It’s time to live your island life. For Indians, you have a unique advantage that allows you to experience this way of life sooner than others, as the Andaman is just 2.5 hours away by flight.
In Andaman, don’t just go somewhere randomly; you need to visit Neil Island. Honestly, it is a breath of fresh air compared to the busier spots like Havelock.
Neil Island, officially known as “Shaheed Dweep”, is a small island with an area of just 13.7 square kilometres. It might lack in size, but it makes up for it with its charm, quiet beauty, and there are also some of the best places to visit in Neil Island.
The island offers vibrant coral reefs for diving, as well as long, empty beaches where you can simply sit with a book to catch up on your reading or take a nap.
The water here is a clear blue, and the sand is soft and white. And this kind of untouched beauty is rare to find.
In the mornings, you will see fishermen having fun as they prepare to head out when the sun rises. This alone offers an excellent view into island life.
Overall, all the things you will get to do in Neil Island will give you soul satisfaction, and a day spent here will stay in your memory forever.
A Glimpse into What Living on Neil Island Would Be Like
The Island gives a slow-paced life experience. Time here slows down as soon as you hop off the ferry and land here. The villages are small, people are friendly, and nobody’s in a rush. This is a great way to eliminate stress from your life.
The best thing is, tourists don’t overrun the place. Basically, this island has all the things I love: Peace, Peace and Peace.
The island is known as the “vegetable bowl of Andaman” because there’s farmland everywhere. You can see rice paddies, banana groves, and loads of fresh produce.
You will have the perfect opportunity to look into the close life of farmers and learn a little bit about agriculture.
Most travellers choose to stay here for a night or two. However, if you love nature and crave a bit more calmness, you could stay much longer.
Get to Know Neil Island
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Top Places to Visit in Neil Island
Even with just 13.7 square kilometres, this island manages to have some of the best places you can go to.
This also makes it convenient, as most spots can be covered by renting a bicycle, scooter, or auto rickshaw. Now, let’s dive into the details on the best places to visit in Neil Island
Bharatpur Beach
Bharatpur Beach is nestled 500 metres from the Neil Island Jetty. This beach is a vibrant spot, and that’s why it is also referred to as the “water sports hub” of Neil.
| Neil Island Jetty
It is the entrance and exit for ferries and cruises visiting Neil Island. If you have to go elsewhere, you need to come to this Jetty. |
The shallow lagoon here is home to beautiful and colourful live corals. And they are just meters away from the shore. That means the snorkelling and glass-bottom rides are going to be awesome.
Best Time to Visit: 5:30 am to 7:00 am for sunrise. 9:00 am to 1:00 pm for snorkelling, with improved visibility and better water conditions.
Laxmanpur Beach
Laxmanpur Beach is 2 km away from the Neil Island Jetty. This beach is renowned for its stunning sunsets, and it can become quite crowded during this time.
If you want to witness one of the excellent sunsets, you need to walk for about 500 metres to the tip of the coastline.
There will be shops selling exceptional island items, such as pearl chains, shell-based items, and more cute little souvenirs.
Note: The water here is not ideal for swimming due to the presence of sharp corals, but it’s a great place to collect seashells and spot hermit crabs.
Best Time to Visit: 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM for sunset.
Ramnagar Beach
Located 3.5 km from the Neil Island jetty. It is quieter than the other two beaches and is loved by travellers who want solitude.
This beach is most loved for its surrounding lush green forests. And between December and March, you can see Turtle Nesting. It will be a rare chance to see them laying eggs, as well as you can observe the eggs and hatchlings.
Best Time to Visit: December and March to see turtle nesting.
Natural Bridge (Howrah Bridge)
Howrah Bridge has become one of Neil Island’s sightseeing places and an iconic landmark. It is located near Lakshmanpur Beach II, and tourists come to see the natural structure of the rocks.
These rock formations have been carved over the centuries by the erosive forces of land, wind, and waves. It is truly amazing to see intricate designs that form naturally.
During low tide, you can walk to the spot and see marine life like crabs, sea urchins, and small fish in the rocky pools.
Best Time to Visit: October and April, especially during low tides or when the bridge submerges during high tide
Sitapur Beach
Sitapur Beach is known as the “sunrise beach” of Neil Island and is 4 km from the jetty. This beach is surrounded by limestone cliffs and open sea, giving it a dramatic look.
The waves here are stronger, so swimming is not recommended; however, the scenery makes it a must-visit, one of the best places to visit in Neil Island.
And if you are an early riser, you will be rewarded with one of the best sunrises in the Andamans here at Sitapur Beach.
Best Time to Visit: 5:00 AM to 5:30 AM for the sunrise.
Neil Kendra Market
This is the main shopping spot in Neil Island. Visiting here offers a unique local experience, allowing you to meet many locals and observe their day-to-day lives.
You can also buy all the fresh produce that is naturally grown; the fruits and vegetables really taste good. You will even find fish that are the freshest catch of the day, often still lively at the market..
Then there are small stalls, where you can find souvenirs, and most of them are handmade items.
Best Time to Visit: The morning hours are ideal. And this is when fresh produce arrives.
The Best Things to Do in Neil Island
Neil Island may be small, and all you see are beaches. However, it offers experiences that strike a balance between adventure and relaxation. Unlike Havelock Island, activities on Neil Island are less crowded and more personal.
Fishing
Fishing in Neil Island is more than just a leisure activity. It gives a mix of patience, thrill, and the joy of catching a fish on your own. There is also game fishing, where this calming experience turns into a little adventure.
In Neil Island, it’s rich with tuna, barracuda, giant trevally, and even marlin. Even if you are a beginner with so many abundant fish, you will definitely be able to get a few fish, and it will be a rewarding experience.
Place: Go to Neil Jetty for fishing trips. From there, many boats head towards deeper channels and reefs around Neil and nearby islands.
Snorkelling
Snorkelling at Neil Island offers you tranquil and rich marine exploration. With clear waters and vibrant coral right near the shore, you can go for a quick underwater adventure. And, that too, you don’t need to know how to swim.
Where to Do Snorkelling in Neil Island?
- Bharatpur Beach: Just a few meters offshore, you will find vibrant coral gardens with parrotfish, butterflyfish, clownfish, and even soft corals.
- Laxmanpur Beach II: Explore reef flats near its unique rock formations. This place is excellent for spotting small marine life up close and ideal for guided, shallow snorkelling.
- Ramnagar Beach: A quieter spot with clear water, where turtles occasionally appear, and it’s not crowded, making it perfect for a snorkelling experience.
Glass-Bottom Boat Ride
A glass-bottom boat ride is one of the easiest yet most fun ways to explore the underwater world of Neil Island.
Instead of diving or participating in other Neil Island’s adventurous activities, here you can simply sit. So, sit back while the ocean reveals its secrets through clear water beneath your feet.
From corals shaped like fans and branches to colourful reef fish, it’s like watching a moving aquarium in its natural setting.
Where to Do a Glass-Bottom Boat Ride in Neil Island?
The rides are conducted mainly at Bharatpur Beach. It is the island’s hub for water activities. Boats depart straight from the beach, then take you to reef-rich spots, which are only a few minutes offshore.
Jet Skiing
If you want a lot of adrenaline, speed, and fun during your trip, Jet Skiing is the perfect activity to do in Neil Island. The ride is short but thrilling, with the salty breeze rushing against your face as you skim over turquoise waters, an experience that must be experienced in reality.
Unlike Havelock, Neil Island’s Jet Skiing routes are less crowded. It will give you space to ride freely. And, the water here is clearer and calmer, making it easy for first-timers.
Where to go Jet Skiing in Neil Island?
Jet Ski rides are available only at Bharatpur Beach, which is also known as the water sports capital. These ride areas are close to the shore, ensuring both safety and great views.
Scuba Diving
Neil Island is often called a diver’s hidden gem in the Andamans. Unlike the busier neighbour islands like Havelock, the waters here are quieter, making dives more personal and immersive.
Beneath the calm surface, the island hides coral slopes, rocky outcrops, and sandy patches where some of the Andaman’s most fascinating marine life thrives.
Suba Diving truly offers an awakening experience, providing a beautiful view into both your daily life and the underwater world.
Where to Go Scuba Diving in Neil Island?
Just go to these three places
- Jetty Channel: It’s for beginners, with a shallow reef close to Neil Jetty.
- Lighthouse Reef: Coral gardens full of butterflyfish and angelfish.
- Margherita’s Mischief: Advanced divers can head here, also known for dugongs and stingrays.
Stargazing Nights
Now it’s time to slow down and embrace a relaxed experience without disturbing your adrenaline. I want everyone to experience the Neil Island activities that are fulfilling.
Stargazing is one of the most magical experiences on the island. With hardly any streetlights, restaurants, or shops, the night sky here opens up like a giant dome filled with only stars.
Where to have Stargazing Nights in Neil Island?
The best places for stargazing are Lakshmanpur Beach and Sitapur Beach. Both these places are far from crowds and any artificial light.
The beach is stretched out on the sand with nothing but the sound of waves in the background, and you will have the perfect setting for a stargazing session. For couples, there are many romantic things to do in Neil Island, and it perfectly makes your honeymoon the best.
Note: For a clear sky view, you need to go between November and March. Especially on new moon nights, the stars shine brighter without moonlight interference.
Conclusion
When people say small things have a significant impact, Neil Island makes you believe that. With a small environment, you can enjoy the best things, such as leisure, pristine beaches, and unique activities, without feeling rushed.
From sunrise at Sitapur Beach to sunset at Lakshmanpur, and from Scuba Diving adventures, Neil Island is both simple and extraordinary.
Whether you are here for a short getaway or a relaxed vacation, the island ensures you return with lasting memories.
Even for a little while, if you have a thought of visiting Neil Island or anywhere in the Andaman Islands, you can contact us. At Dimaak Tours, we will help you plan your days there. From flights, hotels, sightseeing, activities, and guidance, as well as any tips, our team will help you through the process.
Frequently Asked Questions on Things to Do in Neil Island
How to go to Neil Island?
Neil Island is connected by ferry from Port Blair and Havelock, making the journey easy.
- Step 1: Land in Port Blair, which is the capital of the Andaman Islands, by flight.
- Step 2: From Port Blair, book a government ferry or a private cruise to Neil Island. The ride takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Step 3: If you are in the popular Havelock Island, you can take a direct ferry to Neil, which takes approximately 1 hour.
- Step 4: Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid last-minute unavailability.
What is Neil Island famous for?
Neil Island is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and dreamy atmosphere. This place is less commercial, making it a quiet destination for travellers who enjoy quiet and natural surroundings.
Are there any best places to visit in Neil Island?
The must-visit places include Bharatpur Beach, Laxmanpur Beach, Sitapur Beach, Natural Bridge, and Ramnagar Beach. Each of these places offers something unique, like sunsets, coral reefs, and rock formations.
How many days can you spend in Neil Island?
Two days and one night are perfect for covering sightseeing and enjoying activities at a relaxed pace. However, if you want to live the island life, I recommend staying longer if you have more days and a larger budget.
What is the best time you can visit Neil Island?
October to March is the ideal time. It’s when the weather is pleasant, the sea is calm, and visibility for diving and snorkelling is excellent.
Do you require a permit when you visit Neil Island?
If you are an Indian passport holder, you don’t need a permit. However, a foreign national must obtain the Andaman Restricted Area Permit (RAP), which is readily available at Port Blair airport or upon arrival by ship.
