Andaman Islands

A former British penal colony now famed for its white sandy beaches and world class diving. This archipelago, floating amidst the Bay of Bengal, is closer to Myanmar than India and is home to a native Negrito population that still has anthropologists baffled.

Our pick of the best places to stay in the Andaman Islands are the epitome of laid back luxury and a perfect base from which to enjoy both beach and sea.

Havelock, by far the biggest and most populated island, boasts the ‘No 7 Best Beach in Asia’ as well as the most reputable diving schools and luxurious hotels.

What not to miss:

• Spot turtles, Giant Grouper, Mobula Rays and much more on a diving expedition. There are plenty of dive schools but Bare Foot is certainly the most reputable.
• Visit the former British prison, Cellular Jail National Memorial is an interesting and informative insight into the recent history of the island and its less than idyllic past.
• Neil and Ross Islands are small enough that they can be explored by bike.
• Lounge on any one of the pristine white sand beaches.

With so much to do and see in this beautiful place many of the best places to stay in the Andaman Islands are snapped up so do plan ahead and book your place early.

For true escapism

• Barefoot at Havelock provides both eco luxury and excellent diving. Exactly what travellers come here for!

• The stunning boutique property Jalakara is hidden in lush jungle on the tropical island of Havelock set away from the coast and providing secluded luxury.

For an apartment or villa

• If you've decided that a self catering property would be more suitable for your holiday, then we recommend you visit our online booking partner Booking.com where they have a wide selection for all tastes and budgets.

Travel information

• There are no direct international flights but internal flights run from Mumbai (Bombay), Chennai and Kolkata to Port Blair. There are government ferries and faster private catamarans from Port Blair to the major islands, though timetables are unpredictable and the services are slow.
• Best time to visit - the climate is tropical and temperatures remain in the 22-32C bracket all year round but the annual monsoon brings heavy rain from mid-May to mid-September.
• If you plan to hire a car, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars for the best prices.

Still not sure?

Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in the Andaman Island.

Expand your search to include all our recommendations in India's other major beach destination, Goa

Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice

Browse through our list of the best places to stay in The Andaman Islands and start to plan your stay. Please feel free to contact a friendly guru for advice