- Updated March 5, 2026
- Sanchi Pandey
Do's and Don'ts in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
2026 Edition
Know the Do’s and Don’ts Before You Travel
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are ecologically sensitive and culturally unique. Activities like picking up corals, littering beaches, or entering tribal areas without permission are strictly prohibited and punishable by law. First-time travelers should familiarize themselves with local rules and responsible travel practices before arrival to ensure a safe, respectful, and legal trip. Always check the updated guidelines shared by your tour operator or Go2Andaman before you go.
Know the Do’s and Don’ts Before You Travel
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are ecologically sensitive and culturally unique. Activities like picking up corals, littering beaches, or entering tribal areas without permission are strictly prohibited and punishable by law. First-time travelers should familiarize themselves with local rules and responsible travel practices before arrival to ensure a safe, respectful, and legal trip. Always check the updated guidelines shared by your tour operator or Go2Andaman before you go.
Do’s in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Tourist information centers in the islands are actually very helpful. Contact them for any travel assistance required.
- While driving, follow traffic rules and keep left. Carry legal documents like driving license, permit, passport, etc.
- Do wear a helmet while riding a 2 wheeled motor vehicle. If anybody is caught driving a motorbike without a helmet, he/she will be penalized/fined.
- Consult lifeguards before entering the sea.
- Swim in safe areas only.
- Learn more about reefs, other marine life, and tropical forests. Researching the islands before you land here will make your visit more enjoyable.
- Use the dustbins and garbage receptacles for disposing of all garbage and rubbish. Do not throw them in parks, on beaches, into the sea, or in public places. Please help keep the Andaman Islands litter-free.
- Carry important documents like passport, permit, and driving license with you while traveling in the Andaman Islands. It is not advisable to leave them at the hotel or resort.
- Get necessary permits for visiting National Parks as they can be visited only with permission. Other permitted areas can be visited freely.
- Be sensitive to the privacy of the tribes, Any attempt of interaction is punishable by law.
- All the tourist attraction spots will carry notice boards about permission for photography and video filming. Obtain permits for taking video films and photographs wherever required.
- Avail the service of only qualified Scuba Dive Instructors having certification of international professional organizations like PADI, CMAS, NAUI, BSAC, or SSI for a safe driving experience.
- Always choose licensed and authorized operators for water sports activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, and kayaking. Ensure that you wear proper safety gear and follow the instructor’s guidelines for a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Inform local authorities/staff positioned in protected areas if you notice any undesirable activity.
- Take care to stay within the permitted areas while snorkeling or scuba diving. You should take care not to stand on coral reefs. Doing so can damage the reefs.
- Foreign nationals must keep their restricted area permit with them at all times. Whenever visitors are visiting Havelock or other islands like Neil, on arrival, the jetty police officers will check the foreign visitors’ restricted area permits and only then allow them to embark from the ferry and enter the islands. This is especially important for those taking the ferry from Port Blair to Havelock, as permits are verified before allowing entry into the jetty.
Don’ts in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Do not smoke in public areas.
- Do not use plastic bags. Plastic carry-bags are banned in the Andaman Islands. If anybody is caught with a plastic carry bag, he/she can be fined either Rs. 1,00,000 or imprisoned for six months or both.
- Do not hunt any kind of birds and animals both on land and on the sea. Please help us in preserving the flora and fauna of the Islands.
- Do not visit the Nicobar Islands or any other tribal reserve without a special pass. You can be severely punished for an attempt to mingle with tribal people without legal permission.
- Staying on beaches or forest areas overnight is strictly prohibited. Take care to return to your hotel or resort after sunset. While the Andamans aren’t known for nightlife, it’s important to return to your hotel or resort after sunset for safety.
- Do not light bonfires on beaches or forests. Camping on the islands is a punishable offense.
- Breaking, even touching a live coral is prohibited. Collecting dead coral is also not allowed.
Whatever the size or condition of shells you find – in the sea or on the beach – taking them or even touching them is strictly prohibited. Do not collect shells. To own shells, you must buy them. Also, keep the receipt of purchase. - Do not take videos or photograph the aboriginal tribes of Andaman. This is considered a crime and is liable for punishment.
- Do not swim when drunk. Avoid swimming during the monsoon in treacherous zones. Both are not safe.
- Nudity is banned on all Andaman beaches and public spaces.
- Do not overstay at the islands past your permit time.
Frequently asked questions
Can I pick up seashells or corals as souvenirs from the beach?
No. Picking up corals, shells, or marine life is prohibited by law under the Wildlife Protection Act. You may be fined or stopped at airport checks.
Is it allowed to visit tribal areas like North Sentinel Island?
Absolutely not. Visiting or even attempting to approach tribal reserves (like North Sentinel or parts of Middle/North Andaman) is illegal and dangerous.
Can I fly drones in the Andaman Islands?
Drone usage is restricted in most parts of the Andaman Islands, especially near airports, national parks, and tribal areas. You must get prior permission from local authorities.
Is smoking or drinking allowed on beaches?
In many public beaches (like Radhanagar), smoking and alcohol consumption are either banned or frowned upon. Always check local signage or ask your guide.
Do I need to carry ID proof while exploring the islands?
Yes. It’s advisable to carry a government-issued ID (original or photocopy) while traveling between islands or entering restricted or protected zones.
Sanchi Pandey
Other Guides
Want to go to the Andaman Islands? Read our travel guide for details about how to reach Port Blair and other islands of the Andamans. Get information on Port Blair’s best things to do, recommended places to visit, and hotels.
Planning a trip to Havelock Island? Our guide covers how to get there, the best beaches to visit, top water sports, and recommended places to stay for an unforgettable Andaman experience.
Visiting Neil Island? Check our travel guide for how to reach, must-visit beaches, top activities, and the best hotels to make the most of your laid-back island vacation.
Other Experiences in Andaman
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