Description

Havelock Island is one of the most visited Islands in Andaman Islands. When you think to the Andaman Islands, Havelock Island is the first island that most of us want to visit. This island is very different from other islands in the Andaman & Nicobar Group of Islands.

Havelock Island, officially known as Swaraj Dweep is one of the largest islands in the cluster of small Islands in Andaman.

It’s a pleasure having you here to read what we have to say about this already very famous and the most sought-after destination of Andamans - The Havelock Islands.

In December 2018, it was renamed, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as Swaraj Dweep as a tribute to Subhas Chandra Bose. Still it is famous among the residents as "Havelock Island" due to its wide usage in the past.

Beaches

Radhanagar Beach on the western coast, also known as Number 7 Beach, is one of the most popular beaches on Swaraj Dweep and was named "Best Beach in Asia" by Time in 2004

Radhanagar beach also bagged the prestigious blue flag certification in 2020. A Blue Flag beach is an eco-tourism model endeavouring to provide the tourists or beachgoers clean and hygienic bathing water, facilities, safe and healthy environment.

Other notable beaches include Elephant Beach on the northwest coast, Vijay Nagar Beach (No. 5), Beach No. 3, Beach No. 1 on the east coast, Kalapathar is another famous beach.

To reach Elephant beach one needs to take a boat from Swaraj Dweep jetty. Another way to reach Elephant beach is via trekking.

The major 3 beaches at Swaraj Dweep are namely Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach and Kalapathar beach.

Beach Activities

Some of the great attractions and activities to do in Havelock Island are listed below:

Go Scuba Diving Havelock Island is renowned for its incredible scuba diving experiences. Dive into the crystal clear waters and discover vibrant coral reefs, exotic marine life, and underwater rock formations. There are several diving centers on the island that offer courses and guided dives for both beginners and experienced divers.

Snorkel at Elephant Beach Elephant Beach is a popular spot for snorkeling enthusiasts. Located a short boat ride away from Havelock Island, Elephant Beach is known for its vibrant coral reefs and various water activities. You can also enjoy other water sports activities like jet skiing, parasailing, sea walking, banana boat rides and many more here.

Take a Kayaking Tour Embark on a kayaking adventure through the beautiful mangrove forests surrounding Havelock Island. Paddle through calm waters, marvel at the unique ecosystem, and keep an eye out for exotic bird species. You can also opt for a night kayaking tour to witness the magical bioluminescence phenomenon.

Sea Walk For a unique and mesmerizing experience, try the sea walk adventure in Elephant Beach. You can descend to the ocean floor while wearing a specially designed helmet that allows you to breathe effortlessly. Walk on the sandy seabed and witness the incredible marine life up close, making memories that will last a lifetime.

Game Fishing If you are an avid angler, game fishing in the waters surrounding Havelock Island is an exciting adventure.

Transportation

The island can be reached from Port Blair by government-operated ferries and private cruises. There are also helicopter services. There will be 2-3 government operating ferries in a day.

A local bus connects the jetty and villages on an hourly circuit. Private ferries that sail to Swaraj Dweep are Makruzz, Green Ocean, Nautika, Nautika Lite and ITT Majestic these cruises have different sailing time and schedule from Port Blair to Swaraj Dweep and from Neil Island to Swaraj Dweep. The ferry sailing to Swaraj Dweep is subject to weather conditions.

Within the island you can travel in a cab, a two wheeler or bus. The most convenient way is to take a cab or a two wheeler.

Travelers typically take the ferry service from Port Blair to Swaraj Dweep, Swaraj Dweep to Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) and Neil Island to Port Blair

Many properties are now available at Havelock Island that can be booked. From budget to luxury all options are available. The most preferred places to stay at Swaraj Dweep are Beach No.3, and Beach No. 5. People prefer to stay closer to the beaches at Havelock Island.

Internet Connectivity

Internet connectivity at Swaraj Dweep has improved since the undersea cable from Chennai to Port Blair has been laid. The internet connectivity in all the islands has improved. At Swaraj Dweep now high-speed internet is available. Mobile networks of Airtel and BSNL are available at Swaraj Dweep.

Who can Visit Havelock Islands

Havelock Island is visited by all types of travelers because it appears to be suitable for visitors of all ages. The kids love playing around in the safe waters, the elderly love the tranquility nature provides, youngsters and adventure junkies love the activities that keep them engaged and of course the special ones-the couples who admire the destination making it one of the most preferred honeymoon destinations in India.