Havelock Island Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Havelock Island with this comprehensive travel guide featuring tips on where to go, what to do, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Havelock Island

Situated in the southern part of India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Havelock Island is known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and adventurous water sports. The island is a perfect blend of nature and adventure sports, making it a popular tourist destination for travelers from all over the world. This comprehensive travel guide offers an overview of Havelock Island and its must-see attractions, dining options, accommodations, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Havelock Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

While Havelock Island is primarily known for its natural attractions, there are also a few key historical sites and museums worth visiting. Some of the top cultural attractions on Havelock Island include:

  • Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park - Located on the eastern coast of the island, this marine park is home to a variety of marine animals and coral reefs. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat rides to explore the park’s underwater world.
  • Radhanagar Beach - Named the “Best Beach in Asia” by TIME Magazine in 2004, Radhanagar Beach is a must-visit attraction on Havelock Island. The beach is known for its incredibly clear waters and picturesque sunsets.
  • Kala Pathar Beach - Another gorgeous beach on the island, Kala Pathar Beach is famous for its unique black stones, lush green forests, and peaceful atmosphere.
  • Vijaynagar Beach - With it’s breathtaking views, white sand and crystal clear waters, Vijaynagar Beach Is an ideal spot for relaxing and swimming.

Natural Attractions of Havelock Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Exploring the outdoor attractions on Havelock Island is a must-do for any visitor. The natural wonders on the island include:

  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving - The coral reefs off the coast of Havelock Island offer some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in the world, with a variety of colorful marine life and underwater landscapes to explore.
  • Elephant Beach - This secluded beach is only accessible by boat or a trek through the jungle. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking, or simply relax on the beach and take in the stunning views.
  • Mangrove Forests - The island’s mangrove forests are home to a variety of flora and fauna, and visitors can take boat tours to explore the area and spot wildlife.
  • Sunset Point - Located on the western coast of the island, Sunset Point is a popular spot to catch stunning sunset vistas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Havelock Island

Havelock Island is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, with many opportunities for hiking and biking in the jungles and along the coast. Some of the island’s top hiking and biking routes include:

  • Bicycle Tour around Havelock - Visitors can rent bicycles and explore the island at their leisure, with many routes offering stunning views of the coast and jungle.
  • Trek to Elephant Beach - This trek will take visitors through the jungle to the secluded Elephant Beach, offering a chance to spot wildlife and take in the lush greenery of the island.
  • Walk to Kalapathar Beach - Visitors can take a leisurely walk from the village to Kalapathar Beach, enjoying views of the ocean and lush vegetation along the way.

Best Things to Do in Havelock Island: Activities and Tours

Beyond hiking, biking, and exploring the island’s natural beauty, there are a range of activities and tours available to visitors. Some of the top things to do on Havelock Island include:

  • Water Sports - From snorkeling and scuba diving to kayaking and paddleboarding, there are many opportunities to enjoy the crystal clear waters around the island.
  • Boat Tours - Visitors can take a boat tour of the island, exploring hidden coves and taking in the stunning scenery.
  • Camping on the Beach - Visitors can rent tents and camp out on the beach, enjoying the peaceful sounds of the ocean and clean air at night.
  • Fishing - Fishing enthusiasts can try their hand at catching some of the many fish found in the waters around Havelock Island.

Week-Long Itinerary for Havelock Island

For visitors planning to spend a week on Havelock Island, we recommend the following itinerary to make the most of your trip:

  • Day 1 - Arrive on the island and check into your hotel or guesthouse. Spend the day exploring nearby beaches and taking in the local culture.
  • Day 2 - Rent a bike and take a leisurely ride around the island, stopping for photos and to take in the stunning scenery along the way.
  • Day 3 - Take a boat tour of the island, exploring hidden coves and enjoying the crystal clear waters around the island.
  • Day 4 - Go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore the incredible coral reefs off the coast of the island.
  • Day 5 - Trek to Elephant Beach and spend the day snorkeling, scuba diving, or simply relaxing on the secluded beach.
  • Day 6 - Enjoy a day of fishing in the waters around the island.
  • Day 7 - Spend your final day on the island at your leisure, taking in any remaining sights or simply relaxing on the beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Havelock Island

Must-Try Dishes

The food scene on Havelock Island is a mix of Indian, Chinese, and seafood cuisine. Some must-try dishes during your visit include:

  • Fish Curry - Made with local fish, this flavorful curry is a staple on the island.
  • Seafood Platter - A mix of fresh seafood, including crab, prawns, and fish, served with rice and vegetables, is a popular dish among visitors.
  • Grilled Lobster - Lobster is a specialty on the island, served grilled and seasoned with local spices.
  • Coconut Curry - Made with creamy coconut milk and local spices, coconut curry is a must-try for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

Local Beverages

The local beverage scene on Havelock Island is limited due to the island’s remote location. However, visitors can enjoy fresh coconut water, traditional Indian chai tea, and a few local beers and wines.

Where to Stay in Havelock Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are a range of accommodation options on Havelock Island, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Some popular places to stay include:

  • Symphony Palms Beach Resort - This beachfront resort offers luxurious rooms and suites, a swimming pool, and a range of activities and amenities.
  • Barefoot at Havelock Island - This eco-friendly resort is located on a secluded beach and offers private cottages and a range of adventure activities.
  • Havelock Holiday Beach Resort - With affordable rooms and proximity to the island’s top attractions, this resort is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.

What to Buy in Havelock Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Havelock Island can bring home a variety of souvenirs and local products to remember their trip. Some popular items to buy include:

  • Handmade Jewelry - Visitors can purchase unique jewelry made from seashells and other local materials.
  • Handicrafts - Local artisans on the island sell a range of handicrafts, including woven baskets, painted coconut shell bowls, and more.
  • Coconut Oil - Made from fresh coconuts, locally-pressed coconut oil is a popular souvenir for visitors.

Local Culture and Customs of Havelock Island

Havelock Island is home to a diverse range of cultural traditions and customs. Visitors should be respectful of the local culture and customs, including:

  • Dressing Appropriately - Visitors should dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites or in public areas.
  • Removing Shoes Indoors - Visitors should remove their shoes before entering homes or religious buildings.
  • Showing Respect for Elders - It is customary to show respect for elders on the island, including using formal titles and polite speech.

Best Time to Visit Havelock Island

The best time to visit Havelock Island is between late October and early May, when the weather is dry and sunny with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. During the monsoon season (June to September), the island can experience heavy rain and rough seas, making it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Havelock Island

Do:

  • Respect Local Culture - Visitors should show respect for the local culture and customs, including dressing modestly and showing respect for elders.
  • Take Care of the Environment - Havelock Island is a fragile ecosystem, and visitors should take care to avoid littering or damaging the natural environment.
  • Explore the Local Cuisine - Visitors should take the opportunity to try local dishes and beverages to experience the island’s unique flavors and culinary traditions.

Don’t:

  • Remove Coral from the Beach - Removing coral from the beach is illegal and harmful to the environment. Visitors should avoid disturbing the coral and take care to leave the beach as they found it.
  • Ignore Safety Guidelines - Visitors should always follow safety guidelines for water sports and outdoor activities, including wearing appropriate safety gear and following the instructions of guides and instructors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Havelock Island

While Havelock Island is considered a safe destination for travelers, visitors should take standard safety precautions, including:

  • Locking Valuables in Hotel Safe - Visitors should lock valuables in hotel safes to avoid theft.
  • Avoiding Dark and Secluded Areas - Visitors should avoid walking in dark or secluded areas at night.
  • Following Water Safety Guidelines - Visitors should follow water safety guidelines for snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water sports.

Health in Havelock Island

Visitors to Havelock Island should be up to date on routine vaccinations and should consult with their healthcare provider on any additional precautions. While medical facilities on the island are limited, there are a few local clinics and pharmacies available to visitors.

Getting to Havelock Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors to Havelock Island will need to travel by air and sea to reach the island. The nearest airport is in Port Blair, and visitors can take a ferry or seaplane to Havelock Island from there. Some transportation options to consider include:

  • Ferries - There are regular ferries from Port Blair to Havelock Island, with a variety of departure times and durations available.
  • Seaplanes - Visitors can also take a seaplane from Port Blair to Havelock Island, with a shorter travel time and stunning views along the way.
  • Private Boats and Charters - Visitors who want to explore the waters around the island can also rent private boats or charters to take them to nearby islands and attractions.

Airports Near Havelock Island

The nearest airport to Havelock Island is the Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair.

Bus Stations Near Havelock Island

There are no bus stations on Havelock Island, but visitors can take a ferry or seaplane from Port Blair to reach the island.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Havelock Island by private boat or charter.

How to Get Around in Havelock Island

There are a few options for getting around Havelock Island, including:

  • Rented Bicycles - Visitors can easily rent a bicycle to explore the island at their leisure.
  • Auto-rickshaws and Taxis - Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available for hire on the island, with both shared and private options available.
  • Boats and Charters - Visitors can also rent boats or charters to explore the waters around the island and nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Havelock Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Havelock Island can explore nearby attractions and destinations, including:

  • Neil Island - A neighboring island with beautiful beaches and scenic views.
  • Baratang Island - Home to the famous “Limestone Caves” and a range of natural attractions.
  • Port Blair - The capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, offering a range of historical and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Havelock Island is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty. This comprehensive travel guide offers tips and recommendations for exploring the island’s top attractions, dining options, accommodations, and more. With its stunning beaches, clear waters, and unique cultural traditions, Havelock Island is sure to offer a memorable and unforgettable travel experience.

Lighthouse in Havelock Lighthouse in Havelock Map of Havelock Map of Havelock Radhanagar Beach in the late afternoon Radhanagar Beach in the late afternoon Dive in Havelock Dive in Havelock A typical Andaman-style dive boat A typical Andaman-style dive boat Elephant Beach Elephant Beach Radhanagar Beach at sunset Radhanagar Beach at sunset Sunset at Radhanagar Beach Sunset at Radhanagar Beach Autorickshaw Autorickshaw One of the two rickety buses on the island One of the two rickety buses on the island The island's interior The island's interior