Both islands are stunning. But they are not the same. Here is how to decide which one belongs in your itinerary — or whether you can squeeze in both.
Havelock Island: The Crowd Favourite
Havelock (officially Swaraj Dweep) is home to Radhanagar Beach, regularly ranked among Asia’s best. It has the most developed tourist infrastructure in Andaman — resorts across every budget, dive schools, and regular ferry connections.
Neil Island: The Quiet Escape
Neil Island (officially Shaheed Dweep) is smaller, quieter, and feels more like a fishing village than a resort town. Bharatpur Beach and Laxmanpur Beach offer excellent snorkelling without the crowds you will find on Havelock.
Which Should You Choose?
If you want activities, nightlife, and the famous Radhanagar sunset, choose Havelock. If you want to slow down and avoid crowds, Neil Island wins. Most travellers with 6+ days do both — 3 nights in Havelock followed by 2 nights in Neil Island works well with the ferry schedules.
Getting Between Them
A direct ferry between Havelock and Neil Island takes about 1–1.5 hours and runs daily during peak season. Book at least a day in advance, especially around weekends and holidays.
