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Every few months, the Andaman Islands change pace. The peak season brings smoother travel conditions, while the shoulder months strike a balance between weather and affordability.
Choosing the best time to visit Andaman is not just about finding sunny days. The month you travel can decide whether you get calm seas for island hopping, better prices on stays, or fewer tourists at popular spots.
From the busiest tourist months to the quieter monsoon season, this month-by-month Andaman guide explains what to expect in Andaman throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit Andaman: Month-by-Month Comparison
|
Month |
Weather | Crowd Level |
Best For |
| January | Warm days, clear skies, and cool evenings (23°C – 30°C) | High | Sightseeing, beaches, island hopping, scuba diving & other water activities |
| February | Warm, sunny, and dry with clear skies (23°C – 31°C) | High | Sightseeing, island hopping, scuba diving, snorkelling & other watersports |
| March | Clear skies with warm and sunny days (23°C – 32°C) | Moderate – high | Sightseeing, watersports like scuba diving, snorkelling, & night kayaking |
| April | Hot, sunny days with clear skies and calm seas (27°C – 34°C) | Low – moderate | Scuba diving, watersports, & budget-friendly travel |
| May | Hot, humid with occasional showers (24°C – 33°C) | Low – moderate | Scuba diving, snorkelling, budget trips, & fewer crowds |
| June | Highly humid and the start of monsoon (22°C – 31°C) | Low | Budget travel, indoor sightseeing, & lush green scenery |
| July | Heavy rain, high humidity, and warm temperatures (22°C – 30°C) | Very low | Relaxed resort stays & off-season deals |
| August | Heavy rain and rough seas (22°C – 30°C) | Very low | Off-season deals |
| September | Occasional showers, warm temperatures, and high humidity (23°C – 31°C) | Low – moderate | Budget travel, greenery & indoor sightseeing |
| October | Pleasant and warm
(24°C – 30°C) |
Moderate | Scuba diving, water sports, sightseeing & lower crowds |
| November | Pleasant, warm, and dry (24°C – 30°C) | Moderate | First-time visitors, scuba diving and other water activities, island hopping, & sightseeing |
| December | Warm days, cool breezes, and clear skies (22°C – 30°C) | Very high | Scuba diving, water sports, & festive beach celebrations |
Best Time to Visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands by Season
The experience of visiting Andaman changes through the year. Compare the peak season, shoulder months and monsoon period to find out which window suits your plans best.
Peak Season (October to March)
October to March is considered the best time to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Rainfall is minimal, humidity becomes comfortable, and the sea remains calm enough for ferries and water sports to operate regularly.
Regular ferry services make it easy to go island-hopping between Port Blair, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) during these months. Scuba diving, snorkelling, sea walking, kayaking and glass-bottom boat rides all operate consistently, making this the most convenient season for first-time visitors.
Although this popularity comes with higher costs. Hotel rates are usually higher during Christmas, New Year and long weekends. Flights from major Indian cities like Chennai, Kolkata and Bengaluru often become expensive if booked late, especially between mid-December and early January.
Best suited for: First-time visitors, families, honeymooners, island hopping, sightseeing, water sports, and beach holidays
Shoulder Season (April and May)
April and May mark the transition towards the monsoon. Temperatures increase, but rainfall usually remains limited. For many travellers, this is an underrated period.
Early April provides calm seas and good conditions for scuba diving and snorkelling, with clear underwater visibility that attracts many diving enthusiasts. While afternoons become warmer, mornings remain suitable for sightseeing and beaches.
As May progresses, humidity rises, and pre-monsoon showers become more frequent. Changing sea conditions can occasionally affect water activities and ferry services, particularly towards the end of the month.
Hotels generally begin offering better rates compared with the previous months, although flight prices may remain relatively high around school holidays.
Best suited for: Scuba divers, snorkellers, couples, and travellers seeking lower prices than peak season
Monsoon Season (June to September)
Travelling during the monsoon requires flexibility. Heavy rain and rough seas affect ferry services between the islands, while water sports can be cancelled if sea conditions are unsafe.
That doesn’t mean Andaman completely shuts down. Port Blair continues functioning throughout this season, many hotels remain open, and indoor or local sightseeing is possible between showers.
This is also the period when accommodation prices are at their lowest, making it attractive for travellers who prioritise budget over perfect weather.
While planning a monsoon holiday in the Andaman Islands, avoid tightly packed itineraries and keep one or two extra days in case the weather affects your plans.
Best suited for: Budget travellers, travellers with flexible schedules, and people seeking quieter destinations
Best Time to Visit the Andaman & Nicobar Islands by Month
Each month in Andaman brings different weather conditions, crowd levels and travel costs. Use this month-by-month guide to choose the right time based on your priorities.
Andaman in January
January is one of the busiest months in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. January is marked by sunny days, low humidity and calm seas. Weather disruptions are rare, making it one of the most reliable months for exploring multiple islands.
Crowd level: High. The New Year holiday rush continues into the first half of January, with families, honeymooners and international visitors arriving in huge numbers.
Hotel prices: Among the highest of the year. Popular beachfront resorts often sell out quickly.
Flight prices: Expensive, especially during the first two weeks. It is best to book two to three months ahead for better fares.
Activities available:
Scuba diving and snorkelling, Island hopping, Glass-bottom boat rides, Sea walking, Kayaking through mangroves, Sunset cruises
January is a great month to visit Andaman and Nicobar if you’re looking for comfortable weather and want access to every major activity. Plan well ahead because accommodation and ferry tickets sell out quickly.
Andaman in February
Peak tourist season in Andaman continues through February, with calm seas, clear underwater visibility and some of the year’s most comfortable travel conditions.
Crowd level: High, but less crowded than January.
Hotel prices: Still relatively expensive, although some resorts introduce slightly better rates after the Republic Day period.
Flight prices: Lower than January but still above average.
Activities available
Scuba diving, Snorkelling, Island hopping, Parasailing, Sea walking
February combines pleasant weather without the New Year rush. It particularly suits couples, honeymooners and divers.
Andaman in March
March brings warmer afternoons, but sea conditions and water visibility remain good and favourable. March is also rewarding for travellers interested in marine life. If diving is your priority, this is one of the best months to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Crowd level: Moderate to high. Tourist numbers ease after the winter season.
Hotel prices: Slightly lower than February at many properties.
Flight prices: Moderate, except around long weekends.
Activities available
Scuba diving, Snorkelling, Sea kayaking, Island hopping, Dolphin spotting tours, Glass-bottom boat rides
With clear weather, fewer crowds than December through February and slightly lower prices, March provide a good balance of comfort and value.
Andaman in April
April is warmer than the previous months, but the sea remains calm during most of the month. Diving conditions continue to be good, while beaches become slightly quieter after the peak tourist season.
Crowd level: Low to moderate, with Indian summer holidays bringing more visitors towards the month’s end.
Hotel prices: Lower than from October to March, though popular resorts may see increased demand as school vacations approach.
Flight prices: Usually moderate, increasing towards the end of April.
Activities available
Scuba diving, Snorkelling, Swimming, Sea kayaking, Island hopping, Sunset cruises
April suits travellers who don’t mind warmer afternoons in exchange for quieter attractions. Early bookings are still recommended if you’re travelling during the school holidays.
Andaman in May
May marks the beginning of Andaman’s weather transition. The first half of the month still sees plenty of sunshine and relatively calm seas.
The second half of the month gradually becomes more unpredictable as the southwest monsoon approaches. Humidity rises, and short afternoon showers become more common.
Crowd level: Low to moderate. Visitor numbers begin to dip as the tourism season winds down, although family travel picks up during the school summer holidays.
Hotel prices: Rates are usually lower than during the main tourist season (October to March), although family resorts often remain busy in early May.
Flight prices: Flights can remain relatively expensive because of limited connectivity and continued family travel during the summer school holidays.
Activities available
Scuba diving, Snorkelling, Island hopping, Sea kayaking, Glass-bottom boat rides, Sunset cruises
The first half of May is usually better for island hopping and water sports. But if you are visiting later in May, keep a flexible itinerary in case weather conditions disrupt ferry schedules or outdoor activities.
Andaman in June
By June, the southwest monsoon has settled across the islands. Frequent rain, rougher seas and stronger winds begin affecting travel plans, especially those involving ferries and water sports. While the weather is less predictable, the islands become much quieter and more affordable.
Crowd level: Low. Fewer travellers visit Andaman and Nicobar in June as the monsoon begins.
Hotel prices: Among the lowest of the year, with many resorts offering attractive discounts.
Flight prices: Significantly lower than in the busy tourist season.
Activities available
Sightseeing in between showers, Beach walks (when weather is favourable), Museum visits, Lush landscape photography, Beach visits when weather permits
June suits budget travellers who don’t mind changing their plans around the weather. If you plan to visit during this month, keep one or two extra days in your itinerary in case ferry services are delayed because of rough seas.
Andaman in July
July falls in the middle of the monsoon season. Rainfall becomes more frequent, and rough seas continue to affect ferry schedules and outdoor activities. Many visitors skip this month, resulting in peaceful beaches and lower travel costs.
Crowd level: Very low.
Hotel prices: Great value, with some of the year’s lowest accommodation rates.
Flight prices: Generally very affordable.
Activities available
Sightseeing in Port Blair, Visiting museums and historical attractions, Relaxing at resorts, Nature photography
July is better suited to travellers looking for a quiet, budget-friendly holiday rather than a beach adventure. If island hopping and water sports are your priorities, another season would be a better choice.
Andaman in August
August continues the monsoon season, with regular rainfall and rough seas shaping travel plans across the islands. Although outdoor activities remain weather dependent, the islands look green after weeks of rain, giving the landscape a completely different appearance from the dry season.
Crowd level: Very low
Hotel prices: Budget-friendly, with discounted room rates available at many hotels and resorts.
Flight prices: Remain very affordable
Activities available
Port Blair sightseeing, Museums, Local markets, Photography, Short beach visits during clear weather
August works best for travellers prioritising lower travel costs over outdoor adventures. If you’re comfortable adjusting your plans around the weather, you’ll find quieter attractions and good accommodation deals.
Andaman in September
September marks the gradual end of the monsoon, with rainfall easing compared to July and August. Occasional showers, high humidity and rough sea conditions continue through much of the month, keeping tourist numbers low.
Crowd level: Low to moderate
Hotel prices: Many hotels continue offering competitive rates before the peak season begins.
Flight prices: Often remain reasonably priced until late September.
Activities available
Sightseeing, Beach walks, Photography, Island hopping (improves towards month end), Kayaking (available when conditions are safe), Limited snorkelling and diving as sea conditions stabilise
September is a good choice for travellers seeking fewer crowds and better hotel rates. Late September is a better option than early September if island hopping and water activities are part of your plans.
Andaman in October
With October, the main tourist season returns. Rainfall reduces sharply, seas become calmer, and most tourism activities resume across the islands.
Crowd level: Moderate early in the month, increasing steadily towards the end.
Hotel prices: Begin rising as demand returns.
Flight prices: Usually increase closer to festival periods such as Dussehra and Diwali.
Activities available
Scuba diving, Snorkelling, Island hopping, Sea kayaking, Glass-bottom boat rides, Sunset cruises
October is among the best months to visit Andaman if you want comfortable weather without the heavy crowds of the winter holidays. The second half of the month provides the most reliable travel conditions.
Andaman in November
November combines pleasant weather with relatively manageable tourist numbers, making it a great time to visit the Andaman and Nicobar islands. Calm seas, comfortable temperatures and good underwater visibility attract both beach lovers and scuba divers.
Crowd level: Moderately crowded compared to the Christmas and New Year period.
Hotel prices: Higher than average, with many beachfront resorts filling up quickly.
Flight prices: Fairly reasonable early in the month, with fares going up towards the end of November as tourist numbers pick up.
Activities available
Scuba diving, Snorkelling, Sea walking, Island hopping, Kayaking, Parasailing, Glass-bottom boat rides, Fishing trips, Beach photography
November is an excellent month for first-time visitors, honeymooners and scuba divers. Booking flights and accommodation a few months in advance is recommended.
Andaman in December
December brings some of the year’s most favourable weather and marks the beginning of the busiest travel time. Christmas and New Year holidays attract visitors from across India and around the world.
Crowd level: Very high, especially during the second half of the month.
Hotel prices: Prices are at their highest during the Christmas and New Year holiday period.
Flight prices: Flights become more expensive as the holiday season approaches. Booking several months in advance usually gives better fares.
Activities available
Scuba diving, Snorkelling, Island hopping, Sea walking, Kayaking, Parasailing, Glass-bottom boat rides, Sunset cruises, Sport fishing
December combines good weather conditions with full access to outdoor activities. Because visitor numbers are at their highest, it’s best to book flights, hotels and ferry tickets well in advance.
Conclusion
The right time to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands depends on what matters most to you. If island hopping and water sports top your list, plan between October and March. If you’d rather avoid crowds and don’t mind occasional showers, the shoulder months often come with better value.
Once you’ve decided when to visit, the next step is planning your route. Ferry schedules, hotel availability and popular activities can change throughout the year, so booking in advance often makes the trip far smoother.
If you are planning your Andaman trip, Dimaak Tours can help you put together an itinerary that matches your travel dates, interests and budget.
FAQs About the Best Time to Visit Andaman
1. Which is the best month to visit Andaman?
November, February and March are three of the best months that combine stable weather, calm seas, reliable ferry services and access to activities like scuba diving, snorkelling and island hopping. These months fall within the peak travel season but avoid the highest crowds and prices seen during the Christmas and New Year period.
2. What is the cheapest time to visit Andaman?
The cheapest time to visit Andaman is during the monsoon season from June to September. During this period, tourist numbers are lower, and many hotels provide discounted rates. But expect frequent rainfall, rough seas and possible ferry delays that affect outdoor activities and island transfers.
3. Which season is best for scuba diving in Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
The best season for scuba diving in Andaman is from October to April, when sea conditions are calmer and underwater visibility is good. March and April are especially suitable for divers looking for favourable conditions with fewer visitors.
4. Is December the best time to visit Andaman?
December is one of the best months to visit the Andaman Islands, with clear weather, calm seas and access to most water activities. But it is also one of the busiest and most expensive months due to Christmas and New Year holidays.
5. Which months should I avoid visiting Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
June to August are generally the least favourable months to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands. During these months, heavy rainfall, rough seas and changing weather can disrupt ferry services, island hopping and many water activities.
