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Neil Island is a stunning gem which is hidden away from the world yet is close to the capital city of Port Blair. Though it is one of the smallest of all the Andaman islands, there are enough things to do in Neil Island. The place has an old-world charm that makes it difficult to not be impressed with its lush forests, pristine beaches, and quaint villages. Also known as Shaheed Dweep, this tropical paradise is home to a calm atmosphere, clear blue waters, and stunning beaches.
10 Things To Do In Neil Island
Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker or looking for relaxation, there are many things to do in Neil Island for everyone.
1. Explore The Intertidal Pools At Laxmanpur Beach
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Laxmanpur beach is famous for the intertidal pools that come to life during a low tide. These pools house a fascinating array of marine creatures like clownfish, crabs, shrimps and sea cucumbers. The beautiful corals come to life too, and it is truly enchanting to watch these marine wonders so up close. Exploring and discovering these coral reefs and marine wonders is one of the top things to do in Neil Island.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Best Time To Visit: October to May
How To Reach: Take a cab from the Jetty or walk along the Bharatpur beach stretch
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Port Blair
2. Snorkelling At Bharatpur Beach
Photo: Bagus Tri Kuncoro .J / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Bharatpur Beach is the most visited beach in Andaman & Nicobar and has some of the best things to explore in Neil Island. The sea lower than the shallow waters is quite deep and has a diverse marine life. Bharatpur beach has both hard and soft corals filled there, making it ideal for water sports such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and more. You can reach the deeper diving sites via boat.
Cost/Person: ₹2000 onwards
Timings: 5 AM – 6 PM
3. Visit The Natural Howrah Bridge
Neil Island is famous for its bridge-shaped rock, commonly known as the Howrah Bridge. It has two living natural corals that form a bridge. The Bengalis who settled on the island in the early days referred to the rock formation as the Rabindra Sethu, which eventually became known as the Howrah Bridge. It’s best visible at low tide. There are also plenty of beaches near this bridge that are a perfect stop when exploring things to do in Neil Island.
Best Time To Visit: October to April
How To Reach: 15 – 20 min walk from Neil Kendra
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Havelock At Night
4. Picnic At Ramnagar Beach
Photo: Hannah Nelson / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Ram Nagar Beach covers the entirety of Ram Nagar Village. This beach is definitely worth seeing because the beach bay makes an amazing view with its clear blue ocean, calm sea, and sand dunes. Ramnagar Beach has a tranquil environment that makes it ideal for a picnic, and welcomes you to create memories with family and friends. Enjoy the local cuisine while watching one of the most beautiful sunsets on the beach.
Best Time To Visit: 6 AM – 5 PM
How To Reach: 4 – 5 km away from Neil Kendra
5. Cycle Around The Island
Photo: Daniel Frank / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
When wondering what to do in Neil Island, you can rent a cycle and go through the coconut farms to watch the locals on the small island. As with long walks, cycling is an ideal way to explore things to see in Neil Island. Cycling on Neil Island is not only an enjoyable pastime for couples and friends after sunset, but it also serves as a form of transportation throughout the island.
Rent Fee: ₹200 onwards
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Port Blair
6. Go For Glass Bottom Boating
Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons
If you are not keen on adventure sports like snorkelling or scuba diving, you can still enjoy the views of corals and marine animals while on a glass bottom boat. A glass bottom boat ride provides a dry dive into the undersea world, which makes it one of the top things to do in Neil Island. Upon boarding this boat, you are greeted by the vast and open Andaman Sea, which will certainly amaze you with its multi-coloured underwater view.
Entry Fee: ₹600 onwards
Duration: 30 minutes
Best Time To Visit: 7 AM – 4 PM
7. Enjoy Jungle Trekking
Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
One of the most exciting things to do in Neil Island is going on a jungle trek. This trek takes you on a journey into unexplored areas, revealing the island’s hidden landscapes, rich biodiversity, and the excitement of discovery with every step. Put on your hiking boots and get ready to explore Neil Island and take in all of its verdant beauty. Watch butterflies in action here and enjoy bird watching at this island.
Cost/Person: ₹500 onwards
Duration: 4 – 5 hours
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Andaman And Nicobar Islands
8. Try The Local Cuisine
Photo: Dana Tentis / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
While exploring the things to do in Neil Island, visitors can also sample the local food here that highlights the island’s natural abundance and diversity. Native food offers a mouthwatering range of flavours, from fresh fish to exotic treats. Seafood commands the spotlight in Neil Island’s cuisine. Indulge in the day’s freshest catch, whether it’s succulent fish, flavourful prawns, or tender crab. Prices for a simple meal on Neil Island typically vary depending on your choice of dishes.
9. Join A Village Tour
Photo: Harikrishnan S / Wikimedia Commons/ Image For Representation Only
Taking a village tour is a unique and educational way to interact with the people of Neil Island, learn about their lifestyle, and discover the customs that make up their community. A visit to the village markets, which are bustling with activity and provide a wide variety of fresh fruit, handicrafts, and native goods, offers a comprehensive look into local life. Village tours are often cost-free, though opting for a tour guide may need some fee.
Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Guide’s Fee: ₹500 onwards
Suggested Read: Beaches In Andaman
10. Venture Out On An Island Hopping Adventure
Photo: Kate Gallardo / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are many areas near Neil Island where you can go island-hopping to enjoy an adventurous trip. From Neil Island, tourists can explore the marvels of neighbouring destinations like Havelock Island and Port Blair, each with its own tourist attractions and things to do. Havelock boasts an array of water sports and pristine beaches, while Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has a rich history and culture.
Nearby Islands: Havelock Island, Port Blair
Cost/Person: ₹1500 – ₹2500 (Private ferries from Neil Island to Port Blair)
Shaheed Dweep or Neil Islands has a magnificent biodiversity of breathtaking corals alongside thick tropical forests and a wide expansive sea. The island welcomes honeymooners, families, and friends with open arms to experience its warm hospitality and stunning beauty. Explore one of the best-kept secrets of Andaman and Nicobar on your next sea escape with Trip XL. Book your trip now, and enjoy a refreshing escape to this beautiful island.
Cover Photo: Vishal Jadav / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
