea eagle, the famous Nicobar pigeon and even parrots.
The zoo takes good care of the animals, and the usual concerns regarding zoos will be banished when you step inside. Away from the rush and buzz of the world outside, the zoo is a secluded area and allows you to enjoy some much-deserved me-time. The zoo is a great way for animal lovers to spend some time learning about wildlife and the ecosystem of the Andaman Islands.
As you walk through the zoo you will notice the rich foliage that includes tree species of padauk, rosewood and marblewood among many other species particular only to this region. Hire the services of an expert who can point out all the interesting elements of the zoo and its inhabitants to you.
Once you've had your fill of the zoo, if you wish, you can head over to the Forest Museum and request to see the documentaries. These will give you more information about the animals that you just saw, their habitats and lifestyles.
A trip to Andaman cannot be complete without a visit to the mini zoo. The few hours that you will spend there will be some of the quietest and most peaceful ones of your life. Additionally, the visit will also give you a chance to learn more about the wildlife of the place that you are visiting.
Interesting facts about the Mini Zoo
Havelock Island is one of the largest and famous islands on Andaman and Nicobar Islands with a colossal area of 113 sq. kms. and 41 kms. from Port Blair. A picturesque natural paradise with pristine white sand beaches, rich coral reefs, azure sea, tranquil ambience, verdant forests and thrilling water adventures, it draws a major populace towards its splendid calm environment away from the city's hustle bustle.
The major attractions at the island are:
1.Radhanagar Beach
A gem of Havelock Island, Radhanagar beach (also known as beach no.7) is a stellar beach that has been bestowed as the best beach in Asia and seventh best beach in the world by Time Magazine in 2004. Known for its turquoise blue waters, vast stretches of white sand, lush verdant tropical forest and spectacular sunset, it is a riveting sight that leaves one awestruck. 500 meters away from the beach, one can see the vast expanse of clear blue sea and lush greenery but as one gets closer the sheer breathtaking beauty is a sight to behold. It is the popular destination with honeymoon couples and families and photographers for its picturesque exquisiteness. Some of the activities one can indulge on this beach are swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, boating, etc. Scuba diving is more popular as it has rich corals and marine life such as turtles, dolphins and fishes. It is one of the closest beach to Havelock Island ferry tier and it can be reached by taking a seaplane from Port Blair. The best time to visit this beach is from October to February.
2.Elephant Beach
Elephant beach is an exemplary beach for snorkelling and water sports with turquoise crystal water, rich marine life, exotic coral reefs and shining shorelines. The clear waters offer an opportunity to get a close view of the abundant coral reef formations and underwater marine life. The serene waves and sight of diverse species of fishes and corals is a spellbinding experience. Other activities undertaken are an underwater sea walk, jet skiing, scuba diving, kayaking, glass-bottom boats and banana rides. A peaceful white silky sand beach with the cool breeze, and less crowd, it is ideal for relaxing, sunbathing and taking a stroll along the brilliant shoreline. Elephant beach can be reached by a half hour trek from Port Blair or by small cruise boat from Havelock Jetty in about 40 minutes.
3.Kalapathar Beach
Kalapathar beach located 12km from Havelock Jetty, is a quaint and charming offbeat beach with black stones found in abundance adorning its landscape. The emerald water, silvery sand and luxuriant green tropical trees lining the beach and majestic sunrise and sunsets offers a stunning view. The beach is ideal for sunbathing, scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming or just taking a quiet stroll along the esplanade lined with coconut trees. As it is relatively less crowded, it is perfect for those who love peace and calmness. The beauty and calmness of the beach engulf and refreshes one’s mind and soul. Kalapathar beach is located at a distance of 61 kms from Port Blair.
4.Vijaynagar Beach
Vijaynagar beach also known as beach no.5 is an exceptionally beautiful beach with sapphire blue water, white sand and collection of Mahua trees lining the coastline. Remote from the crowded beaches, it attracts tourists looking for peace and tranquility surrounded with spectacular nature. One of the magnificent beaches of Havelock Island, it is popular for its breathtaking sunrise. The clear transparent water glimmers in vivid colours under the brilliant radiance emanating from the sun while the azure sky is speckled with birds making it an unparalleled magnificent sight to be witnessed. The beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, bird watching, kayaking, game fishing, beachcombing, surf riding and sailing. The Beach is located at a distance of about 38 kms from Port Blair and 9km from Havelock jetty. The best time to visit this beach is from January to May.Havelock Island is a paradise on earth offering a rich, blissful and rejuvenating experience enriching the soul.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744211
https://www.google.co.in/maps/place/Havelock+Island/@11.9656084,92.9194242,12z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x3088d3d85e0fe039:0x25c8aaaa513ef4bf!8m2!3d11.9760503!4d92.9875565
A short getaway to the finest beaches and enjoying water sport activities.
Air: The nearest airport is the Port Blair Airport, Andaman and Nicobar Island and from there a ferry ride or seaplane can be taken to reach Havelock Island.
Road: buses and jeeps can be used to travel from one place to another in the Havelock Island. Private taxi can also be hired.
As the name suggests, the Mini Zoo at Andaman is a modest and compact zoo that still manages to give its visitors a taste of the exotic creatures that inhabit the Andaman Islands. It contains animals, birds and reptiles too. The zoo has been designed to help visitors understand the ecology and diverse ecosystems of the islands. After the opening of the Chidiyatapu Biological Park, several animals were relocated. There are still many species that visitors can see at the Mini Zoo.
Highlights of the Mini Zoo
Inclusions
Admission to the Mini Zoo
The Mini Zoo is housed inside the Forest Museum and you can visit both on the same day. The tickets are just a formality and will barely cost you anything.
Price
Recommended for
The Mini Zoo is the perfect place to visit with families and kids, to give the youngsters an idea about the various birds and animals native to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. One of the highlights of Port Blair, the zoo gets several visitors daily. Your trip to Andaman & Nicobar will be incomplete without a visit to the Mini Zoo.
How to get to Mini Zoo
Getting the zoo is really easy. Its location on the Haddo Road at Port Blair makes it well known. Also, it is within the premises of the famous Forest Museum, so you just walk to it from the museum.
Location
Haddo, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744102
Timings
The Mini Zoo is located inside the Forest Museum and it is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm except on Mondays. Don’t let the name Mini Zoo mislead you. If you really want to spend time and go through every animal and bird enclosure thoroughly, we recommend setting aside 2.30-3 hours at least for this trip.
About the Mini Zoo
The Mini Zoo at Port Blair is home to exotic animals and birds, indigenous to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and you will be able to view many of them as you walk past the various enclosures. You will be pleased to know that much effort has been taken to conserve some of the more rare species that are native only to the Andaman Islands. The zoo houses about 200 varieties of birds and animals. It once housed many more, but since the opening of the Chidiyatapu Botanical Garden, many species have been relocated to those premises. However, the zoo still has many attractions that make it certainly worth a visit.
You might be disappointed by the plain façade of the zoo when you see from the outside. However, do not let that stop you. Once inside you will be truly amazed by the several species of birds, and animals such as pigs, macaque, alligators and many more in their natural surroundings. Visitors to the zoo can also expect to see the Malayan box turtle.
The Mini Zoo accords the visitor an opportunity to spot rare species, such as the Andaman pig and the Andaman gecko, that have been protected from the outside world. At the crocodile breeding farm you will see these majestic dinosaur-era creatures sunbathing or simply watching visitors with a dispassionate eye. The crocodiles are released into the coastal mangrove swamps after reaching a certain age.
The birding area is home to exotic birds such as the Andaman dark serpent eagle, white bellied sea eagle, the famous Nicobar pigeon and even parrots.
The zoo takes good care of the animals, and the usual concerns regarding zoos will be banished when you step inside. Away from the rush and buzz of the world outside, the zoo is a secluded area and allows you to enjoy some much-deserved me-time. The zoo is a great way for animal lovers to spend some time learning about wildlife and the ecosystem of the Andaman Islands.
As you walk through the zoo you will notice the rich foliage that includes tree species of padauk, rosewood and marblewood among many other species particular only to this region. Hire the services of an expert who can point out all the interesting elements of the zoo and its inhabitants to you.
Once you've had your fill of the zoo, if you wish, you can head over to the Forest Museum and request to see the documentaries. These will give you more information about the animals that you just saw, their habitats and lifestyles.
A trip to Andaman cannot be complete without a visit to the mini zoo. The few hours that you will spend there will be some of the quietest and most peaceful ones of your life. Additionally, the visit will also give you a chance to learn more about the wildlife of the place that you are visiting.
Interesting facts about the Mini Zoo
There are daily flights from various cities such as Bangalore, Hyderabad, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai to Andaman’s capital Port Blair. The Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair has daily flights from these cities and airlines such as Air India, GoAir, IndiGo, Spicejet and Vistara serve the airport. As of now, there are no international flights operating from this airport yet but are expected to begin in 2020.
The airport which used to be known as Port Blair Airport is just 2 kilometres, south of the city. As it is the only primary airport here, it connects Andaman and Nicobar with the rest of the country.
The other way to reach Andaman and Nicobar islands is by ship. There are cargo ships to Port Blair from Chennai, Kolkata and Vishakapatnam which reach Port Blair’s Haddo Jetty. While boats might be a fun way to reach the islands, they are not very convenient or even comfortable as they can be quite time consuming. Also, weather and sea conditions are important factors in travel and they can add to the time taken to reach Port Blair. At Port Blair’s Phoenix Bay Jetty, you can buy your return ticket at the ferry booking office.
An important thing to remember is that these ships will not offer the luxuries that you might find at in a cruise ship. These government operated cargo ships are meant for commercial use and are not ideally suited for passengers expecting a certain level of comfort or luxury. There are different levels of rooms available and even then, they might not match those you see on typical cruises. The ships are not known for their privacy and the rooms may not be up to the standards of those who expect even basic clean rooms. The only reason many opt for this way to reach Andaman is because it’s less expensive than flights but if you consider comfort as a priority, then it’s best if you avoid this.
What is the best month to visit the Andamans?
The best month to visit the Andamans would be anyone between November and May. The monsoons can be erratic with high tidal waves and strong winds. The greatest time to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is during its annual tourism festival, which takes place in January.
Do Indians need a passport to visit the Andamans?
Indian citizens don’t need a passport to visit the Andamans, international travelers do. However, a permit is mandatory for Indian citizens without a passport to visit some of the destinations.
How long is the cruise to the Andamans?
You set sail from Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam for Port Blair. The voyage ideally takes 3-4 days.
Is it safe to visit the Andamans?
Yes, Andaman is plenty safe. However, gaining some practical knowledge about the place is essential to be meticulous about the worst-case scenarios.
Which is the main airport in the Andamans?
Veer Savarkar International Airport, situated near Port Blair is the main airport of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
How many islands make up the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
Andaman and Nicobar comprise 572 islands in total, out of which 38 are inhabited. North, Middle, and South Andaman, known collectively as Great Andaman, are the main islands.
Which languages are spoken in the Andamans?
Bengali, Tamil, Malayalam, Hindi, and English are the main languages spoken in the Andamans
Do I need special permission to visit the Andamans?
There is no need for a passport or permit for Indian citizens to visit the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Specific permission with details about the visit is however required to visit notified Tribal areas (e.g. research, educational, etc.).
Do I need a diving license to dive in the Andamans?
No, you don’t need a diving license but shall be offered pre-training.
How many days does one need for a vacation to the Andamans?
To cover all of the major sightseeing activities, a 5-night/6-day trip is recommended. You can take 9 nights and 10 days Andaman tour package to visit all of the islands and activities at your leisure.