The Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel in the Andamans

The friend group never reaches a consensus on your trip – so what do you do? Brood and stay home or pack a bag and then head out solo. Solo travelling is a great way to experience a place at your own time and pace. And if that place is the Andamans, then your solo trip will be a memorable experience. Why?

Why Go Solo In Andaman Islands?

1. Truly Untouched – In Andamans your view is never hindered by towers, malls or fast food signs. Andamans takes you back in time with its fishing communities, pristine beaches and primal landscapes.

2. Unique Experiences – The Andaman terrain is marked by great beaches, lush green jungles, mangrove forests, coral reefs and even an active volcano. This diversity offers a range of experiences for solo travellers.

3. Adventures Galore – When in Andamans, you can never be bored during your solo trip. You can scuba dive, snorkel, hike, explore historical monuments or sunbathe at the beach.

4. Fewer Crowds: Andamans is popular and attracts tourists from across the world, yet it’s never overwhelmingly crowded. You can find moments and spots of seclusion even during the peak season.

5. Great On Your Pocket: Solo travellers on a budget love the Andamans for its cost-effective experiences. From getting in and around the islands, food at local joints to budget hotels – there is something for every budget type.

Is Solo Travelling For Me?

If you are a first time solo traveller or doing it because a friend bailed, then this checklist is for you 🙂

✅ You Are Physically Fit – No, you don’t need abs to solo travel. You need to be fit enough to rely on yourself through the trip.

✅ You Enjoy Your Own Company – Solo travelling in essence pushes you to spend more time with yourself. You are your own friend and confidante. Even if this is not you right now, solo travelling can help you get in touch with your inner voice.

✅ You Are Curious – Surviving a solo trip is about observing your surroundings. If you are curious and like learning new things, then you will love solo travelling.

✅ You Love Meeting New People – Introverts, don’t leave just yet. Even if you are shy and don’t make friends easily, solo travelling helps you open up to more people. Who knows you may make a new friend when asking for directions.

✅ You Dislike Rigid Schedules– If your inner rebel shows up during vacations and hates sticking by anyone else’s schedule then solo travelling is for you. You can do everything at your pace.

Is It Safe To Travel Solo in Andamans?

The Andaman Islands have a low crime rate and almost no political conflicts.

• Solo travellers and women travellers can travel across the Andamans without constantly watching over their back.
• The locals are friendly but don’t bother tourists.
• You can wear beach-friendly attire on the beaches or hike solo too.

Though we do recommend taking basic safety precautions like you would in any other travel destination.

How Many Days Do I Need To Explore Andamans as A Solo Traveller?

The average Andaman itinerary of 5 days may not work for solo travellers. There is a lot to experience on the islands, so we recommend a 7 day solo trip. If you are confused on what to do and where to go then download our free 7 day Andaman itinerary  for solo travellers.

Best Time To Visit Andamans As A Solo Traveller?

By popular consensus travelling between the months of October to May is recommended. This is however the peak season owing to the pleasant weather. The prices may shoot up during this time so plan your budget accordingly.

If you are feeling adventurous and want to explore Andamans during different seasons, then check out our month-by-month travel guide.

Getting Around Andamans As A Solo Traveller

All you need to know about traveling within islands and between islands in the Andamans.

Travel Between Islands

Most islands in the Andamans are connected by waterways, not roads.

• Government Ferries: Affordable, with tickets under INR 1000 for non-locals, but they can be less spacious and may not offer the most comfortable experience.
• Private Ferries: Fast and convenient, with fares ranging from INR 900 to INR 3000 depending on the seating class. These are more comfortable, and tickets can be booked online. [Book Now]

Travel Within Islands

• Local Auto rickshaws – These can cost anywhere between INR 30 – INR 200 per trip.
• Local Buses – The only con is these take longer to reach your destination but are easier on the pocket with INR 15 to INR 50 per ticket. Local buses stop operations after 8:00 PM.
• Bike Rentals – The best way to explore the island as a solo traveller is by renting a scooter/bike. It costs about INR 500 to INR 600 per day.
• Private Cabs – Ideal for families on vacation because these are expensive and can cost you INR 2000 and upwards per trip.

Fun Solo Experiences & Activities in Andamans

Boredom never strikes while you explore the Andamans. The islands are packed with fun experiences and activities. While in Andamans you can:

1. Dive, Swim or Sail

• Vibrant coral reefs, spectacular fish and a thriving ecosystem will come to you to try scuba-diving. Popular diving spots include Jackson’s Bar (Havelock), Corruption Rock (Chidiya Tapu, Port Blair), and Whitehouse Rock (Neil Island). 
• You can see marine creatures including Manta Rays, Dugongs, Sea Turtles, Reef Sharks, Coral Gardens and more. 
• Water sports and adventure sports like Snorkelling, Sea walking, Kayaking, Jet Skiing, Banana Boat Rides, Parasailing, and Game Fishing are popular. 
• You don’t need a partner for these activities, making it perfect for solo travellers like you.

2. Hike, Trek or Island Hop

• Put your navigation skills to the test by trekking from Chidiya Tapu to Mundapadhad, Radhanagar Beach to Elephant Beach trek in Havelock, Baratang to Limestone Caves Trek or the challenging Kalapathar to Secret Beach Trek. 
• Hike to Mount Harriet National Park for panoramic views of the nearby islands. 
• Explore the Andaman Islands. Start with the Port Blair – Havelock – Neil circuit and choose from the other Islands to visit in Andaman and Nicobar islands. 
• Experience spellbinding beauty at Radhanagar Beach, witness gorgeous sunsets at Chidiya Tapu, explore colonial ruins and friendly deers on Ross Island, and experience quiet seclusion at Lalaji Bay Beach in Long Island.

3. Uniquely Andaman – Explore, Indulge or Learn

• Experience turtle nesting at Dhani Nallah Beach, Kalipur Beach and Ramnagar Beach during the nesting months of December to April. 
• Visit South East Asia’s only active volcano in Barren Island. 
• Explore Cellular Jail in Port Blair for a tryst with colonial history. 
• Indulge in bird watching at Chidiya Tapu. 
• Experience untamed nature at Saddle Peak National Park and Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. 
• Try Dolphin Spotting at North Bay Island or Cinque Island. 
• Experiment with Surfing at Little Andaman. 
• Get your diving certification from the many PADI-certified dive schools on the island.

Table For One: Street Food & Fine Dining Options

The Andamanese cuisine is a fusion food of South Indian, North Indian and Continental food. You can indulge even on a budget by eating from local joints, food trucks and street markets. Seafood is a must-try as are local vegetarian dishes.

Spare an evening and some budget to take yourself on a dinner date. The Full Moon Cafe in Havelock and Amaya by Seashell in Port Blair are some great fine dining options.

Read More: Restaurants in Andaman

Where Do I Stay In Andamans As A Solo Traveller?

Budget-friendly, safe and centrally located – this checklist is met by many hotels, guest houses and hostels in Port Blair, Havelock and Neil Island. You can also book an indulgent one-night stay at the many luxurious resorts on the island.

Read More: Hotels in Andaman Islands

Safety Guidelines for A Solo Traveller in Andamans:

Essential Safety Guidelines for Solo Travel in Andamans:

• Download offline maps.
• Save emergency contacts for ambulance and police services.
• Carry a Xerox copy of your ID/Passport.
• Store all documents digitally.
• Make sure you have permits from authorities before entering restricted areas.
• Avoid isolated locations after dark.
• Send a loved one your live location.
• Double-check room locks before sleeping.
• Track the last ferry and local bus timings.
• Avoid hitchhiking.
• Carry a basic first aid kit.
• Carry power banks and chargers.

Download Your Solo 7 Day Andaman Itinerary

Is this your first time travelling solo to the Andamans or just solo in general? Then planning an itinerary that balances solo experiences with relaxation is what you need. Download our free 7 day Andaman itinerary curated for solo travellers. The guide details everything you can do and experience in the beautiful island of Andamans.