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Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Islands)
Swaraj Dweep, formerly Havelock Island, is located north of Port Blair, accessible by a 1.5 to 2-hour ferry journey from the city.
The largest island of the Ritchie's Archipelago, Swaraj Dweep, remains one of the most visited Islands in Asia. An exhilarating blend of beaches and water activities, it is a picturesque natural haven with pristine white sandy beaches, abundant coral reefs and lush green forest.
The island is visited by all types of travellers as it is suitable for guests of all ages. Right from the honeymooners, youngsters, adventure travellers and kids, there are activities present here that are guaranteed to keep everyone engaged.
What makes this island extraordinary is that it is home to the stunning Beach No. 7, Radhanagar Beach, which comes under the best beaches in India and the World and gives access to the most amazing sunset view. The island also has the famous Elephant Beach, which is where all the water sports activities take place, and the beautiful Kalapathar Beach, which showcases different colours of the ocean and is also the best sunrise viewpoint of the islands.
Swaraj Dweep has several properties offering accommodations to tourists. You can choose the hotels as per your budget. There are varied categories of hotels, starting from pocket-friendly economy hotels to fancy luxury and elite hotels. Most of them are beachside resorts or have private beaches. Whereas some properties have swimming pool facilities, and a few of them have both pools and beaches.
Places to Visit in Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
Radhanagar Beach
The best beach in the entire Andaman Islands and ranked the 7th best beach in Asia in 2004, it lies on the western coast of Swaraj Dweep and is away from the city’s noise, which makes it a calm and quiet place. The white sand beach lingering across the thick trees and bluish-green waters offers a blissful view. The stunning waters allure people into visiting this beach.
Elephant Beach
This stunning beach is situated in Swaraj Dweep, and it is the most visited beach in the Andaman Archipelago. Once upon a time, there were elephants on the islands. They were spotted roaming around on the shores of the beach, which is how the beach got its name. Surrounded by coconut and palm trees and sugary white sands, the blue water beach attracts tourists in large numbers annually. The beach is very famous for the variety of untouched corals and a rich marine life with diverse species. The Elephant beach can be reached in two ways, one way is by taking a boat from the Havelock Island jetty to the beach, and the other is by trek. Most people prefer a boat ride to Elephant Beach. The various activities that can be done here are Sea Walking, Snorkelling, Glass Bottom Boat ride and Jet Ski ride.
Kalapathar Beach
A small picturesque beach in the Kalapathar Village, it is a beautiful beach with silky golden sands, blue waters, and lush green trees around. This beach is not a very popular destination and is secluded most of the time because there are no water sports activities that are available. The way towards the beach is a very beautiful one; you can catch glimpses of the stunning coastline. The beach is just by its name, numerous black rocks are present inside the water and on the shore as well. You can take tiny strolls or long walks along the shore and enjoy the marvellous view of the beach.
Kalapathar Beach Trek: A Scenic Coastal Trail
The Kalapathar Beach Trek on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) offers a serene, offbeat experience. Named for its distinctive black rocks, the beach boasts turquoise waters and golden sands. This easy coastal trek, ideal for all skill levels, winds through tropical jungle, villages, and coconut groves, providing stunning Andaman Sea views and a connection to local life. Perfect for early mornings or late afternoons, it requires no special gear. The reward is a tranquil beach, less crowded than Radhanagar, ideal for relaxation and photography. A perfect blend of light adventure and natural beauty, this trek is a must-do offbeat activity in Andaman.
Neil’s Cove: Hidden Snorkelling Paradise Near Radhanagar Beach
Just a 10-minute walk from Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) lies Neil's Cove, a secluded paradise. This serene cove, nestled amidst lush tropical forests, boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming or snorkelling. Renowned for its vibrant marine life and coral reefs, Neil's Cove is an exceptional snorkelling spot for all skill levels. Explore an underwater world teeming with colourful fish and unique sea creatures, an experience that will truly mesmerise you. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, including this hidden gem in your Havelock Island itinerary promises an unforgettable blend of tranquillity and thrill for any traveller.
Andaman Forest & Beach Camping: A Unique Wilderness Experience
Havelock Island, officially Swaraj Dweep and part of Ritchie's Archipelago, is a prime Andaman destination known for its stunning beaches, tropical forests, and water sports. Beyond these, it offers a unique opportunity for forest and beach camping, perfect for nature lovers seeking an untouched experience. Imagine spending nights under the stars, serenaded by ocean sounds and rustling palms, far from city life. This eco-friendly camping, with minimal restrictions, provides a relaxed yet immersive adventure, making it a memorable, must-do activity for friends and couples alike. Add camping to your Andaman itinerary for an offbeat escape blending serenity, thrill, and raw natural beauty.
Elephant Beach Trekking Trip:Â Adventure Through the Heart the Island
Elephant Beach is a premier destination for both stunning tropical scenery and exhilarating water sports in the Andaman. While accessible by ferry, adventure seekers can opt for a scenic jungle trek to the beach. This rewarding 30-45 minute hike, ideal for beginners and nature enthusiasts, winds through dense tropical forests and lush mangroves, showcasing vibrant flora and fauna. Local guides are available, though independent trekking is also feasible. Upon arrival, you'll find crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for snorkelling, sea walking, and other adventure water activities. This experience perfectly blends trekking and beach fun, offering adrenaline and tranquillity in one of India's most picturesque island destinations. This beach trek is a must-do on your Havelock Island itinerary, promising unforgettable memories for all travellers.
Vijay Nagar Beach: Tranquil Seaside Escape
Also known as Beach Number 5, Vijay Nagar Beach is a serene, lesser-known gem in the Andaman Islands. Perfect for escaping crowds, this beach offers sapphire blue waters, pearl-white sands, and swaying Mahua and palm trees, making it ideal for romantic couples, honeymooners, and families seeking relaxation. Its laid-back charm, calm, shallow waters, and untouched beauty provide a perfect setting for a peaceful getaway. If you're looking for one of the best secluded and romantic beaches in Havelock Island, Vijay Nagar Beach promises serenity, scenic views, and timeless island vibes.
Govind Nagar Beach: Scuba Diving Hotspot & Coastal Serenity
Govind Nagar Beach, located near Havelock Jetty, is a popular destination, particularly as a scuba diving hub. It's home to the famous Nemo Reef, a vibrant diving and snorkelling site rich in marine life and corals. This beach offers clear, shallow waters perfect for diving, snorkelling, swimming, and seaside walks. The Andaman Islands' unique underwater topography, with its reefs and lagoons, creates an extraordinary setting for exploration. At Govind Nagar Beach, you can easily wade into the cobalt blue waters to spot thriving coral colonies and diverse marine species, making for an authentic scuba diving experience in Andaman. Whether you're an avid diver or simply seeking tropical calm, this beach promises a perfect blend of underwater adventure and relaxation. It's a must-visit for your Havelock Island itinerary.
Nemo Reef: The Best Beginner-Friendly Scuba Diving Spot
Nemo Reef is a premier scuba diving site in the Andaman Islands, especially for beginners. Its calm, shallow waters (1-3 meters deep), minimal currents, and excellent visibility make it perfect for introductory dives and training. Resembling a natural swimming pool with white sandy bottoms and coral outcrops, it offers a safe environment to learn. The reef teems with vibrant marine life, including damsel fish, humphead parrotfish, and juvenile species from nearby mangroves. As one of the most accessible and beginner-friendly dive sites in Havelock, Nemo Reef provides a safe, magical introduction to the Andaman Sea's underwater world, blending tranquillity, vibrant sea life, and ideal training conditions.
Mangrove Forest: A Natural Wonder
A visit to the Mangrove Forest is essential for anyone exploring the natural beauty. This breathtaking ecological treasure, lush year-round, is a haven for migratory birds and aquatic species, making it a premier birdwatching spot. Wildlife photographers will especially love spotting colourful birds nesting and fishing. This peaceful forest is vital for coastal protection and marine biodiversity. An immersive mangrove kayaking tour or nature walk is the best way to explore this enchanting ecosystem. For a hassle-free trip, especially during peak season, book your travel arrangements in advance with trusted local experts like Andaman Island Travels. Add the Mangrove Forest to your itinerary to experience the Andamans' raw, untouched beauty.
Inglis Island:Â Untouched Tropical Paradise
Just a short boat ride from Havelock Island, Inglis Island is a pristine, secluded gem in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, perfect for those seeking tranquillity and raw natural beauty away from commercial tourism. Surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and calm blue lagoons, it's ideal for snorkelling, beach picnics, and private boat excursions, offering close-up views of marine life. This untouched paradise, popular with honeymooners and adventure seekers, boasts unspoiled white-sand beaches and lush greenery, perfect for relaxation and panoramic views. Most visitors reach Inglis Island via private speed boats or island-hopping tours from Havelock Jetty. Remember to carry essentials, as there are no shops. A day trip to Inglis Island promises an ideal blend of adventure, isolation, and natural charm, embodying the best of the islands.
Barren Island: India’s Only Active Volcano
Barren Island, situated approximately 140 km northeast of Port Blair and 70 km from Havelock Island, houses India's only active volcano, a rare geological marvel in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Its name reflects its uninhabited, barren landscape, yet its smoking caldera, black sand beaches, and surreal volcanic scenery offer a fascinating sight. While landing is restricted, visitors can explore via chartered boat tours and scuba diving liveaboards, viewing it from a safe distance. The surrounding waters are world-class diving spots, boasting rich marine biodiversity, lava-formed reefs, large pelagic species, and exceptional visibility. A Barren Island volcano tour offers a unique blend of thrill, mystery, and natural wonder for adventure seekers, geology enthusiasts, and photographers alike in the remote sea.
Things to Do in Havelock Island
Scuba Diving
If you are someone who wants to explore the underwater marvel, then scuba diving. You will get to explore the beautiful corals and the colourful fish and other aquatic creatures of the sea around you.
Water Sports
All the water sports activities can be done at Elephant Beach. Activities present are sea walking, parasailing, snorkelling, kayaking, and glass bottom boat ride.
Kayaking
Kayaking through Havelock Island's mangroves is a popular, unique experience. Unlike diving or snorkelling, it offers a peaceful exploration of the ecosystem in single or double kayaks, guided by a professional for 1 hour.
Trekking
Apart from taking a boat to Elephant Beach, one may also try trekking through the woods. It is about 1.6 km in distance and surrounded by tall trees, where you can spot reptiles and birds moving around as you trek to the beach. It is a wonderful experience to trek to the beach on a path that is secluded and hardly taken.
Candlelight Dinner
The essence of a candlelight dinner for couples & families differs from each other. Though Andaman has a plethora of sites for the perfect candlelight dinner to choose from, however, we have handpicked some of the best places for your candlelight dinner to make it even more romantic.