Havelock Island, Andaman

Havelock Island (new official name: Swaraj Dweep), the most popular island among tourists, is located about 70 km north of the capital city, Port Blair. Havelock Island has some of the best beaches in the world, Located within the famous Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the largest cluster of islands of India. It has white sandy beaches, blue waters, and some of the best diving in the continent.

Havelock is a wonderland for travellers. You can laze around on its beaches, or explore its dense and serene mangroves, swim among exotic corals while you indulge in scuba diving or go out there and explore the wilderness on long jungle treks. Havelock has been developing fast in recent years, with a sharp rise in domestic tourism and concrete-clad resorts chasing away many of the original bamboo beach huts. But much of the island’s 92 sq km (it’s the largest in Ritchie’s Archipelago) remains untouched.

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit Havelock Island in Andaman is during the months of October to May when the temperature is mild and around 15 to 34 degree Celsius. It is also the perfect time to go diving in the crystal-clear water of the place. 

How To Reach: The island can be visited by a ferry which leaves from Phoenix Bay Wharf. It takes around 2.5 hours to reach Havelock Island. There is another coastal cruise which is a high-speed cruise and takes 90 minutes to reach the island.

Getting Around

Local transport in Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island) is fairly simple. These are a few options avalilable:

• Tourist taxis: Tourist taxis can be rented from Havelock jetty, there will be drivers waiting at the jetty, please be aware that they might be overpriced and you might have to bargain. If you are part of a package tour, it will be included in the package.
• Bike rentals: The easiest local transport in Havelock Island is by renting a scooter. You can hire them on a daily basis at approximately INR 500 per day. Fuel Stations shut by 5 pm, please make sure you have enough fuel. Avoid during monsoons as roads can get slippery.
•  Auto rickshaws: Auto rickshaws are also available and cost around INR 50 to 200 for short rides & 700-1000 for a trip to Radhanagar Beach.
• Public transport: Budget travellers can opt for shared jeeps and public buses for the commute within Swaraj Dweep(Havelock Island).