Best of AndamanIf you’ve got just a single day for Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), that’s still enough to see why it’s called the “vegetable bowl of the Andamans” and one of the calmest islands in the archipelago.
Neil Island doesn’t rush you. It’s small, easy to cover in a day, and packed with beaches, coral reefs, and scenic views that feel more personal than crowded Havelock.
This one-day Neil Island itinerary is smooth, simple, and shows you the best spots without wasting time. You’ll walk beaches, spot the natural rock bridge, maybe snorkel a little, and still be back in Port Blair or Havelock before evening.
Early Morning: Ferry Ride to Neil Island
Your trip begins at the jetty, either in Port Blair or Havelock.
- Port Blair to Neil Island ferry: About 2 hours
- Havelock to Neil Island ferry: Around 1 hour
Ferries usually run in the morning, so it’s best to take the earliest one. The ride across the Bay of Bengal is calm and scenic, and if skies are clear, you’ll spot blue-green shades of water all the way.
Tip: Book ferry tickets in advance especially during tourist season to avoid last-minute rush. Vacations Andaman can handle ferry booking for you.
Mid-Morning: Bharatpur Beach for Water Fun
Step off the ferry, and your first stop is Bharatpur Beach, just minutes from the jetty. This beach is perfect to start your day because:
- Clear waters and shallow depth make it great for swimming.
- It’s the hub for water sports: snorkeling, glass-bottom rides, jet ski, and banana boat rides.
- The coral life here is vibrant, making Bharatpur Beach snorkeling one of the best beginner-friendly experiences in Andamans.
Plan to spend an hour to 90 minutes here. If you’d rather just relax, the white sands and coconut groves are more than enough
Late Morning: Natural Rock Bridge (Laxmanpur Beach II)
Next up is Neil’s signature landmark the Natural Rock Bridge, locally called “Howrah Bridge.” This naturally-formed arch of rock is best visited in the late morning when tides are low.
The short walk to the site is scenic, and the rocky shoreline dotted with tide pools is a great place for photos. Don’t rush this spend 30–40 minutes here to really take it in.
Afternoon: Sitapur Beach (Beach of Sunrise)
After a relaxed lunch at a local café, make your way to Sitapur Beach. Known as the “Sunrise Beach,” Sitapur has curved shores, limestone formations, and tall palm trees swaying in the breeze. Even in the afternoon, it feels peaceful and less crowded compared to Bharatpur.
It’s not ideal for swimming due to strong currents, but it’s the perfect spot to walk, take photos, and enjoy Neil’s slower pace.
Evening: Sunset at Laxmanpur Beach I
Close your day with the most stunning view Neil offers the sunset at Laxmanpur Beach I. Wide stretches of sand, soft waves, and a clear horizon make it one of the best sunset points in the Andamans.
You’ll often see travelers gathering here just before evening, sitting on the sand as the sky shifts from orange to purple. It’s the perfect farewell before you head back to the jetty.
Lunch & Local Food
Neil Island may be small, but it has some great eateries. A few good picks:
- SeaShell Resort Restaurant – fresh seafood, local dishes.
- Shakuntala Restaurant – vegetarian-friendly and pocket-friendly.
- Island Café – light snacks and quick meals.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, ask your operator for a packed lunch easy to carry between beaches.
Optional Stops (If Time Permits)
If ferries and your pace allow, you can squeeze in:
- Ramnagar Beach – calm waters, good for a short swim.
- Cycling around the island – Neil is small enough to explore on two wheels in a few hours.
Logistics: How to Plan Your One-Day Trip
Getting Around: Rent a two-wheeler from the jetty (INR 400–500/day) or take local autos.
Cash: Limited ATMs on the island carry enough cash.
Ferry Timings: Last ferries usually leave by 4–4:30 pm, so plan your sunset accordingly.
Connectivity: Mobile networks are patchy don’t rely too much on internet.
Why Book with a Local Operator Like Us
When you’ve only got one day, timing is everything. Booking with Andaman Ocean Hills means your ferry tickets, transfers, and activities are sorted in advance. No wasted hours, no confusion.
We also keep your plan flexible whether you want to add a snorkeling session, skip a crowded spot, or take it slow at one beach, we adjust to your pace.
Conclusion
One day in Neil Island is enough to soak in its charm swim at Bharatpur, marvel at the Natural Bridge, relax at Sitapur, and catch a breathtaking sunset at Laxmanpur.
It’s not rushed. It’s just the perfect slice of Neil calm, beautiful, and unforgettable.
👉 Ready to explore Neil in a day? let us plan it for you Neil Island day trip.
