8-Day Andaman Itinerary Including Baratang Island

The Andaman Islands are a blend of turquoise waters, dense tropical forests and poignant history. This 8-day itinerary including Baratang Island balances adventure, relaxation and local culture — ideal for travellers wanting a complete Andaman experience without rushing.

Overview and how to use this itinerary

This plan assumes you land in Port Blair and have eight full days. It mixes sightseeing in Port Blair with an early-day excursion to Baratang Island, island-hopping to Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil (Shaheed Dweep), plus time for snorkelling, diving and lazy beach mornings. Travel times between islands can vary due to weather and boat schedules — keep a buffer for ferry timing and rest.

Best time to visit

The ideal period is October to mid-May when seas are calmer and ferry services operate reliably. Monsoon months (June–September) bring heavy rain and many services are limited. Peak season around December–January sees more tourists, so book accommodation and ferries early.

Permits, documents and practicalities

• Entry formalities: Indian citizens need a government-issued ID (Aadhaar/Passport/Voter ID) for check-in and ferry boarding. International visitors need passports and any applicable visas.
• Baratang permit: Baratang Island requires an entry permit issued at the Forest Department counter in Baratang or arranged via tour operators. Permits are generally provided on arrival at Baratang after identity verification — keep photocopies and original ID handy.
• Ferries and evidence of onward travel: Carry printed or digital ferry tickets and hotel confirmations, as authorities sometimes ask for them.
• Health: Carry basic medicines, mosquito repellent and sunscreen. Seek medical advice before travelling if you have any chronic conditions; healthcare on outer islands is limited.

Suggested packing list

• Light cotton clothes, swimwear, a light rain jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes and reef-safe sunscreen
• Snorkel gear (optional), sunglasses, hat
• Insect repellent, basic first-aid, any prescription medicines
• Dry bag for electronics, power bank and universal adaptor
• Photocopies of ID, some cash (ATMs are limited on smaller islands)

Day-by-day 8-day itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival in Port Blair: Cellular Jail and light evening

Arrive in Port Blair and check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon at the Cellular Jail Complex to understand the islands' colonial past and India's freedom struggle. The museum and the light-and-sound show in the evening are informative and moving. If time permits, stroll along the waterfront and try local seafood at a trusted restaurant.

Day 2 — Baratang Island early start: Limestone Cave and mud volcano

Start very early (before dawn) for Baratang Island; the road journey from Port Blair includes tribal reserve passes and mangrove creeks. You will board a small boat to cross the Parai-Tapu Creek and travel by road through dense forest to the jetty for the cave. The main highlights:

• Limestone Cave: A short trek and a bumpy boat ride lead to a fascinating cave with stalactite and stalagmite formations. Carry a torch and follow the guide's instructions for safe movement inside.
• Mud Volcano: A unique geological feature — you can see mud bubbling up, with cracks and charred-looking terrain. It’s a compact but memorable visit.

Return to Port Blair by late afternoon. Baratang is a long day; rest in the evening.

Day 3 — Ross Island and North Bay Island

Take a short ferry to Ross Island first, once the British administrative hub, now an evocative site with ruins enveloped by forest and deer wandering around. Then proceed to North Bay Island for snorkelling, glass-bottom boat rides and coral viewing. Both spots are close to Port Blair and offer a gentle contrast to Baratang’s ruggedness.

Day 4 — Transfer to Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) and Radhanagar Beach

Board a ferry to Havelock early. On arrival, check-in and head to Radhanagar Beach — repeatedly voted among Asia’s best beaches — for an afternoon of sun, sand and a spectacular sunset. The beach has shallow waters and soft sand; ideal for relaxation and photography.

Day 5 — Scuba diving or snorkelling at Elephant Beach

Choose a morning dive (great for both beginners and certified divers) or a snorkelling trip to Elephant Beach. The water clarity is excellent and colourful corals and reef fish are common. Afternoon at leisure — explore the local cafes or take a short hike to nearby viewpoints.

Day 6 — Radhanagar sunrise, local exploration, night bazaar

Catch the sunrise at Radhanagar if you’re an early riser. Spend the day exploring Havelock’s quieter beaches like Vijaynagar or Kalapathar, or book another water activity. In the evening, visit the local market and sample island cuisine. Havelock’s nightlife is relaxed and centred around beachside cafes.

Day 7 — Transfer to Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)

Take a short ferry to Neil Island. This island is quieter and perfect for a peaceful day. Highlights include Sitapur Beach (sunrise viewpoint), Bharatpur Beach (good for swimming and snorkelling) and Laxmanpur Beach with its natural rock formations and sunset views. Rent a bicycle or scooter to explore at a leisurely pace.

Day 8 — Return to Port Blair, visit Chatham Saw Mill or Chidiya Tapu

Return to Port Blair by ferry. If your flight or ferry out is late, consider visiting Chatham Saw Mill to see colonial-era industrial heritage or Chidiya Tapu for birdwatching and a calm sunset. Pack and head to the airport or ferry terminal as per your onward travel schedule.

Alternative activities and extensions

• Ross and North Button Islands: For experienced divers interested in remote coral walls and pelagic species, specialised liveaboard or day trip options exist subject to permits and seasonal operation.
• Full-day snorkel cruises: Several operators offer day cruises covering multiple snorkel spots if you want more underwater time without repeated island transfers.
• Longer stay in Havelock: Add another day if you want more diving or relaxation time — a common choice for divers and couples.

Where to stay — quick suggestions

Port Blair suits mid-range hotels near Aberdeen or Marina Park. Havelock offers a range from beachfront resorts near Radhanagar to budget guesthouses in the main village. Neil Island has a few cosy guesthouses and cottages; book early during peak season. Always pick accommodation with good reviews for cleanliness, safety and ferry pickup helps.

Food and dining

Seafood is the highlight — try local fish curries and prawn dishes. Vegetarian options are available in cafes and restaurants catering to tourists, with familiar Indian dishes as well as continental fare. Carry light snacks for long day trips like Baratang. Hygiene varies on smaller islands, so choose busy eateries with good reviews.

Safety and responsible travel

• Respect local regulations: Many islands have protected areas, and some beaches forbid taking shells or corals. Don't disturb flora, fauna or historical structures.
• Sea safety: Follow guide instructions for snorkelling and diving. Wear life jackets on boats and avoid solo swimming in unfamiliar beaches.
• Plastic reduction: Carry a reusable water bottle and minimise single-use plastics. Waste management infrastructure is limited on smaller islands.

Tip: Ferry schedules can change due to weather. Keep contacts for your hotel and ferry operator, and allow flexible time for transfers.

Suggested daily budget pointers

Costs vary widely by travel style. Consider the cost components: domestic flights to Port Blair, inter-island ferries, accommodations, meals and activities like diving or guided Baratang tours. Diving and private boat charters are the major cost drivers. Booking early and negotiating combined packages with local operators can help manage expenses.

Final tips

• Book ferries and accommodation in advance during October–May.
• Carry sufficient cash for smaller islands; ATMs are limited outside Port Blair and Havelock.
• Plan Baratang as a dedicated day from Port Blair; it is long but rewarding and logistically more straightforward as a day trip.
• Respect indigenous communities and restricted areas — many regions are protected for both cultural and ecological reasons.

With this 8-day itinerary, you’ll experience a mix of history, adventure and idyllic beaches — from the dramatic limestone caves of Baratang to the serene sands of Havelock and Neil. Travel at a relaxed pace, keep an eye on ferry timings and permits, and you’ll carry home memories of one of India’s most beautiful island groups.

Safe travels and happy exploring in the Andamans!