Andaman Travel Guide: Permits, Ferries & Best Time to Visit

The Andaman Islands feel like a different country compared to mainland India, and the logistics work a little differently too — here's what actually matters before you book.

Do you need a permit?

Indian nationals need only a valid photo ID to visit most of the Andaman Islands — no special permit required for Port Blair, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), or Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep). Foreign nationals need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), which is issued free of charge on arrival at Port Blair airport or in advance online.

Getting between islands

Government ferries (run by the Andaman administration) and private operators (like Makruzz and Green Ocean) both run between Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil Island. Private ferries are faster and more comfortable but cost more; government ferries are budget-friendly but need to be booked well ahead as seats sell out quickly in peak season.

Best time to visit

October to May is the recommended window, with December-February offering the most reliable weather for water activities. The monsoon (June-September) brings rough seas that can disrupt ferry schedules and water sports, so we generally don't recommend this window for Andaman specifically.

How many days do you need

A minimum of 4-5 days lets you cover Port Blair's Cellular Jail plus a proper stay on Havelock for Radhanagar Beach and diving. Add Neil Island if you have 6-7 days for a quieter, less touristy stretch.

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