V. Murli · Proprietor
Neil Island, officially known as Shaheed Dweep, is one of the most peaceful destinations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Located about 37 km from Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), the island is known for its white-sand beaches, coral reefs, natural rock formations and relaxed atmosphere. Although officially renamed Shaheed Dweep in 2018, the name Neil Island continues to be widely used by travellers, ferry operators and tourism websites.
Originally, the island was named after Brigadier General James George Smith Neill, a British military officer during the colonial period. Today, it is recognised as one of the must-visit islands for travellers planning to Explore Andaman for its scenic beaches, marine life and slower pace of travel.
Quick Answer
Exploring Neil Island is best suited for travellers looking for a peaceful island experience in the Andaman Islands. Spending 1–2 days is usually enough to visit the island's main attractions, including Bharatpur Beach, Laxmanpur Beach, Sitapur Beach and the famous Natural Bridge. The island is easily accessible by regular ferries from Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) and Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), making it a popular stop on most Andaman itineraries. Visitors can also enjoy adventure activtities like snorkelling, scuba diving, glass-bottom boat rides, parasailing, jet ski rides, banana boat rides and underwater sea walk experiences, primarily around Bharatpur Beach.
Why Visit Neil Island?
Unlike busier tourist destinations, Neil Island offers a relaxed atmosphere with short travel distances, clear waters and uncrowded beaches. The island is well known for its coral reefs, limestone formations and scenic coastline, making it suitable for snorkelling, scuba diving, glass-bottom boat rides, parasailing, jet ski rides, banana boat rides, cycling and nature photography.
Another unique aspect of Neil Island is its agricultural significance. Often called the "Vegetable Bowl of the Andaman Islands," it supplies fresh vegetables and fruits to several neighbouring islands, adding a rural charm that sets it apart from many tropical beach destinations.
Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer island-hopping itinerary, Neil Island combines natural beauty, marine experiences and peaceful surroundings in a compact destination.
Best Places to Visit in Neil Island
Neil Island has four major tourist attractions that are easily accessible by road. Most visitors cover these locations in one day, as the island is compact and travel distances between attractions are short.
Bharatpur Beach
Bharatpur Beach is located on the eastern side of Neil Island and is known for its shallow lagoon and coral reef ecosystem. It is the island’s main water-sports centre, where visitors can enjoy snorkelling, scuba diving, glass-bottom boat rides, parasailing, jet ski rides, banana boat rides and underwater sea walk experiences, depending on sea conditions and operator availability.
The beach also serves as one of the ferry arrival points on the island, making it the first attraction many visitors see after arriving.
Laxmanpur Beach
Laxmanpur Beach is situated on the western coast of Neil Island. It is known for its long shoreline, rocky intertidal zone and sunset viewpoint.
During low tide, sections of the reef become exposed, allowing visitors to observe shells, corals and other marine organisms. Swimming is generally limited because of the rocky seabed.
Sitapur Beach
Sitapur Beach is located at the southern end of Neil Island. Facing the open sea, it is widely recognised as one of the island's sunrise viewpoints.
Compared with Bharatpur Beach, Sitapur Beach experiences stronger waves and deeper water, making it less suitable for swimming.
Natural Bridge
The Natural Bridge is a limestone rock formation created through long-term coastal erosion. It is one of Neil Island's best-known natural landmarks.
The area around the bridge is accessible during low tide, when visitors can observe tidal pools containing corals, sea cucumbers, starfish and other marine organisms. Visiting during low tide is recommended for easier access and better visibility of the surrounding ecosystem.
Major Attractions at a Glance
| Attraction | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Bharatpur Beach | Coral Reefs • Snorkelling • Glass-bottom Boat |
| Laxmanpur Beach | Sunset Point • Rocky Shoreline |
| Sitapur Beach | Sunrise Point • Coastal Views |
| Natural Bridge | Limestone Formation • Marine Life |
Things to Do in Neil Island
Neil Island offers a range of outdoor and marine activities suitable for different types of travellers. Most activities are concentrated around the island's beaches and coral reef areas.
Parasailing
Parasailing is available at Bharatpur Beach and provides aerial views of the lagoon, reef areas and coastline.
Snorkelling
Snorkelling in Andaman is a popular activity for exploring shallow coral reefs and marine life. On Neil Island, Bharatpur Beach is the primary location for snorkelling because of its relatively calm waters and coral reef ecosystem. Under suitable sea conditions, visitors can observe reef fish, corals and other marine organisms from the surface.
Kayaking
Kayaking is available in selected areas around Neil Island, particularly near Laxmanpur Beach and Sitapur Beach, depending on weather and tide conditions.
Glass-Bottom Boat Ride
Glass-bottom boat rides allow visitors to observe coral reefs and marine life without entering the water. This activity is suitable for families with children, senior citizens and travellers who do not wish to participate in snorkelling or scuba diving.
Most boat rides operate from Bharatpur Beach, with availability depending on sea conditions.
Scuba Diving
Scuba Diving in Andaman is one of the region's most popular marine activities, and Neil Island offers dive sites suitable for both beginners and certified divers. The island's coral reefs, reef fish and seasonal underwater visibility make it a preferred destination for recreational diving.
Certified dive operators conduct introductory sessions and guided dives while following established safety standards.
Cycling Around the Island
Neil Island's compact size and relatively low traffic make cycling a convenient way to explore local roads and nearby attractions. Many accommodation providers and rental shops offer bicycles on a daily rental basis.
Beach Walks
The island's coastline includes several beaches suitable for short walks, particularly during the early morning and late afternoon. Low tide also exposes sections of the intertidal zone, where visitors can observe shells, corals and other marine organisms without disturbing the natural habitat.
Suggested Duration for Activities
| Activity | Approximate Time |
|---|---|
| Snorkelling | 1–2 Hours |
| Glass-Bottom Boat Ride | 20–40 Minutes |
| Scuba Diving | 2–3 Hours |
| Cycling | 1–3 Hours |
| Beach Walk | 30–60 Minutes |
Travel Tips
- Check tide timings before visiting the Natural Bridge, as access is easier during low tide.
- Water-based activities depend on weather and sea conditions and may not operate throughout the year.
- Wear footwear with good grip when walking on rocky coastal areas.
- Avoid touching or collecting corals and marine organisms, as they are part of a protected ecosystem.
- Carry drinking water and sun protection while exploring the island, especially during warmer months.
Best Resorts in Neil Island
Neil Island offers accommodation options ranging from budget stays to premium beachfront resorts. Most resorts are located close to Bharatpur Beach, Laxmanpur Beach or Sitapur Beach, providing convenient access to the island's major attractions.
Recommended Resorts
| Resort | Location | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| Aquays Hotels & Resorts | Ramnagar Beach | Families & Couples |
| Sea Shell Neil | Laxmanpur | Couples & Premium Stay |
| TSG Aura Resort | Sitapur Beach | Sunrise Views |
| Symphony Summer Sands Beach Resort & Spa | Neil Kendra | Luxury Stay |
| Silver Sand Beach Resort Neil | Neil Kendra | Beachfront Stay |
These resorts provide a range of facilities such as air-conditioned rooms, restaurants, Wi-Fi, swimming pools (at selected properties) and assistance with ferry transfers or local sightseeing, depending on the property. Resort facilities and room categories vary, so checking the latest availability before booking is recommended.
Choosing the Right Resort
- Near Bharatpur Beach – Convenient for snorkelling and glass-bottom boat rides.
- Near Laxmanpur Beach – Suitable for visitors interested in sunset views.
- Near Sitapur Beach – Preferred by travellers planning to watch the sunrise.
- Near Neil Kendra – Convenient for ferry arrivals, restaurants and local transport.
How to Reach Neil Island
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) is accessible only by ferry, as there is no airport on the island. Visitors usually travel from Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) or Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) using government-operated or private ferry services. Completing your ferry Booking in advance is recommended, particularly during the peak tourist season and long weekends, when ferry tickets may sell out quickly.
From Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram)
Regular ferry services operate between Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) and Neil Island throughout most of the year. The journey typically takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the ferry operator and service type.
From Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
Neil Island is also connected to Havelock Island by regular ferries. The journey usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, making it convenient for travellers following the popular island-hopping route.
Ferry Travel
Both government and private ferries operate on these routes. Government ferries are generally more economical, while private ferries often provide reserved seating, air-conditioned cabins and multiple daily departures during the tourist season.
During long weekends and the peak travel season, completing your Andaman Ferry Booking in advance is recommended, as ferry tickets may become fully booked several days before departure.
Best Time to Visit Neil Island
Neil Island can be visited throughout the year, but weather conditions influence ferry operations, outdoor activities and underwater visibility.
| Season | Weather | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| October – May | Pleasant weather and calmer seas | Sightseeing, beaches and water activities |
| June – September | Monsoon with occasional heavy rainfall | Fewer visitors and greener landscapes |
The period between October and March is generally considered the most favourable for visiting Neil Island. During these months, sea conditions are usually calmer, making ferry travel more reliable and improving visibility for snorkelling, scuba diving and glass-bottom boat rides.
Travellers visiting during the monsoon season should keep some flexibility in their itinerary, as ferry schedules and outdoor activities may be affected by weather conditions.
Suggested 1–2 Day Itinerary
Most visitors spend one or two days on Neil Island. Its compact size allows travellers to cover the major attractions without extensive travel.
One-Day Itinerary
| Time | Suggested Plan |
|---|---|
| Morning | Arrive by ferry • Visit Bharatpur Beach |
| Late Morning | Glass-bottom Boat Ride, Snorkelling, or Parasailing |
| Afternoon | Explore the Natural Bridge |
| Evening | Visit Laxmanpur Beach for sunset |
Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1
- Arrive on Neil Island
- Visit Bharatpur Beach
- Snorkelling or Glass-bottom Boat Ride
- Sunset at Laxmanpur Beach
Day 2
- Sunrise at Sitapur Beach
- Visit the Natural Bridge during low tide
- Explore the local market before departure
Travellers combining Neil Island with other destinations usually visit it between Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) and Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) as part of an island-hopping itinerary.
Estimated Travel Budget
The cost of visiting Neil Island depends on accommodation, ferry travel and optional activities. The following estimates provide a general idea for planning purposes.
| Expense | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Budget Hotel | ₹1,500–3,000 per night |
| Mid-range Hotel | ₹3,500–6,500 per night |
| Ferry Ticket | ₹1,200–2,500 per sector |
| Glass-bottom Boat Ride | ₹500–1,000 |
| Snorkelling | ₹800–2,000 |
| Scuba Diving | ₹3,500–6,500 |
Prices vary depending on the travel season, operator and availability.
Essential Travel Tips
- Carry sufficient cash, as digital payment facilities may not be available everywhere.
- Check ferry timings before planning the day's activities.
- Visit the Natural Bridge during low tide for easier access.
- Follow safety instructions provided by activity operators during water sports.
- Avoid touching or collecting corals and marine organisms.
- Carry sunscreen, drinking water and comfortable footwear while sightseeing.
- Help preserve the island by avoiding littering and using designated waste bins.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is Neil Island now called Shaheed Dweep?
The Government of India officially renamed Neil Island as Shaheed Dweep in December 2018 to honour the sacrifices of Indian freedom fighters. However, the name Neil Island continues to be widely used in tourism and ferry services.
2. How many days are enough for Neil Island?
Most travellers spend one to two days on Neil Island, which is sufficient to visit its major beaches, the Natural Bridge and enjoy marine activities.
3. What is Neil Island famous for?
Neil Island is known for the Natural Bridge, coral reefs, Bharatpur Beach, Laxmanpur Beach, Sitapur Beach and its peaceful island atmosphere.
4. How do I reach Neil Island?
Neil Island is accessible by government and private ferries operating from Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) and Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep).
5. Which beach is best for snorkelling?
Bharatpur Beach is the primary location for snorkelling because of its shallow coral reef areas and relatively calm waters.
6. Is Neil Island suitable for families?
Yes. Neil Island is suitable for families due to its short travel distances, relaxed atmosphere and activities such as glass-bottom boat rides and beach visits.
7. When is the best time to visit Neil Island?
The most favourable period is October to May, when sea conditions are generally calmer and outdoor activities operate more consistently.
8. Can I visit Neil Island as a day trip?
Yes. Many travellers visit Neil Island as a day trip from either Port Blair or Havelock Island, although an overnight stay provides more flexibility.
9. Are ATMs available on Neil Island?
A limited number of ATMs are available. Carrying sufficient cash is advisable, particularly during weekends and peak tourist periods.
10. Is Neil Island worth visiting?
Neil Island offers beaches, coral reefs, marine activities and natural attractions within a compact area, making it a popular destination for travellers exploring the Andaman Islands.
Conclusion
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) combines natural attractions, coral reefs and a relaxed island atmosphere within a compact destination that is easy to explore. With well-connected ferry services, short travel distances and a range of outdoor activities, it is an important stop for many visitors travelling through the Andaman Islands.
Whether you're interested in beaches, marine life, photography or simply experiencing a quieter side of the archipelago, Exploring Neil Island provides an opportunity to discover one of the Andaman Islands' most distinctive destinations.
