Neil Island, now officially called Shaheed Dweep, is a peaceful tropical paradise located in the South Andaman district, around 36 kilometers northeast of Port Blair. Covering an area of just 13.7 square kilometers, this small island is part of the stunning Ritchie’s Archipelago, beautifully positioned between Havelock Island and Ross Island.
Previously named after British Brigadier General James Neil, the island was renamed Shaheed Dweep on December 30, 2018, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, honoring the legacy of freedom fighter Subhas Chandra Bose.
Neil Island remains one of the lesser-explored treasures of the Andaman Islands, boasting incredible biodiversity, dense tropical forests, and expansive green landscapes. Its untouched beauty, combined with a relaxed atmosphere, makes it a perfect destination for travelers seeking peace and natural splendor.
The island is famous for its stunning white-sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Popular spots like the Howrah Natural Bridge, Bharatpur Beach, and Sitapur Beach are perfect for unwinding, snorkeling, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views. Every corner of Neil Island invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the rhythm of nature.
Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy on the island, with fresh seafood and traditional Andaman flavors taking center stage. From spicy curries to grilled fish, the local cuisine promises a delicious culinary adventure.
Neil Island offers a variety of accommodation choices, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable stay for all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for an upscale retreat or a cozy hideaway, you’ll find something that fits your needs.
The best time to visit Neil Island is between November and February, when the weather is pleasant, the skies are clear, and outdoor activities like beach hopping, diving, and sightseeing are at their best.
If you’re planning a trip to the Andaman Islands, make sure to include Neil Island in your itinerary. With its peaceful vibe, stunning beaches, and untouched natural beauty, it promises an unforgettable experience away from the crowds.
Untouched beauty, clean beaches & biodiversity
Snorkeling & glass-bottom views
Peaceful & photogenic
Grilled fish, seafood, and island-style dining
'Natural Bridge', 'Lakshmanpur Beach No.1 is famous for its naturally shaped bridge-like rock, It has two living natural corals formed just like a bridge. This rock formation was called by the Bengalis who settled in the island in the early days and they refer it as the Rabindra Sethu and later called it the Howrah Bridge. In this beach you can directly see the live corals and marine species while walking towards the natural bridge. This beach is must visit place if you explore Neil island.You can see different small fishes of various colors, Different Species of Crabs, star fishes, shrimps, Sea cucumbers, and sea urchins etc. which are present in this beach.Lakshmanpur Beach No.1 is also the perfect place for seeing beautiful view of sunset in the evening and also best place for couples and families for photoshoot.
Lakshmanpur Beach', 'Lakshmanpur Beach no.1 is just 3Kms from Neil Harbor which takes less than 10 minutes to reach from there. This beach is one of the best places in Neil Island for casual trips.Lakshmanpur beach no.1 is a vast open white sand beach and also known as the sunset point at Neil Island. Long stretches of white sand, turquoise blue crystal waters and lush green forest makes this beach as perfect sightseeing point in Neil Island.If you are foodies than you can explore delicious local foods like fast food and sea food from stalls near to this beach, the best time to visit this beach is at evening time.
Bharatpur Beach is located just near to Neil Island harbor and this is the only places in Neil Island where water sport activities are available, you can do water sport activities like Snorkeling, Glass Boat Ride, Jet Ski Ride and Banana Boat Ride in this beach.Bharatpur Beach is one of the popular beaches in the region of Andaman and Nicobar Island.The beautiful part of this beach is that it has various shades of blue and green color of sea water.This beach mesmerizes the eyes to gaze at the deep-sea waters. One can see the underwater beautiful corals and colorful fishes by snorkeling, diving or glass bottomed boat rides.Bharatpur Beach there are lots of small restaurants where you can enjoy delicious foods. The best time to visit Bharatpur Beach is from morning 09 Am to Afternoon 02 Pm.
Sitapur Beach is 06 Kms from the Neil Island harbor and this is the only sunrise view point at Neil Island. this beach is attractive and offers good photo-shoot views. One can have good views of Sun Rise in the early morning. There are no water activities at this beach. This beach is too having walk and sit near beach. As due to remote area there are no restaurants and public toilet is available here
Luxury resorts, mid-range hotels, and homestays
November to February
Ferry/Private cruise from Port Blair
Local taxis, cabs, tuk-tuks
Couples, adventurers, families
Snorkeling, sightseeing, beach hopping