News Latest Information on Travelling to Andaman Islands?
  • Runway Status for Port Blair Airport From October,22 to February, 23

    Updated: 19 Sep 2022
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  • RT PCR report on arrival

    Updated: 14 Aug 2021
  • Andaman Tourism Opens

    Updated: 14 Aug 2021

    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.

  • What is the advisory to travel to North & Middle Andaman District?

    Updated: 14 Aug 2021

    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

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  • All asymptomatic fully vaccinated persons coming to these islands from mainland are exempted from the requirement of carrying RT-PCR negative test report,irrespective of the type of vaccine received and country of origin. Such fullyvaccinated individuals shall produce the final vaccination certificate at the origin airport, sea port in the mainland and at Port Blair Airport / sea port.
  • Alt asymptomatic children below 5 years of age are exempted from carrying RT-PCR negative test report and further RT-PCR testing at Port Blair Airport.
  • 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 to travel to Port Blair from the mainland, as is the practice now. Such an RT-PCR test should have been taken within 48 hours prior to commencement of journey from the origin airport connecting Port Blair. Such passengers will also have to undergo additional RT-PCR test on arrival at Port Blair. Such passengers shall remain in self-quarantine till the arrival of the test report.
  • If a passenger on arrival is tested positive then, the prescribed quarantine protocol is to be followed.
  • All Airlines shall ensure strict compliance of this order and observance of COVID Appropriate Behaviour. Any non-compliance shall invite action under Disaster Management Act and other applicable laws. 
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General Guidelines defined for traveling to Andaman Islands during COVID :

  1. The Tourism Activities are permitted only in South Andaman & North & Middle Andaman District except Nicobar District.
  2. Persons above 65 years of age, persons with home co-morbidities, pregnant women and children below the age of 10 years advised not to travel for tourism purposes.
  3. Tourists/Visitors who are at higher risk due to some medical history are advised to take extra precautions.
  4. Tourists/visitors shall minimize contact with other staff and visitors as far as possible and zero contact policy should be followed at all tourist destinations.
  5. All tourists/visitors shall be briefed by the hotel concerned about do’s & don’ts to be mandatorily followed during their stay and movements.
  6. While travelling tourists/visitors should wear a face mask and carry their own sanitizer and wet wipes for personal use.
  7. At all tourist destinations, staff must wear face masks and wash/sanitize hands regularly while performing their duties.
  8. Arogya Setu App shall be mandatory for all incoming tourists/visitors.
  9. Respiratory etiquettes to be strictly followed. This involves strict practice of covering one’s mouth and nose while coughing/sneezing with a tissue handkerchief/flexed elbow and disposing off used tissues properly after use.
  10. 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 rate as specified or to the designated hospital/ Covid 19 care centre on case to case basis.
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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.

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  • Regular flights to Port Blair (the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands) are operational now.
  • There are direct flights from Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Delhi.
  • Public transports like cabs, taxis, and bus services are also functional.
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Travellers should carefully follow social distancing norms and wear masks as well. Also, before making any booking, they should refer to the latest travel news on the government website of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

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Scuba Diving in Andaman Islands

Overview
Pristine crystal clear beaches, tropical climate and lush green forest sound like a foolproof plan to get away from the daily hustle-bustle. Andaman the paradise awaits for you. Whether its a family vacation, honeymoon vacation or a rejuvenating vacation with friends, Andaman is the ideal destination which has something for everyone.

Where in Andamans


Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
70-kilometres away from the capital city, resides the dream place for honeymooners, Havelock. The surroundings of Havelock Island is full of serenity, peace, and love. This gorgeous island is called Swaraj Island with a range of activities like scuba diving, water jets, boat rides, snorkelling, etc. This island has diving sites at every 50-100 meters of distance.

Mac Point (6-15 Meters All Levels)
You can dive here to explore Dugong, the state animal of the Andaman. Dugongs are tusked animals located in Eastern Africa and Australia, and the highlight of scuba diving in Andaman.

Light House (6-20 All Levels)
This site is famous for night dives. The corals here tend to be beautiful in the shallows of lionfish, octopus and a lot of Fusiliers. If you are lucky enough you can also get to see a gang of Humpback Parrot Fish. Elephant Beach 5-25 Meters All Levels This site lies on Havelock Island where you can experience diving with elephants.

Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) (12-23 Meters All Levels)
This island dwells in Ritchie’s Archipelago. Here you can explore scuba diving with Margherita’s Mischief with clear water. You can enjoy your drive with batfish, pufferfish, angelfish and more.

Barren Island (8m-30 Meters All Levels)
The barren volcano is the only active volcano in South Asia. The beautiful stone structures, white reef sharks, and purple corals give a great experience to your water sports adventure.

Barracuda City (25-30 Meters All Levels)
It is an unexplored destination for scuba diving in Andaman. You can explore the aquatic wonderland with colourful corals and beautiful fishes. With a depth of 25-30 meters, you can scuba dive with vibrant sea turtles at the Barracuda City.

Aquarium (3-16 Meters All Levels)
If you are a beginner in scuba diving, this site is the best place for you. It resides in the south-west of Havelock Island. The aquarium is a reef spot with a lot of colourful fishes.

Andaman Islands FAQs

  • Q1.   Can I scuba dive in the Andaman Islands if I do not know how to swim?

    Of course, you can. For non-swimmers, there is a special program known as the Discover Scuba Dive program. In this, you will be accompanied by a licensed and experienced dive professional throughout your dive.

  • Q2.   How safe is scuba diving in Andaman Islands, India?

    Diving in the Andaman Islands, India is an extremely safe water sport. All safety standards and procedures are followed carefully. Divemasters and instructors have globally recognized certifications. They are completely trained in dive supervision, diver rescue, Emergency First Response (EFR), etc.

  • Q3.   How do I go about booking a spot for my course or fun dive in the Andaman Islands?

    It is always a good idea to book your scuba diving slot in the Andamans well in advance. During the peak season, it becomes very difficult to get a slot. You can make the booking by contacting Andaman Island Travels to save yourself from the last-minute chaos.

  • Q4.   What are the timings for my course or fun dive in the Andamans?

    Scuba diving takes place in the earlier half of the day between 6 am and 1 pm. You may be required to spend more time later in the day in case you have enrolled yourself in the course. It will depend on the instructor’s schedule and the progress of your theory.

  • Q5.   I am a certified diver but haven’t dived in a long time. What should I do before I can dive again in the Andamans?

    It would be a great idea if you undertake a Refresher Course if it has been over one year since you dived last time. It will help you in revisiting standard scuba diving skills and procedures again. 

  • Q6.   How old do I have to be to become a certified diver in the Andaman Islands? Is there an upper age limit?

    One can start diving from the age of ten years. As long as your physical and mental healths are good, there is not any upper age limit on learning scuba diving in the Andamans. However, there are certain medical conditions because of which you may not be allowed to dive. These conditions are more prevalent among older people.

  • Q7.   Is there any difference between PADI and SSI certification?

    In content and application, both PADI and SSI (Scuba Schools International) are quite similar. But with SSI, there is a minor cost benefit as you don’t have to purchase any study material (except for the divemaster course).

  • Q8.   My ears hurt when I dive to the bottom of a pool. Will they hurt when I scuba dive in the Andamans?

    Ears hurt due to the water pressure on the eardrums. You will learn simple techniques to equalize your ears to the surrounding pressure in your scuba course.

  • Q9.   I wear powered glasses. How do I see underwater without them while scuba diving in the Andaman Islands?

    There are diving masks with prescription lenses available. You can enjoy your diving experience to the fullest with these.

  • Q10.   How many dives can I do in a day in the Andamans?

    Normally, one can do up to three dives in a day but that is subject to availability and advance booking.

  • Q11.   How long do you need to wait to fly after diving in the Andaman Islands?

    After a single dive, you need to wait for at least twelve hours before taking the flight. In the case of multiple flights, you need to wait for at least eighteen hours before flying. 

  • Q12.   Can I dive in the monsoon in the Andamans?

    Yes, one can dive in the monsoon season but it is not popular in the Andaman Islands. Underwater conditions are not affected by rains significantly but rains result in rough weather and choppy seas. This may discourage long boat rides. Thus, avoid diving in the monsoons here. 

  • Q13.   Where can I stay in the Andaman Islands after my dive?

    Our best recommendation in this case would be Havelock Island Beach Resort located in Swaraj Dweep. Havelock Island anyway is the best place for scuba diving in the Andamans. The resort has its own dive center that offers a number of exciting water activities as well. After completing your dive with them, you can stay at this beachfront resort that is counted among the top ones across the island. 

  • Q14.   Is scuba diving in Andaman Island, India easy?

    Yes, Scuba diving in the Andaman Islands, India is extremely easy. It is not tough at all. First, a practice session in the shallow waters is given first so that you are familiarised with the experience to some extent. You will be taught the use of scuba diving gear, sign language for communicating underwater, etc. After your training session, you can easily dive deep into the water and enjoy your scuba diving experience. To make everything smoother for you, a licensed diver will accompany you throughout your dive. 

  • Q15.   What is the price of scuba diving in Andaman Islands, India?

    Scuba diving in the Andamans, India starts from Rs.3,500 per person. This price includes one scuba diving session, instructor charges, and underwater photos of your dive. The duration of the dive is around 45 minutes to one hour. You can spot diverse fishes during this time under the water.

  • Q16.   Can kids also do scuba diving in Andaman Islands, India?

    In the Andaman Islands, kids can also scuba dive. However, the minimum age limit is ten years. Also, the instructors will examine the child before approving. If he/she is allowed to go further, an instructor will accompany him/her during the sport.

  • Q17.   Where should I scuba dive in the Andaman Islands, India?

    Havelock Island in the Andamans is the best place for scuba diving in whole India. The marine life here is exceptionally rich and mesmerising. Colorful fishes and corals are sure to take your breath away.

  • Q18.   Do I need to know swimming to be able to scuba dive in the Andaman Islands?

    No, you don’t need to be a swimmer to go scuba diving in the Andamans. If you are a non-swimmer, then you can opt for a special program known as the Discover Scuba Dive program. In this, a licensed and experienced dive professional will accompany you throughout your dive. This incredible water sport in the Andamans is meant for everyone.

  • Q19.   Is scuba diving in Andamans safe?

    Scuba diving in the Andaman Islands is a completely safe water sport. The crew follows all safety standards and procedures carefully. The divemasters and trainers on the island have globally recognized certifications. They have vast knowledge of the crucial aspects such as dive supervision, diver rescue, Emergency First Response (EFR), etc. You are in completely safe hands.

  • Q20.   Do I need to book an advance spot for my scuba diving program or fun dive in the Andaman Islands?

    Booking your advance scuba diving slot in the Andamans is always a good idea. The island is the best destination in India for exploring marine life and thus, it may become quite tough to get a slot in the peak season. If you want to save yourself from the last-minute chaos, then contact Andaman Island Travels to make advance bookings for you. Along with scuba diving, you can also book slots for other water sports and adventure activities with them.

  • Q21.   Will there be any timing for my course or fun dive in the Andaman Islands?

    Scuba diving can only be done in the earlier half of the day between 6 am and 1 pm. If you have enrolled yourself in the diving course, then you may be required to spend more time later in the day. Instructor’s schedule and the progress of your theory will be deciding factors.

  • Q22.   I am a certified diver but I haven’t dived in a long time. What should I do before I can scuba dive again in the Andaman Islands?

    Taking a Refresher Course would be a good idea in case it has been more than a year since you have dived. By doing that, you will be able to revisit standard scuba diving skills and procedures one more time.

  • Q23.   Is there any age criteria for becoming a certified diver in the Andamans?

    You can start diving from the age of ten years. There is not any upper age limit on learning scuba diving in the Andaman Islands as long as your physical and mental health is good. However, there are certain medical conditions because of which you may not be allowed to dive. But these conditions are more common among old people.

  • Q24.   What is the difference between scuba diving PADI and SSI certification?

    Both (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) PADI and Scuba Schools International (SSI) are quite similar in content and application. However, with SSI, there is a little cost advantage as you are not required to purchase any study material, except for the divemaster program.

  • Q25.   My ears hurt when I dive to the bottom of a swimming pool. Does it mean that they will also hurt when I scuba dive in the Andamans?

    Your ears hurt because of the water pressure on the eardrums. However, you can control this by learning and applying simple techniques to equalize your ears to the surrounding pressure while undergoing your scuba diving course.

  • Q26.   I wear powered glasses. How will I be able to see underwater without them while scuba diving in the Andaman Islands?

    There are special diving masks that have prescription lenses. You can enjoy diving to the fullest using these.

  • Q27.   How many dives can I do in one day in the Andaman Islands?

    You can do up to three dives in a day usually but that is subject to availability and advance booking.

  • Q28.   How long do you need to wait for taking a flight after scuba diving in the Andamans?

    You should wait for at least twelve hours before taking the flight after a single dive. The wait should be of at least eighteen hours before flying is you have done more than one dive.

  • Q29.   Is scuba diving available in the monsoon season in the Andaman Islands?

    Not popular or recommended, but one can go scuba diving in the monsoon season on the island. Rains do not affect the underwater conditions significantly but yes, they result in rough weather and choppy seas. So long boat rides are discouraged. Overall, scuba diving in monsoons is not a good idea.

  • Q30.   I will be doing scuba diving in Havelock Island? Where should I stay after my dive?

    Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) is the best location for scuba diving in the Andaman Islands. The island is dotted with lavish beachfront properties having private beach and excellent facilities. We would highly recommend Havelock Island Beach Resort as it also has its own dive center that offers a number of exciting water activities. After your dive, you can stay at this luxurious resort to enjoy world-class hospitality. 

    Apart from Havelock Island Beach Resort, you can also choose from the following top hotels and resorts in Swaraj Dweep:

    1-star properties

    • The Kingdom Resort
    • El Dorado
    • Radhakrishna Resort

    2-star properties

    • Green Valley Resort
    • Gold Star Beach Resort
    • Orient Legend Resort
    • Emerald Gecko
    • Royal Palace
    • Wild Orchid Beach Resort

    3-star properties

    • Symphony Palm Beach Resort
    • Holiday Inn Beach Resort
    • Coral Reef Resort
    • Havelock Holiday Beach Resort
    • Aparupa Sands Marina
    • Cross Bill Beach Resort

    4-star properties

    • Taj Exotica
    • Silver Sand Beach Resort
    • Munjoh Ocean Resort
    • Sea Shell Resort
  • Q31.   Is scuba diving in Andaman Islands, India easy?

    Scuba diving in the Andaman Islands is an easy water sport for everyone. First, a practice session in the shallow waters is given first so that you are familiarised with the experience to some extent. The use of scuba diving gear, sign language for communicating underwater, and much more are taught to you during your training session. After that, you can dive deep into the water and enjoy your scuba diving experience. A licensed diver will accompany you throughout your dive so that everything is smooth for you.

  • Q32.   Is scuba diving in Andamans costly?

    Scuba diving in the Andaman Islands starts from Rs.3,500 per person. This includes one scuba diving session, instructor charges, and underwater photos of your dive. The duration of the dive varies between 45 minutes and one hour. You can spot a number of diverse sea creatures while diving into the ocean.

  • Q33.   Is scuba diving in Andaman Islands safe for kids?

    Yes, kids can also go for this magical experience in the Andaman Islands. However, the minimum age limit is ten years. Before approval, kids are examined by expert divers. Moreover, they will be accompanying the kid if he/she is allowed to process.

  • Q34.   Which are the best locations for scuba dive in the Andaman Islands?

    Havelock Island is the best place for scuba diving across India. The marine life here is exceptionally abundant and mesmerising. Colorful fishes and corals are sure to leave you awestruck. 

    Top diving sites in Havelock Island are as follows:

    • Barracuda City
    • Turtle Bay
    • Seduction Point
    • Mac Point
    • Aquarium
    • The Wall
    • Minerva Ledge
    • Pilot Reef
    • Lighthouse
    • M4
    • Jackson’s Bar
    • Jonny George
    • Broken Ledge
    • Dicksons Pinnacle
    • Whitehouse Rock
    • MV Mars
    • Red Pillar
    • The Slope
    • Purple Haze
    • S.S. Inchkett
  • Q35.   Where can I for scuba diving in Andamans?

    In India, the Andaman Islands is the best destination for scuba diving owing to its rich marine life. Its turquoise, clear waters let you explore the best of underwater world. Scuba diving in Havelock Island is among the best experiences as the island is home to colorful corals and incredible fish. You can get close to the marvels of the marine life here. Although scuba diving is available at so many places in the Andaman Islands, the best location is Havelock Island owing to its rich diversity.

  • Q36.   Will it be safe if I go for scuba diving in Andaman Islands?

    If you enjoy a sound health and do not have any medical complications, then you can go for scuba diving. You will have to attend a training session with licensed divers before you dive into the ocean. The best quality scuba equipment will be given to you. Moreover, an expert trainer will accompany you throughout your dive.

  • Q37.   When should I go for scuba diving in Andaman Islands, India?

    The duration between November and February is the best time to go for scuba diving on the island. During this time, the water temperature is the most pleasant. We would highly recommend booking your slot in advance if you want to avoid any last-minute chaos.

  • Q38.   Do I need to carry something while going for scuba diving in Andaman Islands?

    While going for this incredible water sport, you need to carry a few things with you. Just put these in a bag and leave it outside the water. Once your diving session is done and you are out of the water, you may need these. 

    The things to carry are as follows:

    • Towel
    • Bottle of water
    • Extra set of clothes
    • Personal medicine kit
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