Andaman Vs Thailand | Which Is Better?
Written By Go2andaman Editorial Team on November 11, 2024 Andamans or Elsewhere?Planning Your Holiday
Table of Content
Off Beat Andaman Or Mainstream Thailand – Which One Should You Choose?
Andaman and Thailand are popular destinations on the tourist map. Both terrains are perfect for beach lovers looking for relaxation and adventure.
Andamans offers the quintessential island life complete with laidback afternoons and bustling mornings. Thailand on the other hand is glitzy, glamorous and bustling all through the day and night. Deciding on either is hard.
To make your decision easier we tell you how to reach these spots, visa requirements to follow, best ways to travel in the islands, what you should try and everything in between.
| Need To Know – Get Your Basics Sorted | Andaman | Thailand |
|---|---|---|
| How Do I Get There? | Fly into Port Blair and take ferries to reach other islands | Fly into Bangkok and take connecting flights to connect to other islands. |
| Do I Need A Visa? | Indians don’t need a visa; International tourists need a visa and passport to enter the Andamans. Tourists travelling from Bhutan and Nepal don’t need a visa. Foreigners mandatorily need a RAP (Restricted Area Permit) | Tourists need a visa. Free Visa on arrival is also available for tourists from select countries. |
| Best Time To Visit | October to March, though there is something to do in Andamans through all seasons. | November to March; anytime before this is too hot. |
| How Many Days Do I Need? | Minimum 5 days | Minimum 4 days. |
| Local Currency? | Indian Rupee (INR) | Extremely safe for solo travellers and women backpackers |
| Safety | Extremely safe for solo travellers and women backpackers | Safe but stay vigilant as petty crimes are common |
| Visa Cost | Ranges from 2000 INR- 10000 INR Depending on type of Visa | Ranges from 4000 INR- 29000 INR Depending on the type of Visa |
#G2A Travel Tips: Planning Your Budget (breaker – small box/container)
Do account for visa costs and currency fluctuations when planning your trip. These are often hidden costs that can increase your overall budget.
Island Hopping in Andaman VS Thailand
| Island Hopping | Andaman | Thailand |
|---|---|---|
| Total Islands | 836 | 1430 |
| Tourists Islands | 29 inhabited and 11 uninhabited | 34 |
| Popular Islands | Neil, Havelock, Port Blair, Ross, Baratang, North Bay Island, Long Island, Middle and North Andaman | Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Tao, Ko Lipe, Ko Samet, Ko Lanta |
| Best Way To Reach | Private or Government Ferries | Ferry, speed boats and local buses. |
| Unique Finds | Take a private charter boat to secluded islands like Long Island, Cinque Island, Little Andaman, Barren Island and South Button | Private island experience in islands like Koh Muh Nork. |
34 Amazing Thai Islands To Explore
Thailand has 1430 islands. Out of these 34 islands are popular amongst tourists which include Koh Samui, Ko Lipe, Ko Tao and many more. All these are little pockets of paradise for beach lovers.
You can book a private ferry or a sea plane to hop from one island to the other.
What To Expect:
The drawback here is large crowds that throng these islands. You will encounter crowds even during the off season.
Secluded Beauty of The Many Andaman Islands
The Andamans are the quiet counterpart of Thailand. The Archipelago is home to 836 islands of which 31 are inhabited. Havelock, Neil, Port Blair are 3 of the most popular islands frequented by tourists. Bright sunny weather, clear waters and sandy beaches offer the perfect sunbathing weather.
What To Expect:
You can reach the islands via private ferries – which are economical and clean. Hop on a ferry to the secluded Radhanagar Beach, Ramnagar Beach, Lalaji Beach, Wandoor beach, Ross and Smith – to get a private island experience.
Things To Do in Andamans VS Thailand
| Popular Adventure Activities | Andaman | Thailand |
|---|---|---|
| Popular | Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Kayaking, Trekking, Sea Walking, Game Fishing, Glass Bottom Boat Rides, Water Sports. | SkyDiving, Mountain Biking, Kiteboarding, White Water Rafting, Bungee Jumping, Kayaking, ATV Rides, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving |
| Try Something New | Get your Scuba Diving certifications from PADI certified and prestigious dive-shops | Muay Thai Camp is a great way for beginners to test their agility. |
Fly, Dive or Sail | Thailand’s Diverse Adventures
Thailand offers a mix of land and sea adventures. You can try SkyDiving, Mountain Biking, Kiteboarding, White Water Rafting, Bungee Jumping, Kayaking, ATV Rides, Snorkeling and so much more. This mix is perfect for adventure lovers who want to try diverse activities in one trip. Though keep an eye on your pocket as these activities can be expensive to try.
A Haven For Water Sports & Nature Lovers | Andaman Islands
Adventure activities in the Andamans are centered around Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Kayaking, Trekking, Sea Walking. These options may seem limited but once you dive into the Andaman waters you will want to live there. The Andaman sea is home to some of the most spectacular corals, under sea creatures which are vibrant and gorgeous.
The islands are also home to professional PADI schools that offer courses for all levels. This coupled with a community that is passionate about diving and the sea lend the Andamans a unique adventurous twist.
OffBeat Tourist Attractions in Andaman VS Thailand
While Thailand and Andamans are both popular beach destinations, they have a lot to offer for tourists looking for something a little more offbeat.
| Your Itinerary | Andaman | Thailand |
|---|---|---|
| Popular Attractions | Cellular Jail, Natural Bridge, Limestone Caves, Mud Volcanoes, and Museums | Floating Markets, Visit Buddhist Temples, Visit Khao Yai National Park, Visit Chiang Mai, |
| Offbeat Experiences | Visit Asia’s only active Volcano on Barren Island. | Experience the unique nightlife of Thailand. |
| Unique Experiences | Witness Turtle Nesting in Diglipur | Visit the Amulet Market in Bangkok |
Temples, Floating Markets and Late-Night Adventures In Thailand
If you aren’t island hopping or scuba diving, then you can visit Buddhist temples like The Big Buddha Temple, The Temple of Emerald Buddha. You can also experience the unique Floating Markets, watch a Muay Thai fight, visit the Grand Palace or soak in nature at the Khao Yai National Park.
While your day is filled with seeing these attractions, your nights will come alive with great food, music and amazing attractions.
Volcano Sightings, Bird Watching, Nature Treks and A Walk Through Time
The Andaman Archipelago is home to the only active volcano in India located in Barren Island. You can also witness the spectacular beauty of Limestone Caves, experience a unique hobby of bird watching in Parrot Island or even undertake a trek to Chidiya Tapu. The famed Cellular Jail is also located here, giving you a glimpse of the unique history of the land.
The nights in Andamans are quiet and calm. There is peace in the air and the occasional music on the beach from cafes and resorts.
Food, Culture and History of Andamans VS Thailand
| What To Expect | Andaman | Thailand |
|---|---|---|
| History & Culture | Retains an old world charm of a quintessential fishing town. An erstwhile colony, Andamans is a unique blend of hyper local and Western cultures. | Thailand was founded in the 13th Century AD. Its history is marked by the rule of great leaders. The unique culture of Thailand is a result of its regal past, spiritual leanings and its embracement of the modern present. |
| Food | Indulge in local vegetarian and fresh seafood delights including fish pakoras. The Andaman cuisine is primarily made of Bengali, North Indian, South Indian and Continental influences. | Street food is a must try with versions of Pad Thai, Mango Sticky rice, Tom Kha Gai, Khao Soi served everywhere across the region. |
Land of Sticky Rice, Full Moon Escapades and Joyous Celebrations
Thailand is an extrovert’s paradise. The islands of Thailand are also a hub of parties including the famous ‘Full Moon’ parties. While here you can gorge on some fresh seafood, meats, exotic vegetables and delicious desserts.
Dig into some famous Pad Thai, Mango Sticky rice, Tom Kha Gai, Khao Soi and many other local dishes that have a wonderful play off of spicy and sweet flavors.
Land of Indigenous Tribes, Flavours of India and Sanctity
The Andaman islands are steeped in local culture and one that has retained its sanctity. An erstwhile British colony, the Archipelago is today home to several indigenous tribes including the extremely reserved Sentinalese, Onge and Jarawa tribes. Their presence has helped retain the natural habitat of the region.
When it comes to food, the Andaman cuisine is a beautiful blend of South Indian, North Indian Bengali and Continental delicacies. So your dining experience will be a tour of India through its diverse flavors and not to forget some fresh seafood.
What’s The Vibe? Andamans VS Thailand
Thailand and Andamans are known for their beaches. Yet the vibe of both places is starkly different.
Mostly Rustic, Sometimes Luxurious – Andamans
While in Andaman you can almost soak in the Goan equivalent of Susegad – a relaxed and content existence. The island transports you back in time where McDonald signs or the towers of malls didn’t exist.
Here you can experience the authentic lifestyle of erstwhile fishing communities.
The Andaman locals believe in a sustainable and minimalist way of living. Yet Andamans manages to strike a balance. The influx of tourists and their needs has created a niche environment of luxury stays, great fine dining spots and rejuvenating experiences.
Here’s a sneak peek into these:
| Top Picks To Get You Started | Andaman |
|---|---|
| Uber Luxurious Stays | Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Radha Nagar Beach | Munjoh Ocean Resort, Havelock | Welcome Hotels by ITC Hotels, Port Blair | Symphony Summer Sands Beach Resort, Neil Island | Barefoot at Havelock, Havelock |
| Fine Dining | The Settlers, Radha Nagar Beach | Red Snapper, Wild Orchid Resort Havelock Island | Barefoot Bar & Restaurant, Radhanagar Beach | Mandalay, Fortune Resort Bay Island, Port Blair |
| Rejuvenating Experiences | Svarasyaa Wellness Spa in Port Blair | Ayur Spa & Wellness, Port Blair | OMA Spa, Havelock | YOGLOVE Retreat, Havelock Island, |
Party Harder, Unwind Deeper – Thailand
Thailand is the extroverted counterpart of Andamans. The party spots and adventure activities create a melting pot of thrill, adventure and energy. Thailand is youthful and wears its hearts on its sleeve.
Choosing a Destination based on Traveler Persona
| Traveler VS Destination | Andaman | Thailand |
|---|---|---|
| Honeymoon Couples | Yay | Yay |
| Solo Traveller / Backpacker | Yay | Yay |
| Family Holiday | Yay | Nay |
| Budget Holiday | Yay | Nay |
| DIY Travel (Self Curated) | Yay | Nay |
Conclusion
We hope this quick comparison between Thailand and Andamans has helped you decide your next destination. The Andamans is all about peaceful adventures while Thailand is more mainstream with more options but sadly also lots of crowds. Whatever floats your boat!
Happy Holidays To You!
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Hello! We’re a bunch of content enthusiasts writing about all things Andaman. Our blogs are the result of our immersive first-hand travels to the Andamans and the experiences of those we know closely. We keep a close watch on the travel space in the Andamans, so we can always bring to you the most updated information. Hope you enjoyed reading this blog as much as we enjoyed writing it!
