Andaman Nicobar: Neil Island vs Havelock Island

1. Geography and Accessibility

Havelock Island

Located about 70 kilometers northeast of Port Blair, Havelock Island spans 113.93 square kilometers. Havelock Island is primarily for Radhanagar Beach which offers turquoise water and water adventures. A 90-minute ferryboat ride from Port Blair will take you to the island. Usually, 2-3 ferries operate every day, depending on the weather conditions. To explore the island conveniently and under budget, travelers can opt for cabs, buses, or two-wheelers. Offering birdwatching, fishing, and trekking trails, the island is a perfect base for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

Neil Island

Officially named Shaheed Dweep, Neil Island lies peacefully amidst the tropics, approximately 37 km northeast of Port Blair. In a total area of 13.7 square kilometers, Neil Island boasts of its exotic flora and inviting beaches of Bharatpur and Laxmanpur. You can reach the island via government or private ferries to and from Port Blair and Havelock Island. With scarcely any traffic, Neil Island offers an opportunity for nature walks, and relaxing bicycling experiences in idyllic settings, with exquisite views and abundant coral reef and marine life.

2. Accommodation and Amenities

Havelock Island

Quiet and relaxed ambiance on Neil Island, no other island in Andaman can match that. Here, the accommodations are simpler and cheaper, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. Guesthouses, eco-friendly cottages, and mid-range resorts are the top picks for travelers visiting Neil Island. Most lodgings on Neil Island are placed near peaceful beaches such as Sitapur and Laxmanpur, offering a close encounter with nature. People who love the raw and nature-immersed feeling can relax for a few days on Neil Island.

Neil Island

A favorite of many, Havelock Island features a wide range of accommodation options. From plush resorts to boutique hotels to eco huts, you can find all here. If you want to enjoy beach views right from your room, look for beachfront resorts near Radhanagar Beach and Kalapathar Beach. Most hotels have simple amenities like Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, room service, and dining. Resorts, while offering upgraded facilities provide diving and water-sport packages for adventurers. Vehicles like bicycles, scooters, or even taxis are available for rental at numerous hotels/resorts.

3. Activities and Experiences

Havelock Island

Havelock Island is a true paradise for adventures and peace-seekers alike. You can walk picturesque beaches namely, Radhanagar and Kalapathar, where you can enjoy water attractions such as sunbathing, swimming on the shore, and watching the sunset. Adrenaline seekers can venture into the deep waters to uncover the colorful marine life while indulging in scuba diving, sea walking, and snorkeling. Besides this, kayaking and paddleboarding are the other two watersport activities that remain a favorite of many. For nature lovers, trekking through the lush green forests offers a calm and peaceful time.

Neil Island

Neil Island is the best choice for those who seek peace of mind, and the calm and relaxed atmosphere of Neil Island. While visiting here, you can take a leisurely walk or cycle through villages and experience fabulous sunsets on Laxmanpur Beach. Although there are some water sports available, they are not as commercial as those found in Havelock. Its peaceful atmosphere is ideal for those who love to hike, take a leisurely walk, and enjoy birdwatching, far away from the noisy atmosphere of city life.

4. Natural Attractions and Beaches

Havelock Island

Havelock Island is famous for its untouched beaches, and Radhanagar Beach is an international favorite. It is often admired as one of Asia's finest beaches, luring visitors with its pearly sands and crystal clear waters. A nice beach day includes sunbathing, swimming, and watching the most beautiful sunsets. Elephant Beach is another place on the island that should be on your itinerary. It is famous for its colorful coral reefs and adventurous water sports. Visitors can also try water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking, thus making Havelock a place for adventure lovers and nature buffs alike.

Neil Island

Though smaller than Havelock, Neil Island is no less beautiful in terms of natural beauty. This island is full of peace and tranquility and the beaches are less crowded, namely Bharatpur, Laxmanpur, and Sitapur. Each beach has stretches of pristine powder-soft sands and transparent waters. Bharatpur Beach, a perfect spot for adventure seekers offers wonderful snorkeling experiences due to its shallow waters along with plenty of greenery. Additionally, Sitapur Beach is recognized for its marvelous sunsets. With an unmoved and untouched atmosphere, Neil Island is the perfect getaway to escape the touristic crowd of other islands.

 
Conclusion: 

If you are still thinking about the island to choose - and it's between Neil Island and Havelock Island - then maybe it's a good idea to visit both of them! The choice depends on what type of experience you are looking for, whether it is the lively but scenic Havelock or the peaceful and untouched Neil Beach.