The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with their turquoise waters, coral reefs, and sun-kissed beaches, remain one of India’s most breathtaking and serene travel destinations. However, due to their remote location in the Bay of Bengal, a common question many travelers ask is: “How to reach Andaman from India?” Whether you're a solo traveler, a honeymoon couple, or a family planning a tropical getaway, this blog has everything you need to plan your journey to these enchanting islands.
From direct flights to Port Blair to government and private ferries sailing across the Bay of Bengal, let’s explore all your travel options, estimated costs, travel times, and the best insider hacks to make your trip smooth and unforgettable.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands lie approximately 1,200 kilometers from mainland India, located in the south eastern part of the Bay of Bengal. While Andaman politically a part of India, it is geographically closer to Myanmar and Thailand than to the Indian subcontinent.
Due to this unique location, your only options to reach the islands are by air or by sea. There’s no road or train access to Andaman, and this remoteness makes planning essential. Depending on your budget, time, and travel preference, both options have their pros and cons — and we’re diving into all of them.
The most convenient, fast, and popular way to reach the Andaman Islands is by flight. The Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), located in Port Blair, is the main and only commercial airport serving the islands.
Delhi
Mumbai
Chennai
Kolkata
Bangalore
Hyderabad
Visakhapatnam
Among these, Chennai and Kolkata offer the most frequent and shortest flight options.
Chennai to Port Blair: 2.5 hours
Kolkata to Port Blair: 2.5 hours
Delhi to Port Blair: 5 hours (direct) or 6-7 hours with layovers
Mumbai to Port Blair: 5 hours (direct) or longer with stopovers
IndiGo
SpiceJet
Air India
Vistara
The ship journey to Andaman is a scenic, budget-friendly, but time-consuming alternative to flights. Ships sail from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam to Port Blair and are operated by the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) and Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS).
Chennai Port
Kolkata Port
Visakhapatnam Port
Chennai to Port Blair: 60–72 hours (2.5–3 days)
Kolkata to Port Blair: 60–66 hours
Visakhapatnam to Port Blair: 55–60 hours
Bunk Class (Dormitory style)
Second Class
First Class (2-berth or 4-berth cabins)
Deluxe Cabin (private cabins with attached bathrooms)
Start at INR 2,500 (bunk) to INR 9,000+ (deluxe class)
Tickets can be purchased at the respective Directorate of Shipping Services offices in Chennai, Vizag, and Kolkata.
As of now, there is no online booking available. Booking is done offline with photo ID and travel documents.
No internet/mobile signal during the journey
Prone to weather delays
Not suitable for those prone to seasickness
Limited departures (only 3–4 per month)
If you’re on a budget backpacking trip or want a different experience, the ship journey to Andaman is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Just carry motion sickness pills and prepare for digital detox.
Once you arrive at Port Blair, the capital city, you'll need to travel by ferry or catamaran to reach other major islands like Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep).
Government Ferries (inexpensive, limited seats)
Private Ferries (Makruzz, Green Ocean, Sea Link – faster, more comfortable)
Port Blair to Havelock Island: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Havelock to Neil Island: 1 hour
Port Blair to Neil Island: 2 hours
Private ferries can be booked online (Makruzz, Green Ocean).
Government ferries require in-person booking at STARS ticket counters in Port Blair.
You should always book private ferry tickets in advance, especially during high season. We at Bagpack2go help our travelers pre-book ferries as part of our Andaman travel packages.
Best Option: Direct flight (Vistara, Airindia, IndiGo)
Alternate: Fly to Chennai/Kolkata and connect onward
Best Option: Direct flight (SpiceJet/GoFirst)
Alternate: Fly to Chennai or Hyderabad for cheaper connections
Best Option: Direct flights to Port Blair (IndiGo)
Alternate: Fly to Chennai for more choices
Best Option: Direct flights or ferry options
Bonus: Closest metro city to Andaman
Best Option: Direct flights or ferry (frequent sailings)
Carry government ID proof at all times
Pre-book ferry and hotel stays, especially during December–February
Check flight schedules during monsoon, as cancellations may occur
Avoid carrying restricted items – check Andaman's travel regulations
Download offline maps – network connectivity is patchy
Travel insurance is recommended for sea journeys
Planning how to reach Andaman is just the beginning. Let Bagpack2go take care of the rest with our customized Andaman travel packages:
Each includes airport/ferry transfers, accommodation, activities, and on-ground support.
Check out our full list of Andaman Packages
Getting to the Andaman Islands from India is part of the adventure. Whether you choose the swift skies or the serene sea, this guide ensures your journey is well-planned, enjoyable, and safe. For a worry-free experience, let Bagpack2go handle all your travel logistics – from flights and ferry bookings to personalized itineraries.
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