Andaman and Nicobar Islands is an archipelago situated on the meeting point of Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. There are 572 islands out of which 38 islands are inhabited. Out of these 38, this blog will shed light on the best 5 islands of Andaman that you should cover on an island hopping tour. Most of the islands like North Bay, Viper Island, and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island are within a radius of 5 kilometres from the capital. It will take a 25 to 30 minutes boat ride to reach the aforementioned islands.
Island hopping is a unique and thrilling experience. Visitors, instead of spending days and weeks, spend just a few hours, before heading on to the next island. So it goes like: arrive, explore, and leave. This is a quick yet adventurous way to experience the best of these islands. On an island hopping tour in Andaman, explore marine life, enjoy basking in the sun, and relish food from beach side shacks. Read below to know more about what to expect from the top islands of Andamans.
Table of Contents:
Island Hopping in Andaman: What to Expect at Each Island?
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island
- North Bay Island
- Viper Island
- Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
- Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
Island Hopping in Andaman: What to Expect at Each Island?
1. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose (Ross) Island is the closest island from Sri Vijaya Puram. It is located 3 km to the east of Vijaya Puram. The island is primarily known for its quiet vibe and tall palm fringed trees. Historical ruins and tattered colonial buildings covered in roots immediately attract one’s attention. The vast expanse of sea is impressive to look at from the island.
Stroll on the island and feel the sea breeze carrying salt air caressing our skin. A boat ride from Sri Vijaya Puram will take you to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island in just 15 to 20 minutes. You can also choose to fly via sea plane or a helicopter operated by A & N Administration. The option of travelling via road is also available. The distance between Sri Vijaya Puram and Ross Island is 11 kilometres via road. You can take a cab but that will take longer to reach. Hence, a boat trip is the best and cheapest option.
2. North Bay Island
North Bay is the prime destination for all the thrilling water sports and underwater activities. This island is 4 kilometres from Sri Vijaya Puram and a boat ride of mere 30 minutes will take you to the island. North Bay is an uninhibited island, therefore only day trips are allowed since there is no provision for overnight stay. However, for water sports and similar activities the island has changing rooms, washroom facilities and benches. You can use these if going for a swim or snorkeling session.
During the peak season, tourists flock to the island to participate in water activities like snorkelling and diving. The months between November and February are the busiest months on the North Bay Island. All types of water activities are available here. Glass bottom boat ride, banana boat ride, jet skiing, kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, and sea walking are best enjoyed on North Bay Island. Since, you will be spending a minimum of 3 hours on this island so better carry your own snacks. Although tea, coffee and fritters are available to munch on.
3. Viper Island
Another island located in close proximity to Sri Vijaya Puram is Viper Island. It is situated 4 kilometres from Sri Vijaya Puram. Viper Island was once used for holding political prisoners and convicts captive before the establishment of Cellular Jail. The island was named after a vessel called H.M.S Viper which met with an accident and the ship wreck was found near the island. Today, this island is only left with old colonial buildings, old trees whose thick branches have spread and hold onto the ruins.
The auburn and old colonial structures stand in stark contrast to the clear blue skies and swaying palm trees. You can take a stroll on this island, click photos and may also spot spotted deer casually roaming the island. To reach Viper in Island in just 20 minutes, board the Harbor Cruise. It is available daily from the Phoenix Bay jetty.
4. Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
Swaraj Dweep is undoubtedly the most travelled tourist island of the Andaman & Nicobar archipelago. It boasts the number one beach of India: Radhangar Beach. The approximate distance from Sri Vijaya Puram to Swaraj Dweep is 55 kilometres. This island is part of most Andaman tour packages because who would want to miss out this tropical gem. The island is also incredible for water sports, especially on the shallow waters of Elephant Beach.
Wondering when is the best time to visit Swaraj Dweep? For clear, dry and sunny weather which is less, plan your travel between mid-October to March. If you plan to visit Swaraj Dweep in January, you can also attend the famous Subhash Mela held in honour of freedom fighter Subash Chandra Bose. Havelock many resorts, hotels, restaurants and decent nightlife to enjoy. To get around Swaraj Dweep, you can use taxis, rented scooters, boats etc.
5. Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
Neil Island or Shaheed Dweep is located almost 53.7 km away from the capital of Andaman. If Swaraj Dweep is the upbeat and zany destination, Shaheed Dweep is a much calmer and tamed version of it. The beaches of Shaheed Dweep are beautiful and remarkably well-kept.
On Shaheed Dweep, you can visit the Howrah Bridge— a natural rock formation during the early morning when it’s low tide.
Neil island has stunning coral formation which you can witness by going for a quick snorkel session. The pink, purple, orange, yellow, and red exude a vibrancy under water. While on Neil Island, don’t forget to catch the beautiful sunset on Laxmapur Beach. Post sunset, stay back at a hotel or in a homestay and leave for Sri Vijaya Puram the next morning.
This will conclude your island hopping tour in Andaman Islands.