Planning Andaman for 2026? Uncover the real costs of flights, hotels, food, and activities for a 5-day trip. Missing key budget details could leave your dream vacation stranded. Learn how to save thousands on your island escape.
How Much Does an Andaman 5-Day Trip Cost in 2026?
Planning a five-day escape to the Andaman Islands in 2026 requires a clear budget. You can expect a comfortable trip to cost anywhere from Rs 35,000 to Rs 80,000 per person, depending heavily on your choices.
This range covers everything from basic travel with budget stays to mid-range comfort. Luxury travellers might spend upwards of Rs 1 lakh per person for the same duration. The biggest factors are flight prices, accommodation type, and the activities you choose.
Flights to Andaman (Port Blair): Booking Smart for 2026
Flights are often the single largest expense for an Andaman trip. Veer Savarkar International Airport (Port Blair) is the main gateway, with direct connections from major Indian cities.
Prices fluctuate significantly based on booking time, season, and departure city. Booking at least 3-4 months in advance can help secure better deals.
Tip: Consider flying during the shoulder seasons (September-October, March-April) for slightly lower airfares compared to the peak winter months.
Here’s an estimated round-trip flight cost from popular Indian cities to Port Blair for 2026:
Departure CityBudget Airline (IndiGo, SpiceJet)Full-Service (Vistara, Air India)ChennaiRs 8,000 - 14,000Rs 12,000 - 18,000KolkataRs 9,000 - 15,000Rs 13,000 - 19,000BengaluruRs 10,000 - 16,000Rs 15,000 - 22,000HyderabadRs 10,000 - 16,000Rs 15,000 - 22,000DelhiRs 12,000 - 20,000Rs 18,000 - 28,000MumbaiRs 12,000 - 20,000Rs 18,000 - 28,000
These are average estimates for a round trip. Weekend travel and festival periods will always see higher prices. A mid-week flight can often save you a few thousand rupees.
Andaman Accommodation: Hotels for Every Budget (2026)
The Andaman Islands offer a wide range of stays, from basic guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Your choice here will significantly impact your overall budget.
1. Budget Stays (Rs 1,500 - 3,000 per night): These include homestays, basic guesthouses, and some smaller hotels in Port Blair or Havelock. They offer clean rooms, essential amenities, and are perfect for backpackers or those on a tight budget. You might find shared bathrooms in some very basic options.
2. Mid-Range Hotels (Rs 3,000 - 7,000 per night): This category provides comfortable hotels with air conditioning, attached bathrooms, and often includes breakfast. You'll find good options in Port Blair, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep). Many offer amenities like Wi-Fi and sometimes a small pool.
3. Luxury Resorts (Rs 8,000 - 25,000+ per night): For those seeking indulgence, Andaman has stunning beachfront resorts. These often come with private beaches, spas, fine dining, and water sports facilities. Popular luxury spots are concentrated in Havelock and Neil Island.
Consider booking your accommodation in advance, especially if travelling during peak season (November to February). Many hotels offer early bird discounts.
Food & Dining in Andaman: Eating Your Way Through the Islands
Andaman's culinary scene is a delightful mix of fresh seafood, South Indian, and Bengali flavours. Eating out can be surprisingly affordable if you stick to local eateries.
A daily food budget of Rs 800 - 1,500 per person is a good estimate for mid-range dining. If you prefer fine dining or imported ingredients, this could easily double.
Budget Eaters (Rs 500 - 800 per day): Enjoy local thalis, street food, and small cafes. A simple breakfast of idli-vada or paratha can cost Rs 50-100. Lunch or dinner at a local dhaba might be Rs 150-250.
Mid-Range Eaters (Rs 800 - 1,500 per day): This allows for meals at decent restaurants, trying various seafood dishes, and enjoying a few coffees. A typical seafood curry might cost Rs 300-500.
Splurge Eaters (Rs 1,500+ per day): For those who want to dine at resort restaurants or try exotic seafood preparations. Alcoholic beverages will also push up this cost significantly.
Many hotels include breakfast, which can help save a good portion of your daily food budget. Look for places offering complimentary meals. Fresh coconut water is a refreshing and cheap drink option.
Activities & Sightseeing: What to Do and How Much It Costs (2026)
The Andaman Islands are a paradise for adventure and nature lovers. From pristine beaches to vibrant coral reefs, there's plenty to keep you busy. Here are some popular activities and their estimated costs:
ActivityLocationEstimated Cost (per person)Cellular Jail Light & Sound ShowPort BlairRs 300 - 500Ross Island & North Bay Trip (Ferry + entry)Port BlairRs 1,000 - 1,500Scuba Diving (Beginner/Discovery Dive)Havelock, Neil IslandRs 3,500 - 6,000Snorkelling (guided)Elephant Beach, Bharatpur BeachRs 800 - 1,500Sea WalkingNorth Bay, HavelockRs 3,000 - 4,500Glass Bottom Boat RideNorth Bay, Bharatpur BeachRs 500 - 1,000Kayaking (Mangrove forests)Havelock, Port BlairRs 1,500 - 2,500Radhanagar Beach VisitHavelockFree (transport extra)Laxmanpur Beach SunsetNeil IslandFree (transport extra)
Most of these costs are for a single session or entry. If you plan to do multiple water sports, the expenses will add up quickly. Consider package deals offered by tour operators for better rates if you're keen on several activities.
Ferry tickets between islands are another significant cost. A government ferry from Port Blair to Havelock costs around Rs 500-700, while private ferries (Makruzz, Green Ocean) range from Rs 1,000-1,500 one way. Booking these in advance is crucial, especially during peak season.
Local Transportation: Getting Around Port Blair & Islands
Navigating the islands is part of the adventure. Your transportation choices will also influence your budget. Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil Island each have distinct options.
Port Blair:
Auto-rickshaws: Readily available for short distances. Fares are usually fixed or metered; expect Rs 50-200 for most rides.
Taxis: More comfortable but pricier. A full-day taxi hire for sightseeing might cost Rs 2,000-3,500.
Scooter/Bike Rentals: Around Rs 500-700 per day (plus fuel). A great option for exploring at your own pace.
Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) & Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep):
Scooter/Bike Rentals: Most popular for independent exploration, around Rs 400-600 per day.
Shared Jeeps/Autos: Available for fixed routes, a cheaper option if you don't mind sharing.
Bicycles: Some hotels offer rentals, ideal for Neil Island's smaller size, costing Rs 100-200 per day.
Remember to carry your driving license if you plan to rent a two-wheeler. Always confirm prices before starting your journey, especially with auto-rickshaws.
Hidden Costs & Contingency: Don't Forget These Expenses
While flights, hotels, and activities form the core budget, several smaller costs can add up. It's smart to factor in a contingency fund of 10-15% of your total budget.
Permits and Entry Fees: Some restricted areas or islands might require special permits or have small entry fees. These are usually nominal but can accumulate.
Shopping & Souvenirs: From shell crafts to local spices, you might want to pick up mementos. Set aside a small budget for this.
Tips: Tipping guides, drivers, and hotel staff is not mandatory but appreciated for good service.
Travel Insurance: While not strictly 'hidden,' travel insurance is a crucial expense often overlooked. It covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. A 5-day policy for an Indian traveller can range from Rs 500-1,500.
Miscellaneous: Snacks, bottled water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal care items.
Sample 5-Day Andaman Itinerary & Budget Breakdown (2026)
Let's imagine a mid-range trip for one person from Chennai, focusing on key islands. This sample budget excludes flight costs.
Day 1: Arrival in Port Blair & Local Sightseeing
Taxi from airport to hotel: Rs 300
Hotel (mid-range): Rs 4,000
Food: Rs 1,000
Cellular Jail Light & Sound Show: Rs 400
Day 1 Total: Rs 5,700
Day 2: North Bay & Ross Island Excursion
Hotel: Rs 4,000
Food: Rs 1,000
North Bay & Ross Island Tour (ferry + entry): Rs 1,200
Day 2 Total: Rs 6,200
Day 3: Travel to Havelock & Radhanagar Beach
Ferry to Havelock (private): Rs 1,200
Hotel (Havelock mid-range): Rs 5,000
Food: Rs 1,200
Scooter rental: Rs 600
Day 3 Total: Rs 8,000
Day 4: Water Sports at Elephant Beach
Hotel: Rs 5,000
Food: Rs 1,200
Scuba Diving (discovery): Rs 4,500
Snorkelling: Rs 1,000
Day 4 Total: Rs 11,700
Day 5: Return to Port Blair & Departure
Ferry to Port Blair (private): Rs 1,200
Food: Rs 800
Airport taxi: Rs 300
Day 5 Total: Rs 2,300
Total Estimated On-Ground Cost (excluding flights): Rs 33,900
Add your flight cost from the table above to this on-ground total. For example, if your Chennai flight is Rs 12,000, your total trip cost would be around Rs 45,900 per person.
Smart Savings Tips for Your Andaman Trip in 2026
You can significantly reduce your Andaman trip cost with a few clever strategies. Even small savings add up, leaving more for experiences or souvenirs.
Travel in Shoulder Season: Avoid peak winter (December-February) or monsoon (June-August). September-October and March-April offer pleasant weather and lower prices for flights and hotels.
Book Flights & Hotels in Advance: At least 3-4 months out for flights and 1-2 months for hotels can fetch better rates. Last-minute bookings are almost always more expensive.
Consider Package Deals: Many tour operators offer all-inclusive Andaman packages. These often bundle flights, hotels, transfers, and some activities, sometimes at a lower overall cost. Compare several options before committing.
Eat Local: Ditch the fancy resort restaurants for local eateries and dhabas. You'll get authentic, delicious food at a fraction of the price.
Rent a Scooter: For independent travellers, renting a scooter is the most economical way to explore Havelock and Neil Island. It offers flexibility and saves on taxi fares.
Limit Expensive Water Sports: Pick one or two high-cost activities like scuba diving. Prioritize snorkelling or glass-bottom boat rides for marine life viewing, which are generally cheaper.
Choose Government Ferries: If time allows, opt for government ferries between islands. They are significantly cheaper than private cruises, though less frequent.
Planning smartly can make your Andaman dream vacation a reality without breaking the bank. Always compare prices across different platforms before making a booking.
Final Checklist Before You Fly to Andaman
Before you embark on your Andaman adventure, ensure you've covered these essentials. A little preparation goes a long way for a smooth trip.
Book Flights & Accommodation: Confirm all your bookings and keep e-tickets handy.
Ferry Tickets: Secure your inter-island ferry tickets, especially for Havelock and Neil Island.
ID Proofs: Carry valid photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Driving License) for all travellers.
Travel Insurance: Ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy.
Pack Essentials: Sunscreen, insect repellent, swimwear, comfortable footwear, and basic medicines.
Cash: While cards are accepted in Port Blair, carry enough cash for smaller islands and local vendors.
Research Activities: Decide on your must-do activities and check booking availability.
Now, all that's left is to pack your bags and get ready for the pristine beaches and clear waters of Andaman!