Travel Guide to Andaman Islands
Andaman Islands

From | To | Status |
---|---|---|
18-Oct |
21-Oct |
Closed |
22-Oct |
31-Oct |
Operational |
01-Nov |
04-Nov |
Closed |
05-Nov |
14-Nov |
Operational |
15-Nov |
18-Nov |
Closed |
19-Nov |
28-Nov |
Operational |
29-Nov |
02-Dec |
Closed |
03-Dec |
12-Dec |
Operational |
13-Dec |
16-Dec |
Closed |
17-Dec |
26-Dec |
Operational |
27-Dec |
30-Dec |
Closed |
31-Dec |
09-Jan |
Operational |
10-Jan |
13-Jan |
Closed |
14-Jan |
23-Jan |
Operational |
24-Jan |
27-Jan |
Closed |
28-Jan |
06-Feb |
Operational |
07-Feb |
10-Feb |
Closed |
11-Feb |
20-Feb |
Operational |
Andaman Tourism Opens: The Andaman & Nicobar administration has announced that all tourist spots in the South Andaman district will be opened for tourism activities with immediate effect 8 Feb 2022.
The tourists are allowed to visit Baratang/North & Middle Andaman on production of double dose covid certificate/ All other passengers viz. unvaccinated and partially vaccinated passengers (those who have taken only 1S1 dose of COVID vaccine) shall have to produce RT-PCR negative test report
General Guidelines defined for traveling to Andaman Islands during COVID :
What are the guidelines for testing for tourists coming to Andaman after August 03 2021?
On arrival at Port Blair :
1. The tourists need to carry COVID-19 negative test report from mainland based 1CMR approved lab using Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RTPCR). However, the sample for RTPCR test should have been taken within 48 hours prior to starting the journey from the origin station. (For e.g. if the tourist takes a flight from Delhi at 0600 hrs. on 1st September, 2021, the sample for RTPCR test should have been taken not before 0600 hrs. on 30th August, 2021).
2. The tourists/visitors on arrival at Port Blair airport have to undergo mandatory Covid-19 screening with RTPCR test free of cost. Thereafter the tourists/visitors are allowed to move to their respective hotels. However, they will have to be under quarantine at Port Blair in their hotel rooms until the result of RTPCR tests are received. In case of RTPCR positive test results, the tourists/visitors shall remain in
institutional quarantine in hotels notified by the Hoteliers Association in consent with the A&N Administration, on rates as specified or to the designated hospital/ Covid-19 care centre on case-to-case basis.
3. Tourists may also have to undergo random Rapid Antigen Test conducted from time to time on payment basis as prescribed by A8N Administration.
What if the tourists test positive after arriving at the Andaman Islands?
If the tourists tests positive during their stay in the Islands, he/she will need to undergo institutional isolation as per existing health protocols. The
cost of such isolation for govt. facility will be paid by the tourists as fixed by the administration from time to time.
If the patient wants to stay at hotels, he/she can stay in the hotels if all the conditions below are met:
a) Patients are not symptomatic and not more than 60 years old.
b) Request/ undertaking is made by patient in writing.
c)lf allowed by doctors.
Hotels will make necessary arrangements to designate a part of their rooms for institutional isolation for this purpose.
An unrivalled gem of the Andaman Sea, Havelock Island, is a diver’s paradise, a haven where turquoise waters meet pristine sands, and where marine life comes alive in its most magnificent forms. This picturesque island, also known as Swaraj Island, hosts one of the most surreal spots for an aquatic adventure—Turtle Beach.
Why should you visit Turtle Beach?
Turtle Beach, located on the idyllic Havelock Island, is a diver's dream and a slice of paradise amidst the azure expanse of the Andaman Sea. Known for its tranquil and pristine environment, this beach is named after the multitude of turtles that frequent its sandy shores and crystal-clear waters.
Havelock Island itself is renowned as one of the most beautiful islands in the Andaman archipelago, located to the east of the Indian mainland. With its untouched beaches, lush tropical forests, and vibrant coral reefs, it's a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
A Calming Therapy: Turtle Beach, situated on the west side of Havelock Island, offers a more secluded and serene experience compared to other popular tourist beaches on the island. It is the perfect place to unwind, disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern life, and reconnect with nature. The beach is surrounded by a dense canopy of tropical trees, offering shade and a cool retreat from the sun. The sand is fine and white, contrasting beautifully with the varying shades of blue in the water.
Rich Marine Life: What truly sets Turtle Beach apart is its rich marine life. This beach is a critical nesting site for several species of sea turtles, including the Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, and the endangered Leatherback Turtle. Divers and snorkelers often get the unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.
The coral reefs surrounding Turtle Beach also boast a diverse array of marine species, from multicoloured fish to intriguing crustaceans, offering a kaleidoscopic view for underwater explorers. Night dives reveal a different, mesmerizing world lit by bioluminescent organisms.
Diving at Turtle Beach
Diving at Turtle Beach is an invitation to embrace the wonders of the underwater world. Each dive is a unique journey, a plunge into a world filled with colour, life, and awe-inspiring moments. If you've never experienced it, maybe it's time to get your feet wet. And if you've been there before, you know there's always a new sight waiting just below the surface.
Preparing for the Dive: There's a magical feeling that accompanies donning your scuba gear in anticipation of what awaits beneath the surface. But before you leap, there's a lot to consider. Equipment checks, safety briefings, and basic skill refreshers form an integral part of the preparation. The local dive centres employ experienced professionals who guide you through these steps, ensuring your dive is safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable.
The Underwater Symphony: As you descend, leaving behind the sun-kissed world above, you're welcomed into a realm of vibrant hues and dancing light. The marine life here at Turtle Beach takes centre stage, adding life to the vast blue canvas of the sea. The sight of coral reefs, appearing as if painted by a divine artist with every colour in the spectrum, is a sight to behold.
Revelling in the Turtle Wonderland: This beach didn't earn its name without reason. Home to an abundant population of sea turtles, Turtle Beach offers the unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. From green and hawksbill to the critically endangered leatherback turtles, you might encounter any of these graceful swimmers gliding effortlessly through the currents. The sight of these gentle giants, often just a few feet away, is a powerful and humbling experience.
As you delve into the azure abyss, you may be accompanied by the green turtles, renowned for their beautiful, sleek shells and peaceful demeanour. Seeing these creatures elegantly cut through the clear water, with their powerful flippers propelling them effortlessly, can be an enchantingly serene experience.
Another captivating sight is the hawksbill turtle, known for its unique beak-like mouth and intricate shell patterns. The hawksbills, being more reclusive, add an element of excitement to the dive as spotting one feels like uncovering a hidden treasure. Their affinity for sponges provides an added bonus to divers, leading them to vibrant sponge colonies that the hawksbills often inhabit.
However, nothing prepares you for the overwhelming encounter with the majestic leatherback turtles. Being the largest species of sea turtles, these gentle giants are nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Exploring the Coral Jungle: Beyond the turtles, the coral reefs around Turtle Beach offer their own unique appeal. The soft and hard corals provide a home to a myriad of other marine creatures. Clownfish dart between anemones while brightly coloured parrotfish nibble on coral, their crunching noises audible even underwater. Schools of fusiliers, angelfish, and surgeonfish add a sparkle to the seascape as they catch the filtered sunlight in their scales.
Navigating the Underwater Caverns: Another exciting feature of the dives at Turtle Beach is the chance to explore underwater caverns. With their mysterious aura, these caverns hide a world less seen. The play of light and shadow within these structures lends an air of the surreal, making for unforgettable underwater photography.
Best Time to Visit Turtle Beach
In terms of weather, the ideal time to visit Havelock Island is during the winter season, from November to February. The climate during this period is pleasantly tropical with minimal rainfall, and temperatures range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. The sea is calm, the skies are clear, and the visibility underwater is excellent, making it the best time for scuba diving, snorkelling, and other water-based activities. The months from March to May mark the transition from winter to summer. During this time, the weather remains relatively warm and is suitable for beach activities and exploration. However, the heat can be intense, so those sensitive to high temperatures might find it less comfortable.
June to September is the monsoon season. Rainfall is heavy, and the seas are often rough, making it less ideal for diving and beach activities. While the island's lush greenery is at its best during this time, it's worth noting that some ferry services and water activities might be restricted due to weather conditions.
Nesting Season: For wildlife enthusiasts, especially those interested in turtles, the nesting season can be the most exciting time to visit Turtle Beach. The period from December to March is when several species of turtles, including Green, Hawksbill, and the endangered Leatherback Turtles, come ashore to lay their eggs. Witnessing this natural spectacle is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
However, keep in mind that these are sensitive times for the turtles, and it's crucial to maintain a respectful distance and not disturb them. Nighttime, when the females lay their eggs and when hatchlings make their way to the sea, can be particularly fascinating, but it's essential to follow guidelines to avoid causing any harm.
How to Reach Turtle Island
Reaching this idyllic location involves a few steps, which include reaching the city of Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and then taking a ferry to Havelock Island. Private ferries and government-operated ferries connect Port Blair and Havelock Island. The journey usually takes around 2-3 hours depending on the ferry service. The private ferries are a bit more expensive but offer a more luxurious experience with air-conditioned cabins and snacks. The government ferry is a more affordable option.
Once you arrive at Havelock Island, you can hire a taxi or rent a scooter to reach Turtle Beach. The island is not very large, so getting around is relatively easy. Many people prefer to hike to Turtle Island as it is not very far from Elephant Beach.
While the journey to Turtle Beach might seem a bit long, the pristine beauty of the beach and the stunning underwater world that awaits you make it well worth the effort.
Scuba diving at Turtle Beach (Havelock Island): FAQs
Answer: Turtle Beach is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and vibrant coral reefs. It's particularly famous for the variety of sea turtles that frequent its waters, giving divers the unique opportunity to observe these creatures in their natural habitat.
Answer: Absolutely. There are several diving schools around Havelock Island that offer courses for divers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. Many of these schools offer PADI certification courses, and they also provide discovery dives for those who want to experience scuba diving without getting a certification.
Answer: While the beach is named for its resident sea turtles, including green turtles, hawksbill turtles, and leatherback turtles, the underwater world at Turtle Beach is rich with a variety of marine life.
Answer: Yes, it is safe to dive with turtles. However, divers should remember that these are wild creatures in their natural habitat. It's crucial to maintain a respectful distance and not to touch, chase, or harass the turtles.
Answer: While you're welcome to bring your own equipment if you prefer, it's not necessary. Most dive centres in Havelock Island provide all the necessary equipment for your dive.