Radhanagar Beach in Havelock Island (2021 Guide)

In 2004, Radhanagar beach was declared “Asia’s Most Beautiful” by Time magazine.

The write-up quotes:

“Along with the Iles du Desappointement near Tahiti, Beaches No. 5 and No. 7, Havelock Island, the Andamans, boast two of the least alluring names of any shoreline on the planet…. Havelock Island is largely untouched by humankind too – visited by a mere 10,000 tourists a year (compared with the millions swarming Phuket across the water). That means plenty of room on the beach for everyone.”

Since then, Havelock (and especially Radhanagar) has become a popular destination for tourists owing to the favorable reviews from travelers who are attracted to this beautiful gem in the Andamans. The increasing popularity of Radhanagar beach have caused many modern shops and restaurants to open up while also providing locals with jobs as tour guides or hotel staff members.

Radhanagar – A gem in the Andaman

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Radhanagar Beach in Andaman is a location famous for its natural beauty. The place is much sought after by travelers from all walks of life. It is a perfect destination for those looking to experience some of the world’s most beautiful natural wonders, as well as enjoy all that India has to offer. The place has positioned itself as a preferred tourist destination and has got a major chunk of tourists attracted towards it from all across the country and abroad.

Despite the fact that these islands are rather remote, they have been able to attract an ever-increasing number of tourists from all parts. This is due in part to their unique attractions and offerings like diving. The place offers something for visitors across a variety of age groups. The newer initiatives such as dive tourism also make this area more attractive than it might otherwise be – there’s always plenty going on!

If you are looking for a beautiful place to visit in India, you can come to Radhanagar Beach to satisfy your wanderlust. Located in the Richet archipelago, this island with its sandy beaches is just waiting to be explored during any time of the year! 🙂

Where is Radhanagar Beach located?

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For centuries, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India have been shrouded in mystery. This has to do with their remoteness as well as accessibility which is why these islands are called “the emerald necklace” for its long string-like shape that reaches from north to south through 800 km worth of rocks on an arc over a 8250 sq km geographical area at sea.

You can choose from a number of different ways to reach Radhanagar Beach. You could hop on the ferry and make your way there, or take one of many private cruises. If you are looking for something faster than an airplane but not quite as expensive as a helicopter service, then I would recommend trying out ferries for sure! They’re cheap and easy to book. Just be sure that if you want tickets in advance (and who doesn’t?), book them online so they’re guaranteed before hand.

I used the services of a Private ferry operator called Markuzz to reach Havelock from Port Blair. But the options are plenty – Green Ocean, Sea Link and ITT Majestic are popular ferry operators on this route. It is important to bear in mind that the schedule of these ferries and even the helicopter service is contingent on the weather conditions. The best time to visit is between October and May, because the weather is stable during this time.

Flights to Portblair

Port Blair is the starting point for journey for many travelers. You check the flights to Veer Savarkar International Airport on Skyscanner below:

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How to reach Radhanagar beach from Port Blair

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Havelock Island is easily reached from Port Blair by ferries and luxury cruise ships which also offer cheaper ticket rates when booked beforehand through their respective websites or agents depending upon availability at time of booking.

Radhanagar beach is about 10 kilometers away from the Havelock Jetty, which marks the beginning point for those who travel to this picturesque destination in Andaman Islands. Upon arrival at Havelock Jetty you have many options: take a rickshaw or cab towards Radhanagar Beach; rent out a scooter that will allow free movement around town while providing scenic views on your journey back into nature (you could also opt for biking); walk if it’s not too far!

You can find more information related to booking ferries in Andaman here:

https://www.go2andaman.com/government-ferry-andaman/

Moving Around

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Writing a blog for the tourist, I have to point out that renting a vehicle is not only more expensive than using an hourly local bus service but much less convenient. There are many villages on Havelock Island and each one provides unique experiences of life in rural areas of India. Public buses or rented scooters are a good way of exploring them.

Check out more about booking bikes in Andaman here:

https://www.eternalandamans.com/bike-rentals-in-andaman

Best time to visit

In summertime (March-May) temperatures don’t get too hot so it’s perfect for water sports enthusiasts who love diving and frolicking into those crystal clear waters. If you prefer cooler climates then head over between September – October because that’s when things start cooling down as well as getting darker earlier which means more chances at seeing some stars out there!

Havelock Island has something new around every corner if you’re willing to explore it.

You may be looking at the tropical islands of Havelock Island, but with its ever-changing scenery you will always have something new to enjoy. From deep diving on scorching hot days in summer months and a night sky full of stars for those who love gazing into it from October through December, there is no time not perfect!

The monsoon season is typically avoided by tourists due to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, but this can be seen as a blessing in disguise! The lack of tourist flow during these months means that hotels are at their all-time low price. If you don’t mind the rains too much, then June – September might just be your new favorite time for vacationing on Havelock Islands! 😉

The most crowded season at the Island is during the winter (October to February). The temperature ranges from 35 to 15 degree Celsius and most people plan their Andaman trip during this time of the year.

Accolades for Radhanagar Beach

Do you know that Radhanagar Beach was named as the “Best Beach in Asia” 2004 by Time Magazine? And to top it up, it even bagged the eco-label of blue flag certification in 2020. (A‘Blue Flag’ certification is awarded by a famous Denmark-based non-profit Foundation and a beach must meet strict environmental, safety and access criteria to earn this label.) I believe this is a great achievement because in the age of growing awareness towards sustainable development, tourists’ preferences are shifting towards more eco-friendly travelling. A Blue Flag beach like Radhanagar serves as an eco-tourism model, providing the tourists a clean, safe, and healthy way to experience the joys of nature.  

These islands have been designated as UNESCO Biosphere Reserves- providing protection status towards their precious ecosystem while also ensuring sustainable development opportunities such as eco-tourism ventures by local communities who’ve learned how live harmoniously with nature on this stunning paradise archipelago which continue benefiting from tourism revenue generation.

Radhanagar Beach has earned reputation as one of India’s cleanest regions due to an extensive recycling program.

Other Essential Info about Radhanagar Beach

dream vacation

Mobile Connectivity

Mobile devices these days allow travelers peace-of-mind as well as access to modern conveniences such as social media updates about what loved ones back home might be up too. It’s hard to imagine how difficult it was before mobile phones were invented. Travelers would have no way of letting their friends and family know where they are, or in the unfortunate event that something happens while in a remote area like Radhanagar Beach, there is little hope for an emergency call unless you’re lucky enough to find someone with service who can lend phone privileges.

The biggest question of people visiting Andaman is about network coverage; though mobile phones come in handy and you can still use it for calling, it is not always reliable because there might not be enough cell towers around giving out networking services!

Best Network Operators

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Though you get weak signals on some part of the island, there are some limitations. For instance, you can’t get phone coverage on very remote parts which is why tourists often carry satellite calling cards with them for emergencies or to call back home when WiFi isn’t available.

You may not be able to catch a 2G signal, but 3/4G signals are often available in most hotels and cafes. The Wi-Fi connection is usually unreliable though so make sure you have your own data plan before entering Andaman!

In Port Blair the best networks are Airtel and Vodafone while BSNL does an admirable job of making and receiving calls well enough for most people’s needs. I read an article on the web that talked about High-speed broadband connectivity to help Andaman & Nicobar connect with other parts of country. While this is good thing in terms of development, we also have to ensure that rampant unregulated tourism do not disturb the ecology of this place.

Medical Facilities

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If you find yourself in Port Blair, India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands this summer, forget that pesky travel insurance. There is no need for it because healthcare on the islands is completely free of charge! The two hospitals found here offer a wide variety of services from basic check ups to surgeries plus they have certain amenities like CT Scans and USG machines which are not available anywhere else in mainland India.

Healthcare in Radhanagar Beach (and in Andaman and Nicobar Islands in general) is unlike that of mainland India. With free facilities, there are two hospitals on Port Blair Island and one PCH Unit in Havelock Island with basic medical services available.

Telemedicine facility in Radhanagar Beach

With internet speeds improving in Andaman, Telemedicine has really taken off. This facility enables the Doctors of Andaman and Nicobar Islands to directly interact with the Super Specialists without sending the patient to mainland thereby saving time, energy and money.

Know more about telemedical facility in Andaman using the below link:

https://dhs.andaman.gov.in/Telemedicine.aspx

Activities to do

Radhanagar Beach is a two kilometer long stretch, perfect for scuba diving. The best experiences lie in the pristine white sand and crystal clear waters here. If you are looking for your next water adventure make sure to head down to some unexplored beaches on the island Island ! Make sure that on your stroll along there you take some time out of purest form peace by taking a momentary break from laying back and soaking up fiery sunset while feeling blood pumping with radiance all around as it reflects off blue surface onto untouched nature at tropical Andaman Islands !

Diving and Snorkelling at Radhanagar Beach

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Apart from being an oasis of beauty and relaxation, Radhanagar Beach offers some of the best diving spots in all of Andaman!

The most notable feature that makes these islands so attractive is their dive tourism industry; it’s one that offers unparalleled experiences for both divers and observers alike, thanks to untouched marine environments like coral reefs.

Places to eat near Radhanagar Beach

Radhanagar Beach is a laid-back, seafood spot with plenty of local flavours and international dishes for any palate. The restaurants near Radhanagar serve all kinds of food, and you can enjoy foods from all over the world including pizza! The place boasts an extensive menu that caters to every taste. For instance, if you’re craving some Irish cuisine like traditional pub fare or fish ‘n’ chips then come on down–the bar has something just as satisfying too (like fresh shakes)!

Biodiversity at Radhanagar beach

Radhanagar Beach is one of the many island in the Andaman. The Andaman Islands are basically a collection of 572 islands in the Bay of Bengal, which has managed to attract tourists from all walks of life due its unique attractions and beautiful natural environment.

The saltwater crocodile is a common species throughout the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It can be encountered in open sea, near the shore, mangrove creeks, freshwater rivers and in swamps. Crocodile attacks on humans and livestock have been reported since the early 1970s in the islands. Possible reasons for crocodile attack on humans include defending individual territories, attractive food sources such as livestock and other domestic animals, and dumping of high-protein waste food materials on banks or beach areas

Other flora and fauna

Researchers recently observed larval Indian Bullfrogs scavenging a presumably drowned Indian Tiger Centipede in a shallow cement trough where water had collected on Radhanagar Beach, Swaraj Dweep, Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The reef near Radhanagar beach was also found to be infested by a marine worm called bristle worm.

If you want to know how biodiversity at Andaman is coming under threat, you can read the below article.

https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/newsindia/experts-fear-biodiversity-loss-in-andaman-nicobar-islands/ar-AAKxHZN

Where to Stay

The Andaman Islands are home to some of the best resorts in Asia. With spas, restaurants and pools on site, these hotels offer everything you need for a dream vacation. If luxury is your thing then look no further than Taj Exotica Resort with its world-class service including two 5 star spa facilities; or if it’s romance that floats your boat head over to Wild Orchid Resort where newlyweds can take part in their honeymoon package while enjoying daily massages at one of the 4 different massage suites offered here! 😉

Backpacking and Budget travel

Backpacking is a great way to see more of where you are going, and there are option for budget stay for backpackers too. In fact, I was able to find a beach hut here for as low as 500 bucks two years ago !

All around the world, people are traveling more than ever before, and more and more accommodation options are cropping up to provide affordable stay to for digital nomads nomadic lifestyles and the like. Such places allow travelers to explore new cultures without breaking their wallets.

Minimum Duration for Visiting Radhanagar Beach

With so many activities to choose from, you need at least 6-7 hours to take it all in! I recommend spending your day would be getting brunch and then heading straight for those water sports before taking some time off just lounging on the beach or readying up an awesome suntan. And don’t forget about that magnificent sunset sky – get there early enough not only to enjoy yourself but also catch one last glimpse as well!

Do’s and Donts at Radhanagar Beach

#1. Avoid littering

It is not uncommon for tourists to be astounded by the beaches of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. However, some are left aghast at what they see as well-intentioned beachgoers littering with drinks cups, food wrappers and plastic pollution. The waterways that run through these low-lying islands make it difficult if not impossible to clean up all this trash in time before it washes out into the ocean where its effects will last decades or more.

After finding out where is Radhanagar Beach no 7, when you come here, there are few things that you should always keep in mind. These islands are some of the most fragile ecosystems on the planet, and being a responsible tourist is very important. When you are in Radhanagar Beach, you should not only avoid littering the beach with plastics but also discourage and confront other tourists who do so. It is our responsibility to keep this beach clean and pristine, so that we can relish this treasure of earth for generations to come.

#2. Be polite with the locals

The locals are a great source of knowledge about the culture and customs. They may not speak English, but they will appreciate your effort to learn their language as well as theirs!

A fantastic way to make friends with natives is by being polite. Most people in this region can’t understand any other languages besides their native tongue, so it’s imperative for you to be patient when interacting them. You will find a large number of “Bangla speaking immigrants here”.

#3. Be aware of crocodiles

Avoid swimming at the end of the island because there could be salt water crocodiles. Always follow the beach guidelines and stick close to the coast guards.

#4. Support ecotourism

The region is a dream destination for ecologically woke travelers.

Radhanagar beach is a beautiful place with many different countries and cultures. With the development of ˜ecotourism’ initiatives in Andaman, tourists are able to travel to these islands and enjoy to their fullest while leaving minimal environmental footprint. Whether it’s eco-adventures into nature like wildlife spotting tours or photography workshops at local art galleries, travelers can find something they’re interested in during their trip that will make it more memorable than just spending time by themselves back home! While the steps taken is commendable,  more need to be done on this front at both individual and community level.

Sustainable tourism at Radhanagar Beach

The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are home to some of the world’s most spectacular ecotourism destinations. The Andaman Administration manages tourism through a number of measures like restricting access, limiting tourists to seven sites.

Ecotourism has a crucial role to play in the economy of this region. Apart from agriculture, horticulture, fisheries and floriculture, ecotourism has been contributing a lot to the growth of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

In Havelock, ecotourism is a sustainable and thriving industry. There are many eco-friendly hotels in addition to various other activities one can partake of while exploring this pristine destination – from swimming with dolphins to snorkeling!

Enclave Tourism : How Radhanagar beach protects other Andaman beaches

The Andaman Administration is responsible for managing tourism in the region, which they do through a number of measures including restricting access and only allowing it at certain locations. Radhanagar beach is a good case study for enclave tourism.

Enclave tourism is basically where you regulate tourist activity in ecologically sensitive area by channeling tourist traffic to a particular spot so that they do not go at more remote areas thereby helping in ecological preservation.

While there are many regulations already in place to help control traffic flow, additional steps are being taken to ensure that tourists go where they’re meant to: designated spots instead of roaming freely like some kind or invasive species.

One of the best approach to limit negative impacts from tourism is by restricting visitors in specific tourist enclaves. Radhanagar and Niel Island beaches are good examples because they’re completely isolated away from all other islands, which allows them stay pristine even with lots of people visiting there every day during high season.

My Experience at the Radhanagar Beach

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I was here in March of 2019 to cover stories for blog, and it was a quite pleasant experience for me. The sun shines bright from December to March, and it offers the opportunity to capture beautiful photographs. I found the waves at the beach quite powerful. The beach is safe during the right season and I had some of the best swimming experience here. I definitely recommend this place for travel.

  • Neil Island
  • Neil Island India

Radhanagar Beach No 7 is a pristine stretch of white sand, bordered by the emerald forest on one side, and the azure sea on the other. It is a paradise on earth ! Untouched by grotesque commercialization, this virgin beach on the Havelock offers a pleasant repsite from the hustle and bustle of Port Blair. 

The place offers breathtaking views of sunsets and sunrises. Once ranked as the ‘Best Beach in Asia’ , this crescent shaped coastline is known for its glazing white sand and unmatched beauty!

Final Words

The Radhanagar Beach is one of the best beaches located in India. It’s a pristine beach with clear water and golden sands, perfect for swimming, sunsets, and relaxation. While you are there make sure to stay at any of the luxury hotels such as Taj Havelock or Barefoot Resort. If you prefer more lively nightlife then head over to TSG Blue Resort- they have all that!. You can enjoy world class cuisine from many international restaurants if you want something other than Indian food while you are here.

Radhanagar Beach – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :

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How can I go to Radhanagar Beach?

The Radhanagar Beach is only around 10 kilometers away from the Havelock Jetty, where one docks at in order to arrive on this beautiful and tranquil island. From there you can either hire a rickshaw or cab toward your destination of choice, whether it be a day trip to explore other spots on the island or simply relaxing by watching waves hit against translucent white sand beaches while listening to seagulls calling out their songs.

Many people wonder where is Radhanagar Beach, and most of them do not even know if this beach exists. One reason that it is not so popular is because of it’s accessibility. Reaching Radhanagar Beach 7 can be an expensive affair. To reach this place, you can take a private or a government owned ferry or boat from Port Blair to reach Havelock Island. While there are local buses that connect Radhanagar Beach to the harbor, it’s much more efficient to hire a private two-wheeler or car from the main market area which is just a walk away from the harbor. 

How many beaches does Havelock Island have?

Havelock Island has more than 7-8 stunning golden sanded shores.

Havelock Island is a land of pristine white sands and crystal clear waters, home to some of the most gorgeous beaches in India. The island’s variety ranges from Radhanagar Beach—home to one million visitors annually—to Elephant Beach with its friendly elephants begging for bananas on your morning walk along the beachfront. Kalapathar offers something different: sea turtles! Laze away at these beautiful beaches while enjoying Indian cuisine that can be found all over Havelock such as cumin-flavored lamb curry or juicy mangoes roasted over hot coals until they burst open into sweet juices served alongside freshly baked flatbreads (naan).

What activities happen at Radhanagar Beach?

Radhanagar Beach offers some perfect spots for scuba diving. Make sure that on your stroll along there you take some time out of purest form peace by taking a momentary break from laying back and soaking up fiery sunset while feeling blood pumping with radiance all around.

There is a lot to do on Radhanagar Beach. You can go swimming, tussle with the playful waves, plan a snorkeling trip to Neil’s Cove, or simply lie down on the pristine sand with a book. Radhanagar Beach is lined by a forested patch of land on one side, and some part of that is accessible to the tourists. There are few restaurants in the forested area, but they charge exorbitant price for simple food items. I recommend exploring the food stalls at the entry point where you can enjoy delicious Indian street food and beverages at affordable prices and contribute to the local economy at the same time. Don’t forget to try out raw mango salad and star fruit when you are here during the season time. It’s absolutely lip smacking ! 🙂

For optimal enjoyment make sure you allot 4-5 hours so that visitors have enough time to explore all they want before night falls upon them.

What are the famous places near Radhanagar Beach?

Radhanagar Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in India. Nearby, you can visit Neil’s Cove – a lagoon formed from part of Radhanagar Beach and Sea Walk at Elephant Beach to enjoy the waves crashing against the shoreline. Not too far away are Vijaynaghar beach with its sandy shores for swimming or Kalapathar which offers fishing opportunities in fresh water lakes like Champakulam Pond and Valiya Chithara Lake as well as Elephants that come right up to your vehicle on elephant safaris! After visiting all these places near Radhanager, it’ll be hard not to want more so seek out other nearby attractions such as Sri Padmanabha swamy Temple where offerings include gold statues.

Restricting visitors away from local people through the use of tourist enclaves is a strategy that has been used to dissuade negative impacts on both tourists and locals alike. Radhanagar and Niel Island beaches provide an interesting example, as these are completely isolated from other islands in order to keep them free of any unwanted guests.

Can I cover Elephant beach and Radhanagar beach in one day?

Elephant Beach and Radhanagar Beach are at a distance of 2.2 kilometres. Public buses and rickshaws run between the two beaches on a frequent schedule. If you want a rush of adrenaline, you can even hike through the forest trail from Radhanagar Beach to Elephant Beach. The trail is well marked and easily recognizable, and serves as a great way to take a walk amidst pristine, untouched nature.

What can I expect while visiting Radhanagar Beach?

Eating near the Radhanagar Beach is not only a culinary experience, it’s an adventure. From veggie pizza lovers to couples craving global dishes with fresh shakes and diverse styles of pizzas such as Mexican-style or Indian-Style, there are many options for everyone!

Radhanagar Beach is the most popular beach in Havelock, with 7 other beaches to choose from including Elephant and Kalapathar. These are some of the nicest natural scenery you’ll find anywhere on this beautiful island.

Havelock Island has a variety of amazing sights for visitors to enjoy–from pristine white-sand beaches like Radhanagar Beach or Elephant Beach, all within walking distance from one another!

Should I visit Radhanagar Beach while being in Andaman?

Radhanagar Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. After a long, tiring day carousing through Havelock’s bustling marketplaces and exploring its lush greenery, take an hour to relax on this pristine beach that stretches for miles down island coastlines. It has some of best water clarity you will find anywhere else!

Radhanagar Beach is a true gem for those looking to explore the best of India’s beaches. It has been rated as one of the top 10 world’s most beautiful islands, and with good reason- it’s hard not be mesmerized when you see its white sand shores lined by palm trees swaying in the wind.

Are there helicopter service ?

Radhanagar Beach is only a 30-minute ferry ride away from Port Blair. However, if you’re looking for the ultimate tropical island experience (and money doesn’t matter), I recommend booking an all expenses paid helicopter tour through Civil Aviation Department!

Are there public bus services in havelock?

Havelock Island has many villages and a bus service connects the jetty with these. The buses usually run on an hourly schedule to make it easier for visitors who want to explore the culture of locals or experience their daily lives firsthand by taking them into lesser touristic parts of Havelock island. For those willing, can also hire private vehicles but this will be expensive as compared to government buses in terms of commuting between places.

Do I need permit to visit Andaman?

Since the A&N Islands are strategically located for our country they should have clear policies and regulations on tourist activity in the area that is strictly followed by The Andamans Administrations management team. There’s currently no restrictions or limits placed on who can visit these spots but this may change soon as more people flock there since it was recently announced that TATA Group has partnered with DLF Limited to develop one of their properties into a five-star luxury resort which will be open year round so come see all those beautiful beaches before you’re stuck at home because your electricity bill just skyrocketed!

Is Radhanagar beach suitable for kids?

One of the most popular tourist destinations in India, Radhanagar Beach is an ideal spot for those looking to experience both natural tranquility and urban bliss, irrespective of their age! With a host of activities available ranging from water sports like kayaking or jet skiing, leisurely walks on the sand with friends and family members alike, or simply soaking up some rays while relaxing by oneself near one of the nearby cafes – there’s something waiting for everyone! Even kids !

Are the beaches at Radhanagar clean?

The Indian Ocean itself has been called one big garbage dump because there’s so much junk from people living on land that gets swept away when heavy rains come. Luckily, Radhanagar beach is relatively clean and unspoiled, thanks to the ecotourism initiative and effective recycling program.

Do celebrities visit Radhanagar beach ?

Andaman and Nicobar Island have always been a hidden treasure that has not seen the glory of high-profile tourists in comparison to other tropical destinations. The islands are often overlooked because of lack of proper connectivity. But those who do visit can enjoy amazing beaches with crystal clear water on one side and rich biodiversity on the other!

References:

Havelock Island- Scuba Diving in Havelock, Places to visit, Things to Do and More

Havelock Island is officially known as Swaraj Island, and is one of the largest islands in Ritchie’s Archipelago. The archipelago is named after an 18th-century British marine surveyor, John Ritchie, who spent nearly two decades charting and documenting the Andaman’s and surrounding regions. Radhanagar beach is one of the many beaches lining Havelock, the others popular ones being Elephant Beach, Kalapatthar Beach, Govind Nagar Beach and Vijaynagar Beach.

Radhanagar Beach in Havelock Island
Radhanagar Beach – A perfect place to relax in Havelock Island

How to reach Havelock Island ?

Havelock Island can be easily reached from Port Blair by ferries and private cruises. Both government-operated passenger vessels and luxury cruises can be booked online as well as offline, however, it’s always a good option to book your tickets in advance through online channels. There are also helicopter services operated between Port Blair and Havelock Islands by Civil Aviation Department of Andaman and Nicobar Administration.

private cruise in Havelock island. Port Blair to Havelock.
Port Blair to Havelock Island on a private ferry

I used the services of a Private ferry operator called Markuzz to reach Havelock from Port Blair. But the options are plenty – Green Ocean, Sea Link and ITT Majestic are popular ferry operators on this route. It is important to bear in mind that the schedule of these ferries and even the helicopter service is contingent on the weather conditions. The best time to visit is between October and May, because the weather is stable during this time.

There are many villages in Havelock Island, and a local bus connects the jetty with these villages, usually on an hourly scheme. If you want to explore the lives of locals and experience the culture you can use these bus services for getting around the lesser touristic parts of the island. You can also hire a private vehicle, although it will be little expensive as compared to the government bus services.

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Where to Stay in Havelock Island?

Options for accommodation range from expensive resorts to affordable camping sites on the beach. There are plenty of hotels and resorts at the Havelock Island suiting travelers with all kinds of budgets.  More information can be sought from the Tourism Department that put up kiosks during the tourist season at Radhanagar beach, or through online travel booking sites.

List of Beaches in Havelock Island

Havelock island has some of the best beaches in the world
Havelock island is home to some of the best beaches in the world.

Radhanagar Beach

Radhanagar Beach is one of the most visited places in Havelock and is quite popular among the young honeymoon couples from the mainland India. I have written about this beach in detail, and you can check it out here.

Vijaynagar Beach

Vijaynagar Beach lies on the east coast of Havelock Island, and has some rocky sections. The beach is dotted with lush mahua trees that not only provide aesthetical value but also quite a lot of shade. 

Elephant Beach

If you love snorkeling, Elephant Beach will surely delight you. It has beautiful coral reef formations and offers wonderful opportunity to observe underwater marine life. You can easily reach Elephant beach by cruise from the jetty in about 50 minutes. If you wish to go by road, go up to the Forest Camp in a vehicle, and by walk to the Elephant beach, which takes around an hour. 

Kalapathar Beach

This beach is beautiful, however tourism infrastructure in not quite developed here. This has been changing in recent years however, as more and more visitors include this beach their itinerary. 

Things to do in Havelock Island 

There are plethora of things to do in Havelock Island. Some of the popular activities include Scooba diving, snorkeling, elephant ride, bird watching, game fishing, kayaking, and swimming.

My Scuba diving experience in Havelock Island

Scuba diving experience in Havelock Island
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Havelock Island presents an incredible opportunity for scuba diving, with a spell binding marine world waiting to be explored. The ideal scuba diving season in Havelock Island is from October to May. There are many certified Scuba Diving operators in Havelock Island to choose from. You can either book their services online or directly at their offices. You can either go for a 1-on-1 instructor or in small groups. And the best part is that you can do Scuba diving with an instructor even if you don’t know swimming. If you are quite serious about pursuing this activity from a career perspective, there are options to do certification course as well. 

Snorkeling is preferred by some travelers who are too apprehensive about scuba diving. Often snorkelers and Scuba divers travel in the same group organized by these operators, and both activities are conducted at the same spot, usually some designated venues in the sea. I opted for Scuba diving and it was one of the most exhilarating moments of my life. I was scared initially, especially when they gave me forms to fill that said these operators are not legally responsible if I die. But luckily, I did not die, and I had the best moment of my life. It’s a different world altogether underwater— sea lions, fishes shaped like unicorns and butterflies, sea cows, and a jungle of seagrasses. You are never the same person again after doing Scuba Diving.

Sunset at Radhanagar beach
Neil Island

Castaway ! A day at Neil Island

Neill Island, now known as Shaheed Dweep, is located in Ritchie’s Archipelago of the Andaman island, somewhere between the Havelock and Island. It’s a relatively unexplored part of Andaman, and when I visited there it was impossible to find internet connection. The beaches are beautiful here and there are hardly any tourists. In fact, the place where I stayed was close to a wild, unexplored stretch of ocean and for a moment I felt like I am Chuck Nolan stranded on an uninhabited island.

The best option to reach this place is through a ferry. There are both government and private operated ferries leaving from port blair and Havelock. You can easily book that online through a travel agent.

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It is a fun experience being on an island that gives the vibes of a scary survival movie.

There is not much to do on the beaches of Neil Islands other than exploring the surrounding areas, gathering and stacking exotic sea shells, trying out some fishing skills at the shallow waters, and foraging in the wood. It is important to be careful because these areas are remote and in case of any accident, help might not be easy to come by. When you are exploring the woods, be careful of monitor lizards. There are present in great numbers here, and some are as big as a human !

Where to stay at Neil Island?

The option for stay are plenty, and caters to every budget. I stayed in a hut located in a very remote place on the island.

Wifi and Electricity at Andaman Island

There was no wifi where I stayed, and electricity outage was common. Due to the geographical challenges and natural barriers created by sea, having a single power grid for entire island is not practical, and that is the reason why some of these islands do have a good electrification system. However things are changing with companies like Urja Pay aiming to improve power distribution on the islands. With the launch of services like VAHAN 4.0 online services will soon pick up on the island.

*At the time of writing this post, the was a lockdown in Andaman islands due to increased covid cases. An ePass might be required for travel.*

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Where is Radhanagar Beach No 7 ?- Searching for a treasure in the Andamans !

You must have heard about this beach as one of the Asia’s beast beaches. But where is Radhanagar Beach No 7 located exactly ?

Radhanagar Beach No 7 is a pristine stretch of white sand, bordered by the emerald forest on one side, and the azure sea on the other. It is a paradise on earth ! Untouched by grotesque commercialization, this virgin beach on the Havelock offers a pleasant repsite from the hustle and bustle of Port Blair. 

The place offers breathtaking views of sunsets and sunrises. Once ranked as the ‘Best Beach in Asia’ , this crescent shaped coastline is known for its glazing white sand and unmatched beauty!

Where is Radhanagar Beach ?
Radhanagar beach no 7
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For more information on where is Radhanagar Beach located, you can visit the https://www.andaman.gov.in/tourism/Swarajdweep website maintained by the Andaman and Nicobar administration.

Accolades for Radhanagar Beach

Do you know that Radhanagar Beach was named as the “Best Beach in Asia” 2004 by Time Magazine? And to top it up, it even bagged the eco-label of blue flag certification in 2020. (A‘Blue Flag’ certification is awarded by a famous Denmark-based non-profit Foundation and a beach must meet strict environmental, safety and access criteria to earn this label.) I believe this is a great achievement because in the age of growing awareness towards sustainable development, tourists’ preferences are shifting towards more eco-friendly travelling. A Blue Flag beach like Radhanagar serves as an eco-tourism model, providing the tourists a clean, safe, and healthy way to experience the joys of nature.  

Things to do in Radhanagar Beach

Forest in Radhanagar Beach
Forest in Radhanagar Beach

There is a lot to do on Radhanagar Beach. You can go swimming, tussle with the playful waves, plan a snorkeling trip to Neil’s Cove, or simply lie down on the pristine sand with a book. Radhanagar Beach is lined by a forested patch of land on one side, and some part of that is accessible to the tourists. There are few restaurants in the forested area, but they charge exorbitant price for simple food items. I recommend exploring the food stalls at the entry point where you can enjoy delicious Indian street food and beverages at affordable prices and contribute to the local economy at the same time. Don’t forget to try out raw mango salad and star fruit when you are here during the season time. It’s absolutely lip smacking ! 🙂

How to Reach Radhanagar Beach ?

Radhanagar Beach can be easily reached from Havelock Harbor
Harbor in Havelock Island

Many people wonder where is Radhanagar Beach, and most of them do not even know if this beach exists. One reason that it is not so popular is because of it’s accessibility. Reaching Radhanagar Beach 7 can be an expensive affair. To reach this place, you can take a private or a government owned ferry or boat from Port Blair to reach Havelock Island. While there are local buses that connect Radhanagar Beach to the harbor, it’s much more efficient to hire a private two-wheeler or car from the main market area which is just a walk away from the harbor. 

Some Do’s and Don’t

Salt water crocodiles inhabit some areas  of Radhanagar Beach
Saltwater crocodiles inhabit some areas of Radhanagar Beach

After finding out where is Radhanagar Beach no 7, when you come here, there are few things that you should always keep in mind. These islands are some of the most fragile ecosystems on the planet, and being a responsible tourist is very important. When you are in Radhanagar Beach, you should not only avoid littering the beach with plastics but also discourage and confront other tourists who do so. It is our responsibility to keep this beach clean and pristine, so that we can relish this treasure of earth for generations to come. Also, encourage others to polite with the locals. Most of them do not understand English, so it is crucial to be patient with them while interacting. Avoid swimming at the end of the island because there could be salt water crocodiles. Always follow the beach guidelines and stick close to the coast guards.

My Experience at the Radhanagar Beach

I was here in March of 2019 to cover stories for blog, and it was a quite pleasant experience for me. The sun shines bright from December to March, and it offers the opportunity to capture beautiful photographs. I found the waves at the beach quite powerful. The beach is safe during the right season and I had some of the best swimming experience here. I definitely recommend this place for travel.

Radhanagar beach
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