Do you know that more than 270 species of birds are seen in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands? Nearly half can’t be found anywhere else on this earth. This archipelago is one of the most bio-diverse regions of India. These islands offer more than beaches-it is a treasure trove of living cultures, wildlife, and nature. Whether you’re interested in rare flora and animals, rich history, or breathtaking views, the Andaman Islands offer a trip as exclusive as they are.
This guide will explain what to expect so you can enjoy a fantastic Andaman experience that fits your Andaman-Nicobar trip budget.
1. Travel costs: Reaching Andaman
i. Flights
Flights to the Andaman Islands usually land at Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair. The Andaman trip price depends on where you are flying from and when you book your ticket.
a. From major Indian cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore): A round-trip Andaman Nicobar trip costs range from Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 20,000, with the December–March season seeing the highest prices.
b. From Kolkata or Chennai: Fares range from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 15,000, which is comparatively less.
Note: Book the flights at least 2-3 months in advance. Watch for seasonal sales from airlines and avoid peak holiday times.
ii. Ships
Andaman and Nicobar islands trip costs through ships vary between Rs. 2,000 and Rs. 10,000, depending on your class of travel.
2. Accommodation Costs
Accommodation options in Andaman range from hostels to five-star resorts.
i. Low-cost accommodation: The tariff of a hostel or a guesthouse ranges between Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,500 per night. It suits backpackers on a very tight Andaman Nicobar trip budget.
ii. Mid-range hotels: These hotels have modern facilities and cost between Rs. 2,000 and Rs. 5,000 per night.
iii. Luxury resorts: Beachfront resorts at Havelock or Neil Island are luxury experiences. Prices range from Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 20,000 per night and include water sports and private access to the beach.
3. Island Transfers and Local Transportation
To tour the various areas of the Andaman Islands, you must travel between the islands.
i. Ferry services
Ferries are the primary means of transportation connecting Neil Island, Havelock Island, and Port Blair. Public and private ferries, including Makruzz, Green Ocean, and Sea Link, are available.
a. Government ferries
These are simple but reasonably priced, with fares ranging from Rs. 200 to Rs. 500 for each trip. The approximate island transfer cost for round trips is Rs. 400 to Rs. 1000.
b. Private ferries:
These boats are more comfortable and quicker, and the cost for an Andaman trip is between Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 2,500 per journey. The approximate island transfer cost for round trips is Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000.
ii. Local transport
In Port Blair and Havelock, you can rent scooters for around Rs. 500 a day for local exploration. Cabs or auto-rickshaws are readily available, too, averaging Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 2,500 for the whole day.
4. Food and Dining
Eating in the Andaman Islands can be economical or luxurious, depending on your dining choices.
i. Street food and street eateries
Budget Meals cost Rs. 100 to Rs. 250 per meal. Remember to try some seafood, local curries, and snacks.
ii. Mid-range restaurants
Expect to pay approximately Rs. 300 to Rs. 700 per meal, where a mix of Indian and Continental dishes are available.
iii. Fine dining and resorts
Rs 1,000-Rs 3,000 per person in a resort restaurant, mainly for fresh seafood or multi-cuisine buffets.
5. Activities and Sightseeing
The Andamans are rich in natural beauty and landmarks, and there are many activities when considering an Andaman tour package cost. Below are common experiences.
i. Scuba diving and snorkeling
Andaman is a hotspot for scuba diving, with some of India’s best coral reefs. It varies on location and expertise level:
a. Snorkelling
From Rs. 500 to Rs. 1,500 for North Bay or Elephant Beach sessions.
b. Scuba diving
A beginner is likely to be charged from Rs. 3,500 to Rs. 5,000, whereas certified divers have deeper dives or can pay the particular version ranging from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 8,000.
ii. Other water sports
Jet skiing, sea walking, and kayaking are also offered. Prices vary from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 3,500, depending on the place and type.
Sightseeing (Entry fees and permits):
a. Cellular jail:
The entry fees are Rs. 30. The light and sound show costs an extra Rs. 50 – Rs. 100.
b. Ross Island:
Ferry ride of Rs. 150 plus an entry fee.
c. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park:
Entrance and boating fees will be around Rs. 50 to Rs. 250.
6. Miscellaneous Expenses
i. Shopping and souvenirs
Pearls, handicrafts, and souvenirs can be purchased at the local markets, particularly in Port Blair, for between Rs. 200 and Rs. 2,000, depending on your preferences.
ii. Tips and gratuities
Tipping is optional, but a weekly Andaman tour cost of Rs. 500 to Rs. 1,000 should be sufficient for drivers and guides.
iii. Phone and Internet
Outside of Port Blair, there is little phone and internet network coverage, and hotel Wi-Fi might cost between Rs. 100 and Rs. 500 per day.
7. Budget summary: A one-week Andaman trip
Expense category
Budget
Mid-range
Luxury
Flights
Rs. 8,000-Rs. 15,000
Rs. 12,000-Rs. 20,000
Rs. 20,000+
Accommodation
Rs. 3,500-Rs. 10,000
Rs. 14,000-Rs. 30,000
Rs. 60,000+
Local transport
Rs. 1,000-Rs. 2,000
Rs. 3,000-Rs. 5,000
Rs. 8,000+
Food
Rs. 3,500-Rs. 5,000
Rs. 7,000-Rs. 10,000
Rs. 15,000+
Activities and sightseeing
Rs. 2,000-Rs. 5,000
Rs. 8,000-Rs. 12,000
Rs. 15,000+
Miscellaneous (Shopping, etc.)
Rs. 1,000-Rs. 2,000
Rs. 2,000-Rs. 5,000
Rs. 5,000+
Total estimated cost
Rs. 19,000-Rs. 39,000
Rs. 46,000-Rs. 82,000
Rs. 1,23,000+
8. Best Time to Visit
The best months to visit the Andaman Islands are November to May, when the climate is pleasant, and the waters are ideal for water sports.
Wrapping up
With careful planning, you can soak in the island atmosphere, discover stunning beaches, and engage in exhilarating water sports without spending more than the Andaman Islands trip cost.
Tata Capital offers various travel finance alternatives to help you design an itinerary that fits your Andaman travel cost, simplifying the process. You can use Tata Capital’s loan for travelling to visit Andaman Islands without worrying about up-front expenses.
28 November 2024
5 mins read
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