Planning a road trip to Andaman may sound unusual since the islands are separated from mainland India by the Bay of Bengal. However, you can still enjoy an adventurous journey by combining road travel, ferry rides, and scenic island drives. This guide covers everything you need to know—from the best time to visit and how to reach Andaman by road & sea, to exciting activities, cultural experiences, and essential travel tips.
1. Can You Reach Andaman by Road?
Since Andaman is an island chain, there are no direct roadways connecting it to mainland India. However, you can plan a combined road and sea journey to reach Andaman from cities like Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam.
Route for a Road & Sea Trip to Andaman:
Step 1: Drive to Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam – Major ports for ships to Andaman.
Step 2: Board a Passenger Ship to Port Blair – Takes 3-4 days by sea.
Step 3: Rent a Bike or Car in Port Blair – Explore Andaman by road.
Pro Tip: Bringing your own car/bike is not feasible as vehicle transportation via ship is costly and restricted. It’s best to rent vehicles in Andaman instead.
2. Best Time to Visit Andaman for a Road Trip
Best Season: October to May – Pleasant weather, calm seas, and ideal for road trips and sightseeing.
Avoid Monsoon (June-September) – Heavy rains can cause ferry delays and roadblocks.
Tip: If you want to avoid crowds and get the best deals on hotels and transport, visit between October and early December or March to May.
3. Best Road Trip Routes in Andaman
Once you reach Port Blair, you can rent a bike, scooty, or car and explore the scenic roads of Andaman. Here are some of the best road trip routes:
- Route 1: Port Blair to Chidiya Tapu (25 km, 45 min)
Why Visit? – Stunning sunset views, lush forests, and birdwatching.
Road Condition: Well-maintained with beautiful coastal scenery.
- Route 2: Port Blair to Baratang Island (100 km, 4 hours)
Why Visit? – Famous for limestone caves, mud volcanoes, and mangrove forests.
Road Condition: Narrow jungle roads, requires crossing by ferry (Middle Strait Jetty).
- Route 3: Port Blair to Havelock Island (By Ferry, then road trip)
Why Visit? – Home to Radhanagar Beach, ranked among Asia’s best beaches.
Road Condition: Smooth roads with scenic beachside drives.
- Route 4: Havelock to Neil Island (By Ferry, then road trip)
Why Visit? – Bharatpur Beach, Laxmanpur Beach, Natural Bridge, and peaceful landscapes.
Road Condition: Well-paved roads, very little traffic.
4. Exciting Activities to Do on an Andaman Road Trip
- Bike Ride in Havelock Island – Explore tropical beaches and lsh greenery.
- Ferry Ride to Remote Islands – Travel to Neil, Ross, and Baratang Islands.
- Scuba Diving & Snorkeling – Experience colorful coral reefs in Elephant Beach & North Bay Island.
- Dolphin Watching Tours – Spot playful dolphins near North Passage Island.
- Mangrove Kayaking (Mayabunder & Baratang) – Paddle through dense mangrove forests.
- Explore Limestone Caves – Take a thrilling speedboat ride to Baratang’s unique caves.
- Camping at Radhanagar Beach – Enjoy a peaceful night under the stars.
Tip: If you’re an adventure enthusiast, you can also try jet skiing, sea walking, parasailing, and trekking.
5. Cultural Insights: What Makes Andaman Special?
Beyond beaches and adventure, Andaman has a rich cultural and historical significance.
- Cellular Jail (Kala Pani): Witness the remnants of India’s freedom struggle.
- Anthropological Museum: Learn about Andaman’s indigenous tribes like the Jarwas and Sentinalese.
- Traditional Dance & Music: Enjoy Nicobari dance performances during local festivals.
- Local Andaman Cuisine: Try fresh seafood, coconut-based dishes, and tribal recipes.
- Festivals to Experience:
- Subhash Mela (January) – Celebrates Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s visit to Andaman.
- Beach Festivals (April & October) – Showcases local music, food, and adventure sports.
Tip: Respect the local culture—tribal areas are restricted, and photography of tribes is strictly prohibited.
6. Essential Travel Tips for an Andaman Road Trip
- Rent Vehicles Locally: Two-wheelers cost ₹500-₹800/day, while cars cost 1,500-3,000/day.
- Carry Cash: ATMs are limited, especially on remote islands. ies in Advance: Government ferries and private cruises sell out quickly.
- Travel Light: Beachwear, sunscreen, hats, and waterproof bags are must-haves.
- Stay Connected: Network coverage is weak in some areas—use BSNL or Airtel SIMs for better connectivity.
- Eco-Friendly Travel: Avoid plastic waste, as Andaman has strict environmental rules.
7. Sample 5-Day Itinerary for an Andaman Road Trip
- Day 1: Explore Port Blair & Nearby Attractions
Arrive in Port Blair → Rent a Bike/Car → Visit Cellular Jail & Corbyn’s Cove Beach → Evening Light & Sound Show
Take a ferry to Havelock Island → Check-in at a beachside resort → Relax at Radhanagar Beach → Sunset drive
- Day 3: Havelock Island Adventures
Rent a bike & explore Elephant Beach → Enjoy scuba diving/snorkeling → Road trip to Kalapathar Beach
- Day 4: Havelock to Neil Island
Take a morning ferry to Neil Island → Drive to Bharatpur & Laxmanpur Beach → Visit the Natural Bridge
- Day 5: Return to Port Blair & Departure
Ferry back to Port Blair → Explore Ross Island & North Bay Island → Final shopping at Aberdeen Bazaar
Budget: 25,000 - 40,000 (Including transport, stay, food & activities).
Final Thoughts
A road trip in Andaman may be unconventional, but it’s a unique and scenic way to explore the islands at your own pace. Whether you’re riding a bike through Havelock’s tropical forests or taking a ferry to hidden beaches, this adventure offers endless beauty and unforgettable experiences.
Ready to plan your Andaman road trip? Start booking now and experience paradise like never before!