Andaman on a Budget: A Local's Trip Cost Breakdown (2026)

We often hear people say the Andaman Islands are a "premium" or "expensive" destination. And while it's true that you can spend a fortune on lavish resorts and private tours, we're here to tell you that a budget-friendly trip to our beautiful islands is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. As locals, we know all the tips and tricks to experience the best of Andaman without breaking the bank.

This guide will break down the typical costs for a budget traveler. We'll focus on a 5-night, 6-day trip, which is a popular duration for first-time visitors exploring Port Blair, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), and Neil (Shaheed Dweep). All prices are approximate and can vary based on the season and how far in advance you book, but they provide a realistic baseline for your planning.

Flight & Ferry Costs: Getting Here & Getting Around

Your journey to the Andamans will be one of your biggest expenses. Flights are the only practical way for tourists to reach the islands, landing at Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair (IXZ).

• Flights: Prices fluctuate wildly. To get the best deals, book at least 2–3 months in advance. The cheapest routes are from Chennai (MAA) and Kolkata (CCU). A round-trip ticket can cost anywhere from ₹8,000 during the off-season to ₹20,000+ during peak season (December–January). For a budget trip, aim for the shoulder seasons (May-June and September) and expect to pay around ₹10,000–₹12,000.

• Ferries: To travel between islands (e.g., Port Blair to Havelock), you have two main options. Government ferries are the cheapest (around ₹600–₹800) but have complex booking procedures and are less comfortable. For a reliable and hassle-free experience, most tourists opt for private catamarans like Makruzz, Green Ocean, or Nautika. A one-way ticket on a private ferry will cost between ₹1,500 and ₹2,500. Booking these online in advance is crucial, especially during peak season.

Accommodation & Local Transport

After travel, accommodation is your next biggest cost. But there are plenty of clean, safe, and affordable options if you know where to look.

• Hotels & Guesthouses: In Port Blair, you can find decent budget hotels for ₹1,000–₹1,800 per night. In Havelock and Neil, look for guesthouses or basic bamboo huts slightly away from the main beaches. These can offer a great experience for a similar price. Avoid staying at pricey beach resorts. A 5-night stay on a budget would average around ₹7,500.

• Getting Around: This is where you can save a lot! The most cost-effective way to explore Havelock and Neil Island is by renting a scooter. It costs about ₹500–₹600 per day (plus fuel) and gives you the freedom to discover hidden gems at your own pace. For shorter distances or if you don't ride, auto-rickshaws are plentiful. Always agree on the fare before you get in!

Food, Activities & Miscellaneous Costs

The "fun" part of the budget! Activities are why you're here, and food is a huge part of the experience.

• Food: Skip the expensive resort restaurants. The best and most authentic food is found in small, local eateries. You can get a delicious and filling meal (like a fish thali or noodles) for ₹200–₹350. A simple breakfast might cost ₹100. Budgeting around ₹800 per person per day for food is very realistic. Don't forget to drink coconut water straight from the source—it's cheap and refreshing!

• Activities: Prioritise what you want to do. Instead of multiple scuba dives, perhaps try one "introductory dive" (around ₹3,500) and then enjoy snorkeling on your own at other beaches. You can reach Elephant Beach in Havelock via a beautiful 1.8 km jungle trek for free, saving on the boat cost. Many of the best experiences—like watching the sunset at Radhanagar Beach or relaxing on the white sands of Bharatpur Beach—are completely free.

Sample 5-Day Budget Breakdown (per person):

• Flights: ₹11,000
• Ferries (2 trips): ₹4,000
• Accommodation (5 nights): ₹4,000 (if sharing a ₹2,000 room)
• Food (6 days): ₹4,800
• Scooter Rental (3 days): ₹900 (if sharing a ₹600 scooter)
• Activities & Misc: ₹4,000
• Total Approximate Cost: ₹28,700

FAQs

Q: What is a realistic daily budget for the Andamans? A: Excluding flights and ferries between islands, you can have a comfortable budget trip for about ₹2,500–₹3,000 per person per day. This covers a budget guesthouse, scooter rental, local food, and some minor activity costs.

Q: How can I save money on water sports? A: Opt for snorkeling, which is much cheaper than scuba diving, especially if you bring your own gear. At places like Elephant Beach, you can rent snorkeling equipment for a few hundred rupees. Some travel operators offer package deals if you book multiple activities with them.

Q: Is it cheaper to book a package or plan a trip myself? A: For budget travel, planning it yourself is almost always cheaper. It allows you to select budget guesthouses, eat at local dhabas, and use cost-effective transport like scooters, which most standard packages don't include.

Q: When is the cheapest time to visit Andaman? A: The shoulder seasons, which are from May to June and again in September, usually have the lowest prices for flights and hotels. The main monsoon season (July-August) is the absolute cheapest, but you risk trip disruptions due to heavy rain and rough seas.