Havelock is a picturesque natural paradise with beautiful white sandy beaches, rich coral reefs and lush green forest. It is one of the populated islands in the Andaman group with an area of 113 sq. km. and is located 39 km of north-east of Port Blair. This island, with beautiful sandy beaches fringed with green canopy of the rain-fed forests beckons everyone to enjoy the frolic and fun at the azure sea.
How to reach:-
By Air:- It is the most exciting way to travel, because the tourism department recently introduced a sea-plane to transport tourists to Havelock. The plane can take only 8 people at a time which makes two trips a day. It takes off from Port Blair on land and lands on the waters of Havelock. The plane ride offers a spectacular aerial view of the island and the sea as it flies low enough to catch a good view and does not travel too fast. The whole journey is about half an hour and worth every second.
By Sea:- Government ferries run by the Directorate of Shipping Services connect Phoenix Bay jetty, Port Blair to Havelock daily. Private luxury boats Makruzz operated by M/s Mak Logistics, Port Blair & Coastal Cruise operated by M/s Coastal Seaways India Pvt. Ltd., Green Ocean, Bhagya Express ferry tourists to Havelock daily. At Havelock auto rickshaws, taxis, buses, motorbikes are available for transport within the island. The STS Department has introduced the services of two AC Deluxe bus at Havelock Island for the benefit of tourist and local public.
Things to do:-
Beach-combing, sunbathing, scuba diving, sea-walk, snorkeling, water sports, surf riding, swimming, game fishing, watching the sunset or sunrise, elephant ride, bird-watching, trekking, sailing, kayaking and many more.
Places to visit:-
Radhanagar Beach:- Radhanagar Beach, also known as beach #7, is the most beautiful beach of Havelock Island. The beach is located at a distance of 7 km from Dolphin Yatri Niwas. Radhanagar beach is rated as Asia’s best beach and has also positioned itself in world’s top ten beaches. It is known to be one of the best places for nature lovers as it offers a wide range of flora and fauna. In addition, tourists travelling to the beach can enjoy activities like snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving and swimming. Elephant rides along with beautiful views of sunsets can also be enjoyed at this beach.
Elephant Beach:- Elephant Beach, located at a distance of around 10 km from the market, is one of the most popular beaches in Havelock Island for day trips. Reaching this beach is a hassle free affair as it is accessible either by 30 minutes hike on a jungle path or by opting for one hour boat ride. Known for its beautiful corals and exotic marine life, this beach is ideal for snorkeling. The shoreline of the Elephant Beach was largely swept by the Tsunami that occurred in 2004. At present, the existing beach is a fraction of what it used to be.
Vijay Nagar Beach:- This peaceful white-sand beach features shady palm trees, swimming, sunbathing & picnicking.
Sea Link Adventures-Sea walk:- Adventure outfit offering scuba tours amid vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful sea life.
Neils Cove:- Northwest of Radhanagar is the gorgeous ‘lagoon’ at Neils Cove, a gem of sheltered sand and crystalline water. Swimming is prohibited at dusk and dawn; take heed of any warnings regarding crocodiles.
Best time to visit:-
The best time to visit Havelock Island is between the months of October and April. October to February is the winter season, and many honeymooners like to visit the island during this time. The temperature ranges between 15 ⁰C and 34 ⁰C during these months.