Neil Island

Neil Island Andaman: A Paradise for Nature Lovers

Welcome to our comprehensive travel guide to Neil Island, one of the hidden gems of the Andaman Islands. Nestled away from the bustling crowds, Neil Island offers a serene and laid-back atmosphere, pristine white sandy beaches, breathtaking coral reefs, and lush tropical woodlands. In this guide, we will take you through all the top things to do, the best hotels and resorts to stay in, the delightful culinary experiences, and important information you need to plan your trip to Neil Island.

The Ultimate Neil Island

Neil Island, also known as Shaheed Dweep, is a tiny and scenic island located 37 kilometres south of Port Blair, the Andaman Islands’ main city. With an area of just 13.7 square kilometers and can be easily explored by bicycle. Neil Island is ideal for individuals who wish to relax on long empty beaches and visit the island’s villages.

Neil Island offers a perfect getaway for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. The island is renowned as the “vegetable bowl” of the Andaman Islands due to its favorable climatic conditions for fruit and vegetable cultivation.

The Top Attractions that Make Neil Island a Must-Visit Destination

Exquisite Biodiversity: Neil Island is blessed with magnificent biodiversity, including unexplored coral reefs and vibrant marine life. Nature lovers and snorkelers will find it a heaven.

Natural Wonders: Explore the three famous points of Neil Island – Bharatpur Beach, Sitapur Beach, and Laxmanpur Beach. Marvel at the natural rock formations, enjoy the crystal-clear waters, and witness breathtaking sunsets and sunrises.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Immerse yourself in the underwater wonders of Neil Island. Discover the vibrant coral reefs, swim alongside exotic marine species, and if you’re lucky, spot a Dugong, the State Animal of the Andaman Islands.

Glass Bottom Boat Ride: If you prefer to stay dry while witnessing the underwater beauty, take a thrilling glass bottom boat ride. Admire the colorful coral formations and marine life from the comfort of the boat.

Trekking Adventures: Embark on a trek through the dense tropical cover of Neil Island. Discover quaint villages, wander through the jungle, and reach scenic viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of the beaches.

Planning Your Route to Neil Island: What You Need to Know

Taking a boat from Port Blair is the only method to get to Neil Island. Both government and private ferries operate between Port Blair and Neil Island, as well as other nearby islands. We recommend booking your ferry tickets online in advance to ensure a hassle-free journey. Private cruises are the preferred choice as government ferries are usually reserved for islanders and may not offer confirmed tickets for tourists.

How to Reach Neil Island from Havelock

Neil Island and Havelock are two popular destinations in the Andaman Islands, to reach Neil Island from Havelock, you have you have only one option that is Private Cruise or by Government Ferries. Both government and private ferries operate regular services, providing convenient connectivity between the islands. Government ferries are operated by the Directorate of Shipping Services and offer a reliable and economical mode of transportation. The ferry ride takes approximately 90 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at the respective jetty counters or through online mode also.

Private Cruise provides a faster and more comfortable travel option compared to government ferries. They offer various classes of seating and amenities onboard, ensuring a pleasant journey. The ferry ride takes approximately 45 minutes. Tickets can be purchased online through the official websites of private ferry operators or at their designated counters.

How Long to Stay in Neil Island?

The ideal duration of your stay in Neil Island depends on your preferences and available time. For those with limited time, a day trip from Havelock or Port Blair is possible. However, to fully experience the island’s charm and explore its attractions, we recommend staying for at least a few days. Backpackers often choose to spend weeks on Neil Island, immersing themselves in the relaxed and laid-back atmosphere.

Cost of Living in Neil Island

Neil Island is known for being a budget-friendly destination, especially for backpackers. The cost of living in Neil Island can vary depending on your choices and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate expenses per day:

Accommodation: Accommodation options in Neil Island range from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Basic accommodations start at around INR 1000 per day, while luxury properties can go up to INR 25,000 per day.

Food: Neil Island offers a variety of dining options, including local eateries, beach shacks, and restaurants in resorts. For budget eats, you can find meals starting from around INR 100, especially in the Neil Kendra market. Fine dining experiences at resorts can cost more.

Transportation: Renting a moped or bicycle is a popular and affordable way to get around Neil Island. The cost of renting a two-wheeler is approximately INR 400 per day. Pre-booking your rental in advance is recommended due to limited availability.

Activities: The cost of activities in Neil Island can vary. For instance, the Neil Island 4 Point Tour, which includes a visit to Bharatpur Beach, Sitapur Beach, Natural Bridge and Laxmanpur Beach, can be arranged through local tour operators. Scuba diving experiences range from INR 3,500 to INR 5,000 per dive. Glass-bottom boat rides are priced between INR 400 to INR 600 per person for a 20-minute ride.

It’s important to note that these are approximate costs and can vary based on your personal choices and the season of your visit. It’s always a good idea to have some extra cash on hand for unforeseen expenses or emergencies.

Nightlife in Neil Island

The nightlife in Neil Island is relatively low-key compared to more bustling destinations. The options for nightlife mainly revolve around the restaurants and bars located within resorts on the island. Some bars offer live entertainment and play music, especially during the high season. One popular bar on Neil Island is Emerald Gecko.

It’s important to note that the bazaar streets and public transport shut down by around 8:00 PM. If you plan to enjoy the nightlife, make sure to plan your evening accordingly.

Important Information on Neil Island

Weather: Neil Island experiences three main seasons: summer, winter, and monsoon. The monsoon season brings heavy winds, while the tropical climate dominates the rest of the year. It is important to research the weather before making travel arrangements.

Communication and Internet: Internet connectivity in Neil Island is limited. Broadband connections are unavailable, and data network availability on phones can be patchy. BSNL is the network provider with the best connectivity.

Supermarkets and Bazaars: Neil Island has a small market with shops selling essential commodities, including stationery, clothing, groceries, and basic medicines. With costs starting at about INR 100 for a basic fish thali, the Neil Kendra market is a wonderful choice for cheap dinners.

The primary point of arrival and departure for both government and commercial ferries is the jetty at Bharatpur Beach.

Insider Tips:

Limited ATMs and Money Exchange: There are only two ATMs in the town center of Neil Island, and money exchange facilities are limited. It is advised that you bring adequate cash with you. In an emergency, some small resort owners may accept foreign cash and afterwards convert it in Port Blair.

Transportation and Tickets: Public transport and boats can be hard to find after 9:00 PM, so it’s advisable to make necessary arrangements in advance. Book ferry tickets well in advance to avoid getting stranded due to limited availability or weather conditions.

Mosquitoes and Repellents: Mosquitoes are common in Neil Island, especially during the evenings. It’s recommended to carry mosquito repellents with you or purchase them at the local market.

Petrol Availability: Petrol in Neil Island is supplied from Port Blair and may sometimes be out of stock. Additionally, petrol stations close before sunset. Before renting a scooter, inquire about petrol availability.

These insider tips can help you plan and navigate your visit to Neil Island more effectively.