Andaman on Any Budget: What to Expect in 2026

A 5-night Andaman trip in 2026 will likely cost you anywhere from Rs 18,000 to Rs 75,000 per person, depending on your travel style. This covers flights from mainland India, accommodation, food, local transport, and activities. Let's break down where your money actually goes.

Budget Tier Comparison: Find Your Andaman Style

Finding Your Andaman Home: Accommodation Costs

Accommodation is a significant chunk of your Andaman budget. Here's a breakdown by location: * **Port Blair:** Expect to pay Rs 800-2,000 for a decent guesthouse. For more upscale hotels (Sinclairs Bayview, Hotel Sentinel), rates start at Rs 4,000. Consider staying near Aberdeen Bazaar for easy access to transport. * **Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep):** This is where you'll find the best beaches, but also higher prices. Budget options (Rs 1,200-2,500) are available near Govind Nagar Beach. Luxury resorts near Radhanagar Beach can cost upwards of Rs 8,000 per night. * **Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep):** A quieter alternative to Havelock. You can find some good deals on guesthouses and homestays (Rs 700-1,500). Resorts like SeaShells Neil start around Rs 3,500. We recommend booking at least 2-3 months in advance, especially if traveling during peak season (December-February). Use MakeMyTrip or Booking.com for hotels, or look for homestays directly on websites like Airbnb.

Skip This, Thank Us Later

Avoid the government-run 'Andaman Teal House' hotels if you're on a budget. They look good in photos but are often overpriced for what you get. You'll find better value and more character in privately owned guesthouses.

Taste of the Islands: Food Costs and Where to Eat

Food in the Andamans can be surprisingly affordable. * **Street Food:** Head to Aberdeen Bazaar in Port Blair for *parathas*, *samosas* and fresh coconut water (Rs 20-50 per item). Look for stalls selling *macher jhol* (fish curry) with rice – a Bengali staple. * **Local Restaurants:** Try Ananda Restaurant in Port Blair for authentic Andamanese seafood. A full meal will cost around Rs 300-500. In Havelock, try 'Something Different' for wood-fired pizzas and fresh seafood. * **Tourist Traps:** Be wary of restaurants near Radhanagar Beach in Havelock that inflate prices. Walk a bit further to find local eateries with better value. Expect to pay Rs 50-100 for a Kingfisher beer. However, alcohol prices are generally higher in the islands.

Getting Around: Flights, Ferries, and Scooters

Getting to the Andamans primarily involves flights. Round-trip flights from Chennai or Kolkata to Port Blair typically range from Rs 8,000 to Rs 15,000, depending on the time of booking and the airline (IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India). Book at least 2 months in advance for better deals. Once you're on the islands: * **Inter-Island Ferries:** The most common way to travel between islands. Government ferries are cheaper (Rs 300-500), but book well in advance through the STARS portal. Private ferries (Makruzz, Green Ocean) are faster and more comfortable (Rs 1,200-2,000). * **Local Buses:** The cheapest way to get around within Port Blair and on other islands (Rs 10-20 per trip). * **Auto-Rickshaws:** Negotiate the fare before you get in. Short trips within Port Blair should cost around Rs 50-80. * **Scooter Rentals:** A popular option on Havelock and Neil. Expect to pay Rs 500-700 per day. Ensure you have a valid driving license.

The Real Deal

Download the 'STARS' app *before* you arrive. It's the official portal for booking government ferries and avoids long queues at the ticket counters. Many locals use it, and it's far more reliable than touts offering 'guaranteed tickets'.

Activities and Entrance Fees: What to Budget For

The Andamans offer a range of activities, but they can add up. Here's a rough guide: * **Cellular Jail (Port Blair):** Entrance fee: Rs 30. Light and Sound Show: Rs 150. * **Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island):** Ferry ticket: Rs 300 (round trip). Entrance fee: Rs 30. * **Havelock Island Scuba Diving:** Rs 3,500-5,000 per dive. * **Snorkeling:** Rs 800-1,200 per trip. * **Radhanagar Beach:** Free (but auto-rickshaw to get there will cost around Rs 200-300 from Havelock jetty). * **Elephant Beach:** Boat trip + snorkeling: Rs 1,000-1,500. Consider a package deal for multiple activities to save money. Many operators offer combined snorkeling and scuba diving trips.

Money-Saving Hacks for Your Andaman Trip

* **Travel during the shoulder season (March-May or September-November):** You'll avoid peak season crowds and higher prices. April is the hottest month, averaging 29°C, but deals are easier to find. * **Eat at local dhabas and street food stalls:** You'll get authentic food at a fraction of the cost of tourist restaurants. Look for places popular with local workers. * **Negotiate prices for auto-rickshaw rides and activities:** Don't be afraid to haggle, especially during the off-season. A little bargaining can save you a significant amount.

Sample Daily Budget Breakdown

Worth Every Rupee

Splurge on a scuba diving trip in Havelock. The underwater world is stunning, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Even if you've never dived before, the instructors are excellent, and the experience is unforgettable.

Weather in Andaman

The best time to visit Andaman is January when the average temperature is 26°C and rainfall is just 29mm. Avoid October — the wettest month, with an average of 401mm of rain, which can disrupt ferry schedules and outdoor activities. The monsoon season (June-September) sees heavy rainfall and strong winds. From the Andaman's perspective here is detailed average temperature and rainfall data for each month: Jan:26°C/29mm, Feb:26°C/44mm, Mar:28°C/39mm, Apr:29°C/72mm, May:28°C/311mm, Jun:27°C/314mm, Jul:27°C/386mm, Aug:27°C/319mm, Sep:26°C/391mm, Oct:26°C/401mm, Nov:26°C/168mm, Dec:26°C/99mm

Ready to Island Hop? Plan Your Andaman Adventure Now!

Now that you have a clear idea of the Andaman trip cost, it's time to start planning! Check out our Andaman tour packages to find the perfect itinerary for your budget and preferences. Remember to book flights and accommodation in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season.

How much does a 5 day trip to Andaman cost?

A 5-day trip to Andaman can cost between Rs 18,000 to Rs 75,000 per person, depending on your travel style. This includes flights, accommodation, food, local transport and activities. Budget travelers can expect to spend around Rs 3,600 per day, while luxury travelers might spend upwards of Rs 15,000 per day.

What is the cheapest way to travel in Andaman?

The cheapest way to travel in Andaman is by using local buses and government ferries. Local buses cost only Rs 10-20 per trip, while government ferries between islands are significantly cheaper than private ferries (around Rs 300-500). Booking in advance through the STARS app is crucial.

How can I save money on food in Andaman?

To save money on food, eat at local *dhabas* and street food stalls instead of tourist restaurants. Look for places popular with local workers. Dishes like *macher jhol* with rice and *parathas* are both delicious and affordable.

What are the best activities to do in Andaman on a budget?

The best budget-friendly activities include visiting Radhanagar Beach (free entry), exploring Cellular Jail (Rs 30 entrance fee), and snorkeling (Rs 800-1,200 per trip). Consider visiting Ross Island for its historical ruins (Rs 300 ferry + Rs 30 entry).

Is it better to book an Andaman package or travel independently?

Booking a package can save you time and hassle, especially during peak season, but it might be more expensive. Traveling independently gives you more flexibility and control over your budget, but requires more planning and research. Assess your priorities and comfort level before deciding.

What is the best time to visit Andaman to save money?

The best time to visit Andaman to save money is during the shoulder season (March-May or September-November). The weather is still pleasant, but you'll avoid the peak season crowds and higher prices for flights and accommodation. Be aware of the monsoon season (June-September) as some ferries may be cancelled.