Andaman Nicobar Trip Cost

Andaman Nicobar Trip Price

Introduction
Andaman and Nicobar Islands, an idyllic island chain in the Bay of Bengal, is famous for its unspoiled beaches, dense forests, and abundant biodiversity. It‘s the ultimate destination for adventure, nature, and culture lovers. Although Andaman is the more popular tourist destination, the Nicobar Islands present a unique off-the-beaten-path experience. But the cost of traveling to both islands is quite different, and it is necessary to organize your trip accordingly so that you are not taken aback. In this blog, we will discuss the estimated costs of traveling to both the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, including flights, accommodation, activities, and others.

Flights and Travel to Andaman and Nicobar

The first thing to plan in your trip to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is how to arrive there. The islands are both connected to the Indian mainland through flights and vessels, but the prices will differ depending on the means of transport.

Flights to Andaman

Port Blair, which is the capital of Andaman, is the primary entry point for tourists. There are frequent flights from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai to Port Blair. Flights can cost anywhere between ₹6,000 to ₹15,000 for a one-way ticket, depending on the season, time of booking, and departure city. The off-season, May to October, has lower fares, while the peak season, November to April, has higher fares.

Ferries to Nicobar

Travel to Nicobar is more complex and expensive than travel to the Andaman Islands. Although Andaman is accessible by normal flights and ferries, Nicobar needs special permits and complex transport arrangements. Nicobar is off-limits for tourism, and only government-approved tours are allowed access.

To visit Nicobar, you must obtain special permits, which are usually issued only to specific groups of individuals, including government officials, research groups, and selected tourists on guided tours. There are few ferries from Port Blair to Nicobar, and the price of a ferry ticket to the Nicobar Islands can vary from ₹1,500 to ₹5,000, depending on the class and ferry timing. The travel duration is about 3 to 4 days by ferry, and hence the time and cost for long-distance travel must be accounted for by travelers.

Accommodation in Andaman and Nicobar

Accommodation cost is also a large component of cost when traveling to Andaman and Nicobar. The quality and variety of accommodation differ significantly between both areas, with Andaman offering a greater variety of hotels, resorts, and guesthouses.

Andaman Accommodation

Andaman offers a wide range of accommodation options, catering to different types of travelers. Whether you’re on a budget or looking for luxury, there’s something for everyone.

Budget Accommodation: There are a number of budget hotels and guesthouses available in Port Blair and Havelock, which cost between ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 per night. The budget accommodations are basic, providing basic facilities such as a bed, private bathroom, and possibly Wi-Fi. These accommodations are best suited for those who like to spend money on activities and not on luxury accommodations.

Mid-Range Hotels/Resorts: For more comfort, one can opt for 3-star hotels or beach resorts. The cost of mid-range hotels is usually between ₹3,500 and ₹7,500 per night, based on the place and amenities. Havelock, Neil, and Port Blair are some of the popular tourist spots with ample mid-range choices that have swimming pools, guided tours, and good dining facilities.

Luxury Resorts: For someone who wants an upscale experience, Andaman has some luxury resorts providing high–class services, personal beaches, upscale dining, and spa facilities. Prepare to spend ₹8,000 to ₹20,000 or more per night for a luxurious stay.

Nicobar Accommodation

Accommodation in Nicobar is very limited, as tourism is not as developed here as in Andaman. The government allows very few tourists to visit Nicobar, and those who do usually stay in government-approved camps or eco-tourism lodges. Prices for accommodation in Nicobar can be much higher than in Andaman due to its exclusivity and the remote nature of the islands. Expect to pay around ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 per night for basic lodging in Nicobar.

Andaman and Nicobar Excursions

Some of the highlights of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the multitude of activities to partake in. From sports at sea to a cultural immersion experience, there‘s something for each kind of tourist.

Andaman Activities

Scuba Diving: Andaman is amongst India‘s most popular scuba diving destinations. Scuba diving in Andaman ranges between ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 for a try dive. Prices for a PADI certification course start from ₹20,000 to ₹25,000. Popular dive sites include Havelock Island, North Bay Island, and Neil Island.

Snorkeling: Snorkeling is a great option for people who don’t favor scuba diving. It is reasonably priced and can cost anything from ₹500 to ₹2,000 for each session depending on whether or not it is a guided or self-guided tour. Among the top places for snorkeling in Andaman are Elephant Beach, Radhanagar Beach, and Coral Garden.

Water Activities: Andaman has all kinds of water activities like parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat ride, and kayaking. These activities are priced between ₹1,000 and ₹4,000, depending upon the activity and the duration.

Nicobar Activities

As Nicobar remains relatively uncharted by tourists, activities tend towards nature walks, eco-tourism, and witnessing the natural beauty of the islands. Activities for permitted tourist visits can encompass hiking, photography of nature and wildlife, bird watching, and trips to visit tribal villages. Snorkeling and boat cruises are also possible to reach the virgin shores of Nicobar. The expenditure on these will vary based on the tours booked and tend to be tailor-made.

Sample Andaman Nicobar Trip Budget (7 Days)

Following is an approximate cost breakdown of a 7-day itinerary to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for one person:

Flights (Round Trip to Port Blair): ₹12,000

Accommodation (Budget in Andaman): ₹2,500 x 5 nights = ₹12,500

Accommodation (Nicobar): ₹6,000 x 2 nights = ₹12,000

Ferries (Port Blair to Nicobar): ₹5,000

Activities (Scuba, Snorkeling, Water Sports): ₹10,000

Food: ₹500 per day x 7 days = ₹3,500

Transport: ₹4,000

Total Estimated Cost: ₹59,000 (approx.)

This is an estimate for a moderately budgeted trip, not including luxury activities and private tours.

Conclusion

The price of visiting Andaman and Nicobar Islands varies greatly depending on your travel style. Although Andaman has a wider variety of activities, accommodations, and transport, Nicobar offers a special experience that can be more costly because of its limited access. By planning your visit and taking into account travel dates, accommodation type, and activities, you can design your visit according to your budget. Whether adventure, relaxation, or discovery is what you seek, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands provide an experience you will never forget.