Best Time to Visit: The tropical climate is warm and humid all year. For perfect sunny days, the best time to visit is from January to April, which is the high season. December to March is the best time to see turtles nesting.
Getting Around: Most islands can only be reached by passenger ferries. The main group of islands—North, Middle and South Andaman—is connected by the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR), with ferry crossings and bridges. Depending on the place, various types of local transport may be available including auto rickshaws, taxis, shared jeeps and public buses. Costly seaplane and helicopter services operate between a few islands such as Port Blair and Havelock Island too. On the islands, it's convenient to rent a scooter or bicycle or hire a local car for the whole trip.
Connectivity & Convenience: Expect to go on a digital detox because Internet connectivity is generally poor here. Credit cards are widely accepted in Port Blair at upmarket hotels and restaurants. You'll most likely need to pay with cash in other places. Stock up on cash in Port Blair because even though there are a couple of ATMs on Havelock Island and Neil Island they don't always work. Book ferry tickets in advance using a local travel agent for hassle-free travel during peak season.
Getting There: To reach the Andaman Islands you will generally first arrive at Port Blair, the capital located on South Andaman Island. The islands are accessible only from India. Direct non-stop flights are available from Kolkata and Chennai, with additional flights on select days from other major cities. For budget travellers with some flexibility, boat services operated by the Shipping Corporation of India offer a less expensive option, with weekly services from Kolkata and Chennai, and monthly services from Visakhapatnam.
Permits: Tourists are now permitted to explore various parts of the Andaman Islands without needing a Restricted Area Permit. These include East Island, North Andaman, Smith Island, Curfew Island, Stewart Island, LandFall Island, Ayes Island, Middle Andaman, Long Island, Strait Island, North Passage, Baratang Island, South Andaman, Havelock Island (now known as Swaraj Dweep), Neil Island (now named Shaheed Dweep), Flat Bay, North Sentinel Island, Little Andaman, Narcondam Island, Interview Island, and Viper Island.
However, overnight stays may not be possible on all these islands. While access to these islands has been eased, permits are still mandatory for visiting protected areas such as forests, wildlife and marine sanctuaries, and tribal reserves within the islands. For example, the North Sentinel Island, known for its isolated and protected tribe requires special permission. The cost of these permits for foreigners typically range around INR 1,000 and INR 75 for Indian citizens.
Money Saving Tips: The months right before and after the monsoon season October to mid-December, and April to mid-May, are less expensive and quieter. Opt to travel by bus and public ferry where possible. Lastly, stock up on alcohol from local liquor stores as restaurants and hotels have a huge markup on alcohol prices.
