V. Murli · Proprietor
Havelock Island, officially known as Swaraj Dweep, is one of the most popular islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Known for Radhanagar Beach, clear tropical waters, coral reefs, beach resorts and water activities, Havelock is usually an essential stop for first-time visitors to Andaman.
This Havelock Island travel guide covers everything you need to plan your trip: how to reach Havelock, how many nights to stay, the best time to visit, beaches, things to do, water sports, accommodation areas, local transport, ferry planning and a practical 2–3 day itinerary.
Our local recommendation: stay for at least 2 nights in Havelock Island. Three nights is better if you want to visit Radhanagar Beach and Elephant Beach, try scuba diving or other water activities, and still have some time to enjoy the island without rushing around your ferry timings.
| Official Name | Swaraj Dweep |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Havelock Island |
| Best Known For | Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, scuba diving and beach resorts |
| Recommended Stay | 2–3 nights |
| Best Time to Visit | October to May |
| How to Reach | Government or private ferry from Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) |
| Main Jetty | Havelock Jetty |
About Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
Havelock Island is part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and lies northeast of Sri Vijaya Puram, formerly known as Port Blair. Although its official name is Swaraj Dweep, most travellers, hotels, ferry operators and travel searches still commonly refer to it as Havelock Island.
The island combines some of Andaman's best-known beaches with a wide choice of resorts, cafés, dive centres and marine activities. It is considerably more relaxed than Sri Vijaya Puram while still having enough tourism infrastructure for families, honeymooners, couples and independent travellers.
Havelock is particularly suitable for travellers who want a combination of beaches, scuba diving, snorkelling, water sports and a slower island experience.
How Many Days Are Enough for Havelock Island?
For most first-time visitors, 2 to 3 nights are ideal for Havelock Island.
| Stay | Who It Suits | What You Can Comfortably Cover |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Night | Very short trips | Radhanagar Beach plus limited sightseeing |
| 2 Nights | Most first-time visitors | Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach and one additional activity |
| 3 Nights | Couples, honeymooners and relaxed travellers | Beaches, water sports, scuba diving and leisure time |
| 4+ Nights | Divers and slow travellers | Multiple dives, quieter beaches and a relaxed island stay |
A one-night stay is possible, but we generally do not recommend it unless your overall Andaman itinerary is very short. Ferry arrival and departure timings can consume a significant part of your first and last day.
If you are still deciding how to divide your nights between Sri Vijaya Puram, Havelock and Neil Island, see our Andaman tour itinerary guide.
How to Reach Havelock Island
Havelock Island is reached by sea. Tourists normally travel from Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) to Havelock by ferry. There is no airport on Havelock Island for regular passenger flights.
Both private and government ferries operate between the islands. Depending on the vessel and sea conditions, the journey normally takes approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
Private Ferries to Havelock
Private operators such as Nautika, Makruzz and Green Ocean operate scheduled services between Sri Vijaya Puram, Havelock and Neil Island. Private ferries are generally the easiest option for tourists because schedules can be planned well before the travel date.
You can check routes, timings and available ferry options through our Andaman ferry booking page.
Government Ferry to Havelock
Government ferries also connect Havelock with Sri Vijaya Puram and other islands. They can be economical, but tourist availability is more limited and tickets are normally released much closer to the travel date. For a pre-planned holiday, depending entirely on government ferry availability can make the itinerary less predictable.
If your hotel and onward island stays are already booked, we recommend confirming your inter-island transport rather than leaving ferry arrangements until the last moment.
Important Ferry Planning Tip
Avoid planning your return from Havelock too tightly around your flight departure from Sri Vijaya Puram. Ferry operations are dependent on weather and sea conditions. Where possible, keep adequate time between your inter-island ferry journey and your flight.
Best Beaches in Havelock Island
Havelock has several beaches, but they offer very different experiences. Radhanagar is best known for its scenery and sunset, Elephant Beach for marine activities, while Kalapathar and Vijaynagar are better suited to quieter beach time.
1. Radhanagar Beach
Radhanagar Beach is the most famous beach on Havelock Island. Located on the western side of the island, it is known for its wide sandy shoreline, forest backdrop and sunset.
Most first-time visitors should include Radhanagar Beach in their itinerary even if they have only two nights in Havelock. Late afternoon is particularly popular because visitors can remain for sunset.
Read our complete Radhanagar Beach guide for practical visiting information and local rules.
2. Elephant Beach
Elephant Beach is Havelock's main marine-activity zone. Snorkelling, sea walking and several recreational water activities operate here when weather and sea conditions permit.
The beach can normally be reached by boat, while a forest trekking route is also available depending on local conditions.
If Elephant Beach is important to your trip, read our Elephant Beach travel guide before planning the day.
3. Kalapathar Beach
Kalapathar Beach lies along the eastern side of Havelock Island. The beach is known for its scenic coastal road, pale sand, blue water and dark rocks.
It is generally quieter than Radhanagar and works well as a short sightseeing stop, especially for travellers staying around Vijaynagar or Govind Nagar.
4. Vijaynagar Beach
Vijaynagar Beach, often associated with Beach No. 5, stretches along the eastern coast of Havelock. Several resorts are located in this part of the island, making it convenient for travellers who want beach access close to their accommodation.
Things to Do in Havelock Island
Havelock is not only a beach destination. It is one of the main centres for adventure activities in Andaman, particularly scuba diving and marine experiences.
Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is one of the main reasons travellers choose Havelock. Beginners can participate in introductory diving experiences under professional supervision, while certified divers can access more advanced dive sites.
Nemo Reef is particularly popular for beginner diving. Travellers who want to plan a dive in advance can see our scuba diving in Andaman options.
Snorkelling
Snorkelling is commonly available around Elephant Beach and suitable reef areas. It is a simpler option for travellers who want to see coral and marine life without doing a full scuba-diving session.
See our snorkelling activities for more information.
Sea Walking
Sea walking allows travellers to experience the underwater environment without requiring swimming or scuba-diving skills. Availability depends on operating and sea conditions.
You can also check our underwater sea walk information before travelling.
Kayaking
Kayaking around Havelock's mangrove areas is another popular activity. Early morning and evening sessions are common, while certain operators also offer specialised experiences depending on seasonal conditions.
See available kayaking experiences in Andaman.
Other Water Sports
Depending on the beach, weather and season, visitors may also find parasailing, speed-boat rides, banana-boat rides, jet skiing and glass-bottom boat experiences. Not every activity operates every day, so availability should be checked locally.
Approximate Water Sports Prices in Havelock
Activity prices vary by operator, season, location, duration and inclusions. Treat the following as a planning range rather than a fixed tariff.
| Activity | Approximate Price Range |
|---|---|
| Discover Scuba Diving | ₹3,500–₹6,000 per person |
| Snorkelling | ₹1,000–₹2,500 per person |
| Sea Walking | ₹3,500–₹4,500 per person |
| Parasailing | ₹3,000–₹4,500 per person |
| Kayaking | ₹2,000–₹3,500 per person |
| Speed Boat / Short Water Activities | Varies by activity and duration |
Prices are approximate and may change. Confirm the current price, duration and inclusions before booking.
Where to Stay in Havelock Island
Choosing the right part of Havelock can make a noticeable difference to your trip. There is no single "best" area for everybody; the right location depends on whether your priority is beach time, water activities, resort experience or easy access to the jetty.
Govind Nagar
Govind Nagar is convenient for Havelock Jetty, cafés, dive centres and several resorts. It is a practical choice for first-time travellers who want easy access to transport and activities.
Vijaynagar Beach
Vijaynagar is popular for beach resorts and a quieter coastal setting while still remaining within reasonable travelling distance of the main commercial areas.
Radhanagar Area
The Radhanagar side suits travellers who prioritise a secluded beach-resort experience and easy access to Havelock's most famous beach. It is farther from the jetty and the busier activity areas.
| Area | Best For | Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Govind Nagar | First-time visitors, diving, cafés and convenience | Busier than remote resort areas |
| Vijaynagar Beach | Beach resorts and relaxed stays | Some locations require transport for sightseeing |
| Radhanagar Area | Premium beach stays and sunset access | Farther from Havelock Jetty and activity centres |
Popular Resorts in Havelock Island
Havelock offers accommodation ranging from simple hotels to premium and luxury beach resorts. Popular properties include:
- Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
- Barefoot at Havelock
- SeaShell Havelock
- SilverSand Beach Resort
- Coral Reef Resort
- Symphony Palms Beach Resort
- Havelock Island Beach Resort
- Munjoh Ocean Resort
Rather than selecting a hotel only by star category, consider its location in relation to your planned activities. Travellers doing early-morning scuba sessions may value proximity to dive centres, while couples looking for a quiet resort stay may prefer a more secluded beach location.
Getting Around Havelock Island
Local movement on Havelock is primarily by private cab, two-wheeler, auto-rickshaw and local transport. Your choice depends on the number of people travelling and how much sightseeing you plan to cover.
Families and travellers carrying luggage generally find pre-arranged vehicles more convenient for jetty transfers and sightseeing. Independent travellers often use two-wheelers for shorter local trips where suitable.
For pre-arranged transfers and sightseeing, see our Andaman car rental options.
Best Time to Visit Havelock Island
The most popular period to visit Havelock Island is October to May, when conditions are generally more suitable for beaches, ferry travel and water activities.
| Period | Typical Travel Experience |
|---|---|
| October–February | Popular tourist season with pleasant conditions for sightseeing and beaches |
| March–May | Warmer weather but still suitable for beach holidays and many water activities |
| June–September | Monsoon period with more rain and greater possibility of sea-related disruptions |
Weather in the islands can change quickly, and marine activities are always subject to sea conditions and operational safety decisions.
Suggested 3-Day Havelock Island Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival + Radhanagar Beach
Take the ferry from Sri Vijaya Puram to Havelock, check into your hotel and keep the latter part of the day for Radhanagar Beach. Stay for sunset if weather conditions are favourable.
Day 2: Elephant Beach + Water Activities
Visit Elephant Beach and choose activities according to your interests. This may include snorkelling, sea walking or other available water sports.
If scuba diving is a priority, it may be better to schedule your dive separately rather than trying to pack too many marine activities into the same day.
Day 3: Kalapathar + Departure
Visit Kalapathar Beach in the morning or spend some relaxed time near your resort. Later, transfer to Havelock Jetty for your ferry to Neil Island or Sri Vijaya Puram according to your overall itinerary.
Should You Visit Neil Island After Havelock?
For travellers with enough time, Havelock and Neil Island complement each other well. Havelock offers more resorts, water activities and famous beaches, while Neil Island has a quieter atmosphere and attractions such as Bharatpur Beach, Laxmanpur Beach and the Natural Bridge.
If your Andaman trip is around 5–7 days, combining Sri Vijaya Puram, Havelock and Neil Island is one of the most practical first-time island-hopping routes.
Practical Havelock Island Travel Tips
- Book ferries early: popular sailings can become difficult to obtain during busy travel periods.
- Carry photo identification: keep valid government-issued ID available for ferry and hotel formalities.
- Do not overpack your itinerary: Havelock is better enjoyed with some free time rather than moving between activities throughout the day.
- Protect yourself from the sun: carry sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and drinking water when spending time outdoors.
- Respect marine life: do not touch or damage coral, and follow instructions given by activity operators.
- Follow beach safety instructions: sea conditions can vary between beaches and seasons.
- Keep ferry timings in mind: check your departure time before planning sightseeing on your final day.
- Keep some flexibility: weather can affect ferries, boat trips and water activities.
Planning Havelock as Part of an Andaman Tour
Havelock is usually combined with Sri Vijaya Puram and Neil Island rather than visited as a standalone destination. The correct number of nights depends on your total trip duration, arrival and departure flights, preferred activities and hotel category.
If you prefer to have hotels, ferries, sightseeing and local transfers arranged together, browse our Andaman tour packages. You can compare different durations and island combinations before deciding how long to stay in Havelock.
Frequently Asked Questions About Havelock Island
Where is Havelock Island?
Havelock Island, officially Swaraj Dweep, is part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and lies northeast of Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair). Tourists normally reach the island by ferry.
What is Havelock Island called now?
The official name of Havelock Island is Swaraj Dweep. However, Havelock Island remains the name most commonly used by travellers and throughout the tourism industry.
How do I reach Havelock Island from Port Blair?
Havelock is reached from Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) by private or government ferry. Depending on the vessel and conditions, the journey generally takes around 1.5–2.5 hours.
How many days are enough for Havelock Island?
Two nights are sufficient for the main highlights, but we generally recommend three nights if you want to include Elephant Beach, Radhanagar Beach, scuba diving or other activities without rushing.
What are the best places to visit in Havelock Island?
The main places to visit are Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, Kalapathar Beach and Vijaynagar Beach. Water activities and scuba diving are also major Havelock experiences.
Which is the best beach in Havelock Island?
Radhanagar Beach is Havelock's best-known beach and is our recommendation for first-time visitors. Elephant Beach is better suited to travellers primarily interested in water activities.
What is the best time to visit Havelock Island?
October to May is generally the most popular period for a Havelock holiday. November to February is particularly popular because of comfortable sightseeing conditions.
Can non-swimmers do scuba diving in Havelock?
Beginner introductory scuba programmes are available for non-swimmers under professional supervision, subject to the operator's eligibility and safety requirements.
Is Havelock Island good for families?
Yes. Havelock works well for families because it combines beaches, resorts, sightseeing and activities suitable for different age groups. Families with young children or elderly travellers should avoid making the itinerary too rushed.
Is Havelock Island good for a honeymoon?
Yes. Havelock is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Andaman because of its beach resorts, Radhanagar Beach, quieter coastal areas and water experiences. Couples normally benefit from staying at least two or three nights.
Can I visit Havelock Island as a day trip from Port Blair?
A day trip may occasionally be possible depending on ferry schedules, but we do not normally recommend it for first-time visitors. Staying at least two nights gives you considerably more time to experience the island without planning the entire visit around ferries.
Final Recommendation
Havelock Island is one of the places in Andaman where spending an additional night usually improves the trip rather than simply adding another sightseeing stop. For a first visit, plan 2 nights at minimum and preferably 3 nights if your total holiday duration allows it.
Use Havelock for its beaches and marine activities, visit Radhanagar without rushing, keep enough time for Elephant Beach or scuba diving, and plan your ferry connections before finalising hotels.
If you are planning Havelock together with other islands, start by checking current Andaman ferry options and then compare Andaman tour packages based on the number of nights available for your trip.