Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) Ultimate Travel Guide:

Picture this: long stretches of deserted white sand beaches, the sound of waves as your alarm clock, and roads so flat you can cycle the entire island in an afternoon. Welcome to Neil Island, officially known as Shaheed Dweep (Island of Martyrs), the Andaman's best-kept secret.

Situated in the Ritchie's Archipelago, Neil Island offers genuine tranquility and a pace of life wonderfully slower than nearby Havelock (Swaraj Dweep).

It is a compact, flat island that promotes slow travel and effortless mobility which you can cover on foot in about two hours or leisurely cycle between beaches. For travelers seeking relaxation among pristine, uncrowded beaches, this is your destination.

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Planning a trip to this remote paradise involves complex logistics from ferry bookings to infrastructure limitations that can catch you off guard. That's exactly why we've created this comprehensive guide with first-hand, expert information to ensure your journey is seamless and unforgettable.

Understanding Neil Island: History, Context, and Planning Basics

Before you book anything, let's get you oriented with what makes this island tick.

The Dual Identity: Neil Island and Shaheed Dweep

You'll hear both names used interchangeably, and here's why: while historically known as Neil Island, the region was officially renamed Shaheed Dweep on December 30, 2018, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The renaming honored the 75th anniversary of Subhas Chandra Bose hoisting the Indian flag in Port Blair.

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The island remained uninhabited until the late 1960s when settlers, primarily refugees from erstwhile East Pakistan, arrived and established the communities you see today. Throughout this guide, we use both names to help travelers find the information they need.

Geography, Economy, and When to Visit:

The Island Layout: Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) is part of the Ritchie's Archipelago, located approximately 40 kilometers northeast of Port Blair. At just 18.9 square kilometers total area, with the widest part measuring only 5 km, it's wonderfully manageable.

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What makes Neil unique:

‍Unlike most Andaman islands, Neil has remarkably flat terrain (no steep hills or challenging roads). This makes it ideal for cycling and incredibly easy to navigate. You can walk from one end to the other in about two hours. Much of the land was historically used for paddy cultivation.

This agricultural heritage earned it the nickname "the vegetable bowl of the Andaman Islands" for supplying fresh, organic produce to the entire region. The island's small size, roughly 7 km corner to corner, combined with its peaceful vibe offers the perfect escape from the relative "bustle" of places like Havelock.

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Best Time to Visit Neil Island

‍Neil Island enjoys a tropical climate year-round, but timing matters:

• Best Time: November to April (Dry Season)
  ‍This is undoubtedly the ideal time to visit. The weather is pleasant with average temperatures ranging from 24∘C to 32∘C, and the calm seas make all water activities possible. Book well in advance during this peak season.
• Monsoon: May to October
  ‍Expect rougher seas and higher chances of ferry delays and cancellations. Many water activities may be suspended. If you're on a tight schedule or have a flight to catch, avoid this period.

Foreign Visitor Entry Requirements

While Indian nationals do not require a permit to visit the Andaman Islands, foreign travelers must adhere to specific immigration formalities:

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP) Status: The previous strict requirement for a general Restricted Area Permit (RAP) was lifted in July 2018 for most areas, including Neil Island.
• Entry Formalities: All foreign nationals must clear immigration formalities immediately upon arrival at Port Blair (by flight or ship).
• Visa Compliance: Visitors must possess a valid tourist visa and will be allowed to stay as per the duration specified on their visa.

How to Reach Neil Island: Your Complete Ferry Guide

Here's something crucial to understand right away: Neil Island is accessible solely by sea. There are no flights directly to the island. You'll reach it via ferry from either Port Blair or Havelock Island.

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Port Blair to Neil Island Ferry Schedule:

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Havelock Island to Neil Island Ferry Schedule:

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Private Ferries: The Route We Recommend

Why we strongly recommend private ferries: They allow you to book online in advance, guarantee confirmed seats, offer reliable schedules, and provide greater comfort.

• Critical booking advice: Private ferry tickets sell out quickly, especially during peak season. Book as early as possible to avoid being stranded or paying premium prices.
• Pro tip: Most travelers follow this route: Port Blair → Havelock → Neil Island → return via Havelock → Port Blair. This not only saves money on direct routes but also lets you experience Havelock without wasting a return trip to Port Blair.

Government Ferries: The Budget Option (With Big Caveats)

Government ferries offer significantly lower, fixed-rate ticket prices. Here's the reality: securing a confirmed ticket as a tourist is highly challenging because tickets are primarily reserved for island residents.

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Expert Booking Advice:

• Be prepared: Tickets are generally released only 2-3 days before sailing, and queues start forming at physical counters as early as 6:00 AM during high season.
• Visit physical counters: Port Blair, Havelock, or Neil Island jetties.
• Payment: Most physical counters do not accept digital payments; carry sufficient cash.
• Our honest take: Unless you're extremely flexible, book private ferries and save yourself the stress.

Neil Island's 4 Major Beaches and Top Attractions

The beauty of Neil Island lies in its simplicity. Most visitors follow an efficient "3 Point Tour" covering the three major beaches plus the iconic Natural Bridge.

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1. Natural Bridge (Howrah Bridge): The Low Tide Importance

The Natural Bridge, locally called Howrah Bridge, is Neil Island's defining geological attraction. This stunning natural rock arch was carved over centuries by relentless sea waves eroding the limestone coastline.

• Location: Near Laxmanpur Beach.
• CRITICAL INFORMATION: Low Tide is Non-Negotiable
  ‍The Natural Bridge is only visible and accessible during low tide. When the water recedes, it exposes the intertidal pools and the pathway to the arch. Visit during high tide and you'll see nothing but water.
• Why this matters so much: Tides can vary dramatically. On the same day, low tide might drop to 0.14 meters (perfect viewing conditions), while high tide rises to 2.41 meters (the bridge is completely submerged). This is an "only possible at low tide" reality.
• How to check tide timings: You MUST check the local tide schedule for Neil Island. Don't check generic "Neil" tide data from other countries. Ask your hotel, check at the tourist information center, or search for "Andaman Neil Island tide timings" online.

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2. Bharatpur Beach: The Water Sports Hub

Located just 550 meters from Neil Kendra (the main village), Bharatpur Beach is conveniently close to the jetty and serves as the island's primary water sports center.

• Beach characteristics: Bharatpur features a vast sandy stretch with shallow, clear water. The seabed is filled with colourful coral formations.
• Activities available: Snorkeling, Scuba Diving (operators like India Scuba Explorers offer certified dives), Jet Skiing, and Glass Bottom Boat Rides (perfect for coral viewing).

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3. Laxmanpur Beach: Sunset and Limestone Wonders

Located on Neil's western coast, Laxmanpur Beach is famous for two things: spectacular sunsets and unique limestone rock formations lining the shore.

• Beach characteristics: This secluded beauty features white shell sand and shallow, calm water, perfect for sunbathing, leisurely swimming, and snorkeling. It is the designated sunset viewing spot.
• IMPORTANT WARNING: Laxmanpur Beach is notorious for ravenous sandflies, especially during evening hours. Come prepared with mosquito/insect repellent, or consider bringing a hammock or beach chair to keep off the sand where they're most active.

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4. Sitapur Beach: The Quiet Sunrise Sanctuary

Located 5 kilometers south at the island's tip, Sitapur Beach is Neil's best-kept secret for sunrise lovers.

• Characteristics: Known for exceptional tranquility and natural beauty, Sitapur faces the open sea, which means it's more exposed to tides and waves. It offers unobstructed eastern views.
• Note: The sea can be rough here, and swimming isn't recommended due to strong currents and tides.

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5. Other Notable Spots

Lakshmanpur Beach-II: Coral and Scientific Interest

This is a rocky beach located about 2 kilometers from the jetty and features extensive coral formations visible from the shore. It is a prime location for observing marine life including ornamental fish, sea urchins, sea anemones, sea cucumbers, and starfish.

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Sir Hugh Rose Island (Chhota Neil): Protected Wildlife Sanctuary

This tiny island at Neil's southern tip is locally called 'Chhota Neil' (Small Neil) and serves as an important wildlife sanctuary and turtle nesting ground.

• Permit required: Permission to visit must be obtained from the Deputy Range Officer, Forest Department at Neil Island.
• Day visits only: No overnight stays permitted.

Essential Planning: Accommodation, Local Transport, and Infrastructure

This section contains critical logistical information that separates a smooth trip from a challenging one.

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Neil Kendra: The Heart of Shaheed Dweep

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Neil Kendra is the island’s central village market and the official heart of the island, located directly next to the jetty. All essential services including the two ATMs, the local bus stop, and most auto/taxi points radiate outwards from this central hub.

• Key distances from Neil Kendra: Bharatpur Beach is 550 meters, Laxmanpur Beach is 1.9 km, and Sitapur Beach is 4.6 km away.

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Where to Eat: The Neil Island Dining Guide

Neil Island, known as the "vegetable bowl of the Andaman Islands," offers dining experiences centered on fresh produce and rustic simplicity. Since dining is often done at in-house resort restaurants or small local stalls, here is how the options break down:

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Local & Budget Eats (Neil Kendra and Jetty)

The market and jetty area are the best spots for affordable, authentic food, often served from small stalls and family-run canteens.

• Local Bazaar Stalls: Vendors sell hot, freshly made snacks like samosas, dal pakoras, and jalebis.
• Jetty Canteen: A highly recommended spot for a hearty South Indian breakfast, including piping hot idlis and masala dosas.
• Annapurna Cafeteria: A well-rated spot near the marketplace known for authentic, generous portions and is child/group friendly.
• 3brothers Sea Food Restaurant: A focused seafood option located in Neil Kendra.
• Bangali Hotel & Amulys Restaurant: Popular breakfast options near the marketplace.

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Mid-Range to Premium Dining (Resorts)

Resorts and specialized eateries cater to tourists seeking sit-down meals, Indian, and Continental cuisine.

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Dining Tips:

• Slow Service: Food is prepared fresh from local produce; be prepared for long waiting times after ordering.
• Breakfast Timing: Most restaurants open after 08:30 am as the island wakes up slowly.
• Dinner Timing: It is crucial to note that restaurants in Neil Island close very early in comparison to other places in Andaman. Make sure to get the dinner arrangements done before 8:00 PM, just to be safe, as it is very hard to find restaurants after this time. We’ve personally faced repeated issues with dinner on the island by 8 PM, most kitchens are closed, and options become scarce.

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Pro Tips:

• Confirm dinner timings with your hotel as soon as you check in.
• If you’re planning a late evening at Laxmanpur or Sitapur Beach for sunset, order your meal beforehand.
• Carry light snacks if you’re returning to your resort late, small shops shut soon after restaurants.

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Accommodation Review and Pricing

Neil Island has evolved significantly and offers accommodations catering to every budget.

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Local Transportation:

The flat, well-built roads and short distances make navigation a breeze. The island is only about 7km from one corner to another and has no sharp curves or elevations.

• Walkability: The entire island can be covered on foot in about two hours.
• The Scooty and Bicycles Advantage: Scooty and bike rentals are an average INR 400 per day. This is the ideal way to explore. Scooty and bicycles are mostly rented out by resorts themselves.
• Cab rentals: Generally cab rentals are easily available on the island, and it is what most people prefer for comfortable travel. General price is INR 2000 and covers Jetty Pickup and Drop, along with Sightseeing in Natural Bridge, Bharatpur, Laxmanpur Beach.
• Other Options: Autos are easily available at the market and jetty. A local bus runs hourly from the main bazaar to Sitapur Beach. STS buses also connect the Jetty and beaches.

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Critical Infrastructure Warnings:

Here's what you MUST know before you arrive:

• Cash and ATMs: Carry sufficient cash! There are only two ATMs on the entire island, and no scheduled bank branches. Don't rely on ATMs working.
• Petrol Shortage: A Critical Warning—Petrol supply is irregular and often runs out. Petrol stations close before sunset. Always inquire about fuel immediately when renting a two-wheeler.
• Network Connectivity: Embrace the digital detox. High-speed internet is essentially non-existent. Only BSNL has a mobile tower here, and connectivity is extremely patchy.
• Post-Sunset Transport: Public transport becomes scarce after 9:00 PM. Pre-arrange return transport if dining out late.
• Weather Delays: Boats often get delayed or stalled due to weather. If traveling for a flight, you MUST plan at least one full buffer day in Port Blair before your departure flight.

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Safety, Health, and Emergency Information

Travelers are advised to observe specific precautions for a safe and enriching experience. Only some beaches are supervised for safe swimming, snorkeling and diving.

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Official Safety Do's and Don'ts for Sea-Enthusiasts

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Important Local Contact Numbers

Neil Island Itineraries

• 1-Day Rapid Tour: Start with sunrise at Sitapur Beach, move to Bharatpur Beach for water sports and lunch, and conclude with the Natural Bridge exploration (timed with low tide) followed by sunset at Laxmanpur Beach.
• 2-Day Relaxed Itinerary: Allows for a full morning dedicated to certified activities (Scuba/snorkeling). The second day focuses on leisure at the resort, combined with a half-day exploration of Ramnagar Beach.
• 3-Day "Neil Escape" Package: This itinerary integrates Port Blair transfers, dedicated sightseeing, and dedicated leisure time, providing buffer days against delays.

For direct jetty transfers or a guided tour of the island, you can get in touch with our team. Our air-conditioned cabs operate year-round for your comfort and convenience.

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Our Cab Pricing List:

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Ready to Plan Your Neil Island Escape?

As local experts with first-hand experience on Shaheed Dweep, we focus on providing you with the most accurate and transparent logistics.

From securing private ferry seats to providing hotel options and cab services in Neil Island, contact us or explore our collection of expertly curated Tour Packages to Andaman which often include Neil Island.