Budget Travel to Andaman Islands: Explore Under ₹15,000 Guide
How to Visit Andaman Islands on a Budget Under ₹15,000
TL;DR Summary
- Explore Andaman Islands affordably under ₹15,000 for 5 days.
- Save big with budget flights and local ferries.
- Stay cheap in hostels under ₹1,500 per night.
- Enjoy free beaches and low-cost snorkelling spots.
- Follow this guide for a frugal, fun itinerary.
- Insider hacks for meals under ₹200 daily.
Introduction to Budget Travel in Andaman Islands
I still remember my first trip to the Andaman Islands back in 2005. With just ₹10,000 in my pocket, I hopped on a cheap flight from Kolkata, stayed in a tiny guesthouse in Port Blair for ₹500 a night, and spent days lounging on untouched beaches without spending a dime. The turquoise waters of Havelock Island and the raw beauty of Neil Island felt like a steal for the price I paid. Contrary to popular belief, the Andaman Islands aren’t just for luxury honeymooners; they’re a paradise for budget backpackers too. This underrated gem offers pristine nature, affordable local food, and plenty of free activities if you know where to look. In this guide, you’ll discover how to plan a 5-day trip under ₹15,000, with practical tips on cheap travel, stays, and hidden hacks drawn from my 20+ years of exploring India on a shoestring.
Why Visit Andaman Islands on a Budget?
- Flights from Kolkata or Chennai often drop to ₹3,000–₹5,000 if booked early.
- Local ferries between islands cost just ₹300–₹1,000 per trip.
- Many beaches like Radhanagar have no entry fees, saving activity costs.
- Street food and small eateries offer meals under ₹100–₹200 daily.
- Budget guesthouses and hostels start at ₹500–₹1,500 per night.
- Off-season travel (May–September) slashes accommodation and transport prices.
- Free trekking trails and natural spots reduce entertainment expenses significantly.
Top Budget Things to Do & See
Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island
A postcard-perfect stretch of white sand and crystal-clear water, often ranked among Asia’s best.
Budget Tip: Visit during sunset for free; carry your own snacks to avoid overpriced shacks.
Cellular Jail, Port Blair
A haunting yet fascinating historical site that tells the story of India’s freedom struggle.
Budget Tip: Entry is just ₹30; skip guided tours and explore independently with free info boards.
Elephant Beach, Havelock Island
A hidden gem with shallow waters ideal for budget-friendly snorkelling and swimming.
Budget Tip: Walk 2 km through the forest trail for free instead of paying ₹1,000 for a boat.
Ross Island
An abandoned colonial settlement with eerie ruins and peacocks, just a short ferry from Port Blair.
Budget Tip: Ferry tickets cost ₹100; visit early morning to avoid crowds and heat.
Neil Island’s Natural Bridge
A stunning rock formation carved by the sea, surrounded by serene beaches.
Budget Tip: No entry fee; hire a shared auto for ₹50 to reach instead of private taxis.
Chidiya Tapu
A birdwatcher’s paradise with mangroves and a peaceful beach for sunset views near Port Blair.
Budget Tip: Entry is free; pack your own water and snacks to save on local stalls.
How to Reach Andaman Islands on a Budget
The primary gateway to the Andaman Islands is Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, with direct flights from major cities like Kolkata, Chennai, and Delhi. Flights from Kolkata or Chennai are the cheapest, often ranging between ₹3,000–₹5,000 one-way if booked 2–3 months in advance. Use fare comparison sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights to snag deals, especially during airline sales. There are no direct trains or buses to the islands due to their remote location in the Bay of Bengal, but you can reach Kolkata or Chennai affordably by train (fares start at ₹500–₹1,500 for sleeper class) and then fly. Ships are another option from Kolkata, Chennai, or Vishakhapatnam, taking 50–60 hours with tickets starting at ₹2,000 for bunker class, though they’re less comfortable and time-consuming. Once in Port Blair, rely on local ferries (₹300–₹1,000) to hop between islands like Havelock and Neil. Book ferry tickets online on government portals or at the Phoenix Bay Jetty to avoid touts.
Hack: Fly midweek (Tuesday/Wednesday) for lower airfares, and avoid weekends or holiday seasons.
Best Time to Visit for Budget Travellers
For budget travellers, the off-season (May to September) is ideal to visit the Andaman Islands. During these months, accommodation prices drop by 30–50%, with many guesthouses and hostels offering rooms for as low as ₹500–₹800 per night. Flights and ferries are cheaper too, and you’ll find fewer crowds at popular spots like Radhanagar Beach. However, expect occasional rain and humidity, though it rarely disrupts travel plans. The peak season (October to April) offers perfect weather—sunny skies and calm seas—but prices for stays and activities double, and beaches get packed. I’ve travelled in both seasons, and the monsoon months still gave me unforgettable experiences at half the cost. Just carry a raincoat and plan indoor activities like visiting Cellular Jail for rainy days.
Where to Stay – Cheap Homestays & Hostels
Finding budget stays in the Andaman Islands is easier than you’d think if you stick to key areas like Port Blair, Havelock Island, and Neil Island. In Port Blair, guesthouses near Aberdeen Bazaar start at ₹800–₹1,200 per night—look for places like Hotel Shreesh or similar small lodges. Havelock Island has backpacker hostels like The Flying Elephant, with dorms under ₹600 and private rooms around ₹1,200. Neil Island offers homestays near Bharatpur Beach for ₹700–₹1,000, often run by locals with basic but clean facilities. Book directly with owners or through platforms to avoid middlemen fees, and always negotiate for longer stays. I’ve stayed in ₹500 shacks during off-season trips by simply asking around at ferry jetties. Browse budget-friendly stays on Unpaqd: Browse Unpaqd stays in Andaman Islands
Tip: Stay near ferry points to save on local transport costs.
Trip Cost Breakdown (5-Day Trip for 1 Person Under ₹15,000)
| Category | Cost (₹) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Transport (Flights) | 6,000 | Round trip from Kolkata/Chennai (book early) |
| Inter-Island Ferries | 1,500 | Port Blair to Havelock/Neil and back |
| Stay (5 nights) | 4,000 | ₹800/night in hostels or guesthouses |
| Food | 1,500 | ₹300/day on street food and local meals |
| Activities | 1,000 | Entry fees, shared autos, snorkelling |
| Miscellaneous | 500 | Local transport, small expenses |
| Total | 14,500 | Affordable 5-day adventure |
Note: Prices are approximate and based on off-season travel with early bookings.
Suggested Budget Itineraries
3-Day Quick Trip
- Day 1: Port Blair Exploration
Arrive in Port Blair by 10 AM. Check into a ₹800/night guesthouse near Aberdeen Bazaar. Visit Cellular Jail (₹30 entry) in the afternoon and catch the evening light and sound show (₹50). Dinner at a local eatery for ₹100.
Frugal Tip: Walk or use shared autos (₹20–₹30) instead of cabs. - Day 2: Havelock Island
Take a morning ferry to Havelock (₹500, 2.5 hours). Rent a bike for ₹300/day and head to Radhanagar Beach (free). Spend the evening relaxing. Stay in a hostel for ₹800.
Frugal Tip: Pack lunch to avoid beachside shacks. - Day 3: Return to Port Blair
Morning at Elephant Beach (free via trek). Return ferry to Port Blair by afternoon (₹500). Fly out or explore local markets for souvenirs (₹200 budget).
Frugal Tip: Buy souvenirs from roadside stalls, not tourist shops.
5-Day Full Experience
- Day 1: Port Blair Arrival
Reach Port Blair by 10 AM, settle into a ₹800/night stay. Visit Cellular Jail (₹30) and relax at Corbyn’s Cove Beach (free). Dinner for ₹100 at a local dhaba.
Frugal Tip: Use government buses (₹10–₹20) for short distances. - Day 2: Ross Island & Chidiya Tapu
Morning ferry to Ross Island (₹100, 30 mins). Explore ruins (2 hours). Afternoon trip to Chidiya Tapu (free, ₹50 shared auto). Back to Port Blair for ₹800 stay.
Frugal Tip: Carry water; no shops on Ross Island. - Day 3: Havelock Island
Ferry to Havelock (₹500). Check into a ₹800 hostel. Spend the day at Radhanagar Beach (free) and Kalapathar Beach (free). Dinner ₹150.
Frugal Tip: Rent a bike (₹300) to explore multiple beaches cheaply. - Day 4: Neil Island
Ferry to Neil Island (₹400, 1 hour). Stay in a ₹700 homestay. Visit Natural Bridge and Bharatpur Beach (both free). Evening relaxation.
Frugal Tip: Share autos (₹50) with other travellers to sites. - Day 5: Return to Port Blair
Morning ferry back to Port Blair (₹400). Quick market visit (₹200 souvenirs). Fly out by evening.
Frugal Tip: Buy snacks from local stores for the ferry ride.
Ideal For
- Backpackers looking for affordable island adventures.
- Solo travellers seeking safe, budget-friendly destinations.
- Budget couples wanting a romantic yet cheap getaway.
- Nature lovers who prioritize free beaches and treks.
- History buffs interested in colonial sites on a shoestring.
Safety, Permits & Local Etiquette on Budget
Travelling to the Andaman Islands on a budget is generally safe, but stick to populated areas at night, especially in Port Blair. Avoid swimming in restricted or unmarked beaches due to strong currents—always ask locals first. No special permits are needed for Indian nationals visiting popular islands like Havelock and Neil, but restricted areas like tribal zones require prior permission (rare for budget trips). Mobile connectivity is spotty outside Port Blair; BSNL works best, so grab a local SIM for ₹100–₹200. Respect local etiquette by dressing modestly near villages, not littering on beaches, and bargaining politely at markets. I’ve found that a smile and basic Hindi go a long way with locals. Don’t fall for tourist traps—always confirm prices for ferries or rentals beforehand.
Hidden Budget Tips from 20+ Years of Travel
- Book flights 2–3 months ahead during sales for fares under ₹3,500 one-way.
- Eat at small roadside dhabas in Port Blair for meals under ₹80.
- Avoid packaged tours; plan island-hopping with government ferries for ₹300–₹500.
- Carry a reusable water bottle—refill at guesthouses to save ₹20/bottle.
- Snorkel at Elephant Beach using rented gear for ₹300 instead of guided trips.
- Visit markets like Aberdeen Bazaar for cheap snacks and souvenirs (₹50–₹100).
- Travel in groups to split costs for bike rentals or shared autos.
- Stick to off-season (May–September) for 30–50% discounts on stays and transport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Andaman Islands affordable for budget travellers?
Yes, the Andaman Islands can be incredibly affordable if planned right. With flights as low as ₹3,000 from Kolkata, stays under ₹1,000 per night, and meals at ₹100–₹200 daily, a 5-day trip under ₹15,000 is doable. Free beaches and cheap local transport further cut costs. My trips have proven that skipping luxury doesn’t mean missing out on beauty.
Q: How much does a budget trip to Andaman Islands cost?
A budget trip to the Andaman Islands typically costs ₹12,000–₹15,000 for 5 days per person. This includes round-trip flights (₹6,000), budget stays (₹800/night), ferries (₹1,500), food (₹300/day), and minimal activity fees. Costs drop further in off-season or with group travel. I’ve managed under ₹10,000 by travelling during monsoon sales.
Q: What’s the best time for cheap travel to Andaman Islands?
The best time for cheap travel is the off-season, May to September, when flights, stays, and ferries are 30–50% cheaper. You’ll find fewer tourists and discounted rates on everything from hostels to rentals. Weather can be rainy, but I’ve enjoyed serene beaches during these months. Just avoid peak season (October–April) to save big.
Q: How to reach Andaman Islands cheaply?
Fly to Port Blair from Kolkata or Chennai, where one-way tickets can be as low as ₹3,000 if booked early. Use fare comparison tools and opt for midweek flights to save more. Alternatively, take a ship from Kolkata for ₹2,000, though it’s a 50–60 hour journey. Once there, use government ferries (₹300–₹1,000) for island-hopping.
Q: Are there safe budget stays in Andaman Islands?
Yes, budget stays in the Andaman Islands are safe and widely available, especially in Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil Island. Hostels and guesthouses starting at ₹500–₹1,500 per night are often family-run and secure, with basic amenities. Stick to well-reviewed places near ferry jetties or markets. I’ve stayed in ₹500 rooms without any issues by booking directly with owners.
Q: Which is better for budget — Andaman Islands or Goa?
Both Andaman Islands and Goa can be budget-friendly, but it depends on your vibe. Andaman offers pristine, less commercialized beaches and nature at ₹12,000–₹15,000 for 5 days, though flights add to the cost. Goa is cheaper to reach (flights ₹2,000–₹4,000) with stays under ₹1,000, but beaches are crowded and touristy. I’d pick Andaman for a serene escape over Goa’s party scene on a tight budget.
