Havelock Island, or Swaraj Dweep as it is officially known, is one of the most popular and beautiful destinations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This stunning island offers a perfect blend of pristine beaches, turquoise waters, lush forests, and vibrant marine life.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventurous holiday, or a cultural immersion, Havelock Island has something for everyone. In this article, we will provide you with a complete travel guide to Havelock Island, covering everything you need to know before you visit this tropical paradise.
How to Reach Havelock Island
Havelock Island is located about 70 km northeast of Port Blair, the capital city of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. There are two main ways to reach Havelock Island from Port Blair: by ferry or by flight.
By ferry:
Taking a ferry is the most common and economical way to reach Havelock Island. There are several government and private ferries that operate daily between Port Blair and Havelock Island. The ferry ride takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the type and speed of the ferry. You can choose from different classes of seats, such as economy, deluxe, royal, and luxury.
The fare ranges from Rs. 400 to Rs. 1500 per person, depending on the class and the operator. You can book your ferry tickets online or offline, but it is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season. Some of the popular ferry operators are Makruzz, Green Ocean, and Coastal Cruise.
By flight:
Taking a flight is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Havelock Island. There are a few seaplane and helicopter services that operate between Port Blair and Havelock Island. The flight takes about 15 to 20 minutes, and offers a spectacular aerial view of the islands and the sea.
The fare ranges from Rs. 4000 to Rs. 10000 per person, depending on the service and the availability. You can book your flight tickets online or offline, but it is advisable to book well in advance, as the seats are limited and the demand is high. Some of the flight operators are Pawan Hans, Jal Hans, and Andaman Airways.
Some tips and recommendations for traveling by ferry or flight are:
1. Check the weather and the sea conditions before you travel, as they may affect the availability and the safety of the ferry and the flight services.
2. Carry your valid ID proof and your permit (if required) with you, as you may need to show them at the entry and exit points of the island.
3. Arrive at the departure point at least an hour before your scheduled departure time, as you may need to go through security checks and boarding procedures.
4. Carry some snacks and water with you, as the ferry and the flight services may not provide them on board.
5. Enjoy the scenic views and the breeze during your journey, but also follow the safety instructions and the etiquette of the ferry and the flight services.
When to Visit Havelock Island
Havelock Island has a tropical climate, with warm and humid weather throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 22°C to 32°C, and the average rainfall ranges from 200 mm to 400 mm per month. The island experiences three main seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter.
Summer:
Summer lasts from March to May, and is the hottest and the driest season on the island. The temperature can reach up to 35°C, and the humidity can reach up to 80%. This is a good time to visit the island if you want to enjoy the sun and the sea, and indulge in water sports and outdoor activities. However, be prepared to face the heat and the crowd, and carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats with you.
Monsoon:
Monsoon lasts from June to September, and is the wettest and the stormiest season on the island. The temperature can drop to 25°C, and the rainfall can reach up to 800 mm per month. This is a good time to visit the island if you want to experience the greenery and the wildlife, and explore the forests and the villages. However, be prepared to face the rain and the wind, and carry umbrellas, raincoats, and waterproof bags with you.
Winter:
Winter lasts from October to February, and is the coolest and the calmest season on the island. The temperature can range from 20°C to 30°C, and the rainfall can range from 100 mm to 300 mm per month. This is the best time to visit the island, as the weather is pleasant and the sea is clear. This is also the peak season for tourism, as many festivals and events take place on the island during this time.
Where to Stay in Havelock Island
Havelock Island offers a wide range of accommodation options for all kinds of travelers, from budget to luxury. You can choose from hotels, resorts, homestays, cottages, and camps, depending on your preference, budget, and availability. Here are some of the factors that you should consider while choosing your accommodation on the island:
Location:
The island is divided into several beaches, each with its own charm and character. You should choose your accommodation based on the proximity and the accessibility to the beach that you want to visit. Some of the most popular beaches on the island are Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, Vijaynagar Beach, and Kalapathar Beach.
Price:
The price of the accommodation varies depending on the type, the season, and the demand. You should compare and contrast the prices of different options, and look for discounts and deals that may be available online or offline. You should also check the inclusions and the exclusions of the price, such as taxes, service charges, meals, and amenities.
Rating:
The rating of the accommodation reflects the quality and the reputation of the service and the facility. You should check the ratings of different options, and look for reviews and feedback from previous guests that may be available online or offline. You should also check the certification and the accreditation of the accommodation, such as the star rating, the eco rating, and the tourism rating.
Amenities:
The amenities of the accommodation include the facilities and the services that are provided to the guests, such as rooms, beds, bathrooms, air conditioning, wi-fi, television, refrigerator, swimming pool, spa, gym, restaurant, bar, and laundry. You should check the amenities of different options, and look for the ones that suit your needs and expectations. You should also check the availability and the quality of the amenities, such as the power backup, the water supply, and the hygiene.
Service:
The service of the accommodation includes the staff and the management that are responsible for the hospitality and the satisfaction of the guests. You should check the service of different options, and look for the ones that are friendly, helpful, and professional. You should also check the communication and the interaction of the service, such as the language, the attitude, and the etiquette.
Some of the best and the most popular accommodation options on the island are:
Hotels:
Hotels are the most common and the most convenient accommodation options on the island. They offer comfortable and modern rooms with basic amenities and services. They are suitable for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups. Some of the best hotels on the island are Symphony Palms Beach Resort, Havelock Island Beach Resort, and Silver Sand Beach Resort.
Resorts:
Resorts are the most luxurious and the most expensive accommodation options on the island. They offer spacious and elegant rooms with premium amenities and services. They also offer exclusive and exotic facilities and activities, such as private beaches, pools, spas, golf courses, and cruises. They are suitable for honeymooners, celebrities, and VIPs. Some of the best resorts on the island are Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Barefoot at Havelock, and Munjoh Ocean Resort.
Homestays:
Homestays are the most authentic and the most affordable accommodation options on the island. They offer cozy and simple rooms with basic amenities and services. They also offer a chance to experience the local culture and lifestyle, as they are run by the native islanders. They are suitable for backpackers, explorers, and culture lovers. Some of the best homestays on the island are Emerald Gecko, Dolphin Resort, and Flying Elephant.
Cottages:
Cottages are the most charming and the most romantic accommodation options on the island. They offer rustic and quaint rooms with basic amenities and services. They also offer a sense of privacy and intimacy, as they are located in secluded and scenic spots. They are suitable for couples, nature lovers, and artists. Some of the best cottages on the island are Wild Orchid, Sea Shell, and Coral Reef Resort.
Camps:
Camps are the most adventurous and the most eco-friendly accommodation options on the island. They offer tents and huts with basic amenities and services. They also offer a chance to connect with nature and wildlife, as they are located in remote and wild areas. They are suitable for thrill-seekers, campers, and environmentalists. Some of the best camps on the island are Cross Bill Beach Resort, Island Vinnie’s Tropical Beach Cabana, and The Kingdom.
What to Do in Havelock Island
Havelock Island is a paradise for travelers who love to explore and enjoy the beauty and the bounty of nature. The island offers a plethora of things to do and see, from relaxing on the beaches, to indulging in water sports, to discovering the marine life, to trekking in the forests, to cycling around the villages, and to watching the wildlife. Here are some of the top things to do and see on the island:
Beaches:
Havelock Island is home to some of the most stunning and serene beaches in the world. The beaches are known for their white sand, clear water, and lush vegetation. You can spend hours sunbathing, swimming, reading, or meditating on the beaches, or enjoy the sunset and the starry sky at night. Some of the most popular beaches on the island are:
Radhanagar Beach: Radhanagar Beach, or Beach No. 7, is the most famous and the most beautiful beach on the island. It has been rated as the best beach in Asia and the seventh best beach in the world by Time Magazine. It is a long and wide beach, with soft sand, gentle waves, and a backdrop of green hills. It is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. It is also a great place to watch the sunset and the dolphins.
Elephant Beach: Elephant Beach, or Beach No. 3, is the most adventurous and the most lively beach on the island. It is a short and narrow beach, with coarse sand, coral reefs, and a variety of water sports. It is ideal for scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, jet skiing, and banana boating. It is also a great place to see the elephants and the turtles.
Vijaynagar Beach: Vijaynagar Beach, or Beach No. 5, is the most peaceful and the most romantic beach on the island. It is a long and curved beach, with fine sand, calm water, and a line of coconut and mahua trees. It is ideal for walking, cycling, fishing, and birdwatching. It is also a great place to enjoy the sunrise and the moonlight.
Kalapathar Beach: Kalapathar Beach, or Beach No. 6, is the most secluded and the most scenic beach on the island. It is a short and straight beach, with black sand, turquoise water, and a cluster of black rocks. It is ideal for relaxing, swimming, and photography. It is also a great place to witness the changing colors of the sky and the sea.
Water Sports:
Havelock Island is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, as it offers a range of exciting and exhilarating activities that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of their age, skill, or experience. The island has some of the best water sports facilities and instructors in the country, who ensure the safety and the satisfaction of the participants. Some of the best water sports on the island are:
Scuba Diving: Scuba diving is the most popular and the most rewarding water sport on the island, as it allows you to explore the underwater world of the Andaman Sea, which is rich in coral, fish, and other marine creatures. You can choose from different levels and sites of diving, depending on your preference and ability. You can also get certified as a diver by taking a course from a reputed diving center. Some of the best diving sites on the island are The Wall, Aquarium, Mac Point, and Barracuda City.
Snorkeling: Snorkeling is the easiest and the most accessible water sport on the island, as it only requires a mask, a snorkel, and a pair of fins. You can snorkel on any of the beaches on the island, or take a boat to some of the nearby islands, such as Neil Island, Henry Lawrence Island, and Inglis Island. You can also join a guided snorkeling trip, where you can learn more about the marine life and the coral conservation. Some of the best snorkeling spots on the island are Elephant Beach, Radhanagar Beach, and Nemo Reef.
Kayaking: Kayaking is the most fun and the most eco-friendly water sport on the island, as it involves paddling a small boat through the water, without disturbing the environment. You can kayak on the sea, or on the creeks and the mangroves, where you can enjoy the scenery and the wildlife. You can also join a kayaking tour, where you can learn more about the history and the culture of the island. Some of the best kayaking routes on the island are Havelock Jetty to Elephant Beach, Kalapathar Beach to South Button Island, and Govind Nagar Beach to Mangrove Forest.
Jet Skiing: Jet skiing is the most thrilling and the most exhilarating water sport on the island, as it involves riding a motorized watercraft at high speed and maneuvering through the waves. You can jet ski on any of the beaches on the island, or take a jet ski safari to some of the nearby islands, such as Peel Island, John Lawrence Island, and Outram Island. You can also join a jet ski ride, where you can learn more about the safety and the techniques of jet skiing. Some of the best jet skiing spots on the island are Elephant Beach, Vijaynagar Beach, and Kalapathar Beach.
Marine Life:
Havelock Island is a paradise for marine life lovers, as it hosts a diverse and abundant array of aquatic animals and plants. The island is part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Marine Park, which is a protected area that aims to conserve and promote the marine biodiversity of the region. You can observe and interact with the marine life on the island, or take a cruise or a ferry to some of the nearby islands, where you can see more species and habitats. Some of the best ways to experience the marine life on the island are:
Dolphin Watching: Dolphin watching is one of the most delightful and the most memorable experiences on the island, as it allows you to see the playful and intelligent dolphins in their natural habitat. You can see the dolphins from the shore, or take a boat to the deeper waters, where you can see them jumping, spinning, and splashing. You can also join a dolphin watching tour, where you can learn more about the behavior and the conservation of the dolphins. Some of the best places to see the dolphins on the island are Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, and Peel Island.
Turtle Nesting: Turtle nesting is one of the most fascinating and the most rare experiences on the island, as it allows you to witness the life cycle of the endangered sea turtles. You can see the turtles laying their eggs on the beach, or hatching their babies and releasing them into the sea. You can also join a turtle nesting tour, where you can learn more about the biology and the protection of the turtles. Some of the best places to see the turtle nesting on the island are Kalapathar Beach, Elephant Beach, and South Button Island.
Coral Reef: Coral reef is one of the most colorful and the most diverse experiences on the island, as it allows you to explore the underwater garden of the Andaman Sea, which is home to hundreds of species of coral, fish, and other marine organisms. You can see the coral reef from the surface, or dive or snorkel into the water, where you can see them up close and personal. You can also join a coral reef tour, where you can learn more about the formation and the preservation of the coral reef. Some of the best places to see the coral reef on the island are Nemo Reef, Aquarium, and Barracuda City.
Forests:
Havelock Island is a haven for forest lovers, as it boasts of a rich and varied flora and fauna. The island is covered with tropical evergreen and deciduous forests, which provide a habitat for many species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. You can walk or trek through the forests, or take a jeep or a bike to some of the remote and wild areas, where you can enjoy the nature and the wildlife.
You can also join a forest tour, where you can learn more about the ecology and the sustainability of the forests. Some of the best places to see the forests on the island are Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, and Kalapathar Beach.
Villages:
Havelock Island is a delight for village lovers, as it showcases the culture and the lifestyle of the native islanders. The island has several villages, where you can see the traditional houses, farms, markets, and temples of the locals. You can walk or cycle around the villages, or take a rickshaw or a bus to some of the nearby and faraway villages, where you can interact with the people and learn about their history and customs.
You can also join a village tour, where you can learn more about the social and economic aspects of the villages. Some of the best places to see the villages on the island are Govind Nagar, Shyam Nagar, and Radha Nagar.
Where to Eat and Drink in Havelock Island
Havelock Island offers a wide range of dining and drinking options for all kinds of travelers, from local to continental. You can choose from restaurants, cafes, bars, and street food joints, depending on your taste, budget, and mood. Here are some of the factors that you should consider while choosing your dining and drinking options on the island:
Cuisine:
The cuisine of Havelock Island is influenced by the seafood, the coconut, and the spices that are abundant on the island. You can find dishes from various regions of India, such as Bengali, South Indian, North Indian, and Andhra. You can also find dishes from other countries, such as Chinese, Thai, Italian, and Continental. You should try some of the specialties and delicacies of the island, such as seafood platter, coconut pudding, and fruit juice.
Price:
The price of the dining and drinking options varies depending on the type, the location, and the quality of the service and the facility. You should compare and contrast the prices of different options, and look for value for money and quality for quantity. You should also check the inclusions and the exclusions of the price, such as taxes, service charges, tips, and portions.
Rating:
The rating of the dining and drinking options reflects the taste and the reputation of the food and the drink. You should check the ratings of different options, and look for reviews and feedback from previous customers that may be available online or offline. You should also check the hygiene and the cleanliness of the dining and drinking options, such as the kitchen, the utensils, and the staff.
Ambience:
The ambience of the dining and drinking options includes the atmosphere and the mood of the service and the facility. You should check the ambience of different options, and look for the ones that suit your preference and occasion. You should also check the music, the lighting, and the decor of the dining and drinking options, such as the theme, the color, and the style.
Some of the best and the most popular dining and drinking options on the island are:
Restaurants: Restaurants are the most common and the most convenient dining and drinking options on the island. They offer a variety of cuisines, dishes, and drinks, with a range of prices and ratings. They are suitable for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Some of the best restaurants on the island are Anju Coco Resto, Full Moon Cafe, and Fat Martin Cafe.
Cafes: Cafes are the most cozy and the most relaxing dining and drinking options on the island. They offer a selection of beverages, desserts, and snacks, with a range of prices and ratings. They are suitable for coffee, tea, juice, cake, and sandwich. Some of the best cafes on the island are Cafe Del Mar, The Flying Elephant, and The Chocolate Cafe.
Bars: Bars are the most lively and the most fun dining and drinking options on the island. They offer a choice of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, with a range of prices and ratings. They also offer music, dance, and entertainment, with a range of genres and styles. They are suitable for beer, wine, cocktail, and party. Some of the best bars on the island are Venom Bar, Bonova Cafe and Pub, and Emerald Gecko Bar.
Street Food: Street food is the most authentic and the most affordable dining and drinking option on the island. They offer a taste of the local cuisine, culture, and lifestyle, with a range of prices and ratings. They are suitable for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Some of the best street food on the island are dosa, idli, samosa, and chaat.
What to Know Before Visiting Havelock Island
Havelock Island is a wonderful place to visit, but it also has some challenges and limitations that you should be aware of before you plan your trip. Here are some important and useful information and advice for travelers who are planning to visit Havelock Island:
Currency:
The currency of Havelock Island is the Indian Rupee (INR), which is divided into 100 paise. You can exchange your foreign currency at the airport, the banks, or the authorized dealers on the island. You can also withdraw cash from the ATMs, which are available at some of the hotels and markets on the island. However, you should carry enough cash with you, as the ATMs may not work or may run out of cash. You should also carry some small notes and coins with you, as the vendors and the drivers may not have change.
Language:
The language of Havelock Island is Hindi, which is the official and the most widely spoken language on the island. You can also find people who speak English, Bengali, Tamil, and Telugu on the island. You should learn some basic words and phrases in Hindi, such as greetings, numbers, directions, and names of places, as they may help you to communicate and interact with the locals. You should also carry a dictionary or a translator app with you, as they may help you to understand and express yourself better.
Culture:
The culture of Havelock Island is a mix of the indigenous and the immigrant communities, who have settled on the island over the years. You can find people from different religions, regions, and backgrounds on the island, who live in harmony and respect. You should respect and appreciate the culture and the customs of the island, such as dressing modestly, removing your shoes before entering a temple, and asking for permission before taking photos of people or places. You should also participate and enjoy the culture and the festivals of the island, such as dancing, singing, and celebrating with the locals.
Visa:
The visa of Havelock Island is the same as the visa of India, which is required for most foreign nationals who want to visit the country. You can apply for the visa online or offline, depending on your country of origin and the purpose of your visit.
You can also opt for the e-visa, which is a faster and easier way to get the visa. You should check the eligibility and the requirements of the visa, such as the validity, the duration, the fee, and the documents, before you apply for the visa. You should also carry your passport and your visa with you, as you may need to show them at the entry and exit points of the island.
Permit:
The permit of Havelock Island is a special permission that is required for some foreign nationals who want to visit the island. The permit is issued by the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, which regulates and monitors the tourism and the development of the island. You can obtain the permit online or offline, depending on your country of origin and the mode of your travel.
You can also get the permit on arrival, which is a convenient and hassle-free way to get the permit. You should check the eligibility and the requirements of the permit, such as the validity, the duration, the fee, and the documents, before you apply for the permit. You should also carry your permit with you, as you may need to show it at the entry and exit points of the island.
Health:
The health of Havelock Island is generally good, as the island has a clean and natural environment, and a decent and accessible health care system. You can find some hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies on the island, where you can get medical attention and treatment, if needed.
However, you should also take some precautions and measures to ensure your health and safety on the island, such as:
- Vaccinate yourself against common diseases, such as typhoid, hepatitis, and malaria, before you visit the island.
- Carry a first-aid kit with you, with some essential medicines, such as painkillers, antiseptics, antihistamines, and antibiotics.
- Drink only bottled or boiled water, and avoid ice and tap water, as they may be contaminated or unsafe.
- Eat only freshly cooked and hygienic food, and avoid raw and street food, as they may cause stomach upset or food poisoning.
- Protect yourself from the sun and the heat, by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats, and by staying hydrated and cool.
- Protect yourself from the insects and the animals, by wearing insect repellent, long sleeves, and pants, and by avoiding contact and feeding them.
Safety:
The safety of Havelock Island is generally high, as the island has a low crime rate and a friendly and helpful population. You can find some police stations, security guards, and lifeguards on the island, where you can get assistance and protection, if needed. However, you should also take some precautions and measures to ensure your safety and security on the island, such as:
- Keep your valuables and documents in a safe and secure place, and do not carry them with you, unless necessary.
- Do not wander or venture into isolated and unfamiliar areas, especially at night, and always stay in a group or with a guide.
- Do not accept or consume any drugs or alcohol from strangers or suspicious sources, as they may be harmful or illegal.
- Follow the rules and the regulations of the island, such as the speed limit, the traffic signal, and the swimming zone, and do not indulge in any illegal or unethical activities, such as littering, poaching, or smuggling.
- Respect the nature and the wildlife of the island, and do not harm or disturb them, or take anything from them, such as coral, shells, or plants.
Havelock Island is a dream destination for travelers who want to experience the best of nature, culture, and adventure. The island offers a variety of attractions and activities, from stunning beaches, to thrilling water sports, to diverse marine life, to lush forests, to charming villages.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventurous holiday, or a cultural immersion, Havelock Island has something for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Havelock Island today, and discover the tropical paradise of Andaman.
