"I recently traveled to Andaman from Kolkata with my family, and it was an unforgettable experience! Here’s how I planned our trip, along with some tips that might help you if you’re considering the same journey.
Itinerary:
We spent 6 days and 5 nights in Andaman, and it felt like the perfect duration to explore the main attractions. Here’s a breakdown of our itinerary:
Day 1: We took an early morning flight from Kolkata to Port Blair, which took about 2.5 hours. After arriving, we checked into our hotel and then headed to the Cellular Jail for the light-and-sound show. It was a moving experience for the whole family.
Day 2: We took a ferry to Havelock Island early in the morning. After reaching Havelock, we checked into a beachside resort and spent the day relaxing at Radhanagar Beach. The sunset there was absolutely breathtaking!
Day 3: We went for some water sports activities like snorkeling and scuba diving at Elephant Beach. It was an amazing experience for all of us, especially the kids, who loved exploring the vibrant marine life.
Day 4: We took a day trip to Neil Island for a quiet and peaceful day. The beaches there were pristine, and we got to do some light trekking and snorkeling.
Day 5: We returned to Port Blair and visited Chidiya Tapu, a perfect spot for nature lovers. We also explored the Corbyns Cove Beach, which was quite close to our hotel and offered a more relaxed beach experience.
Day 6: Before catching our return flight to Kolkata, we had a quick visit to Mount Harriet National Park for some last-minute sightseeing.
Budget Tips:
Flights: We booked our flights in advance, which helped us save some money. We chose a morning flight from Kolkata to Port Blair to maximize our time in Andaman.
Accommodation: There are options for all budgets. We stayed at a mid-range resort on Havelock Island with direct beach access. In Port Blair, we opted for a 3-star hotel which was comfortable and reasonably priced.
Food: The food was amazing, especially seafood. On Havelock and Neil Island, we found many local restaurants offering fresh fish and crab at affordable rates. The mainland Indian cuisine was also available for my kids, who aren’t big seafood fans.
Best Time to Visit:
We went in July. While it’s a bit off-season due to the monsoon, we didn’t face too much rain, and the crowd was minimal. However, November to April is generally considered the best time to visit if you prefer sunny days and clear water for water sports.
Must-See Places:
Radhanagar Beach (Havelock Island): This is a must-visit for its beauty and serenity.
Cellular Jail: A historical must-see in Port Blair, especially with the evening sound and light show.
Elephant Beach: Ideal for water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving.
Chidiya Tapu: Perfect for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Neil Island: A peaceful and less touristy spot for a relaxing day.
Final Thoughts:
Overall, the trip was an absolute delight! Andaman is a great family destination. The kids had a blast, and my partner and I loved the natural beauty and calmness of the islands. The only tip I’d give is to plan ahead, especially if you’re traveling during the peak season. Also, try to avoid the monsoon months for the best experience, though we got lucky with the weather.
Would definitely recommend this trip to anyone looking for a mix of history, nature, and adventure. Can’t wait to visit again!"
