With over 500 islands in the archipelago, planning an Andaman itinerary can feel overwhelming. From the haunting colonial history of the capital to the vibrant coral reefs of the remote northern islands, the sheer variety of experiences is staggering.
To help you craft the perfect itinerary, we have narrowed down the absolute Top 10 Places to Visit in the Andaman Islands for 2026. Whether you are a history buff, an adrenaline junkie, or simply seeking a beach chair under a palm tree, these are the must-visit attractions.
1. Radhanagar Beach — Swaraj Dweep (Havelock)
Consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in Asia, Radhanagar is a masterpiece of nature. The blindingly white sand and emerald waters are backed by a lush, ancient Mahua forest, creating a truly untouched vibe.
• Best For: Safe ocean swimming, sunset photography, and romantic walks.
• Pro Tip: Stay until 5:30 PM to witness the sky turn brilliant shades of purple and gold, but head back right after the sun dips, as the beach closes shortly after dusk.
2. Cellular Jail National Memorial — Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair)
A pilgrimage site for Indians, this colonial-era prison (infamously known as Kala Pani) tells the harrowing and heroic stories of India's freedom fighters. Walking through its silent corridors is a deeply moving experience.
• Best For: History enthusiasts and educational family trips.
• Pro Tip: Do not miss the evening Light and Sound Show. Tickets sell out fast, so ask your tour operator to book them weeks in advance.
3. Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island)
While Swaraj Dweep gets the crowds, Shaheed Dweep gets the peace. This tiny, flat island is known as the "vegetable bowl" of the Andamans and operates at a beautiful, slow, village-like pace.
• Best For: Digital detox, exploring the Natural Rock Bridge, and finding solitude.
• Pro Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the island—it is flat, safe, and perfectly sized for two-wheel adventures.
4. Elephant Beach — Swaraj Dweep (Havelock)
Reachable via a 20-minute speedboat ride or a scenic 2km jungle trek, this beach is the epicenter of water sports in the Andaman Islands. The coral reef starts practically at the shoreline.
• Best For: Sea Walking, Snorkeling, Parasailing, and Glass-Bottom boat rides.
• Pro Tip: Arrive early in the morning during low tide for the best underwater visibility and to beat the afternoon crowds.
5. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island)
Once known as the "Paris of the East," this was the administrative headquarters for the British. Today, it is a fascinating ghost town where nature has reclaimed the colonial ruins. Massive banyan trees swallow old churches, bakeries, and ballrooms.
• Best For: Heritage walks and spotting friendly, free-roaming deer and peacocks.
• Pro Tip: It requires a lot of walking. Wear comfortable shoes and carry a water bottle, as amenities on the island are limited.
6. Baratang Island
For those craving a raw, National Geographic-style adventure, Baratang is a must. The journey involves driving through the dense Jarawa Tribal Reserve and taking a speedboat through a labyrinth of thick mangrove creeks.
• Best For: Exploring ancient Limestone Caves and witnessing the rare Mud Volcanoes.
• Pro Tip: This is a full-day trip from Sri Vijaya Puram. You will need to start your journey as early as 3:00 AM to join the forest convoy.
7. North Bay Island
Take out a standard Indian ₹20 note and look at the back—the iconic lighthouse you see is located right here on North Bay Island! It is one of the most accessible coral islands from the capital city.
• Best For: Beginner Scuba Diving and semi-submarine rides.
• Pro Tip: Usually combined with a trip to Ross Island, making it a perfect full-day itinerary for your stay in Sri Vijaya Puram.
8. Chidiya Tapu — Sri Vijaya Puram
Translated as "Bird Island," this lush mangrove forest sits at the southernmost tip of South Andaman. It is famously known as the best sunset viewpoint in the capital region.
• Best For: Bird watching, sunset photography, and the Munda Pahad trek.
• Pro Tip: Arrive by 3:00 PM to hike the Munda Pahad trail (a stunning cliff-edge viewpoint) before coming back down to the beach to watch the sunset.
9. Wandoor Beach & Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Located 25 km from the city center, Wandoor serves as the gateway to the highly protected Jolly Buoy and Red Skin Islands, which boast some of the most vibrant, untouched corals in India.
• Best For: Pristine snorkeling and eco-tourism.
• Pro Tip: The administration alternates opening Jolly Buoy and Red Skin every 6 months to protect the fragile reef ecosystems. Plastic is strictly banned here.
10. Diglipur (North Andaman)
Reserved for offbeat travelers with extra time, Diglipur is located in the far north, about 300 km from the capital. It is home to Saddle Peak, the highest point in the archipelago.
• Best For: Trekking, turtle nesting (at Kalipur Beach), and exploring the phenomenal Ross & Smith Islands.
• Pro Tip: Ross and Smith are twin islands connected by a brilliant white sandbar. You can literally walk from one island to the other during low tide!