Neil Island Travel Guide: Andaman's Peaceful Paradise
Discover Shaheed Dweep — Andaman's laid-back gem. Pristine beaches, stunning natural bridge, coral reefs, and the perfect escape from the crowds.
Plan Your Neil Island TripGetting to Neil Island
From Port Blair
Government ferry: ₹400-500 (1.5 hrs). Private ferry (Makruzz/Nautika): ₹1,000-1,400 (1 hr). Morning departures daily. The journey passes through the scenic archipelago with beautiful island views along the way.
From Havelock
Government ferry: ₹300-400 (1 hr). Private ferry: ₹700-1,000 (45 min). Usually afternoon departures. Many travellers combine Havelock and Neil Island in a single trip for the best Andaman experience.
On the Island
Neil Island is small — rent a bicycle (₹100-200/day) or scooter (₹400-600/day). Auto-rickshaws available (₹50-200). Walking is possible between beaches. The entire island can be explored in a day by cycle.
Pro Tips
Book ferry tickets 1-2 weeks in advance during peak season. Morning ferries from Port Blair are most reliable. Carry cash — ATMs can be unreliable. Download offline maps before arriving as internet is spotty.
Best Beaches on Neil Island
Neil Island has four main beaches, each with its own character. All are within cycling distance of the main market.
Laxmanpur Beach 1
Famous Sunset Point
Famous sunset point. Long stretch of white sand with shallow water perfect for wading. Best time: 4-6 PM for sunset. Free entry. Located near the main market, making it the most accessible beach on the island. The wide sandy expanse transforms into a golden canvas as the sun sets over the Andaman Sea.
Laxmanpur Beach 2 (Natural Bridge)
Iconic Howrah Bridge Formation
Home to the iconic Howrah Bridge — a natural rock formation shaped by centuries of wave erosion on coral rock. Best visited at low tide when you can walk right up to the formation. Coral formations are everywhere, creating a surreal landscape. A photographer's dream and one of Andaman's most unique geological wonders.
Bharatpur Beach
Water Sports Hub
Best for water sports — snorkeling, glass bottom boat, banana boat, jet skiing. Located near the jetty, making it easy to access right after arriving. Calm waters ideal for families with children. Water sports cost ₹300-1,500 depending on activity. The shallow reef area is home to colourful fish and coral.
Sitapur Beach
Sunrise Beach
Sunrise beach on the eastern coast. Rocky shores with fascinating tide pools teeming with small marine life. Less crowded and more wild than other Neil Island beaches. Beautiful morning light makes it perfect for photography. Located 3 km from the market — hire an auto-rickshaw or cycle early morning.
Things to Do on Neil Island
Snorkeling at Bharatpur
Clear waters with coral gardens close to shore. Equipment rental: ₹300-500. Guides available for the best spots. The shallow reef makes it accessible even for beginners and non-swimmers.
Cycling Around the Island
Best way to explore Neil Island. Flat roads connect all beaches in an 8 km circuit. Rent from the market area. Takes 2-3 hours with stops at beaches and viewpoints along the way.
Glass Bottom Boat
See coral reefs without getting wet. Available at Bharatpur Beach. ₹500-800 per person, 30 minutes. Perfect for families with children or anyone who wants to experience the underwater world without diving.
Scuba Diving
Dive sites like Margherita's Mischief and K-Rock. Less crowded than Havelock. ₹3,500-5,000 for beginners with full training included. Experience vibrant coral walls and marine life up close.
Sunset at Laxmanpur
Don't miss it. The natural bridge silhouetted against the sunset is one of Andaman's most iconic views. Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for the best spot. Free and unforgettable.
Fishing
Local fishermen offer trips early morning. Watch the morning fish market for fresh catch and a taste of island life. Deep sea fishing tours: ₹1,500-3,000 per trip. A unique way to experience Neil.
Where to Stay on Neil Island
Budget
₹500-1,500/night
Pearl Park Beach Resort, Tango Beach Resort, and basic guesthouses. Simple but clean rooms with fans or basic AC. Located near Laxmanpur Beach. Ideal for backpackers and budget travellers who plan to spend most time outdoors.
Mid-Range
₹1,500-4,000/night
Sea Shell Neil, Summer Sand, Coconut Grove. Good amenities including AC, hot water, and some with direct beach access. Best area: near Bharatpur or Laxmanpur. Restaurant on-site at most properties.
Luxury
₹4,000-10,000/night
Silver Sand Beach Resort, Coral Garden Resort. Best rooms and service on the island with manicured gardens, pool facilities, and premium dining. Perfect for honeymoon couples and those seeking comfort.
Most accommodation clusters near Laxmanpur Beach and the main market. Book 2-3 weeks ahead for peak season (October to May). During off-season, walk-in rates are significantly cheaper.
Where to Eat on Neil Island
Chand Restaurant
Best seafood on Neil Island. Try the butter garlic crab — a local favourite. Fresh fish grilled to perfection daily.
Blue Sea Restaurant
Multi-cuisine with fresh fish daily. Relaxed setting with outdoor seating. Great for both Indian and continental food lovers.
Garden View Restaurant
Good Indian food and breakfast options. Reliable quality and generous portions. Popular with families and groups.
Local Market Eateries
Cheap, authentic food near the main market. Fish thali for ₹100-150. Best for budget travellers wanting real local flavours.
Neil Island has limited dining options compared to Havelock. Most hotels have their own restaurants. Vegetarian food is available everywhere. Fresh seafood is the highlight — try the catch of the day at any restaurant.
2-Day Neil Island Itinerary
Day 1 Morning — Arrive & Bharatpur Beach
Arrive by ferry from Port Blair or Havelock. Check into your hotel and rent a bicycle or scooter from the market. Head to Bharatpur Beach for snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters and a glass bottom boat ride over the coral reefs. The calm, shallow waters here are perfect for easing into your island experience.
Day 1 Afternoon — Natural Bridge & Coral Formations
Lunch at Chand Restaurant — order the butter garlic crab. Then cycle to Laxmanpur Beach 2 to explore the famous Natural Bridge (Howrah Bridge). Visit at low tide to walk among the exposed coral formations and get close to the iconic rock arch. The geological formations here are unlike anything else in Andaman.
Day 1 Evening — Laxmanpur Sunset
Head to Laxmanpur Beach 1 for one of Andaman's most spectacular sunsets. The wide sandy beach turns golden as the sun dips into the Andaman Sea. Grab a spot early and watch the sky transform through shades of orange, pink, and purple. Dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant near the market.
Day 2 Morning — Sitapur Sunrise & Optional Diving
Wake early (5:30 AM) and head to Sitapur Beach on the eastern coast for a stunning sunrise. Explore the rocky shore and tide pools filled with small marine creatures. After breakfast, consider an optional scuba diving session at sites like Margherita's Mischief — less crowded and more personal than Havelock dive sites.
Day 2 Afternoon — Beach Time & Water Sports
Free time for beach relaxation, additional cycling, or a return to Bharatpur Beach for more water sports like banana boat rides or jet skiing. Visit any beaches you missed. Shop for souvenirs at the small local market. Soak in the final moments of island serenity before your departure.
Day 2 Evening — Departure
Catch the afternoon ferry back to Port Blair or onward to Havelock Island. Ferries typically depart between 2-4 PM. Arrive at the jetty 30 minutes early. Carry snacks for the journey. If heading to Port Blair, the evening Light & Sound Show at Cellular Jail makes a perfect continuation of your trip.
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Our packages include ferry transfers, beachside stays, and guided activities at Neil Island.