Home to thriving biodiversity, unexploited coral reefs, white sandy beaches, adventurous experiences, and a notable population of birds and animal life, Neil Island has emerged as a sought-after destination in the Andamans. The island is popular for its gorgeous beaches that feature white sands and uninterrupted views of the clear blue skies.

It is very much easy to navigate in Neil Island as it is a small place. To get around, you have options such as buses, autos, car rentals, bicycles, and mopeds. They ensure your smooth journey.

Now known as Shaheed Dweep, Neil Island is located at a distance of 30 kilometers from the main islands of the Andaman Islands. You can easily reach there via a ferry. The details are as follows:

• From Port Blair: There are regular government ferries plying from the capital city to Neil Island. Two ferries leave daily morning.
• From Rangat: Daily ferry is available from Rangat as well.
• Private Boats: Makruzz and Ocean Green are two private boat service providers that have scheduled departures for Neil Island.

October to April is the best time to visit Neil Island. During this time, the weather is quite pleasant. When travelling to the Andamans, avoid summer and monsoon seasons.

Shaheed Dweep is known for its extremely beautiful beaches that are sure to leave you in awe. Visit the below-mentioned beaches for an unforgettable beach experience:

• Sitapur Beach
• Bharatpur Beach
• Lakshmanpur Beach
• Sir Hugh Rose Island

You can book your stay nearby Lakshmanpur Beach or Sitapur Beach at a fancy resort.

Neil Island is an ideal ground for marine turtles. If you are willing to see these amazing creatures in their natural habitat, then visit Sir Hugh Rose Island where they are found in abundance. This tiny island is often known as Small Neil in the local language. It is located on the tip of Neil Island. However, it is a protected region, and one needs permits to visit there.

Neil Island is well-known for offering a plethora of adventure water sports. You can try your hand at the following when in Shaheed Dweep:

• Scuba Diving 

The Andaman Islands is the topmost destination in India to witness the rich marine life. It also offers scuba diving experience and certification programs. Neil Island has the required infrastructure for scuba diving. Underwater sighting becomes even easier here owing to its crystal clear waters. The experience of scuba diving at Neil Island is memorable. While diving here, you will be surrounded by incredible marine creatures. The accommodations on this island offer scuba training and gear lending as per your requirements.

• Glass-Bottom Boat

Bharatpur Beach in Neil Island is popular for glass-bottom boating. It is home to colorful, gorgeous coral formations. As a result, the fish population is more here. This beach is definitely a must-visit in the Andaman Islands. It is a preferred spot for fishing and angling as well. 

• Sea Walking

In India, sea walking is available in the Andamans only, and Neil Island is one such place where you can go for it. The corals are present in abundance here. There are certain beach resorts also that offer private sea walking sessions to their guests. 

• Snorkeling 

For snorkeling, pristine clear water is required, and it is in abundance on this island. Its waters prove to be an ideal setting for adventurous water activities. When in Neil Island, you can see a wide diversity of colorful fishes with your naked eyes. 

Trekking to Howrah Bridge is quite famous in Neil Island. This adventure activity tempts all adrenaline junkies towards it. Resembling a bridge, Howrah Bridge is an arch-like structure. Trekkers reach its tip that goes through a small artificial garden and a muddy path. Make sure that you don’t go there in the monsoon season as the route to the bridge is closed during this time.

Offering an awesome romantic experience to lovers, Neil Island is especially famous among newlyweds. Its beaches are known for the most beautiful sunsets and sunrises. Witness a glorious pink and red sunset at the stunning Lakashmanpur Beach. View the best of nature during evening time. Want to catch the loveliest sunrise of your life? Visit Sitapur Beach to enjoy such a fantastic marvel of nature. The sky is painted in various shades here.

If you are a foodie, then Neil Island is a paradise for you. The island is called the vegetable bowl of the Andaman Islands. Whereas its neighbor, Havelock Island, is more famed for seafood, Neil Island provides excellent choices in fresh and vegetarian meals. You can also purchase a fresh supply of your veggies from the local market of Neil Kendra. Along with scrumptious vegetarian and vegan dishes, you can also try different cuisines such as Chinese, Israeli, Continental, Italian, and Nepali.

Neil Island has emerged as a sought-after place for destination weddings owing to its natural charm and the untouched beaches having turquoise blue waters. Its beaches are clean and are dotted with secluded and peaceful resorts, thus allowing the couple and their guests to enjoy total peace of mind in such serenity. Neil Island has not been commercialised yet as a trending exotic wedding destination, and that is why, not everyone knows about this hidden pearl being a hotspot for beach weddings. You can tie the knot at a dreamy location and that too within an affordable budget.

With an area of only 13.7 square kilometers and a flat landscape, you can roam around Neil Island on a bicycle. The roads here are smooth and very easy to ride on as there are no sharp curves or elevations. It is navigation friendly and you can easily take a stroll on the island. You can also rent mopeds from the jetty. Moreover, many resorts have their own cycles and motorbikes available for rent.

There are affordable and basic huts along with lavish resorts in Neil Island. The properties here resonate with the warmth of tropical vibes, stunning views, and contemporary settings. Ranging from Rs. 500 to Rs. 800, budget stays are available at Sitapur Beach and Bharatpur Beach. The price tariff ranges from Rs. 1500 to Rs. 3000 for mid-range rooms with air conditioners. If you want to stay at a lavish property, then you have to spend Rs. 5000 or more for luxury hotels with swimming pools and fantastic views.

There are a number of properties available in Neil Island. Some of the best hotels are as follows:

1-Star

• Elephant & four wise men resort
• Break Water Resort
• KP Lodge
• Jayanthi Lodge

2-Star

• Vacation Village
• Sunset Garden Resort
• Moon shine garden resort
• Hotel Sarthak Residency
• Nirala Resort

3-Star

• Pearl Park Beach Resort
• Tango Beach Resort
• TSG Aura 
• Hotel Amullya
• Kingfisher Hotel
• Coco N Hut Resort
• Holiday Inn Neil Island

4-Star

• Sea Shell Resort
• Summer Sand Beach Resort
• Silver Sand Beach Resort

It is tough to specify a timeframe for Neil Island owing to its secluded beauty. On your way back to Port Blair from Havelock Island, you can visit this island for one day if you have little time in your hands. Natural enthusiasts and backpackers come here for a longer duration and stay for weeks. Such is the aura of this laid-back island.

A famous backpacker destination, Shaheed Dweep has been developed as a tourist destination in recent years with investments from entrepreneurs. The island has all kinds of accommodations—extravagant resorts as well as affordable hotels. Hotel tariffs begin from as low as Rs. 500 per day. Overall, it is a budget-friendly location having basic restaurants and other facilities. Visiting this place would be a great addition to your travel diaries.

You get to choose from many options as there are various eateries in Neil Island. The food available here is mouth-watering and everyone loves it. There are options for both— non-vegetarians and vegetarians.

Try out these restaurants in Neil Island to relish the local and authentic food:

• Hungry Stone Restaurant 
• Seashell Restaurant
• Ripon Sea foods 
• Yatri Dhaba 
• Full Moon Café 
• Dugong Restaurant 
• Sea Zaika

Yes, the island is safe for everyone, including solo female travellers. Solo backpackers from all over the country visit this paradise and have a great time.