Getting Around Port Blair by Auto-Rickshaw: Tips and Costs

Your Three-Wheeled Adventure in Port Blair!

Welcome to Port Blair, the vibrant capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands! As you begin to explore this beautiful city, you’ll quickly notice the buzzing presence of auto-rickshaws – those iconic three-wheeled vehicles that are a quintessential part of the Indian travel experience. For many visitors, hopping into an auto-rickshaw is not just about getting from one place to another; it’s an adventure in itself, offering a unique and immersive way to see the sights and sounds of Port Blair up close.

Auto-rickshaws are a widely available and often convenient way to navigate the city’s streets, reaching into corners that larger vehicles might not. They can be particularly budget-friendly for shorter distances, provided you know how the system works. This guide is designed to be your friendly companion, helping you understand everything from hailing an auto to negotiating fares and offering tips to make your rides smooth and enjoyable. With a little know-how, you’ll be zipping around Port Blair like a seasoned traveler in no time!

Why Choose an Auto-Rickshaw in Port Blair? The Pros and a Few Pointers

Opting for an auto-rickshaw in Port Blair comes with several advantages, making it a popular choice for many travelers. However, it’s also good to be aware of a few characteristics of this mode of transport.

The Upsides:

• Accessibility: Auto-rickshaws are plentiful in Port Blair. You’ll find them congregated at major transport hubs like the airport and jetties, bustling market areas such as Aberdeen Bazaar, and near popular tourist attractions. This widespread availability means you usually won’t have to wait long to find a ride.
  
• Maneuverability: Port Blair, like many bustling towns, has its share of narrow lanes and sometimes congested roads. Auto-rickshaws, with their compact size, are adept at navigating these conditions, often getting you to your destination more directly than a larger vehicle might.
  
• Cost-Effectiveness (for shorter trips): For point-to-point travel within the city, auto-rickshaws can be more economical than taxis, especially if you are comfortable with negotiating the fare.
  
• Open-Air Experience: Unlike an enclosed taxi, an auto-rickshaw offers an open-air ride (though some have side flaps for rain). This allows you to soak in the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of Port Blair more directly, making the journey itself part of the experience.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Fare Negotiation is Standard: Perhaps the most important thing to know is that fares are almost always negotiated upfront. Meters are rarely used, so agreeing on a price before you start your journey is crucial. This guide will offer more details on this later.
  
• The Ride: Auto-rickshaw rides can sometimes be a bit bumpy, especially on less-than-perfect roads. For many, this adds to the authentic charm of the experience, but it’s something to be aware of if you prefer a smoother journey.

Choosing an auto-rickshaw offers a blend of convenience and local flavor. While they are a practical way to get around, being prepared for the fare negotiation process is key to a positive experience. This mode of transport is readily available, but the lack of standardized, metered pricing means travelers need to be proactive in discussing costs.

Finding an Auto-Rickshaw: Your Ride Awaits!

Locating an auto-rickshaw in Port Blair is generally straightforward, as they are a common sight in most parts of the city frequented by tourists and locals alike.

Prime Locations:

• Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ): Upon exiting the airport terminal, you will find auto-rickshaws readily available. It’s important to note that while there is a pre-paid taxi counter at the airport managed by the Andaman and Nicobar Traffic Police , auto-rickshaws are typically hired directly by negotiating with the driver. So, don’t assume the pre-paid system applies to autos here; you’ll need to agree on a fare with the auto driver yourself.
  
• Jetties: These are major transit point
  
  • Phoenix Bay Jetty: This is the main jetty for ferries to popular islands like Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil (Shaheed Dweep). Auto-rickshaws are usually waiting here.
    
  • Haddo Jetty: Another important jetty, also used for inter-island ferries. You’ll find autos here, but be mindful that drivers waiting right at the exit might quote higher fares; sometimes walking a short distance to the main gate can yield better rates.
    
  • Aberdeen Jetty (Marine Jetty/Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex): From where boats to Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Dweep) and for some water sports depart. Autos are easily found in this area.
    
• Aberdeen Bazaar: As the city’s main market and commercial hub, Aberdeen Bazaar is teeming with auto-rickshaws throughout the day.
  
• Major Tourist Attractions: You can expect to find auto-rickshaws near prominent sites like the Cellular Jail, various museums (Anthropological Museum, Samudrika Naval Marine Museum), and Corbyn’s Cove.
  
• Bus Stops and Main Roads: In busier parts of the city, you can often hail a passing auto-rickshaw from the side of the road.

Availability:

Auto-rickshaws are generally abundant during daylight hours and into the evening. However, their availability might become scarcer very late at night. If you need to travel during late hours, it might take longer to find one, and fares are likely to be higher. While some listings mention “24 Hours Auto Rickshaw Services”, these may refer to specific operators or call services rather than the general availability of street-hailed autos at all times. It’s always a good idea to plan late-night travel in advance if possible.

The All-Important Fare: Mastering Costs and Negotiation

Understanding how auto-rickshaw fares work in Port Blair is key to a hassle-free experience. Unlike some cities where meters dictate the cost, here it’s all about negotiation.

The Meter Situation: Mostly for Show

Despite government regulations that may mandate the use of fare meters, the reality in Port Blair is that the vast majority of auto-rickshaw drivers do not use them for tourists. Some sources indicate that many drivers keep their meters permanently in “hired mode” or simply don’t switch them on. Therefore, travelers should not expect the fare to be determined by a meter. This lack of standardized, transparent pricing is why negotiation becomes so crucial.  

Negotiation is Key: Your Pre-Ride Ritual

This cannot be stressed enough: always agree on the fare with the driver before you get into the auto-rickshaw. This simple step can prevent misunderstandings and potential overcharging at the end of your journey.  

Here are some tips for effective negotiation:

• Know Indicative Fares: Having a rough idea of what a particular journey should cost is your best tool. This guide provides some estimated fares in the next section.
  
• State Your Destination Clearly: Tell the driver your exact destination. If possible, show it on a map on your phone, especially if there’s any ambiguity or if you’re going to a less common spot. Simply stating a well-known landmark, like “Aberdeen Bazaar,” can sometimes signal a degree of familiarity.
  
• Ask for the Price: Once the driver understands where you want to go, ask for the fare.
  
• The “Tourist Price”: Be aware that tourists are often quoted a higher price initially. This is a common phenomenon where drivers might try to charge more if they perceive a traveler is unfamiliar with local rates. Don’t take it personally; just be prepared to negotiate.
  
• Counter-Offer Politely: If the quoted fare seems too high based on your knowledge (or gut feeling), you can make a polite counter-offer.
  
• Be Prepared to Walk Away: If you cannot agree on a fare that you feel is reasonable, don’t hesitate to politely decline and look for another auto-rickshaw. Often, if your offer was fair, the driver might call you back with a revised price. There are usually plenty of other autos available in busy areas.

Factors That Can Influence the Fare:

• Distance: This is the primary determinant, naturally.
  
• Time of Day: Fares can be significantly higher late at night or during very early morning hours. An old official document mentioned a 25% night surcharge, but in practice, late-night increases can be even more substantial.
  
• Demand and Supply: During peak tourist season or at very busy times, drivers might be less willing to negotiate downwards.
  
• Road Conditions/Traffic: For longer or more complex routes, drivers might factor this in.

Pre-paid Auto-Rickshaws: Not a Standard Feature

As mentioned earlier, pre-paid counters at Veer Savarkar International Airport are generally for taxis/cabs. While some cities in India have pre-paid auto-rickshaw stands, this does not appear to be a widespread or standard system for auto-rickshaws in Port Blair based on available information. The emphasis remains firmly on direct negotiation with the driver for almost all auto rides.  

Being informed about the likelihood of inflated initial quotes and the necessity of negotiation empowers travelers to secure fairer prices and reduces the stress associated with uncertainty.

Typical Auto-Rickshaw Fares: Know What to Expect (Estimates)

Having an idea of typical fares, even if they are estimates, can significantly help in your negotiations. Please remember that the following are indicative costs and can vary based on the factors mentioned previously (time of day, negotiation skills, etc.). Some older information from around 2010-2012 suggests much lower fares (e.g., ₹10-₹40 for short trips). While these historical figures highlight how inexpensive it once was, especially for locals, current prices are considerably higher. Use the more recent estimates as a better guideline.

Short Hops within Town:

• For very short distances within a locality, you might expect to pay anywhere from ₹50 to ₹150. Some sources suggest a general range of ₹50 – ₹200 for short trips.  

Airport to City Center / Key Hotels:

• Veer Savarkar International Airport to Aberdeen Bazaar (City Centre): Historically, this was quoted as low as ₹30. More realistically now, expect to pay around ₹100 – ₹200. One traveler reported paying ₹100 for a 3km airport ride in 2018. Taxi fare calculators (which are generally higher than auto fares) estimate around ₹100 for this route.
  
• Veer Savarkar International Airport to SeaShell Port Blair (Hotel): A taxi fare estimate is around ₹120, so an auto might be slightly less, perhaps in the ₹100-₹150 range.

Aberdeen Bazaar to Jetties:

• Aberdeen Bazaar to Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex / Marine Jetty (for ferries): Previously cited at ₹10. Currently, a more realistic figure would be ₹50 – ₹100. One source suggests ₹50-₹150 for a ride to Aberdeen Jetty depending on the starting point.

City Center to Popular Tourist Spots:

• Port Blair (City Centre) to Corbyn’s Cove Beach (approx. 7-8 km): An auto-rickshaw ride could cost around ₹150 – ₹200.
  
• Within City Centre (e.g., Hotel to Cellular Jail): For short rides to attractions like Cellular Jail from nearby areas, expect fares in the ₹50 – ₹100 range.

Hiring for Sightseeing:

• For a full day of sightseeing covering multiple points in and around Port Blair, some estimates suggest that auto-rickshaws or cabs could average ₹1,500 to ₹2,500. An auto-rickshaw hired for the day should ideally be at the lower end of this range or negotiable.
  
• Older data mentioned ₹500-₹600 for a round trip plus waiting time to a specific spot, but this would be significantly higher now for multiple locations or longer durations.

Table 1: Estimated Auto-Rickshaw Fares for Common Routes in Port Blair

Disclaimer: These fares are estimates as of late 2024/early 2025 and are subject to change and negotiation. Older sources indicate significantly lower prices, but these are unlikely to be applicable now, especially for tourists.

The discrepancy between historical low prices and current realities underscores why arming oneself with up-to-date (even if estimated) information and being prepared to negotiate is so vital for travelers.

Top Tips for a Smooth and Fair Auto-Rickshaw Ride

Navigating Port Blair by auto-rickshaw can be a breeze if you keep a few practical tips in mind. These suggestions are designed to help you save money, avoid hassles, and enjoy your rides.

• Know Your Destination Clearly: Before you hail an auto, be sure about the exact name of your destination. If possible, have it visible on a map on your smartphone. This helps avoid confusion and ensures the driver understands where you want to go, which can be particularly helpful if there’s a slight language barrier or if you’re heading to a less common spot.
  
• Confirm the Fare, Always: This is the golden rule. Reiterate it: agree on the total fare for the journey before you board the auto-rickshaw. Confirm if the price quoted is for the entire auto (which it usually is) and not per person, especially if you are traveling in a group.
   
• Carry Small Change: Drivers may not always have exact change for larger currency notes (like ₹500 or ₹2000), or sometimes claiming to have no change can be a tactic. Having a good supply of smaller denominations (₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100) will make paying the agreed fare much smoother.
  
• Be Polite, Yet Firm: A friendly and polite approach often works best when interacting with drivers. However, if you believe a quoted price is unreasonably high, be firm in your negotiation. There’s no need to be aggressive, but stand your ground if you’ve done your homework on likely fares.
  
• If a Driver Refuses a Legitimate Fare/Destination: Some reports suggest that drivers might occasionally refuse to go to certain destinations if they don’t deem it profitable enough, or they might refuse to use a meter (though expecting a meter to be used is generally not realistic for tourists anyway). If you encounter this, it’s usually best to simply find another auto-rickshaw.
  
• Learn a Few Local Phrases (Optional): While English is widely understood in tourist areas of Port Blair, knowing a few basic Hindi phrases like “Kitna hua?” (How much?) or “Nahin, dhanyawad” (No, thank you) can sometimes be a pleasant icebreaker, though it’s not essential.
  
• Don’t Be Afraid to Walk Away: If you cannot reach an agreement on the fare, politely decline the ride and look for another auto. In most busy areas, another one will likely be available shortly. This is often the most effective negotiation tactic.
  
• For Airport/Jetty Pickups with Luggage: Auto-rickshaws have limited space for luggage. Standard backpacks and small to medium-sized suitcases are usually manageable. If you have very large bags or multiple pieces of luggage, check with the driver if they can be accommodated before finalizing the ride. While very old official documents once listed luggage charges, this is rarely a formal or itemized charge now; it’s more about the practicality of fitting your luggage and the driver’s discretion. It’s wise to have this understanding before you start.

These “soft skills” of interacting, negotiating, and being prepared can make a significant difference in your auto-rickshaw experiences, turning potential frustrations into smooth journeys.

Using Auto-Rickshaws for Sightseeing: Your Personal City Tour

Auto-rickshaws offer a flexible and often more budget-friendly way to explore Port Blair’s attractions compared to hiring a taxi for the entire day, especially for solo travelers or couples.

Point-to-Point vs. Hiring for a Tour:

You have two main approaches:

1. Point-to-Point: Use different auto-rickshaws to travel from one tourist spot to another, negotiating the fare for each leg of the journey separately. This gives you flexibility if your plans change.
   
2. Hiring for a Tour: You can negotiate with an auto-rickshaw driver to hire them for a specific duration (e.g., a few hours, a half-day, or a full day) to take you to a pre-agreed list of sights. This can be convenient as the driver will wait for you at each location. Some reports suggest that auto-rickshaws (or cabs, with autos being cheaper) can be hired for a full day for around ₹1,500 to ₹2,500. Taxi tour packages for a Port Blair city tour are listed around ₹1200, so an auto should be negotiable for less.

Negotiating a Sightseeing Package:

If you opt to hire an auto for a tour, clarity is key:

• List of Places: Clearly agree on all the specific locations you want to visit. Write them down if necessary.
• Duration: Agree on the total time for which you are hiring the auto (e.g., 4 hours, 8 hours).
• Total Cost: Agree on the total fixed price for the entire tour, including waiting times. It’s generally understood that for such hires, waiting time is included, but it’s good to confirm.
• Payment: It’s often advisable to pay the agreed amount at the end of the tour, once all agreed-upon points have been covered.

Popular Sightseeing Circuits by Auto:

• Classic City Tour: This could include Cellular Jail, the Anthropological Museum, Samudrika Naval Marine Museum, Chatham Saw Mill, and a stop at Aberdeen Bazaar for shopping.
• Beach Trips: A visit to Corbyn’s Cove is easily done by auto. For longer distances like Chidiya Tapu (Sunset Point) or Wandoor (for Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park), while an auto might be willing, a taxi could be more comfortable and practical. Taxi fares for Chidiya Tapu are around ₹1100-₹1200 round trip, so an auto, if negotiated for such a trip, would need to be significantly cheaper to be worthwhile.

Cost Ideas for Sightseeing Hires:

• As mentioned, a full-day hire (around 8 hours) for an auto-rickshaw covering local Port Blair sights might be negotiated in the range of ₹1200 – ₹2000.
• For a shorter duration, like a half-day tour (around 4 hours), you could aim for ₹600 – ₹1000, depending on the number of spots and distances.
• Remember that older data indicating fares like ₹500-₹600 for a round trip plus waiting would likely apply to a single, relatively nearby spot and would be higher today for a multi-stop tour.

Hiring an auto-rickshaw for sightseeing provides a personalized experience, allowing you to set your own pace. The lower operating cost compared to a taxi often translates into more competitive pricing for such dedicated hires, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious explorers who value flexibility.

Night Travel, Luggage, and Other Practicalities

A few more points to consider for a well-rounded understanding of auto-rickshaw travel in Port Blair:

Riding After Dark:

• Auto-rickshaws are generally available in the evenings, especially in central areas and near restaurants or markets. However, their frequency tends to decrease as it gets very late into the night.
  
• Expect to pay higher fares for night travel. One personal account mentioned fares nearly doubling after sundown. An official document from 2012 (which is very old but indicates a principle) mentioned a 25% surcharge on the basic fare between 10 pm and 4 am. While this specific percentage may not be formally applied now, the practice of charging more at night is common. Always negotiate and confirm the fare before starting your journey, especially late at night, as this “unofficial night surcharge” is driven by market conditions and driver discretion.

Luggage Space:

• Auto-rickshaws have limited space for luggage. Typically, there’s some space next to the driver and in the passenger area.
• Standard backpacks, carry-on bags, or one or two small to medium-sized suitcases can usually be accommodated.
• If you are traveling with a lot of luggage or very large bags, it’s crucial to check with the driver if it can fit comfortably and safely before you agree to the ride. While an old document mentioned specific luggage charges, this is not commonly itemized or enforced now. It’s more a matter of practical accommodation and the driver’s willingness.

Safety:

• Port Blair is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, it’s always wise to take standard travel precautions.
• When traveling at night, try to board autos from well-lit and busy areas.
• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, as you would in any new place.

Sharing Autos (Less Common for Tourists):

• While locals might use shared auto-rickshaw services on fixed routes, tourists typically hire the entire auto-rickshaw for their exclusive use. The fares discussed in this guide are for hiring the whole vehicle.

What if Things Go Wrong? Important Contacts and Recourse

While most auto-rickshaw rides in Port Blair are uneventful, it’s good to know who to contact if you encounter significant issues like extreme overcharging, refusal of service without a valid reason, or other serious concerns.

Fare Disputes or Refusal of Service:

It has been noted that some auto-rickshaw drivers may not adhere to all regulations, such as the (largely theoretical for tourists) use of fare meters, or they might refuse to take passengers to certain destinations if they don’t find it profitable. While many passengers may not lodge formal complaints, doing so for legitimate grievances can contribute to improving the system for everyone.

If you feel you are being unfairly treated, if a driver refuses service for a legitimate fare to a standard destination, or if a serious dispute arises, you have the option to contact the local authorities.

Contact Information:

It’s helpful to have these numbers handy:

• Traffic Police (for issues related to fares, refusal to ply, or meter issues):
  • WhatsApp: 9531892228
  • Landline: 03192-243812
  • Another contact for the pre-paid cab service (manned by Traffic Police, potentially useful for general traffic-related complaints): 03192-243812, or 03192-234472 (extension 313).
    
• Police Control Room (for general safety or more urgent issues):
  • Phone: 232100 (or 100).
    
• Tourist Information Center (Directorate of Tourism, Andaman & Nicobar Administration): For general tourist assistance and guidance.
  • Phone: 03192 – 232694 or 03192 – 232747
  • Email: [email protected] (While this email address seems geared towards online booking queries, the phone numbers are for general tourist information and assistance).

Table 2: Important Contact Numbers for Assistance in Port Blair

Knowing these contacts provides a safety net. While the primary strategy should always be to avoid issues through clear communication and fair negotiation, having recourse is important. The gap between official regulations and on-ground practices can sometimes be wide, but informed tourists who are aware of their options are better equipped to handle any situation.

Enjoy Your Port Blair Auto Adventure!

Auto-rickshaws are undeniably a vibrant and practical part of the Port Blair transportation landscape. They offer an affordable and flexible way to explore the city’s attractions, from historical landmarks to bustling markets and scenic viewpoints.

The key to a positive experience lies in understanding how the system works: remember that fares are almost always negotiated, so agree on the price before you start your journey. Use the estimated costs in this guide as a tool, be polite but firm in your discussions, and don’t hesitate to approach another driver if you’re not comfortable with a quote.

With a little preparation and a spirit of adventure, your auto-rickshaw rides can become memorable highlights of your visit to Port Blair, allowing you to connect with the city in a unique and engaging way. So, go ahead, hail that auto, and enjoy your three-wheeled exploration of this captivating island capital!

Exploring Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, can be both fun and convenient if you choose to travel by auto-rickshaw. Known for their affordability and availability, auto-rickshaws are one of the most popular modes of transport in the city. They provide easy access to major attractions, local markets, and nearby beaches, all while giving you a chance to experience the city like a local.

Below is the quick guide, We’ll cover everything you need to know about using auto-rickshaws in Port Blair, including tips for negotiating fares, common routes, and insider advice to make your travels smooth and enjoyable.

1. Why Choose Auto-Rickshaws in Port Blair?

Auto-rickshaws are a great choice for several reasons, especially for tourists who want to explore without spending too much on transportation. Here’s why they’re a top option:

• Affordability: Auto-rickshaws are much cheaper than taxis, especially for short trips within the city.
• Convenience: They are readily available at popular spots such as Aberdeen Bazaar, Cellular Jail, and the ferry terminals.
• Quick Navigation: Auto-rickshaws can easily navigate through narrow streets and busy areas where larger vehicles may struggle.
• Local Experience: Riding in an open-air auto-rickshaw gives you a chance to take in the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of the city.

2. Auto-Rickshaw Fares in Port Blair

Unlike many Indian cities where auto-rickshaws are required to use meters, Port Blair’s auto-rickshaws do not operate on metered fares. Instead, you’ll need to negotiate the price with the driver before starting your journey. Below is a general fare guide based on common travel distances.

Estimated Auto-Rickshaw Fares

• Short Distance (1-2 km): ₹100 – ₹150
• Medium Distance (3-6 km): ₹150 – ₹300
• Longer Distance (7-10 km): ₹300 – ₹500
• Airport to City Center: ₹300 – ₹400
• Full-Day Hire: ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 depending on your itinerary

Tips:

• Always agree on the fare before starting your trip to avoid disputes.
• Carry small denominations of cash, as many drivers may not have change for large bills.
• For longer trips or multiple stops, consider hiring an auto-rickshaw for a half-day or full-day.

3. Popular Auto-Rickshaw Routes and Destinations

Auto-rickshaws are ideal for visiting many of Port Blair’s key attractions. Here are some popular routes along with approximate fares:

Route 1: Aberdeen Bazaar to Cellular Jail

• Distance: ~2 km
• Fare: ₹100 – ₹150
• Highlights: Explore the historic Cellular Jail, one of the most iconic landmarks of the Andaman Islands.

Route 2: Aberdeen Bazaar to Corbyn’s Cove Beach

• Distance: ~7 km
• Fare: ₹250 – ₹300
• Highlights: Relax at Corbyn’s Cove Beach, known for its scenic palm-lined coastline and water sports.

Route 3: Port Blair Airport to Aberdeen Bazaar (City Center)

• Distance: ~4 km
• Fare: ₹300 – ₹400
• Highlights: Aberdeen Bazaar is a central hub with shops, restaurants, and access to nearby attractions.

Route 4: Aberdeen Bazaar to Chidiya Tapu

• Distance: ~25 km
• Fare: ₹700 – ₹900 (one-way)
• Highlights: Visit Chidiya Tapu for stunning sunset views, hiking trails, and birdwatching opportunities.

Route 5: Aberdeen Bazaar to Wandoor Beach

• Distance: ~28 km
• Fare: ₹800 – ₹1,000 (one-way)
• Highlights: Wandoor Beach is a gateway to Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park and popular for its coral reefs and snorkeling spots.

4. Tips for Using Auto-Rickshaws in Port Blair

To make your auto-rickshaw rides smoother and hassle-free, keep these tips in mind:

1. Negotiate the Fare in Advance

Since there are no meters, fare negotiation is a standard practice. Politely ask the driver for the fare and negotiate if necessary. Knowing approximate fares for common routes can give you an edge.

2. Use Landmarks for Directions

Many drivers may not be familiar with exact street names but will recognize popular landmarks. Mention well-known spots like Cellular Jail, Phoenix Bay Jetty, or Corbyn’s Cove to help them understand your destination.

3. Travel in Groups for Cost Efficiency

If you’re traveling with friends or family, auto-rickshaws can be a cost-effective option since you can split the fare. Most autos can comfortably accommodate up to three passengers.

4. Avoid Peak Hours

Port Blair’s roads can get busy around peak hours (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM), especially near markets and ferry terminals. To avoid delays and higher fares, plan your travel outside these hours.

5. Be Prepared for Weather Conditions

Auto-rickshaws are open on the sides, so be prepared for exposure to sun, wind, or rain. During the monsoon season (June to September), carry a raincoat or umbrella to stay dry.

5. Pros and Cons of Using Auto-Rickshaws

Here’s a quick overview of the advantages and disadvantages of using auto-rickshaws in Port Blair.

Pros:

• Affordable: Cheaper than taxis for short distances.
• Easy to Find: Readily available near popular tourist areas.
• Flexible Routes: Can take you to areas with narrow streets that are difficult for cars to navigate.

Cons:

• No Meter System: Requires fare negotiation, which can be challenging for first-time visitors.
• Limited Comfort: Not as comfortable as air-conditioned taxis, especially during hot or rainy weather.
• No Digital Payments: Most drivers only accept cash, so you’ll need to carry local currency.

6. Alternative Transport Options

If auto-rickshaws don’t meet your needs, here are some other transport options to consider:

• Taxis: Ideal for longer distances and full-day trips. Fares range from ₹2,500 to ₹4,000 for a full day.
• Scooter Rentals: Great for independent travelers; costs ₹500 – ₹800 per day.
• Local Buses: Extremely economical but have limited routes and infrequent service. Fares range from ₹10 to ₹30.
• Ferries: Essential for traveling to nearby islands like Havelock and Neil; fares range from ₹200 to ₹2,000.

Auto-rickshaws are a reliable and affordable way to get around Port Blair, especially for short distances and spontaneous trips. While they may not offer the comfort of taxis or the freedom of scooter rentals, they provide a convenient option for budget travelers who want to explore the city and its attractions without spending too much on transport.

Whether you’re heading to the beach, visiting historic landmarks, or simply navigating the bustling streets of Aberdeen Bazaar, an auto-rickshaw ride offers both convenience and a slice of local life in this beautiful island city.