The Complete Andaman 2026 Guide — IXZ Flights, Havelock and Neil Ferries, RAP Permits and Honest Island Picks
By Priya Nair (Priya Nair covers India's beach destinations — Andaman, Lakshadweep, Goa, Kerala — with a focus on the practical bits: which gateway airport, which ferry connects to which island, the permits, the scuba seasons, the budget math.) · Published · 11 min read
Andaman trips up first-time visitors not on the beaches but on the ferries and flight connections. Here is the honest 2026 guide — which gateway airport, which ferry operator, which island actually deserves your time, and what the RAP permit really means now.
What this article covers
One airport, many islands — the structure of Andaman travel in 2026
Gateway airports — DEL, BLR, MAA, BOM and CCU routings that actually exist
The carriers — IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express, SpiceJet and Akasa
The RAP permit question — what you actually need in 2026
Ferries — Makruzz, Green Ocean, Nautika, ITT Majestic and the government DSS
Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) — what it actually offers
Neil (Shaheed Dweep), Long Island and Diglipur — the quieter circuit
Scuba and snorkelling — the diving calendar at a glance
Best time, sample itineraries and the honest budget math
Frequently asked questions
Do Indian nationals need a permit for Andaman in 2026?
No. For the standard tourist circuit — Port Blair, Havelock, Neil, Long Island, Diglipur — Indian nationals need only a valid government photo ID. The old Restricted Area Permit for Indian tourists was withdrawn years ago. Foreign nationals self-register on arrival at IXZ for a 30-day permit.
Which is the cheapest gateway airport for IXZ Port Blair?
Chennai (MAA) and Kolkata (CCU) typically run the cheapest fares to IXZ in shoulder season, often ₹5,000-9,000 one way. Direct from Delhi runs significantly higher. A one-stop via Chennai is usually the cheapest option from north India for travellers willing to add 90-120 minutes of total transit.
How far in advance should I book Makruzz or Green Ocean ferries?
One to two weeks ahead in shoulder season, four to six weeks ahead for peak winter (Christmas-New Year). Both operators sell out routinely from mid-December to mid-February on the Port Blair-Havelock and Havelock-Neil sectors. Book ferries before finalising hotel nights, not after.
Can I visit Nicobar Islands as a tourist?
No. The entire Nicobar Islands group is closed to tourists, Indian or foreign, as a tribal-protected zone. The only legal entries are for residents and specific government, research or strategic purposes. Plan your trip around the Andaman group only.
How many days should I plan for an Andaman trip?
Six to seven days is the realistic minimum — one night Port Blair, three nights Havelock, two nights Neil and travel time. Ten days lets you add Long Island or Diglipur. Less than five days leaves you spending more time on ferries and flights than on beaches.
What is the best month for Andaman beaches and scuba?
December through February for classic conditions and maximum visibility; November and March-April for the same conditions with materially fewer crowds and lower prices. Avoid June through early September unless cost is the dominant factor — many dive shops close and ferries are weather-dependent.
Is scuba diving in Andaman beginner-friendly?
Yes. The PADI Open Water four-day course at any reputable Havelock operator (Dive India, Barefoot Scuba, Doongi, Ocean Tribe, Lacadives) is well structured for first-time divers. Costs ₹22,000-30,000 including equipment, certification and all dives. Discover Scuba intro dives for non-swimmers start at ₹4,000-5,500.
Will I get mobile network reception on Havelock and Neil?
Yes, on Airtel and Jio in 2026. BSNL is the legacy reliable network. Speeds are slower than mainland 4G but functional for messaging, navigation and basic data. Resort Wi-Fi has also improved significantly across Havelock since 2023 fibre upgrades.