The Big Picture: Overall Trip Costs
A 6-night, 7-day trip to the Andamans can vary widely in cost. For a budget-conscious traveller, a trip could cost between ₹25,000 and ₹40,000 per person. This would involve staying in guesthouses, using government ferries, and eating at local dhabas.
A mid-range trip with comfortable hotels and private ferries would likely fall between ₹40,000 and ₹65,000. For those seeking luxury, with stays at premium resorts and private tours, the budget can easily exceed ₹70,000 per person. Autumn (October to November) is a popular season, so booking in advance is key to managing these costs.
Flights: The First Hurdle
Your flight to Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) in Port Blair will be one of the most significant expenses. Round-trip fares from major Indian cities like Chennai and Kolkata can range from ₹8,000 to ₹20,000. From Delhi or Mumbai, expect to pay between ₹9,000 and ₹25,000. These prices fluctuate based on how far in advance you book and the travel season. To secure the best rates, it's highly recommended to book your tickets at least three to four months before your travel dates.
Island Hopping: Ferries & Fares
Getting between Port Blair, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), and Neil (Shaheed Dweep) requires ferry travel. You have two main options: government-operated ferries and private catamarans. Private ferries like Makruzz and Green Ocean are faster and more comfortable, with tickets costing between ₹1,200 and ₹2,500 per person for each leg of the journey. Government ferries are the budget-friendly choice, with fares for non-islanders starting from around ₹700. However, they are slower and tickets can be harder to secure, as they open for booking only a few days in advance.
Accommodation: From Beach Huts to Resorts
Accommodation costs vary significantly across the islands. In Port Blair, budget hotels can be found for ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 per night. On Havelock Island, options range from basic beach huts starting around ₹1,500 to mid-range resorts costing ₹4,000-₹8,000. Neil Island is generally more affordable, with guesthouses and simple resorts available from ₹1,200 to ₹3,500 per night. Booking your stays well in advance, especially for the popular autumn season, is crucial to avoid inflated prices.
Food & Dining: A Taste of the Islands
You can eat well in the Andamans without overspending. A daily food budget of ₹800 to ₹1,500 per person is a reasonable estimate for a mid-range traveller. Local eateries and dhabas offer delicious seafood thalis and meals for as little as ₹150-₹300. Dining at mid-range cafes and hotel restaurants will cost closer to ₹500-₹1,000 per meal per person. If you stick to local joints for most of your meals, you can keep your food expenses quite low.
Activities & Adventures
The Andamans are an adventurer's paradise, and it's wise to budget for these experiences. A Discover Scuba Dive, a must-do for many visitors to Havelock, typically costs between ₹3,500 and ₹6,500 per person. Snorkeling trips are more affordable, ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹2,500. A glass-bottom boat ride can cost around ₹1,000. Other costs include entry fees to places like Radhanagar Beach or Cellular Jail, which are generally minimal, often around ₹50 per person.
Local Transport: Getting Around
On Havelock and Neil islands, renting a scooter is the most popular and economical way to explore. Expect to pay around ₹500 to ₹700 per day, plus the cost of fuel. Auto-rickshaws are also available, with fares for short trips costing between ₹100 and ₹300. In Port Blair, taxis and auto-rickshaws are more common for sightseeing, and you can hire a cab for a day for around ₹2,000-₹3,000. Factoring in about ₹500 per day for local transport is a safe bet for your budget.
