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Train Connectivity to Port Blair: Travel Alternatives

1. Dreaming of the Andamans? Understanding How to Get to Port Blair

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a stunning archipelago nestled in the Bay of Bengal, beckon travelers with their vision of paradise. Imagine pristine, sun-kissed beaches, waters so clear they mirror the sky, and a vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life. These islands are a dream destination for those who love the sea, sand, and nature in its purest form. Port Blair, the capital city, serves as the primary gateway to this tropical haven, welcoming visitors to begin their island exploration.  

A common question for those planning a trip from mainland India is about train travel. So, let’s address it upfront: Can I take a train to Port Blair? The straightforward answer is no; there are no direct train services connecting mainland India to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, including Port Blair. This is a crucial piece of information to have at the start of your planning, as it shapes all subsequent travel decisions. This guide will walk you through all the practical and feasible alternatives to reach this beautiful island capital.  

2. Why No Direct Trains? The Geographical Reality

The absence of a direct rail link to Port Blair isn’t an oversight but a consequence of geography.

Island Life: Separated by Sea The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a cluster of islands situated far out in the Bay of Bengal, geographically distinct and separate from the Indian mainland. This significant distance and the nature of island territories make land-based connections like railways impractical and, currently, impossible to construct from the mainland. To put it in perspective, Port Blair is approximately 1300 kilometers, or about 778 miles, from Kolkata, one of the nearest major mainland cities. This substantial sea barrier naturally dictates that travel to the islands relies on air or sea transport, underscoring why these are the only methods available for reaching Port Blair from the mainland.  

A Note on Future Rail Plans (Managing Expectations) While direct train connectivity from the mainland is not on the horizon, it’s interesting to note that there are plans for a railway line within the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The Indian government has proposed a 240 km railway line connecting Port Blair with Diglipur in North Andaman. This project aims to significantly improve local connectivity between these two points, reducing travel time from 14 hours by bus or 24 hours by boat to just 3 hours by train.  

It’s important for travelers to understand that this is an internal infrastructure project. Its primary goals are to benefit locals, boost tourism to attractions like Ross and Smith islands near Diglipur, and hold strategic importance for defense, given Diglipur’s proximity to Myanmar’s southern coast. This development, while exciting for inter-island travel within the Andamans in the future, will not create a rail link from the mainland to Port Blair. The project is still in its planning or early construction phases and does not currently offer a travel option for reaching the islands. Knowing this distinction helps avoid any confusion that might arise from news about “trains in Andaman,” ensuring that travel plans remain focused on the existing, viable options of air and sea travel from the mainland.  

3. Your Mainland Gateways to Paradise: Connecting to Port Blair

To begin your journey to Port Blair, you will first need to travel to one of a few key cities on the Indian mainland. These cities act as crucial transit hubs, offering onward connections by sea or air.

Key Hub Cities: Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam The primary mainland cities that serve as departure points for Port Blair are Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam. These cities have major railway stations and are well-connected by India’s extensive rail network to most other parts of the country. Travelers typically make their way to one of these three “gateway” cities by train (or other domestic transport) before embarking on the final leg of their journey to the Andaman Islands. Focusing your initial travel plans on reaching one of these hubs simplifies the overall planning process for a multi-stage journey to an island destination.  

4. Option 1: The Scenic Sea Voyage – Combining Train & Ship to Port Blair

For those who prefer a more traditional and leisurely pace, or perhaps a more budget-friendly option for basic passage, combining a train journey to a port city with a subsequent ship voyage to Port Blair is a viable alternative.

Step 1: Reaching the Port Cities by Train The initial part of this journey involves taking a train from your home city to one of the main port cities: Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam. All three are major railway hubs with excellent connectivity across India.  

Step 2: The Ship Journey to Port Blair Once you arrive in Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam, the next stage is the sea journey to Port Blair.

  • What to Expect: Duration, Onboard Experience The voyage by ship is a significantly longer undertaking compared to flying. The journey typically takes between 50 to 70 hours, varying based on the port of departure, the specific ship, and prevailing weather conditions. For instance, ships from Chennai might take around 60-70 hours, while those from Kolkata could take 66-70 hours, and from Visakhapatnam, around 56 hours. Upon reaching Port Blair, these passenger ships usually halt for about two to four days before making their return voyage. The journey itself can be an experience, offering expansive views of the Bay of Bengal. Some travelers have reported sightings of marine life like dolphins and sea turtles during the voyage.
  • Key Passenger Ship Services (from Chennai, Kolkata, Visakhapatnam) Regular passenger ship services to Port Blair are operated from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam.
    • Frequency:
      • From Chennai: There are typically three to four sailings to Port Blair each month.  
      • From Kolkata: Sailings are usually once a week, translating to about three to four per month.  
      • From Visakhapatnam: There is generally one sailing per month to Port Blair.
    • Ship Names: Several vessels serve these routes. Common names include M.V. Swaraj Dweep, M.V. Nicobar, M.V. Nancowry, M.V. Harshavardhana, and M.V. Akbar. M.V. Harshavardhana is often associated with the Kolkata and Visakhapatnam routes, while M.V. Swaraj Dweep and M.V. Nancowry are frequently mentioned for the Chennai route.
  • Accommodation Classes on Ships Passenger ships offer a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and comfort preferences. These generally include Deluxe Cabins, First Class Cabins, Second Class ‘A’ Cabins, Second Class ‘B’ Cabins, and the most basic, Bunk or Deck Class. Fares vary considerably based on the chosen class. It’s also important to note that there are often different fare structures for Islanders (residents of Andaman & Nicobar) and tourists (non-Islanders). For non-Islanders, bunk class tickets might range from approximately ₹720 to ₹1,880, while a Deluxe Cabin could cost between ₹4,350 and ₹8,420. From Chennai, ticket prices can range from around ₹900 to ₹10,000 depending on the accommodation type.
  • Booking Your Ship Tickets: A How-To Guide Booking ship tickets requires some planning.
    • STARS Counters: Tickets for these government-operated ships can often be booked at Ship Ticketing Advance Reservation System (STARS) counters. These are managed by the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS), Andaman and Nicobar Administration.
      • STARS counters are located in Port Blair, Chennai (at Jawahar Building, 6 Rajaji Salai), Kolkata (at the Shipping Corporation of India Office, Shipping House, No. 13, Strand Road), and other towns in the Andamans like Mayabunder and Diglipur.
    • Visakhapatnam Bookings: For sailings from Visakhapatnam (Vizag), the process is slightly different as this sector may not be fully integrated into the STARS network. Here, the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) typically issues tickets through a designated ticketing agent, M/s AV Bhanojirow Garuda.
    • Online Booking (DSS Portal): The Directorate of Shipping Services has an e-Ticketing portal (official websites include dss.andaman.gov.in/eticketing and dss.andaman.gov.in/ShipAndamanWebSite/). This portal allows for online reservation of ship tickets for mainland, inter-island, and foreshore sector vessels. Users generally need to create an account to use this service. For government ferries, the booking window typically opens only 2-3 days before the scheduled departure.
    • Required Documents: When booking, travelers usually need to submit a requisition form and provide valid photo identification proof. The same ID proof must be carried during boarding. For bookings from Chennai, it’s advisable to also carry address proof and passport-sized photographs.
    • Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) Contact Information:
      • Head Office (Port Blair): Phoenix Bay Jetty, Sri Vijaya Puram – 744 101. Phone: (03192) 232528 / 232742. Email: [email protected].  
      • Help Desk (Port Blair): Email: [email protected]. Toll-Free: 1800-345-2714. Phone: (03192) 245555.  
      • Chennai Office: Assistant Director (Shipping Services), Jawahar Building, 6 Rajaji Salai, Chennai – 600 001. Phone: (044) 25226873. Email: [email protected].  
      • Kolkata Office (SCI): Shipping House, No. 13, Strand Road, Kolkata – 700 001. Phone: (033) 2482354 / 2488013.  
      • Visakhapatnam Office: Officer In-Charge (Shipping Services), A&N Administration, Andaman House, Narshima Nagar, Akkya Palem, Vizag – 530 024. Phone (Raja Babu, LGC Incharge): +91 – 630-446-5181.
  • Tips for a Smooth Sailing:
    • Book Well in Advance: Due to the limited number of sailings and potential demand, especially during peak tourist season, it is crucial to book tickets as far in advance as possible.  
    • Verify Schedules: Ship schedules can be subject to change due to weather or operational reasons. Always confirm the schedule closer to your travel date.  
    • Pack for a Long Journey: Remember this is a multi-day journey. Pack essentials, including any medications, snacks, and entertainment.
    • Monitor Weather: Sea conditions can affect the journey. It’s wise to keep an eye on weather forecasts, especially if traveling during periods prone to cyclones or rough seas.  
    • Best Cruising Time: For travel from Chennai, the period between January and March is often recommended due to more pleasant weather and calmer seas, which can help reduce seasickness.  

The ship journey, while requiring more time and planning due to its infrequent nature and booking system, offers a distinct travel experience. It appeals to those with more time, a sense of adventure, or those seeking the most economical way (in basic classes) to reach the islands. The different fare structures for islanders and non-islanders are an important budgeting consideration for tourists.

Table 1: Passenger Ships to Port Blair from Mainland India

Departure PortKey Ship Names (Examples)Approx. Voyage DurationTypical Sailing FrequencyMain Accommodation ClassesBooking Via
ChennaiM.V. Swaraj Dweep, M.V. Nancowry50-70 hours3-4 times/monthDeluxe Cabin, 1st/2nd Class, BunkSTARS Counters, DSS Portal (dss.andaman.gov.in)
KolkataM.V. Harshavardhana, M.V. Akbar66-70 hoursApprox. 3-4 times/monthDeluxe Cabin, 1st/2nd Class, BunkSTARS Counters (SCI Office), DSS Portal
VisakhapatnamM.V. HarshavardhanaApprox. 56 hours1 time/monthDeluxe Cabin, 1st/2nd Class, BunkSCI Agent (M/s AV Bhanojirow Garuda), DSS Portal

5. Option 2: The Quicker Combo – Train & Flight to Port Blair

For travelers who want a balance – perhaps enjoying train travel for a portion of their journey or not living near a city with direct flights to Port Blair – combining a train journey with a flight offers a faster alternative to the sea voyage.

Step 1: Railing to a Major Airport Hub The first part of this option involves taking a train from your city of origin to a major Indian city that has an airport with direct flight connections to Port Blair. Convenient airport hubs include Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, New Delhi, and Mumbai. India’s extensive railway network makes reaching these cities by train feasible from almost anywhere in the country.  

Step 2: Flying into Port Blair Once you arrive at the airport hub city (like Chennai or Kolkata), you can then take a domestic flight directly to Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair. The flight duration from these mainland hubs to Port Blair is relatively short, generally ranging from 2 to 3.5 hours, depending on the origin city. This “Train + Flight” combination is significantly faster and often more convenient than the lengthy sea journey, especially if time is a critical factor in your travel plans. This approach provides flexibility, allowing travelers to leverage the rail network for the mainland leg while still ensuring a quick arrival in the Andamans.  

6. Option 3: Direct Flights to Port Blair – The Fastest Route

For most travelers, especially those with limited time, flying directly to Port Blair is the quickest and most convenient way to reach the Andaman Islands.

Welcome to Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), Port Blair All flights to the Andaman Islands land at Veer Savarkar International Airport, the main airport serving the region. Its airport code is IXZ. The airport is conveniently located just 2 kilometers south of Port Blair city.  

Cities with Direct Air Links (Airlines, Flight Durations) Opting for a direct flight is the most efficient method to begin your Andaman adventure, saving considerable travel time. Several major Indian cities offer direct flight connections:  

  • Kolkata (CCU): Located approximately 1,302 km from Port Blair, the flight duration is about 2 to 2.5 hours. Kolkata generally has a high frequency of flights, often at competitive prices. Airlines operating this route include Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Vistara, and Akasa Air.
  • Chennai (MAA): Situated around 1,362 km away, flights from Chennai also take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. As a major southern hub, Chennai offers daily direct flights. Airlines include IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India, and Akasa Air.
  • Bengaluru (BLR): The distance to Port Blair is roughly 1,650 km, with a flight time of about 2.25 to 2.5 hours. IndiGo and Vistara are key airlines on this route.
  • Mumbai (BOM): Approximately 2,280 km from Port Blair, the flight duration is around 3.5 hours. Direct flights from Mumbai are less frequent and often seasonal, primarily available during peak tourist seasons. IndiGo is a notable operator on this route.
  • New Delhi (DEL): This is the longest domestic direct flight route to Port Blair, covering about 2,496 km, with a flight time of approximately 3.5 hours. Air India typically operates flights on select days of the week.  

Other airlines that may operate to Port Blair include Air India Express. The availability of flights from multiple major cities across India makes Port Blair highly accessible for both domestic travelers and international tourists connecting through these metropolitan airports. The relatively short flight durations also make the Andamans a feasible destination even for shorter holidays.  

Tips for Booking Flights

  • Book in Advance: Especially if traveling during the peak tourist season (October to May), it’s advisable to book your flight tickets well in advance to secure better fares and availability.
  • Compare Prices: Use online travel portals and airline websites to compare fares across different carriers.
  • Consider Night Flights: Some airlines, like Air India, have been anticipated to launch night flights from cities like Chennai and Kolkata, which could offer more flexibility.  

Port Blair Airport: Facilities and Contact Information Veer Savarkar International Airport is equipped with several facilities to assist travelers:

  • Facilities: These include an immigration counter (primarily for foreign nationals, though Indian citizens do not need special permits for most tourist areas), a passenger help desk, a tourism information counter, assistance services for differently-abled individuals, elderly passengers, and unaccompanied minors. Wheelchair assistance can be arranged through the respective airlines (may be a paid service), and baggage trolleys are available in both arrival and departure areas.
  • Contact Information (Veer Savarkar International Airport – IXZ):
    • Address: Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands – 744103 (also listed as Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744101 ).  
    • Airport Director Phone: 03192 235 619.  
    • Airport Director Email: apdportblair[at]aai[dot]AERO (Mr. Devender Yadav).  
    • Terminal Manager Phone: +91 9474233661, 03192244554. Email: tm_portblair[at]aai[dot]AERO.  
    • Official Website: The Airports Authority of India website (www.aai.aero) usually lists details for Port Blair airport, though accessibility can sometimes be an issue.  
    • Airline Contacts at Airport: Specific contact numbers for airlines like IndiGo (+91 9667745621), Akasa Air (+91 865982769), Vistara (+91 7428496970), and Air India (+91 9434280114) operating at Port Blair airport are often available and can be very useful for passengers needing immediate assistance.  

Looking ahead, there are also plans for a new airport in Diglipur, North Andaman. Once operational, this could open up direct access to more remote parts of the islands, potentially influencing future travel patterns.  

Table 2: Direct Flights to Port Blair (IXZ)

Origin CityAirlines Operating (Examples)Typical Flight DurationNotes
Kolkata (CCU)Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Vistara, Akasa Air2 – 2.5 hoursHigh frequency, often budget-friendly
Chennai (MAA)IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India, Akasa Air2 – 2.5 hoursMajor southern hub, daily flights
Bengaluru (BLR)IndiGo, Vistara2.25 – 2.5 hoursGood connectivity for South/Central India
Mumbai (BOM)IndiGo~3.5 hoursSeasonal, limited frequency
New Delhi (DEL)Air India~3.5 hoursLongest route, operates on select days

7. Navigating the Gateway Cities: Local Transport to Ports & Airports

Successfully navigating the transfer between railway stations and the sea port or airport in your chosen gateway city is a key part of a smooth journey to Port Blair. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Getting Around in Chennai (From Railway Station to Port/Airport):
    • Chennai Central Railway Station to Chennai Airport (MAA): The airport is about 19 to 22.5 km from Chennai Central.
      • Options: The Chennai Metro (subway) offers an efficient and affordable connection directly to the airport, taking about 30-37 minutes. Public buses are the cheapest but take longer (around 1 hour 10 minutes). Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also readily available, with taxis being the fastest (around 22 minutes) but more expensive. Pre-paid taxi counters are available at the airport for arrivals.
    • Chennai Central Railway Station to Chennai Port Trust (CPT) Jetty: While specific directions are not detailed, the port is relatively central. This transfer would typically require a short taxi ride, an auto-rickshaw, or a local bus. It’s advisable to use ride-hailing apps or inquire locally for the best bus routes.
  • Getting Around in Kolkata (From Railway Station to Port/Airport):
    • Major Kolkata Railway Stations (e.g., Howrah, Sealdah) to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU): Howrah station is a common transit point for Andaman-bound travelers. The distance from “Kolkata railway station” (Belgachia example) to CCU airport is roughly 9-11 km (5.7-7 miles).
      • Options: Direct public buses are an affordable option, taking about 26-38 minutes from certain points. Taxis are faster (around 10 minutes from Belgachia example). Ride-hailing services like Uber are also operational in Kolkata and offer airport transfers.
    • Kolkata Railway Station to Kolkata Port Trust (KPT) Jetty: Similar to Chennai, reaching the KPT jetty from the railway station will require local transport such as a taxi, bus, or ride-hailing service.
  • Getting Around in Visakhapatnam (From Railway Station to Port/Airport):
    • Visakhapatnam Railway Station to Visakhapatnam Airport (VTZ):
      • Options: Cabs are available, with fares around ₹400. There are reportedly no direct buses from the airport to the railway station, meaning the reverse journey would also likely require an indirect bus route or an alternative. One common method is to take an auto-rickshaw to NAD Junction and then catch a bus (e.g., routes 28, 6, 300) to the railway station.
    • Visakhapatnam Railway Station to Visakhapatnam Port: The port is not far from the city center. The main city bus station, Dwaraka Bus Station (RTC Complex), is about 5 km from the port. From the railway station, an auto-rickshaw or taxi would be the most straightforward way to reach the port.  

Understanding these local transfer options is crucial, as the ease and cost can vary. For instance, Chennai’s direct metro link to the airport is very convenient, whereas in Visakhapatnam, a multi-step journey might be needed if relying on public buses. Budgeting adequate time and money for these transfers will prevent last-minute stress.

8. Once You’re in Port Blair: A Quick Look at Inter-Island Ferries

Port Blair is not just a destination in itself but also the primary hub for exploring other enchanting islands in the Andaman archipelago, such as Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep). Most visitors will want to venture beyond the capital, and ferries are the lifeline for this inter-island travel.  

  • Government vs. Private Ferries: What to Know There are two main types of ferry services operating between the islands:
    • Government Ferries: These are operated by the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) and typically depart from Phoenix Bay Jetty in Port Blair.
      • Pros: More budget-friendly, reliable as they are equipped for various weather conditions, serve both locals and tourists, and can reach more remote locations not always covered by private operators.
      • Booking: Tickets can be booked through the STARS e-ticketing portal (dss.andaman.gov.in) or at DSS counters at the jetties. Booking usually opens only a few days in advance.
      • Example Schedules & Duration:
        • Port Blair to Havelock: Approximately 2.5 hours. Departures often around 06:20, 11:00 (via Neil Island), and 14:00.  
        • Port Blair to Neil Island: Departures often around 06:20 and 13:00.  
    • Private Ferries: Several private companies operate modern, faster ferries.
      • Pros: Generally faster journey times, often newer vessels with more tourist-focused amenities like air-conditioning and comfortable seating, and sometimes more convenient online booking options through their own portals or travel aggregators. Popular private operators include Makruzz, Coastal Cruise (may now be part of others or less frequent), Green Ocean, Go Nautika, and ITT Majestic.
      • Booking: Can be booked online directly with the ferry operator or through various travel websites and local agents.
      • Example Schedules & Duration:
        • Port Blair to Havelock: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Multiple departures throughout the day by different operators (e.g., Makruzz often has sailings around 08:00 and 13:30; Green Ocean around 06:30 and 13:15).  
  • Crucial Booking Advice for Inter-Island Ferries:
    • Book in Advance: Regardless of whether you choose a government or private ferry, it is highly recommended to book your inter-island ferry tickets well in advance, especially if traveling during the peak tourist season (October to May).  
    • Coordinate Timings: Carefully coordinate your ferry departure and arrival times with your flight schedules if you plan to transfer to another island on the same day as your arrival in or departure from Port Blair. Allow ample buffer time.  
    • Book Ferries BEFORE Hotels: This is a very important tip. Most hotels in the Andamans have strict cancellation policies. Ferry schedules can sometimes change due to weather or operational reasons. To avoid losing money on hotel bookings, secure your ferry tickets first before finalizing your accommodation on other islands.
  • Contact for Private Ferries (Examples):
    • Travel agents often facilitate bookings for multiple private ferries. One example is Andaman Beach Travels: Phone: 9474262390 / 8001237772; Email: [email protected].  
    • Online ferry booking aggregators like Ferrybooking.in (Phone: +919933268880) also provide services.  

Knowing these details about inter-island travel will greatly help in planning a multi-island Andaman itinerary smoothly.

Table 3: Key Inter-Island Ferry Routes from Port Blair (Examples)

Destination IslandFerry Type & ExamplesApprox. Travel Time (to Havelock)Typical Departure Point (Port Blair)Booking
Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)Govt: MV Bambooka, MV Hutbay~2.5 hoursPhoenix Bay JettyDSS Portal/Counters
Private: Makruzz, Green Ocean, Go Nautika, ITT Majestic~1.5 – 2 hoursHaddo Wharf (often for private)Online (Operator/Agent)
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)Govt: MV Barantang, MV Jollybuoy~2 hours (direct)Phoenix Bay JettyDSS Portal/Counters
Private: Makruzz, Green Ocean, Go Nautika~1 – 1.5 hours (often via Havelock)Haddo Wharf (often for private)Online (Operator/Agent)

Note: Departure points for private ferries can vary; always confirm when booking.

9. Essential Travel Toolkit for Your Andaman Adventure

A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your Andaman trip is memorable for all the right reasons.

  • The Best Time to Visit Port Blair and the Andamans: The most favorable period to visit the Andaman Islands, including Port Blair, is generally from October to May. During these months, the weather is typically pleasant with lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing, beach activities, and water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling.
    • Peak Tourist Season: October to May coincides with the peak tourist influx.  
    • Winter/Post-Monsoon: November to April offers particularly comfortable conditions.  
    • Specific Activities: For scuba diving enthusiasts, October to May is optimal. If you’re considering a destination wedding or prefer slightly fewer crowds while still enjoying good weather, February and March can be excellent choices. While the monsoon season (broadly May/June to September) has its own lush green charm, it can bring heavy rains and rough seas, potentially disrupting ferry services and outdoor plans.
  • Entry Permits: What Indian Tourists Need to Know: This is a common point of concern, but for most tourists, it’s quite straightforward.
    • No Permit for Popular Areas: Indian nationals do not require any special permit to visit the popular tourist destinations within the Andaman Islands. This includes Port Blair, Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), Long Island, Baratang, and others commonly on tourist itineraries.  
    • Restricted Areas: Permits are required for visiting the Nicobar Islands and certain other designated tribal and restricted areas. These permits are granted only in exceptional circumstances by the office of the Deputy Commissioner, Andaman District, Port Blair. Standard tourist travel does not usually involve these areas. Knowing this can alleviate a common travel anxiety, as the main tourist spots are freely accessible to Indian citizens without special paperwork.
  • Finding Your Stay: Accommodation in Port Blair (Overview): Port Blair offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. You can find everything from budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays to comfortable mid-range hotels and more luxurious resorts. Examples of places to stay include SeaScape Port Blair, Silver Sand Sentinel, Hotel Harbour View, and Hotel Atlanta, each offering different amenities and price points. It is always advisable to book your accommodation in advance, particularly if traveling during the peak season, to ensure availability and potentially better rates. The official Andaman Tourism website (www.andamantourism.gov.in) is a good resource for finding lists of both government-run and private sector accommodations.
  • Important Contacts for Tourists (Tourism Office): For reliable information and assistance, the Directorate of Tourism is your primary contact.
    • Directorate of Tourism, Andaman & Nicobar Administration:
      • Address: Kamaraj Road, Port Blair – 744101 (The official website also mentions Sri Vijaya Puram, Port Blair – 744101, which might be a broader administrative area).  
      • Phone: 03192-232694 / 232747.  
      • Email: touristhelpdeskandamans[at]gmail[dot]com.  
      • Official Website: www.andamantourism.gov.in.  

10. Your Andaman Journey Begins Now!

While the tracks of a train may not lead directly to the shores of Port Blair, the journey to this island paradise is filled with viable and exciting alternatives. Whether you choose the swift convenience of a direct flight, the balanced approach of a train-plus-flight combination, or the unhurried, traditional experience of a sea voyage, the Andaman Islands await.

Each mode of travel offers its own unique perspective and adventure. The key is to plan according to your preferences for time, budget, and experience. With the information in this guide, you are now better equipped to navigate your travel choices and embark on what promises to be an unforgettable journey to the captivating Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is an isolated tropical paradise located in the middle of the Bay of Bengal. One common misconception among travelers is that the islands are accessible by train from mainland India. Unfortunately, Port Blair does not have any train connectivity due to its geographical separation from the mainland. However, don’t worry! You still have several travel alternatives that can get you to Port Blair comfortably. This guide will provide you with all the details about reaching Port Blair by a combination of train, air, and sea routes.


1. Train Travel to Nearest Port Cities

Since you cannot take a direct train to Port Blair, the next best option is to travel by train to one of the nearest port cities, such as Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam. These cities serve as gateways for onward travel to Port Blair via flights or passenger ships.

Here’s a breakdown of the rail routes to these major ports:

Option 1: Chennai (Tamil Nadu)

Chennai is the most popular city for travelers heading to Port Blair. It offers frequent flights and passenger ship services to the Andaman Islands.

  • Popular Trains to Chennai:
    • Coromandel Express (from Kolkata)
    • Tamil Nadu Express (from Delhi)
    • Shatabdi Express (from Bengaluru)
  • Travel Duration:
    • From Kolkata: ~29 hours
    • From Delhi: ~33 hours
    • From Bengaluru: ~6-8 hours
  • Cost: ₹800 – ₹2,500 for sleeper and AC class tickets.

Option 2: Kolkata (West Bengal)

Kolkata is another major hub offering both flights and passenger ship services to Port Blair. It’s a convenient option for travelers from Eastern India and the northeastern states.

  • Popular Trains to Kolkata:
    • Howrah Rajdhani Express (from Delhi)
    • Shatabdi Express (from Bhubaneswar)
    • Kamrup Express (from Assam and Northeast)
  • Travel Duration:
    • From Delhi: ~17-20 hours
    • From Bhubaneswar: ~6-8 hours
    • From Assam: ~20-22 hours
  • Cost: ₹900 – ₹2,800 depending on the class and train type.

Option 3: Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh)

Though less popular than Chennai or Kolkata, Visakhapatnam also has passenger ship services to Port Blair and can be a good alternative for travelers from southern and central India.

  • Popular Trains to Visakhapatnam:
    • Konark Express (from Mumbai)
    • Godavari Express (from Hyderabad)
    • Coromandel Express (from Chennai)
  • Travel Duration:
    • From Mumbai: ~28 hours
    • From Hyderabad: ~12-15 hours
    • From Chennai: ~12 hours
  • Cost: ₹900 – ₹2,500 depending on the class.

2. Travel Alternatives from Port Cities to Port Blair

Once you reach one of the port cities, you have two main options to continue your journey to Port Blair: flights or passenger ships.


Option 1: Flights from Port Cities

Flying is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Port Blair. Major airlines operate regular non-stop flights from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam.

  • Flight Duration:
    • Chennai to Port Blair: ~2.5 hours
    • Kolkata to Port Blair: ~2.5 hours
    • Visakhapatnam to Port Blair: ~2 hours
  • Cost: ₹5,000 – ₹12,000 (one-way, depending on season and advance booking)
  • Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, SpiceJet

Option 2: Passenger Ships to Port Blair

For a more adventurous and scenic route, you can opt for a passenger ship to Port Blair. While this journey takes several days, it offers a unique experience of crossing the Bay of Bengal by sea.

  • Ports: Ships operate from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam.
  • Travel Duration: 60 to 70 hours (2.5 to 3 days)
  • Ships: MV Nicobar, MV Swaraj Dweep, MV Nancowry
  • Cost: ₹2,500 – ₹10,000 depending on class (bunk, cabin, or deluxe)
  • Facilities: Basic cabins, dining areas, and recreation rooms. These ships are designed for transport rather than luxury cruises.

Booking: Tickets are available through the Shipping Corporation of India or authorized agents. Ships typically sail 1-2 times per month, so plan your trip accordingly.


3. Combining Train and Travel Options

Here’s how you can combine train and other travel options to reach Port Blair seamlessly.

Sample Itinerary for a Train-to-Flight Journey:

Day 1: Board an overnight train to Chennai from your city (e.g., Coromandel Express from Kolkata).
Day 2: Arrive in Chennai. Explore the city while waiting for your flight.
Day 3: Take an early morning flight to Port Blair (~2.5 hours).

Sample Itinerary for a Train-to-Ship Journey:

Day 1: Take a train to Kolkata (e.g., Howrah Rajdhani Express from Delhi).
Day 2: Arrive in Kolkata. Spend a day sightseeing.
Day 3: Board the MV Swaraj Dweep passenger ship to Port Blair (~3 days at sea).


4. Travel Tips for Port Blair Journey

1. Book Tickets Early

  • Trains, flights, and passenger ships can get fully booked, especially during peak travel season (October to March). Reserve your seats 2-3 months in advance.

2. Pack for the Climate

  • Port Blair has a tropical climate. Bring light, breathable clothes, sunscreen, and a hat. If you’re traveling by ship, pack seasickness medication and snacks.

3. Check Ferry Schedules

  • If you’re planning to visit nearby islands like Havelock or Neil Island, confirm ferry timings in advance. Ferry services may be affected by weather conditions, especially during the monsoon (June to September).

4. Carry Cash and Essentials

  • Remote islands may have limited ATM services. Keep enough cash for transportation, food, and entry fees to tourist sites.

5. Why Choose Train + Alternative Travel Routes?

While there is no direct train to Port Blair, combining a scenic train journey with a flight or ship ride offers a well-rounded travel experience. Trains provide an affordable and comfortable way to explore mainland India, while flights and ships allow you to reach the Andaman Islands with ease.


Although Port Blair isn’t connected by train, reaching this tropical paradise is still an adventure worth taking. By combining a train journey to a nearby port city with a flight or ship ride, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds—scenic views, cultural experiences, and a smooth transition to island life. Start planning your travel route today and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Andaman Islands!

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