Andaman - Living the island life at Havelock !

Andaman Islands – A necklace of islands in the middle of Bay of Bengal ! 

Andaman Islands is aptly described as a necklace of turquoise water ; white sand and tropical islands in the middle of the Bay of Bengal. The islands can be reached from many parts of India via connecting flights but direct flights are available from Kolkata Mumbai Delhi and Bangalore, four of India’s biggest hubs. Landing at Andaman is like a dream. The aerial view of the islands is simply stunning offering views of the lagoons ; beaches and the tropical forests. Port Blair is the capital city and a typical bustling town while the island experience is available at other islands in the archipelago. While there are 100’s of islands ; due to security and accessibility reasons only a handful are open for tourists ; amongst the most popular ones being South Andaman (which is essentially Port Blair, Mount Harriet national park ; Ross island) ; Havelock Island and Neil island. This is where you’d find most if not all tourists. Both islands are accessible by Ferry / Cruise from Port Blair. We would recommend Makruzz ferry company which runs comfortable ; on time and well maintained ferries between these islands. The ferry ride between Port Blair and Havelock island takes about 1.5 hrs.

 Havelock Island

Havelock is a getaway in itself and one can spend at least 3-4 days here to unwind ; rejuvenate and soak up the island life. With its multiple turquoise water beaches; each one is unique in its own right. These include Kalapathar Beach with its fantastic waves and coral sandy shore ; The world famous Radhanagar beach ; Elephant beach (reachable by boat 30 mins from the Havelock Jetty) and Govindnagar Beach (Which is where most of the sea facing resorts are located). All beaches are within 20-30 mins riding of the Havelock market / bazaar area. Elephant beach being an exception where you need to take a boat ride from the Havelock jetty to access it as there is no road access (There is apparently a forest trek trail but this is closed for most part of the year and certainly not suitable for kids). The boat ticket costs INR 1000 per person and is totally worth it. Its about 30 mins part of the ride in the deep sea and finally the beach you get to is an isolated cove by the hill side. White sands ; green waters and rich in underwater marine and coral life. Many water sports and rides are available here. Including speed boat ; jet ski ; banana boat ride etc. The glass boat is a good experience to see underwater marine life. All activity tickets can be bought at the Havelock Jetty or at the Elephant beach itself.

Tips:

Carry extra pair of clothes when you step out. You might find a beautiful sea side spot and want to take a dip unplanned as you're riding

Renting a bike is a great way to move around the island as there is limited public transport. Cabs are mostly reserved for tourist on packages and besides you’re more independent with your own vehicle. Helmets are compulsory. Take care if riding in the monsoons as roads can be slippery. The roads are generally good and signage’s are everywhere.

Eat Seafood prepared the local way with banana Leaf. Ask for reduced spice as food can be generally spicy. Squid restaurant offers good and fresh seafood. Also try Fat Martin (for conti) and Sea Dragon for seafood and amazing views of the Nemo beach and lagoon while you eat. Anju coco house serves delicious Indian and Chinese food and portions are voluptious. 

Try and stay at a seaside resort that has beach touching access. Most resorts are located along the Govind Nagar and Bejoy Nagar area. All beaches are equally beautiful so there isn’t a preferred place really. We stayed at Tilar Siro by CGH and while it is a little pricey is offers access to an absolutely stunning part of the Govindnagar beach which is secluded and very private.

Carry mosquito repellant is visiting during monsoon ; sunscreen if visiting during summer. We visited early June and the weather was really good. Although it wasn’t sunny ; it wasn’t pouring either and it was cloudy all day long with intermittent rain. So I would say a good time to visit. And Not too crowded either. The only down side could be flight schedules which get interrupted during monsoons and we had a hard time with our flight getting diverted etc. So I would still maintain ; November to May is a good season to visit.

Buy souvenirs at the small shops near the jetty. That and Radhanagar beach are the only places you’ll find it. These are also available at the Port Blair airport although at a higher price. Hi-land supermarket is probably the largest supermarket in Havelock in the small bazaar for your local shopping needs. Close by is a sweetmeat shop run by a Bengali from Siliguri. He dishes out some amazing and fresh sweets. Doused in oil yes ; but a treat to the taste buds and soul. 

And do NOT forget your camera or camera phone wherever you go :) 




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