Andaman trip on a budget for solo travellers: Complete breakdown
The Andaman Islands are a perfect tropical paradise with their palm-fringed beaches, white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It is the destination that boasts of India's only active volcano, which is now more accessible than ever. If you are planning a trip to this beautiful place, knowledge of costs beforehand helps you execute it better. This guide breaks down all expenses. Read further.
New Delhi: The Andaman Islands are a perfect tropical paradise with their palm-fringed beaches, white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It is the destination that boasts of India’s only active volcano, which is now more accessible than ever. The administration launched a round-voyage cruise from Port Blair to Barren Island on October 24, 2025. You will certainly enjoy panoramic views of the volcano without disembarking on the uninhabited island. The fortnightly cruise departs every Friday at 9 pm from Haddo Wharf and returns Saturday at 4 pm, subject to weather conditions.
If you are planning a trip to this beautiful place, knowledge of costs beforehand helps you execute it better, irrespective of the fact that you’re a budget backpacker, a family traveller, or a luxury vacation seeker. This guide breaks down all expenses, such as flights, food, stays, and activities, so you can plan your spending wisely without falling for overpriced tour packages.
Budget breakdown for Andaman
1. Days and flight costs
To explore everything at a relaxed pace in Andaman, spending 7 days is best.
- Total estimated budget, including flights, stay, food, transport, activities, shopping and other things is Rs 50,000 to 1,00,000 per person for 7 days.
- To avoid overspending, book your flight tickets 2-3 months in advance or plan your trip in the off-season from May to September.
- One-way flight from major Indian cities cost Rs 5,000 to Rs 7,000.
- Tip: Use fare comparison sites to track prices and book when they dip. Avoid peak seasons from November to January.
2. Local travel
Once you arrive, your transportation preference impacts your budget. Public transport is limited. Hence, renting a bike is the best way to explore.
- Bike Rental: Rs 500 to Rs 700 per day
- Government Ferries: Rs 300 to Rs 1,000 per ride
- Public buses and autos in Port Blair: Rs 20 to Rs 200 per ride
3. Affordable accommodation
Accommodation is affordable in budget hotels, hostels and basic cottages.
- Port Blair: Rs 800 to Rs 1,500 per night
- Havelock or Neil: Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 per night
- Tip: Interact with fellow travellers and do activities together to save money.
4. Food costs
Food is delicious and affordable if you know where to eat. Go to local eateries and street food joints instead of fancy restaurants.
- Street food and dhabas: Rs 50 to Rs 150 per meal
- Local seafood and thali meals: Rs 150 to Rs 250 per meal
- Tip: Avoid fancy beachfront restaurants; they charge Rs 800 to Rs 1,500 per meal.
5. Must-do activities
There are many free or low-cost activities.
- Scuba Diving: Rs 5,000 Rs 6,500
- Beach hopping and trekking: It’s free at scenic spots like Radhanagar and Kalapathar beaches, and treks to Munda Pahad from Chidiya Tapu.
- Budget snorkelling at Elephant beach: Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500
- Tip: Opt for scuba diving if you can afford just one paid activity. Prefer a certified dive shop for safety.
6. Port Blair to Barren Island cruise
Onboard this unique cruise, you can get a rare chance to witness volcanoes and other spots like Coral Suite, Reef Suite, Island Breeze, and Lagoon Dormitory, priced from Rs 2,000 to Rs 8,310 per person. Additionally, you can avail snacks, high tea, breakfast, lunch, evening tea and accommodation.
With this budget breakdown in advance, you can certainly think of a trip to the Andaman Islands.