Andaman Islands · Elephant Beach & Local Ferry Rides & Homemade Fish Curry
Andaman Islands: Undiscovered Bliss
I rode a local ferry, snorkeled at Elephant Beach, and met the man who runs the best fish curry in Havelock.
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Elena Vasquez
Latin America & Asia Travel Blogger
I arrived at Port Blair's airport with nothing but a backpack and a sense of adventure, the salty breeze already telling me I was somewhere special.
The auto-rickshaw ride to my guesthouse on Corbyn's Cave Road was chaotic but exhilarating. Mr. Gupta, the owner of Ocean View Guesthouse, greeted me with a warm smile and a tip: 'For the best fish curry, visit the man who sells it from his boat at 6am.'
The Allure of Untouched Paradise
Andaman's charm lies in its untouched beauty and laid-back vibe, a far cry from the bustling mainland.
I learned that the islands were once a British penal colony, which explains the colonial architecture and the laid-back British influence still evident today. But what really struck me was the local tradition of 'Jal Jeera' — a refreshing drink made from cucumber, mint, and a dash of lime, served chilled.
Something I wish I'd known before arriving
Take a local ferry ride from Port Blair to Havelock Island at dawn — it's a magical experience that you won't find in guidebooks.
The ferry ride at dawn was like stepping into a dream, the sky painted in shades of pink and gold.
A Culinary Journey Through Havelock
From street food to fine dining, Havelock offers a taste of the Andamans that's hard to resist.
I found the best fish curry at a small boat in the Havelock Island harbour, run by an old fisherman named Ravi. His spicy fish curry, served with fresh coconut chutney, cost just ₹100 and was the most delicious meal I had all trip. I also tried the local delicacy, 'Kadi Chaat', at the market for ₹50 — a tangy, spicy snack that's a local favourite.
One thing that surprised me was the prevalence of seafood — almost every meal I had was seafood-based, a testament to the islands' rich marine life. But the best part? The prices were incredibly affordable, with most dishes costing between ₹100 and ₹200.
What I didn't expect — and wish someone had told me
The water in the islands is not drinkable unless boiled or filtered. I got sick the first day and learned the hard way to always carry a bottle of water or buy it from the many stalls around.
The vibrant market at Havelock was a sensory overload, but the food stalls were my favourite part.
Navigating the Andamans: Tips and Tricks
Getting around the islands is a unique experience in itself.
I flew from Port Blair to Havelock Island for ₹7,000, a 45-minute flight that saved me a long ferry ride. Getting around Havelock was a mix of renting a scooter for ₹300/day and taking local ferries. My stay at Ocean View Guesthouse was perfect — clean, affordable, and with a great view of the sea.
Where I'd stay next time (and why)
- 01Budget (₹500–₹1,000/night): Havelock Island Guesthouse — Affordable and centrally located.
- 02Mid-range (₹1,500–₹3,000/night): Barefoot at Havelock — Stunning sea views and great service.
- 03Splurge (₹3,500+/night): Sea Shell Resort — Overwater bungalows with a private beach.
How to book getting there (and what I'd do differently)
Book your flights at least 2 months in advance to get the best rates. Indigo Airlines from Kolkata to Port Blair was my choice, costing ₹7,000 and taking 2 hours.
Reflecting on My Andaman Adventure
Leaving the Andamans felt like leaving a piece of paradise behind.
My last day was spent at Elephant Beach, snorkelling with colourful fish and turtles. The sunset over the beach was a moment of pure bliss. I left with a heart full of memories and a promise to return.
How many days do I actually need in Andaman Islands?
A minimum of 5 days is enough to explore the main attractions, but 7 days is ideal to relax and fully immerse yourself in the island life.
Is Andaman Islands good for solo travellers?
Absolutely. The islands are safe, the people are friendly, and there are plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travellers. Just be mindful of the water quality and always carry a bottle of water.
What I packed that actually mattered
Quick-dry towel
for beach days and snorkelling
Waterproof camera
to capture the stunning landscapes
Reusable water bottle
for drinking water, always boil or filter
Sunscreen
SPF 50, Andaman's sun is strong
Insect repellent
for those warm nights
Portable charger
to keep your devices charged on the go
Lightweight raincoat
for unexpected showers
Binoculars
for bird watching and sea views
'Always carry water, even if you don't drink it.' — Ravi, fisherman, Havelock Island
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