Top 5 Islands Commonly Included in FIT & Group Departures
Posted on July 01, 2025, 06:30 pm, in Andaman Destination. #destination. #andaman. #andamandmc
The Andaman & Nicobar archipelago comprises 572 islands and islets, of which only 37 are inhabited. Tourism access is permitted to a limited number of islands within the Andaman group, while the Nicobar Islands remain restricted. Despite the vast number of islands, the travel experience for most visitors is centered around a handful of well-connected and scenic destinations that offer a mix of comfort, nature, and logistical feasibility.
1. Port Blair (Now officially: Sri Vijayapuram)
Port Blair serves as the gateway to the Andamans not just for its airport, but as the central hub connecting all inter-island movements. Beyond transit, the city holds its own charm with a mix of history, heritage, and coastal beauty. Most travellers explore the Cellular Jail, attend the sound and light show, and enjoy boat rides to Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island), North Bay (Coral Island), and Viper Island. The Flag Point, a relatively newer patriotic site, has also become a frequent photo stop. Scenic locations like Corbyn’s Cove, Chidiya Tapu, and local museums (Anthropological, Fisheries, and Samudrika) make Port Blair worth a deeper pause not just a landing point.
2. Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
Havelock remains the most aspirational and requested island in almost every Andaman package. Known for its pristine turquoise lagoons, powdery white-sand beaches, and scuba diving culture, it draws both luxury-seeking travellers and adventure lovers. Radhanagar Beach, consistently rated among Asia’s best, is a highlight. Elephant Beach offers glass-bottom rides, snorkelling, and water sports, while Kala Pathar Beach is ideal for quiet mornings or scenic photography. The island also houses some of the most premium properties in the region, adding to its appeal for honeymoons and leisure FITs.
3. Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
Neil Island provides contrast to Havelock’s popularity it’s more laid-back, compact, and ideal for those seeking calm over activity. The beaches of Laxmanpur, Bharatpur, and Sitapur are unspoiled and spacious, often without crowds. Natural rock formations, relaxed walking trails, and a slower rhythm make Neil a favourite among families and couples looking to disconnect. Group departures usually include a 1-night stay, while FITs sometimes prefer 2 nights for a more immersive escape.
4. Baratang Island
Baratang lies around 100 km from Port Blair, connected by road via the ATR (Andaman Trunk Road). Known for limestone caves, a mud volcano, and peaceful mangrove creek boat rides, it’s a rewarding day trip for those drawn to unique geological and ecological sites. The early morning departure and tribal reserve crossing require coordination and compliance with rules, which is why Baratang is more popular in student tours, eco-programs, and special interest groups rather than casual leisure travellers.
5. Diglipur (North Andaman)
Diglipur is the northernmost tourist-accessible island and often included in longer or niche itineraries. It is home to Saddle Peak the highest point in the Andamans, and the Ross & Smith twin islands, connected by a natural sandbar that appears and disappears with the tides. Kalipur Beach, mud volcanoes, and the rural coastal charm make Diglipur a rewarding experience for those willing to travel off the common grid. Though less frequented due to the long journey, it remains a valuable inclusion in curated programs for photographers, adventure travellers, and offbeat FITs.
6. Choosing the Right Mix
Selecting the right combination of islands depends not just on what a guest wants to see, but also how much time they have and what pace they prefer. While Havelock and Neil are staples in most 4N/5D or 5N/6D programs, islands like Baratang and Diglipur require extended stays or specific interests. Port Blair often surprises travellers who treat it as only a transit stop, offering more cultural and natural insight than expected.
Crafting meaningful itineraries is less about showcasing every spot and more about understanding what blend of adventure, relaxation, and accessibility suits each guest type while ensuring ferry schedules and logistics line up smoothly in the background.
