Frequently asked questions

ANSWERS TO FAQ QUESTIONS:

1. How do I get to the Andaman Islands?

To get to the Andamans Islands, foreign nationals will first need to fly into mainland India. The best points of entry would be either Chennai or Kolkata which in turn are connected by several daily flights to Port Blair, the capital city of the Andamans Islands.

Indian Nationals or residents of India can simply fly into Port Blair via either Chennai or Kolkata.

Ships to Port Blair also ply on fixed schedules from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam. However, tickets must be purchased well in advance and the journey (3 days) can be monotonous as the ships have minimal facilities and are not luxurious at all.

You can view detailed information in our Getting there section.

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2. How do I get to and from Havelock?

There are three ferries that ply between Port Blair and Havelock on a daily basis. All incoming flights arrive in Port Blair in time for travellers to catch a ferry, allowing you to reach Havelock on the same day.

Travellers can choose between the slower, cheaper government ferry and the faster, more expensive new catamaran depending on their arrival time in Port Blair as well as their budget.

Please note however that getting tickets on the ferry can be very hard and tiresome with long queues. Depending on the rush it can be extremely hard and even impossible to procure tickets last minute and hence we urge you to allow us to organise your ferry tickets for you in advance.

You will need to factor in sufficient time to get the appropriate ferry. Please note that boarding stops 15 minutes before sailing. For the catamaran Makruzz, please ensure that your flight arrives in Port Blair before 0800hrs as travellers on later flights will not be able to make it on time for this boat.

From Port Blair to Havelock *:

Government Ferry: 0600hrs and 1400hrs Duration: 2.5 hrs

Catamaran (Makruzz): 0900hrs Duration: 1.5 hrs

Kindly note that there is a government ferry that departs from Port Blair at 1230 hrs but it visits another Island before reaching Havelock and the total time taken to reach Havelock is 4 hrs. Hence we do not recommend the same.

From Havelock to Port Blair * :

Government Ferry: 1400hrs and 1630hrs Duration: 2.5 hrs

Catamaran (Makruzz): 1600hrs Duration: 1.5 hrs

*The above timings can be changed by the administration at short notice and we would request you to recheck the timings a few days before arrival. All sailings are subject to weather conditions.

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3. When is a good time to visit the islands?

The main tourist season in the Andamans is between November and mid-May with the absolute peak season being December to March.

The months of June, July, August and September are considered the rainy season. However travellers at this time can get great off season prices and discounts at many hotels due to the low number of tourist influx.

Rain peaks in June and July and one could get pleasant weather in August and September with a little luck. Of course the weather is highly unpredictable in the Andamans. Do also note that even in November and December one could experience light showers. Being tropical islands it is difficult to accurately predict the cycle of rains.

In terms of scuba diving, the best time to dive the Andamans is February and March as the sea is at its flattest, wind is almost absent and visibility is excellent. Diving remains closed in Havelock between 01 June - 31 July and most dive shops reopen on 01 August for the start of a new season.

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What do most people do when they visit the Andamans?

What you do while in the Andamans completely depends on what interests you. Most travellers spend a day or 2 in Port Blair visiting nearby sights and tourist attractions and then head towards Havelock for the beaches and water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling.

If your holiday is just about relaxation and spending time in natures lap then we would recommend you consider proceeding straight to Havelock.

Travellers looking for a bit more exploration also visit other islands like Baratang, Neil Island or Long Island. Please note however that facilities on these islands are much more basic than those in Havelock or Port Blair.

There is never a dull moment in the Andamans and you can be a total beach bum just relaxing and enjoying the peace here or go to many islands over many days and be a complete explorer.

To view places of importance in and around Port Blair click here.places

To know more about islands to visit, please click here. places

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6. Do I need a visa/ Restricted Area Permit to enter the Andaman Islands?

Indian passport holders do not require a permit to visit and stay in the populated areas of Andaman Islands, including Havelock Island. All foreign nationals require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) over and above an Indian Visa to enter the Andaman Islands. The Indian Visa is to be obtained in your country of residence prior to arrival in India.

The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is easily obtained on arrival at Port Blair. The procedure usually takes 15 minutes, is free of cost and is available to all foreign nationals.

It has recently been brought to our notice that some Indian Visas issued carry a stamp that reads "Entry to restricted areas NOT permitted". Should your Visa carry such a stamp, please contact the embassy and have the visa re-issued as you will not be allowed to enter the Andaman Islands.

Most foreigners arriving at Port Blair are given a 30 day permit. Closer to the time of expiry (about 3 days ahead) this permit can be extended by another 15 days. This extension can only be done at the Immigration Office in Port Blair and you will need to show a confirmed return ticket (for journey within the next 15 days) in order to get this extension. Please note that it may not always be possible to get this extension in a few hours and you may need to stay overnight in Port Blair to obtain the extension.

Foreigners holding a valid entry permit into the Andaman Islands are allowed to visit and stay at municipal areas of Port Blair, Havelock, Long island, Neil island, the islands of South Andaman and Middle Andaman (excluding tribal reserved area 5kms away from Constance bay to Luis Inlet bay western coast tribal reserve), Baratang, Rangat, Mayabunder, Diglipur, North Passage Island, Little Andaman (excluding tribal reserve) and all islands in the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park except Boat Island, Hobday island, Twins islands, Tarmugli, Malay and Pluto island. Tourists can also visit Jolly Buoy island, South Cinque island, Redskin island, Mount Harriet, Madhuban, Ross island, Narcondam island, Interview island, Brother & Sister islands and Barren island during the day. (Visit to Barren island is restricted on board the vessel with no landing ashore).

Do note that the Restricted Access Permit is issued on arrival and is a process by the Immigration department and no one can assist you in getting the same. In case of any complications, you will need to sort it our with the Immigration authorities. We would best advice you to check on the latest procedures and updates from the Immigration authorities to prevent any issues.

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7. What can I do in Port Blair?

Port Blair is the capital city of the Andamans and is of immense historical importance. There are many sights that are to be seen here and with us you can take a half day, or a full day excursion or tailor make your own excursion.

To view places of importance in and around Port Blair click here.places

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8. What is the food like in the Andaman Islands?

Seafood rules on the Andaman Islands, due to it being the natural diet of the Bengali settlers, who came to the Andamans. Crabs, shrimp, lobster and fish are available at almost all restaurants. However do not expect sea food to be cheap here. Demand exceeds supply and costs of seafood although not sky high, does not come cheap either.

North Indian, South Indian, Vegetarian, Continental, and Chinese dishes are available at all restaurants here. If you do go for continental food, do not expect anything you would expect at home, expect it with the Indian twist.

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9. What festivals do the local population celebrate?

Given the fact that the Andamans has a mix of different religions, almost all festivals celebrated in mainland India including but not limited to Christmas, New Year, Diwali, Eid and Easter are celebrated here. However the biggest festival here is Durga Pooja due to the number of Bengalis on the islands.

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10. Is there an ATM at Port Blair & Havelock?

Port Blair has a number of ATMs, and of late Havelock Island also has a 2 ATMs. However given the fact that there is no actual bank on Havelock, there are times when all the cash in the machine has been depleted. The ATMs in Havelock are replenished with funds once every 3 or 4 days. Most other islands do not have ATMs so do carry sufficient cash with you to pay your bills.

Credit Cards (MasterCard and Visa) are not widely accepted in the Andamans, except for larger hotels and resorts and some diving facilities. You will most likely be hit with a surcharge and both your passport and your credit card will get photocopied to submit to the bank as all transactions are done offline. Do note that many establishments do not accept American Express cards.

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11. What can I expect the climate & weather to be like in the Andaman Islands?

The Andaman Islands, like other parts of the Andaman Sea enjoy a tropical climate throughout the year. The average minimum temperature is around 23C and it seldom goes much above 30C. Humidity is relatively high at about 70% to 90%, however with a gentle breeze blowing most the time it is still quite pleasant.

You can expect some rainfall towards the end of May before the monsoon season, June and July. There is some rain on and off right through to November, which has its charm of its own and keeps the islands lush and green.

Click here to see the current weather forecasts for the Andaman Islands https://in.weather.yahoo.com/india/andaman-and-nicobar-islands/port-blair-2295345/

Whole Year Weather forecast.

Average Precipitation

Number of years on Record: 123 years of rainfall

Our main season commences in October each year. The southwest monsoon showers are over by September, and the weather presents an interesting mix of rain and sun. The island is lush and beautiful and arguably at its most vibrant in October and November. The farmland has a standing paddy crop on it (the second harvest of the year), the surrounding forest is at its greenest and the island is at its most alive as the villagers shrug off the shackles of the monsoon season. Nature is arguably at its best in these two months: intermittent showers keep the island fresh and green and the temperature remains pleasant, while the waters off our Bay turn calm and flat as by now that the Southwest winds have blown away.

However, there yet remains the potential of rain in end November or early December as the Northeast winds blow briefly through the islands.

The weather is normally very nice in December and January. Daytime temperatures are ideal. Although sunny, it is still somewhat pleasant, and night time temperatures are cool. In fact a light jacket or full sleeve shirt may be required in the evenings.

February and March are very settled, with the weather turning gradually warmer and the sea and sky both are at their bluest and clearest in the period. Summer comes with April and continues through the first half of May, with daytime temperatures reaching 36 centigrade, but cooler in the shade. The Southwest Monsoon normally arrives in the second half of May and continues through June and July and eases off after August/September these months being very important to the paddy farmers who yield their first harvest then

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12. Is there anything special to buy in the Andamans?

The Andaman Islands are still very under-developed and is not famous for any shopping or bargains. You will not find any duty free shops or malls here.

In Port Blair you can get some handicrafts and souvenirs, mainly in Aberdeen Bazaar as well as in Sagarika which is an outlet of the Cottage Industries. In Havelock there are some jewellery shops that deal with hand-made coconut jewellery, however the majority of the shops here sell clothes and bags that are brought in from the mainland.

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13. Can I rent a bicycle, motorbike or a car in Havelock Island and Port Blair?

Bicycles can be rented from the market area in Port Blair as well as Havelock, however on other islands is currently not possible. Charges are on a per day basis. These bicycles are very basic models so don't expect high quality mountain terrain bikes that you can do stunts on.

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14. How expensive are meals in Andaman?

The price of a meal depends entirely on where you eat and what you order. A nice quaint restaurant will cost you between Rs.300 to Rs.500 per person depending on what is ordered. Eating at the local village market will be much cheaper and most islands have a number of small eateries run by locals that work out easy on the pocket.

Sea food is more expensive in the Andamans compared to the mainland due to heavy demand and less supply.

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15. What do I do in case of a medical emergency?

Most Islands have a Primary Health Centre (PHC); however services here can be limited and poor. It is advisable to go to the nearest PHC first for immediate assistance and as soon as possible move to the G.B Pant hospital in Port Blair which is better equipped.

However at this hospital too, the treatment facilities are not what can be expected in mainland India and for any condition that could be serious, life threatening or needing special care, it is advised to fly to mainland India.

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16. Other annoyances

Indian passport holders do not require a permit to visit and stay in the populated areas of Andaman Islands, including Havelock Island. All foreign nationals require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) over and above an Indian Visa to enter the Andaman Islands. The Indian Visa is to be obtained in your country of residence prior to arrival in India.

The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is easily obtained on arrival at Port Blair. The procedure usually takes 15 minutes, is free of cost and is available to all foreign nationals.

It has recently been brought to our notice that some Indian Visas issued carry a stamp that reads "Entry to restricted areas NOT permitted". Should your Visa carry such a stamp, please contact the embassy and have the visa re-issued as you will not be allowed to enter the Andaman Islands.

Most foreigners arriving at Port Blair are given a 30 day permit. Closer to the time of expiry (about 3 days ahead) this permit can be extended by another 15 days. This extension can only be done at the Immigration Office in Port Blair and you will need to show a confirmed return ticket (for journey within the next 15 days) in order to get this extension. Please note that it may not always be possible to get this extension in a few hours and you may need to stay overnight in Port Blair to obtain the extension.

Foreigners holding a valid entry permit into the Andaman Islands are allowed to visit and stay at municipal areas of Port Blair, Havelock, Long island, Neil island, the islands of South Andaman and Middle Andaman (excluding tribal reserved area 5kms away from Constance bay to Luis Inlet bay western coast tribal reserve), Baratang, Rangat, Mayabunder, Diglipur, North Passage Island, Little Andaman (excluding tribal reserve) and all islands in the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park except Boat Island, Hobday island, Twins islands, Tarmugli, Malay and Pluto island. Tourists can also visit Jolly Buoy island, South Cinque island, Redskin island, Mount Harriet, Madhuban, Ross island, Narcondam island, Interview island, Brother & Sister islands and Barren island during the day. (Visit to Barren island is restricted on board the vessel with no landing ashore).

Do note that the Restricted Access Permit is issued on arrival and is a process by the Immigration department and no one can assist you in getting the same. In case of any complications, you will need to sort it out with the Immigration authorities. We would best advice you to check on the latest procedures and updates from the Immigration authorities to prevent any issues.

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Adventure & Activity:

1. What adventure activities are possible in Havelock?

Scuba diving is the biggest adventure activity on Havelock. You can try diving in half a day, get a diving licence or simply enjoy fun diving (if certified already) and be awestruck by the marine life. Its simple and is a must try for those who have never done diving before. Costs vary depending on the program chosen.

Snorkeling is the next most popular activity. As there are no barriers of fitness or age for this activity and many of the reefs in the Andamans are shallow, almost all the tourists coming here spend at least a day out on a nice beach trying their hand at snorkeling. The cost varies depending on the type of boat, the length of the trip as well as the snorkeling site chosen.

Kayaking is possible through the lovely mangrove creeks here and is a calming experience. Guided tours are recommended and it is a great family activity as both single and double seater kayaks are available for rent.

Trekking is a great way to admire the fantastic fauna and flora of the island. Although there are no extremely difficult treks on the islands, a basic level of fitness is recommended. The trek to Elephant Beach and Japanese Hill are popular options in Havelock. While on the trek, your guide will be able to help you spot some exotic birds, butterflies and the occasional reptile.

Bird watching is a popular activity on Havelock given the number of endemic birds found in these islands.

All these activities are fun and simple and we can arrange it for you , just write to holidays@gopurple.in and we will assist you on the same .

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2. Are there any PADI dive centres in Havelock?

Scuba diving is a very popular activity on Havelock Island and there are many scuba diving centres. Not all dive centres are PADI affiliated, however most of them are.

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3. Is Scuba Diving possible in Port Blair?

In the past many operators in Port Blair have come and gone, however till date there seems to be no dive operator who has been able to sustain a business here. Currently there are no operators in this area.

It should not be long before a reliable dive centres opens up in Port Blair. By September 2010, there could be a dive centre in Port Blair.

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4. Can I learn to dive or snorkel in the Andamans?

Sure. Its simple, easy and does not too much time. Just email us at holidays@gopupurple.in and we can give you a hand in organising it.

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5. Is there an age limit for these activities?

There is no age limit for scuba diving or snorkeling, however it is advisable that general health and fitness be considered while enrolling for these activities.

For scuba diving, there is a medical form that needs to be reviewed and filled by the student as well.

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6. Can non swimmer scuba diver or snorkel?

Yes, non swimmers can still snorkel and try scuba diving.

In the case of snorkeling, you could enrol for a Discover Snorkeling Program which is half a day and teaches you the basics of snorkeling. You will be given a flotation device as well like a life jacket to aid you and you can be assured of having a whale of a time.

For Scuba diving, although non swimmers cannot get a diving licence, they too can try diving through the Discover Scuba Program which is just for half a day and a great deal of fun. 20 minutes of basic theory and one dive to a maximum of 12 metres along with a PADI certified experienced Instructor is the norm. You will even get a participation certificate to cherish forever.

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Booking Information:

1. What are the booking conditions?

To know more about booking conditions, please click here. booking conditions

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2. What is the general information required for booking?

To know more about general information required for booking, please click here. General information for booking

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