FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

By Air and Ship
The Veer Savarkar Airport, an International Airport is located in the capital town of Port Blair, the gateway to Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Port Blair, is connected with Chennai, Kolkata, New Delhi and Bangalore by air. Air India, Go Air, Indigo, Vistara & Spice Jet Airlines operate regular flights. Foreign chartered flights are also permitted to land at Port Blair subject to the fulfilment of guidelines of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
Regular passenger ship services are available to Port Blair from Chennai, Kolkata and Visakhapatnam and back. There are three to four sailings every month from Kolkata and Chennai to Port Blair and vice-versa. There is only one sailing for Visakhapatnam in a month. The voyage takes about 50 to 60 hours during fair weather.

The Andaman Islands, like other parts of the Andaman Sea enjoy a tropical climate throughout the year. The average minimum temperature is around 23°C and it seldom goes much above 30°C. Humidity is relatively high at about 70% to 90%, however with a gentle breeze blowing most the time it is still quite pleasant.

Much famed as the best beach for scuba diving and snorkelling, Radhanagar Beach is one of the cleanest beaches in Asia, and hands down the best beach in Andaman. Radhanagar beach also bagged the prestigious blue flag certification in 2020. A Blue Flag beach is an eco-tourism model endeavouring to provide the tourists or beachgoers clean and hygienic bathing water, facilities, safe and healthy environment. Other notable beaches include 1. Lalaji Bay Beach (Long Island) 2. Laxmanpur Beach (Neil Island) 3. Butler Bay Beach (Hut Bay) 4. Twin Islands : Ross & Smith Islands 5. Aamkunj Beach (Middle Andaman)

Andaman Islands are open for Tourists all seasons. The best time to visit the Andaman Islands is from the month of October to May and Monsoon tourism will be from June to October.

Besides picturesque beaches, the island also houses a few famous local markets. If you want to shop your heart out during your Andaman trip, here is the list of places:
• Sagarika Emporium:- Find handcrafted wooden souvenirs, spices and apparel here. You can also pick up jute products, mirrors and pearls.
• Market 3 (Havelock Island):- This market offers several stalls retailing jewellery, souvenirs, beach gear and swimwear as well.
• Anup Eco Arts:- This is another emporium by the Government, providing environment-friendly products created by locals. You will also find several coconut-made items here.
• Ratnam Market:- Situated in Port Blair, this market offers electronic goods, spices, food and seashell items.

While on your Andaman trip, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind-
Do’s-

  • For any support, check out tourist information centres at various places.
  • Always carry your identity proof and other documents along.
  • If you are renting a two-wheeler, make sure you wear a helmet or you will have to pay a steep fine.
  • Always talk to the lifeguards before venturing into the sea.
  • Check out the safe zones for swimming.
  • Obtain permits for entering national parks.
  • Adhere to video and photography regulations.

Don’ts-

  • Never stand upon the coral reefs.
  • Do not interact with the tribes and respect their privacy.
  • Do not throw any garbage in the open. Always use the bins placed everywhere.
  • Do not smoke in any public place.
  • Do not carry or use any plastic bag.
  • Do not visit any tribal reserve without the special pass.
  • Do not stay on the beach or in the forest overnight.
  • Do not hunt any animal or bird.
  • Do not light any bonfire on the beach or in the forest.
  • Do not touch or take shells.
  • Do not take photographs or videos of the tribes.

An Andaman trip is incomplete without feasting on these items:

  • Fish Curry:- This authentic dish is marinated and cooked in a variety of Indian spices.
  • Amritsari Kulcha:- Savour this classic item with potato, onion, and other stuffing.
  • Chilli Curry:- This is another classic meal in the region with loads of flavours, onions and chillies.
  • Coconut Prawn Curry:- A delicacy here, it blends local flavours and spices with coconut milk and tantalizing prawns.
  • Tandoori Fish:- Make sure you try the fresh fish in a Tandoori avatar, which is sold in various places.
  • Grilled Lobsters:- You will love the grilled and tempting lobsters available in the Andamans for sure.