Havelock Island
Havelock Island Tourism
Havelock Island, part of the stunning Ritchie’s Archipelago, is the heart and soul of Andamans. Speckled with countless white sand beaches surrounded by the beauty of tropical forest, Havelock is a coastal paradise promising unprecedented luxury with a blissful dollop of adrenaline. Home to some of the most stunning beaches of Andaman, the underwater world is guaranteed to lure you in with the plethora of water adventures like snorkelling, scuba diving, sea walking, surfing and glass boat rides!
Explore the pristine shores of Havelock Island with our Andaman tour packages, promising unforgettable experiences amidst breathtaking landscapes.
On a lazy day, get in your favourite hammock by the white sandy beaches, and under the canopy of tall palm trees to reinvigorate your senses. Explore popular beaches like Vijayanagar, Radhanagar, and Bharatpur, and entertain the shopaholic in you by giving the iconic Market No. 3 a visit! If you’re a seeker of offbeat destinations, a fascinating trip to Barren Island, Inglis Beach, Merk Bay, and Kalapathar Beach are a delightful detour from the more popular, bustling Havelock beaches.
Places to Visit in Havelock Islands:
-Neil Island
Neil Island is one of the most popular places to visit in Andaman, and sits about 40 km to the south of the Andaman Islands. The face of the island is peppered with dense tropical forests, coral reefs, and lovely white sand beaches. It is also one of the best places in Havelock for experiencing the realm of underwater adventures like scuba diving, snorkelling, and surfing. Beaches like Laxmanpur, Sitapur and Bharatpur are the most frequented of all.
-Radhanagar Beach
Skirting the southern coast of Havelock Island, Radhanagar Beach is something right out of paradise! Crowned Asia’s Best Beach, and 7th best in the world by Time Magazine, Radhanagar beach enjoys immense popularity. It is the beach that your island dreams are made of - pristine white sand caressing azure waters and towered by lofty trees! It is the perfect place to experience the combination of comforting luxury and rugged wilderness.
-Elephant Beach
Elephant Beach is best known for snorkelling, owing to the beautiful coral reefs that grace the seascape, along with an abundance of exotic marine life which will have you keep coming back for more. The boat or ferry ride to Elephant Beach from Havelock Jetty takes about 40 minutes. As the beach is applauded for its stunning coral reef structures, sea walking is an unmatched, surreal experience. It is safe to say that your trip to Havelock is incomplete without visiting Elephant Beach.
-Barren Island
True to its name, Barren Island is a stretch of land that is completely devoid of human population. It also fosters the only known active volcano of South Asia, making it a truly fascinating destination for adventure seekers. Since the vegetation is scanty there, it is home only to goats, bats, birds and rats. Although, you need to obtain special permission from the forest department in order to visit the island. Besides, there is a whole world of water sports to lure you along the way!
-Vijaynagar Beach
The exquisite beauty of Vijaynagar Beach is ideal for those looking to bask in the comforting caresses of nature. Also famous as Beach No. 5, it is a go-to destination for exploring the exciting underwater world. The lingering tranquility and solace that the beach offers make it a truly unmatched spot, veered off other bustling attractions in Andaman. You can also have a look at our guide on the best things to enjoy in andaman on your trip.
-Long Island
Decidedly the most offbeat places to visit in the archipelago, the seascape of Long Island remains relatively unspoiled. It is famous amongst adventurers and explorers of untraced paths, while not many travellers are privy to the beautiful secrets that it harbours. It is also the perfect place for you to unplug, and reconnect with yourself, given the isolated location of the place. If you can visit only a handful of places in Andaman, let Long Island be one of those places.
-Bharatpur Beach
A popular amongst travellers, Bharatpur Beach in Neil Island is a wide blanket of undulating waves, bordered by pristine white sand. What makes the beach stand out is the diversity in coral reefs and exotic marine life that thrives there. One of the best ways to fully admire the beauty of the beach and its wonderful residents is on a glass boat ride, which gives you a closer view, along with the illusion that you’re actually floating on water!
-Kala Pathar Beach
Sitting about 12 km away from Havelock jetty, the beauty of Kalapathar beach remains relatively unexplored. One of the cleanest beaches in Andaman, Kalapathar is ideal for those looking for a respite from the crowded, popular beaches of Havelock. Roofing adventure, natural beauty and solitude, the beach is not yet well equipped with advanced facilities that the other beaches have.
-Market #3
Market #3, also dubbed as the heart and soul of Havelock Island, caters to all shopping whims and needs of travellers and locals alike. Lined with several shops and vendors selling everything from clothes to daily essentials and groceries, one needs to brush up on their bargaining skills to shop here. The market operates from morning to 03:00 PM only.
-Merk Bay Beach
Snuggled in the secluded beauty of North Passage Island in Andaman, Merk Bay Beach is essentially a vast, unseen world awaiting exploration. A beguiling combination of clear turquoise waters and lovely white sand enchants the senses and redefines beauty. The one hour ride from Long Island jetty to Merk Bay is a scenic one as the path winds through unknown creeks and nooks. The island is apt for activities like dolphin spotting, birdwatching, or even for a simple yet refreshing walk by the moonlit shores.
-Laxmanpur Beach
Looking for picture perfect memories and postcard worthy photos? Laxmanpur Beach is what you’re looking for! Bestowed with untouched beauty, the beach strays somewhat off the commonly trodden paths. Its vast and open white shell sands form a striking contrast to the blue waters of other beaches in Andaman. You can also find a delightful amount of sea shells and corals here. Activities like snorkelling and diving are best enjoyed at Laxmanpur Beach, while the majesty of the setting sun leaves stellar shades in the evening skies for you to revel in.
-Inglis Beach
Inglis Island is located about 60 km away from Port Blair, and is acclaimed widely for its diverse coral reef structures and wildlife. The endless expanse of turquoise green waters of Inglis are bound to leave you speechless. Embraced by vast forests, the island is fairly isolated, rendering it ideal for honeymooners and explorers. Lovely white sand beaches surrounded by vast stretches of greenery, the offbeat destination is something every adventurer dreams of. Don't miss on checking out our top selling Andaman honeymoon packages.
Things to Do in Havelock
-Visit beaches
Andaman is a beautiful tropical world, and home to thousands of sparkling beaches. And while there are many places to explore in Havelock, essentially, it is nothing without its beaches. If you’re a seeker of offbeat places, Kalapathar Beach is the perfect place to explore, besides Vijaynagar Beach, Radhanagar Beach, and Kalapathar Beach. The most phenomenal experience if watching the slowly setting sun fire up the evening sky!
-Have a Glass Bottom Boat Tour
A menacing combination of adrenaline and peace, the iconic glass bottom boat ride is a must-have experience when in Havelock. Unveil the marvellous secrets of the marine world without dipping your toes in! The ride is generally about an hour long, and can be experienced best at Bharatpur Beach, given its secluded location ensuring you have only the pristine tropical beauty for company.
-See Elephants training
Close to the Havelock jetty lies an elephant training camp where they’re trained meticulously to carry heavy logs, and for other tasks. You can also take a tour of the thick forests of Havelock Island via elephant rides - a once in a lifetime experience. Another such place to experience this is the training camp presided over by the Forest Department at Kalapathar.
-Witness Elephants swimming
Elephant swimming is a widely spoken about activity in Andaman. The most famous swimming elephant, a 66-year-old wonder and the last of his kind was adopted by Havelock’s Barefoot Resort. It was there that he met his end. Sadly, there are no more swimming elephants left in Andamans anymore.
-Explore the sea - Scuba Diving
When in Andaman, scuba diving is a given! The most popular water sport, scuba diving lures in herds and herds of travellers, nature lovers and adrenaline junkies to Andaman every year. And for good reason, for the spectacular beauty of the islands and the stunning diving sites are virtually matchless. There are well-trained professionals and guides to oversee your adventure, and the top-notch modern equipments provided are an assurance of safety. If you’re looking for underwater adventures, Andaman will delight you.
-Snorkelling
With no dearth of breathtaking white sand beaches and glistening turquoise waters in Havelock, snorkelling is one of the finest adventures you can have! One of the major highlights about snorkelling in Havelock is that there is not stipulated timings the must be adhered to and can be done anytime as per your convenience. Despite being an adrenaline-pumping activity, you’d be surprised at the feeling of tranquillity it brings you.
-Seesighting in Havelock
Havelock Island is arguably the most alluring destination in Andaman, with countless little treasures locked in its verdant, tropical bounds. From an array of crystal clear beaches to explore, to an astounding list of adventures to lose yourself in, Havelock has got it all. The most commonly chosen sightseeing spots are Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, Barren Island, Neil Island, Bharatpur Beach, Vijaynagar Beach and numerous others.
-Kayaking in Havelock
Another stimulating activity to indulge in, kayaking was not as popular as scuba diving back in the day but is gaining rapid popularity. The realms of Havelock is deemed ideal to experience kayaking. Your adventure is guided by thorough professionals, ensuring safety as well as an adrenaline-packed adventure.
-Seaplane ride from Havelock to Port Blair
Imagine witnessing the spellbinding grandeur of Andaman unfurling before you in a vast, green sprawl, cradling an endless stretch of the sea - a bird’s eye view. That’s what the seaplane ride from Havelock to Port Blair promises, besides other things. The ride takes about 25 blissful minutes to cover the distance between Havelock to Port Blair, speckled with white sandy beaches.
-Trek to Elephant beach
If you thought watersports were the only happening thing in Andaman, a refreshing jungle trek to Elephant Beach is just the myth-buster you need! The narrow trails to Elephant Beach are lined with stunning, tall trees that command some of the best views on the island. The trek begins at about 08:00 AM, and lasts for 45 minutes, weaving through dense mangrove forests and marshlands.
-Have a walk in the sea
A refreshing change from scuba diving, yet strikingly similar to it is the delightful adventure of sea walking. The best place to indulge in it is Elephant Beach in Havelock, where PADI certified instructors look after your journey and ensure you well-rounded safety and total fun. All you need is a well-trained instructor, sea helmet and you’re set! In fact, you can even take this up as a pre scuba diving activity, to test the waters, literally!
Things to keep in mind:
- Make sure to pack all your medical essentials in a single, easily accessible bag that you can carry everywhere. Carry medicines for fever, cough and cold, indigestion, headache, motion sickness, nausea, diarrhoea, painkillers, band-aid, gauze, cotton and antiseptic cream.) Though there are a decent number of pharmacy shops in Havelock, it is always advisable to carry your stash with you in case of emergencies.
- Carry your govt. ID proofs everywhere you go. You will be required to produce them at airports, staying in hotels and possibly other places.
- Locals are quite helpful, warm and welcoming. Don’t hesitate too much to ask for advice and recommendations. The island is relatively safe, with minimum crime rates, even for solo female travellers. That said, know when to avoid someone if you smell trouble. Do not get too friendly with someone you don’t know well. It doesn’t hurt to be cautious.
- If you wish to save money, consider travelling by local transportation instead of hiring a private car. Not only will you make more friends, but also enhance your travel experience by a long shot.
- Carry a majority of your money in form of cards, with only a bare minimum in cash to ensure protection. There are enough number of ATMs in Havelock.
- If you’re travelling during monsoons, keep an eye out for any weather reports that may be circulated.
Honeymoon
Family Tours
Attractions
A tiny island located to the south of Andaman is Neil Island, brimming with less explore marine diversity, coral reefs, long beaches and bewitching greenery. Being one of the tourist destinations in Andaman, Neil is so happy to become the host with revealing all that it has. A romantically silent island unlike the hustle of Havelock Island, Neil Island is termed as the vegetable bowl of Andaman.
Radhanagar Beach in Andaman and Nicobar Islands has ranked 8th among the top ten beautiful beaches in the world based on travellers reviews and rating available on multiple sources and Radhanagar Beach deserves it for many reasons. One of the most ravishing beauty in Andaman with a lot of tourists visiting it every year, Radhanagar Beach is the gem of Havelock Island. 500 meters away from the beach, one can see only the expansive blue water and the lush green tropical forests but when you reach the beach, the sights are apparently awe-inspiring.
Radhanagar is commonly called as Beach No.7 and this is one of the closest beach located near to Havelock Island ferry tier. The silky beach is kids friendly as well so that families are found in plenty on the beach to spend their vacation or a short holiday.
Highlights: There is nothing to be worried as the coast guards are roaming around always and the number of people here will be a pleasant sight to see. Andaman honeymoon packages itinerary always includes Havelock Island.
Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, scuba diving, boating, parasailing etc are some of the most commonly seen activities on the beach and among them Scuba Diving is the best as it offers the clear interaction with the wide range of marine animals and coral reefs around living in harmony.
The turquoise water gives a rejuvenating experience while you swim across or do snorkelling and since the number of tourists are relatively higher, the Government opens more opportunities for them to spend an ample time on the beach. As it is a superb place adventure lovers also would covet, the fame it has achieved international importance in no time. You must book a tour including Andaman snorkelling, to make your holiday much more special.
Distance from Port Blair: From Port Blair it will take more than three hours to reach Radhanagar Beach as it is located about 72 kms away from the capital city.
One of the most amazing places to visit in Andaman for water sports and leisure tour, Elephant Beach should not be missed from your Andaman holiday itinerary. Boasting of heavenly coral reefs and its enthralling underwater marine life, Elephant Beach is a great spot to spend your holiday time in Andaman. Whether you seek relaxing or a bustling escape from the monotony of daily life, Elephant Beach will charm you in all the ways.
Barren Island is located in the Andaman Sea, around 140 kilometres northeast of Port Blair. It is also India's only active volcano and is a sight to behold. Barren Island is known for its stark landscape and crystal-clear waters. Though setting foot on the island is prohibited, you can enjoy its beauty from a boat or seaplane. The surrounding ocean waters are an adventurer’s paradise. Here, divers can witness a world of unique lava formations and vibrant marine life. This makes Barren Island a premier destination for underwater explorations.
Experience the untouched beauty of Barren Islands, offering an unparalleled glimpse into nature with Andaman Tour Packages.
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Havelock Island FAQ's
Where is Havelock Island located?
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How to reach Havelock Island?
By Air: There are daily flights to Port Blair from Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai. There are no international flights into Port Blair.
By Water: After reaching Port Blair, the only way to reach Havelock is by water. There are government ferry service, private catamaran ferry which takes 90 minutes to 2 hours.
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What is the best time to visit Havelock Island?
• March to May: Summer is a great season to enjoy water sports like scuba diving, snorkeling, etc. Humidity may be high, but the heat isn't harsh. The weather remains between- 28 degree to 30 degree celcius
.• June to September: During rainfall, Havelock Island looks beautiful with lush green all around. Though it could be challenging due to heavy rainfall. But the good side is, less tourists and good package deals.
• October to February: One can experience mild winters with temperature ranging between 15 degree celcius and 34 degree celcius. For honeymooners, this is an apt time to explore Havelock Islands and enjoy water activities.
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Is it worth visiting the Havelock Island?
Enjoying your dinner at treehouse restaurant and watching sunset at Radhanagar Beach shouldn't be missed.Exploring the local culture is worth an experience. Island Tourism Festival is the major fair celebrated here.
Other fairs and festivals are- Music Festival / Monsoon Festival, Food Festival and Film Festival.
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What items I must pack before going to Havelock Island?
- Sunscreen Insect Repellent
- Water Bottles
- Cotton cloths
- Medication
- Sun Protection
- Enough cash
- Travel documents and ID proofs
Cloths depends on the weather condition of the place. Some of the points to consider are:
• Check the need for sun hats, scarves, bandanas, beach bag, sun glasses, belts and costume Jewellery
• Know your excursions. Have an idea of What You Plan on doing
• A collapsible bag which doubles as a beach bag and a carry on for souvenirs collected along the way
• Carry a camera to click pictures, if don't have a camera, carry an extra memory card to have phone clicks
• Carry essential documents for travelling and ID proofs which might need in some cases.
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What is the ideal duration of holidays in Havelock?
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What is the most enjoyable thing/activities to do in Havelock?
For water adventure activities try snorkeling, scuba diving and other such activities can be enjoyed in . Activities offered include an underwater sea walk, scuba diving, Jet Skiing, glass-bottom boats and banana rides. But of all water activities. Scuba diving is the major activity enjoyed by tourists in Andaman Island.The turquoise crystal waters are perfect for a peek into the underwater world. Visit a PADI diving school to organize a scuba diving trip to see the Andaman’s rare marine life.
If you love trekking then trail to Elephant Beach is a must. This trail passes through dense forest and ends up near marsh mangrove land. You can hire a guide who may charge you around Rs 500- Rs 1000 (but do bargain).
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What sort of accommodation is available in Havelock Island?
Some of the options are-
• Barefoot at Havelock- This eco-village is the only hotel on Beach No. 7 ‘the best beach in Asia’ according to TIME magazine. It’s also home to Rajan, Barefoot’s 66-year-old retired Asian elephant. Tariff: Rs. 7500-Rs. 25000.
• Silversand- Beautiful cottages with ocean and jungle views makes this accommodation a worth to invest on. The resort can organize your day trips, moped hire and boat tickets. Tariff: Rs. 7500-Rs. 14999.
• The Wild Orchid: Andamanese-style cottages all set in a tropical garden a stone’s throw from the beach. Tariff: Rs. 4000-Rs. 8000.
• Sunrise Beach Resort: One can enjoy bamboo huts with a fan and mosquito net; double bed and communal bathroom are as cheap as 500 rupees and situated just 20 meters from the beautiful ocean. It is located on the most picturesque strip of Beach 5.Tariff: Rs. 500-Rs. 3500.
• Dolphin Beach Resort: This government run resort is popular with Indian families, their VIP suites offering excellent value. You can book AC room for around Rs 2000, cheaper.
• Eco Villa Palm Beach Resort: One can have choices of room available to enjoy the time near the beach. The price ranges from Rs 2000/- to Rs 6000/-.
• Sea Shell Resort: One can book wooden cottages with a/c, and TV. One can enjoy a great setting of the resort and stay beneath the palm trees. Singles Rs 5,000, doubles Rs 6,000, incl. breakfast.
Tented Accommodation: Camping is subject to weather conditions there are camps (Domes/Swiss A/C Tents Non A/C Tents Rs.2500/- Rs.1500/- Rs.1000/-)
Can I know about the climate of Havelock Island?
If visiting to Andaman and Nicobar during monsoon, which falls on May to August, you can enjoy sightseeing and greenery around the island. During the winter, which falls from December to February, the island invites cool weather and is the best time to visit.
What kind of shopping can be done in Havelock?
What are some famous tourist attractions in Havelock Island?
• Radhanagar Beach: One of the most beautiful beaches, it was rated as the best in Asia by Time in 2004. One can enjoy spectacular sunsets. There are a few food shacks where the road hits the beach, all of which rent snorkels and fins. Also, if you walk all the way on the right side of the beach, there is a lagoon also called Blue Lagoon.
• Elephant Beach: Though it was affected by the 2004 Tsunami, the coral here is probably the best on the island, making this an excellent spot for snorkeling. If trek and get to the beach and are tired to trek back an option would be to take a boat ride from there to Jetty , normally they charge Rs 100 per person.
• Kalapathar Beach: Kalapathar beach is situated in one corner of Havelock Island and yet another spectacular beach in Havelock Island. The beach got its name from the surrounding village called Kalapathar Village and the black rocks (Kalapathar Rocks) that adorn the coastline here.
What kind of water activities are there in Havelock Island?
• Sea Walk:It can done at North Bay Island, Port Blair and Elephant Beach, Havelock Island. To enjoy the sea-walk, pre-booking will help in saving time.
• Scuba Diving: It is the main activity on Havelock island other than chilling out, lying on the beaches or hammocks and eating seafood. Andaman Bubbles, Barefoot Scuba, DiveIndia and Doongi Dives and are the top 4 SSI and PADI certified dive centers.
• Snorkeling: This water activity is done at Radhanagar Beach and Elephant Beach. You can even do snorkeling at Lighthouse. They charge 2000/- for a couple for Speed boat transfer + Snorkel.
• Game Fishing: It is yet another popular activity famous on Havelock Island. Fishing boats are available for hire to visit uninhabited islands such as Peel Island, Wilson Island, South button, Inglis Island and other reputed islands.
What is the best time to do water activities in Havelock Island?
Can one do Scuba Diving or Snorkeling in Havelock Island?
• Scuba Diving for Swimmers- Rs 3500/-: No swimming skills required and one can enjoy 35 minutes of dive.
• Scuba Diving for beginners with Boat Ride: - Rs 4500/-: Underwater for 60 minutes with personal video. No special swimming skill required.
• Scuba Diver Certification Course- Rs 12000: This course will train you to dive up to 12m under professional supervision. The certificate is accepted world-wide and is valid for a life-time.
Minimum age required is 10 and requires good physical health. During the course of scuba diving, one can even get personalized video done deep inside the sea.
When it comes to snorkeling, Elephant Beach is an ideal place. Elephant Beach is approximately 20 minutes by boat from the Havelock Island dock. This destination offers beautiful white sand beach along with an amazing coral reef which starts at a depth less than a metre. One can even seek service for local fishermen offering day trips and half day trips to different locations. South Button Island is particularly good as the reef is shallow, colorful, and beautiful.
What sort of food is available in Havelock? Are there vegetarians restaurants in Havelock?
Yes, there are enough vegetarian restaurants. Even cafes here offer vegetarian food. Anju Coco, Fat Martin Cafe, Full Moon Cafe, Golden Spoon and others. There are resorts having their own restaurants serving the best veg food items. In fact, every restaurant here serves veg food.
What sort of nightlife is there in Havelock?
What sort of law is there on drug usage in Havelock?
What is the legal drinking age in Havelock?
Are there any ATMs available in Havelock?
What all modes of payment are accepted in Havelock?
Is internet access easily available in Havelock Island?
• Wild Orchid Resort has a a satellite broadband internet cafe. Though the speeds are not lighting fast, it is definitely better than dialup.
• Pristine Beach Resort has a couple of computers, which every once in a while are connected to the internet.
• Anu's Internet Cafe has two computers set up in a shop just off the main road near Dolphin Resort in village no.3.
Is money exchange facility available in Havelock Island?
Are there any hospitals in Havelock?
What should be done in case of any medical emergency in Havelock?
Are there any aboriginal tribes in Havelock? Can I meet them?
What are the best day and night tour packages you can book with Thrillophilia?
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Havelock Island Reviews
