Plan your dream trip to the Andaman and Nicobar islands with practical budgeting tips, average expenses, and comfort-focused guidance.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a stunning yet remote destination. Due to their location, trip costs can vary widely based on the season, preferences, and booking timelines.
Planning your budget helps you make informed choices and avoid unnecessary last-minute expenses. From airfare to adventure activities, knowing the major heads of your travel cost to Andaman and Nicobar ensures a stress-free experience.
Here is a breakdown of the key expense categories that contribute to the total cost of trip to Andaman and Nicobar:
Most travellers reach the islands via flights from metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata to Port Blair.
Return airfares range from ₹7,000 to ₹15,000 per person for economy class
There are limited ship services from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam, but these take longer (3–4 days) and are not ideal for short trips
Moving between islands and local travel within Port Blair or Havelock involves ferries, cabs, or bikes.
Ferry tickets (government/private) cost between ₹500 and ₹2,500
Scooty rentals are about ₹500/day; private cabs charge ₹2,000–₹3,000 for day trips
Stay options range from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts.
Budget stays: ₹1,000–₹1,500 per night
Mid-range hotels: ₹2,000–₹5,000 per night
Premium resorts: ₹7,000–₹20,000+ per night
Your Andaman and Nicobar tour cost will depend heavily on your accommodation choice.
Eco-camps and homestays offer an immersive local experience.
Typically priced between ₹800 and ₹2,000 per night
Availability may vary by season, especially on Havelock and Neil Islands
Food expenses are relatively moderate.
Local thalis and seafood meals: ₹200–₹500 per meal
Upscale restaurants: ₹800–₹1,500 for two people
Opting for local eateries can significantly reduce your Andaman and Nicobar trip cost.
Indian tourists do not need special permits to visit most areas, except for restricted zones. However, entry fees apply at some sites.
Cellular Jail: ₹30–₹100
National parks and marine reserves: ₹50–₹500
Camera charges may apply separately
These minor charges add up and should be factored into the cost to visit Andaman and Nicobar.
From snorkelling to scuba diving, adventure sports are a highlight of any island visit.
Snorkelling: ₹500–₹1,000
Scuba diving: ₹3,000–₹5,000 per dive
Glass-bottom boats, jet skiing, and kayaking have separate charges
These activities significantly influence the Andaman and Nicobar travel cost, especially if done across multiple islands.
Local shops offer shell jewellery, spices, and handicrafts.
Souvenir shopping costs typically range between ₹500 and ₹2,000
Avoid airport shopping for better prices
Travel insurance is advisable due to limited medical facilities on some islands.
Basic travel cover: ₹300–₹800 for a short trip
Keep extra funds for emergency medication, first aid, or doctor consultations
Though not mandatory, this is a smart inclusion in your cost of Andaman and Nicobar trip.
These include mobile recharges, island internet cafes, sunscreen, snacks, bottled water, etc.
Estimate ₹500–₹1,000 for a short trip
Keep small cash handy, as UPI and cards may not work everywhere
Below is a sample cost breakup for a 6-day trip. This includes common expenses and helps estimate the cost of a trip to Andaman and Nicobar for a single traveller:
Expense Category |
Details |
Approximate Cost (₹) |
---|---|---|
Flights |
Round-trip from major metro to Port Blair (booked in advance) |
₹10,000 |
Stay |
Mid-range hotel stay for 5 nights (₹2,500/night) |
₹12,500 |
Local Transport |
Ferries, bike rental, local cabs across 3 islands |
₹3,000 |
Food |
Mix of local meals and dining out |
₹3,000 |
Activities and Entry |
Scuba diving, snorkelling, Cellular Jail, water sports |
₹4,500 |
Permits |
Entry fees to attractions and marine parks |
₹500 |
Insurance |
Basic travel insurance for the trip duration |
₹500 |
Shopping and Souvenirs |
Local handicrafts and keepsakes |
₹1,000 |
Miscellaneous |
Snacks, bottled water, recharges, tips |
₹1,000 |
Total Estimated Cost - ₹36,000
Disclaimer: This estimate is based on average mid-range choices and assumes some cost-sharing, especially for transport. Prices may vary depending on your travel dates, preferences, and bookings. Always confirm updated rates to plan your travel cost more accurately.
Worried about managing the entire cost to travel to Andaman and Nicobar upfront? Many travellers now use flexible financial tools to handle bookings and on-trip expenses smartly. Options like credit cards, personal loans, and EMI cards can help ease the burden while offering added convenience.
Here are some:
Credit cards can simplify your Andaman and Nicobar travel cost management and unlock useful benefits when used responsibly:
Free Lounge Access
Enjoy complimentary airport lounge services at select terminals while waiting for your flight to Port Blair
Flight, Dining, and Fuel Cashback
Earn cashback or reward points on typical expenses such as flights, fuel refills, and restaurant bills during your trip
Travel Insurance Add-ons
Some cards include travel insurance for lost baggage, delays, or medical emergencies, without additional charges
Forex Savings
If you book international-style Andaman and Nicobar travel packages through global portals, low forex markup cards can save extra costs
If your savings or card limit is not enough to cover the Andaman and Nicobar trip package price, a personal loan may be a more predictable and flexible option. You can check options on Bajaj Markets, a financial marketplace, for different types of loans provided by various lenders.
Loan Amounts Up to ₹55 Lakhs
Covers everything, from flights and stays to adventure activities and emergency funds
Flexible Repayment Options
Choose EMIs that match your income with tenures extending up to 96 months
Quick Disbursal and Minimal Documentation
Apply online with basic KYC documents and receive funds quickly to lock in early-bird travel deals
Pre-Approved Offers
Get tailored loan options based on your credit profile, ideal for a planned trip to Andaman and Nicobar
Here are some of the most popular attractions to include in your itinerary. These spots offer a mix of nature, history, and marine beauty:
Radhanagar Beach (Havelock Island)
Famous for its soft white sand and clear waters, it’s often rated among Asia’s best beaches.
Cellular Jail (Port Blair)
A historic British-era prison turned memorial, known for its light and sound show in the evening.
Ross Island
A short ferry ride from Port Blair, this island offers colonial ruins surrounded by nature trails and deer.
Elephant Beach
Ideal for water sports like snorkelling and sea walking; easily accessible by speedboat from Havelock.
Baratang Island
Home to limestone caves and a mangrove boat ride; offers a glimpse of the tribal reserve (permit required).
Neil Island
Peaceful and scenic, with natural rock formations and shallow coral reefs perfect for beach walks.
The islands are known for their biodiversity and clear waters. Here are some experiences worth budgeting for:
Snorkelling at North Bay or Elephant Beach
A great way to view coral reefs without deep diving.
Scuba Diving at Havelock Island
Explore underwater marine life at certified dive sites; ideal for both beginners and professionals.
Glass-Bottom Boat Ride
View vibrant coral reefs beneath your feet without getting wet, perfect for non-swimmers.
Kayaking through Mangroves at Mayabunder
An offbeat and peaceful water adventure through lush forest channels.
Jet Skiing and Banana Boat Rides at Corbyn’s Cove
Popular water sports available on most public beaches near Port Blair.
Light and Sound Show at Cellular Jail
Narrates the freedom struggle with dramatic lighting and voiceovers, available in Hindi and English.
Trying local dishes is an affordable and rewarding part of your trip to Andaman and Nicobar. Here are a few you shouldn't miss:
Fish Curry with Rice
A staple dish, this coconut-based fish curry is mildly spiced and served with steamed rice at most eateries.
Lobster and Grilled Prawns
Available fresh in beachside cafés, these are usually priced between ₹500 and ₹800, depending on size and season.
Amritsari Kulcha with Chole
Surprisingly popular in Port Blair, this North Indian combo is available at Punjabi dhabas and vegetarian outlets.
Coconut Prawn Curry
A fusion-style dish cooked with spices and tender prawns in a creamy coconut base.
Tandoori Seafood Platters
A mix of grilled fish, crab, or calamari served with chutneys—available in many mid-range restaurants.
Local Beverages
Fresh coconut water, lemon soda, and island-made herbal teas are budget-friendly and refreshing in the tropical climate.
Here’s a quick overview of the ideal travel months. Weather and tourist activity influence the total cost to travel Andaman and Nicobar, especially flight and hotel rates:
Travel Months |
Temperature (°C) |
Season |
Highlights |
---|---|---|---|
October – March |
22–30 |
Winter / Peak |
Best time for water sports, pleasant weather, clear skies |
April – June |
25–33 |
Summer / Shoulder |
Hot but manageable; ideal for off-season travel deals |
July – September |
24–30 |
Monsoon / Low |
Heavy rains; fewer ferries; green landscapes, but travel disruption likely |
You don’t have to overspend to enjoy the islands. Here are a few ways to reduce your Andaman and Nicobar trip cost without compromising your experience:
Book Flights 2–3 Months in Advance
Early bookings offer lower fares, especially during the October–March peak season
Travel During the Shoulder Season
April to June sees fewer tourists and discounted rates for hotels and activities
Use Government Ferries Where Possible
They are cheaper than private operators, especially for inter-island transfers
Opt for Local Eateries Over Resorts
Small cafés and dhabas serve fresh meals at half the price of resort restaurants
Bundle Activities via Local Operators
Instead of booking each activity separately, explore bundled packages for diving, sightseeing, and transfers
Share Transport When Feasible
Group tours or shared cabs reduce per-head costs for day trips and sightseeing
While the islands are generally safe, being aware of common tourist traps can help avoid unnecessary expenses in your Andaman and Nicobar travel costs.
Overpriced Private Ferries
Some agents may quote inflated prices for last-minute seats. Book online or at counters directly for fair rates.
Scuba/Diving Without Certification
Always check if the dive shop is PADI-certified to avoid safety risks and overcharges.
Fake Permits or Entry Tickets
Be wary of unauthorised sellers near popular sites. Use only official counters or websites for tickets.
Taxis Without Meters or Rate Cards
Agree on the fare in advance, especially for day rentals. Asking your hotel for a verified driver is safer.
Souvenir Shops with ‘Fixed Rates’
Prices may be negotiable despite fixed-rate signs. Visit multiple stores before buying.
Planning ahead makes all the difference when it comes to managing the cost to travel to Andaman and Nicobar. From flights and ferries to meals and scuba diving, every expense adds up. But with the right information, flexible tools like credit cards or travel loans, and awareness of local tricks, your island journey can be memorable without being expensive.
Stay informed, budget wisely, and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands—stress-free.
A 6-day mid-range trip typically costs between ₹35,000 and ₹45,000 per person. This includes flights, accommodation, transport, activities, food, and permits. Actual costs may vary depending on season, hotel type, and personal preferences.
It can be moderately expensive due to flight costs and inter-island transport. However, with early bookings and local stays, you can keep your Andaman and Nicobar travel cost within budget. Avoiding peak tourist months also helps reduce prices.
For Indian travellers, Andaman may be more affordable in terms of flight and visa costs. However, Bali offers cheaper stays and food once you're there. Your total cost to travel Andaman and Nicobar might still be lower overall due to domestic access.
Four days are sufficient to cover Port Blair and one nearby island, such as Havelock. However, for a relaxed experience with water activities, beach time, and multiple islands, 5 to 6 days are recommended.
Travelling between April and September is more economical. This off-season period offers lower rates for hotels and flights. Just note that monsoon months may see ferry delays or weather-related cancellations.
Yes, the islands offer stunning beaches, marine life, and cultural heritage. Whether you're into diving, history, or nature, it's a unique and peaceful destination—especially for those seeking a break from city life.