One of the first questions many travelers ask when planning a trip to the Andaman Islands is whether it’s possible to reach Andaman by train. Unfortunately, the answer is no—Andaman and Nicobar Islands are located about 1,200 km off the southeastern coast of mainland India, in the middle of the Bay of Bengal. Since there are no railway connections to the islands, you’ll need to consider alternative travel options.
Having explored these islands, I found that although trains can’t take you to Andaman, there are convenient ways to get there via air and sea. Let’s break down your travel options and tips to plan your journey efficiently.
Why Can’t You Reach Andaman by Train?
Andaman is a remote island territory located far from the mainland. The vast expanse of the Bay of Bengal makes constructing a railway line to the islands impractical. Since the islands have no railways or bridges connecting them to the rest of India, train travel to Andaman isn’t possible.
However, you can use trains to reach coastal cities like Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam, which serve as key departure points for flights or ships to Port Blair, the capital of Andaman.
Travel Alternatives to Reach Andaman
Since trains can only take you part of the way, you’ll need to choose between flying or traveling by ship for the final leg of your journey. Let’s explore each option in detail.
1. By Air: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
Flying is the most efficient way to reach Andaman. Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) in Port Blair connects Andaman to major Indian cities. Direct flights are available from cities like Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
How to Plan Your Journey:
- Take a train to Chennai, Kolkata, or Bangalore if you’re located in other parts of India.
- Board a direct flight to Port Blair from these cities.
Flight Duration:
- From Chennai: 2 hours
- From Kolkata: 2.5 hours
- From Delhi or Mumbai: 4 to 5 hours
Approximate Cost: ₹4,000 – ₹15,000 (one-way), depending on the season and booking time.
Tip: Book your flights in advance to secure lower fares, especially during the peak travel season (October to March).
2. By Ship: For an Adventurous and Scenic Journey
If you have time and want a unique travel experience, consider taking a ship to Andaman from Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam. The journey across the Bay of Bengal offers a slower-paced adventure with spectacular sea views.
How to Plan Your Journey:
- Take a train to Chennai Central, Howrah Station (Kolkata), or Visakhapatnam Junction.
- From the port in these cities, board a government-operated passenger ship to Port Blair.
Duration:
- From Chennai: 60 to 72 hours (2.5 to 3 days)
- From Kolkata: 70 to 80 hours
- From Visakhapatnam: 55 to 60 hours
Approximate Cost: ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 (round-trip)
Ship Facilities:
- Basic cabins, dormitories, and deck spaces
- Cafeterias and recreational areas
- Limited connectivity and entertainment options
Tip: Carry seasickness medication and check for travel advisories, as ship schedules may change due to weather conditions, especially during the monsoon.
3. Inter-Island Travel: Exploring Andaman
Once you reach Port Blair, you’ll need to rely on ferries and speed boats to travel between islands such as Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil (Shaheed Dweep).
Ferry Options:
- Government Ferries: Budget-friendly but offer basic services
- Private Ferries: Operators like Makruzz and Sea Link provide faster and more comfortable services
Travel Times:
- Port Blair to Havelock: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
- Havelock to Neil Island: 1 hour
Tip: Book ferry tickets early, as seats can sell out quickly during peak season.
Suggested Train Routes to Reach Departure Cities
Here are some popular train routes to help you reach Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam, from where you can continue your journey to Andaman:
1. For Travelers from North India
- Delhi to Chennai: Tamil Nadu Express (Duration: ~33 hours)
- Delhi to Kolkata: Duronto Express (Duration: ~17 hours)
2. For Travelers from Western India
- Mumbai to Chennai: Chennai Mail or Lokmanya Tilak Express (Duration: ~22 hours)
- Mumbai to Visakhapatnam: Konark Express (Duration: ~24 hours)
3. For Travelers from South India
- Bangalore to Chennai: Shatabdi Express or Brindavan Express (Duration: ~6 hours)
- Hyderabad to Visakhapatnam: Godavari Express (Duration: ~12 hours)
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Plan Your Connections: Ensure that your train, flight, and ferry schedules are well-coordinated to avoid long layovers.
- Book in Advance: Trains, flights, and ferries fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Pack Essentials: Carry travel essentials like sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and eco-friendly toiletries for your time in Andaman.
- Check Weather Conditions: Avoid traveling by ship or ferry during the monsoon season (June to September), as rough seas may lead to delays or cancellations.
- Stay Flexible: Be prepared for last-minute changes, especially with ferries and ships.
FAQs on Reaching Andaman
Q: Is there a railway line under construction to connect Andaman to mainland India?
A: No, there are currently no plans to build a railway line to the Andaman Islands due to the geographical challenges posed by the Bay of Bengal.
Q: How early should I book my travel tickets to Andaman?
A: It’s recommended to book flights and ferries at least 2-3 months in advance if traveling during the peak season (October to March).
Q: Which is the cheapest way to travel to Andaman?
A: Traveling by ship is usually more affordable than flying, but it takes significantly longer and offers fewer amenities.
Q: Are there high-speed ferries between mainland India and Andaman?
A: No, high-speed ferries only operate between islands within Andaman, not between mainland India and the islands.
While you can’t reach Andaman by train, a combination of train, flight, and ship travel can make your journey both adventurous and memorable. Whether you choose the speed of air travel or the scenic route by sea, Andaman promises an unforgettable experience. With careful planning, you’ll soon find yourself exploring its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and rich history.
Have you traveled to Andaman before? Share your journey and travel tips in the comments below!
