Ultimate Travel Guide to Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep): Complete Information, Attractions, Hotels, and Travel Tips

Introduction to Havelock Island

Havelock Island, officially renamed Swaraj Dweep, is one of the most picturesque and highly sought-after islands in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, making it a top choice for travelers from across India and around the world.

Famous for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, dense tropical forests, and colorful coral reefs, Havelock Island offers an unforgettable experience for leisure travelers, honeymooners, adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and water sports aficionados.

The island is home to some of the most renowned beaches in the world, including the award-winning Radhanagar Beach, celebrated for its long stretches of soft sand and mesmerizing sunsets; Elephant Beach, popular for snorkeling, scuba diving, glass-bottom boat rides, and other thrilling water adventures; and Kalapathar Beach, known for its unique black rocks, serene environment, and scenic beauty that attracts photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Beyond its stunning beaches, Havelock Island boasts lush green forests, exotic wildlife, hidden lagoons, vibrant marine life, and breathtaking viewpoints, providing ample opportunities for trekking, kayaking, bird watching, and underwater exploration. With a perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty, Havelock Island – Swaraj Dweep is not just a destination but a complete tropical retreat offering something for every type of traveler.

Its peaceful surroundings, eco-friendly resorts, cozy homestays, and local culture further enhance the visitor experience, making it a must-visit location in India. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, family holiday, solo adventure, or nature-filled escape, Havelock Island provides a serene yet thrilling environment where travelers can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Andaman Islands, enjoy world-class water sports, explore untouched natural landscapes, and create lifelong memories.

Ranked among the top tourist destinations in India, Havelock Island continues to attract thousands of visitors each year with its breathtaking landscapes, unspoiled beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and adventure-filled experiences, solidifying its reputation as a true paradise in the heart of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

📌 Quick Facts About Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)

📍 Location: 70 km from Port Blair, Andaman Islands
🌴 Renamed: Swaraj Dweep in 2018
🚤 Accessibility: Ferries & Cruises from Port Blair and Neil Island
🌊 Famous For: Beaches, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Honeymoon Resorts
🏖️ Best Beaches: Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, Kalapathar Beach, Vijaynagar Beach
🌞 Best Time to Visit: October to May

🏖️ Best Beaches in Havelock Island

1. Radhanagar Beach

Radhanagar Beach, also known as Beach No. 7, is one of the most iconic beaches of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep). Famous for its pristine white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and serene environment, Radhanagar Beach has consistently been ranked among the top beaches in Asia and the world. Its untouched natural beauty, combined with lush tropical surroundings, makes it a must-visit destination for travelers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.

Voted Asia’s Best Beach by TIME Magazine
Famous for golden sunsets and crystal-clear waters
Ideal for swimming, photography, and relaxation

2. Elephant Beach

Elephant Beach is located on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, approximately 9 km from Havelock Jetty. The beach is famous for its pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and coral reefs, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region.

Known for water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, sea walking
Famous for colorful coral reefs and marine life

3. Kalapathar Beach

Kalapathar Beach, located on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is one of the most tranquil beaches in the region. Unlike the bustling Radhanagar or Elephant Beach, Kalapathar is perfect for travelers seeking peace, scenic beauty, and solitude. Its name, Kalapathar, literally translates to "Black Stone," aptly describing the striking black rocks scattered along its pristine coastline.

This beach is ideal for photography, nature walks, and quiet relaxation, offering a serene escape from crowded tourist spots. The combination of turquoise waters, white sands, and lush greenery makes it a must-visit destination for any Andaman trip.

Beautiful shoreline with black rocks and turquoise water
A peaceful beach for couples and nature lovers

4. Vijaynagar Beach

Vijaynagar Beach, also called Beach No. 5, is one of the pristine and lesser-crowded beaches on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Known for its untouched beauty, serene coastline, and clear turquoise waters, this beach is a paradise for travelers seeking peace, adventure, and nature at its purest. Vijaynagar Beach stands out for its calm environment, vibrant marine life, and soft golden sands, making it a must-visit destination for beach lovers.

Calm waters, perfect for long beach walks
Surrounded by lush coconut trees

🤿 Adventure Activities in Havelock Island

Havelock is the adventure capital of Andaman Islands with activities like:

Scuba Diving – Explore coral reefs and marine biodiversity
Snorkeling – Shallow-water coral exploration
Sea Walking – Underwater walking experience
Kayaking – Paddle through mangroves
Game Fishing & Boat Rides – Perfect for thrill-seekers

🏨 Hotels & Resorts in Havelock Island

Havelock Island offers accommodation options for every budget:

Luxury Resorts: Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Havelock Island Beach Resort
Mid-Range Hotels: Symphony Palms Beach Resort, Silver Sand Beach Resort
Budget Stays & Cottages: Eco Villa Palm Beach Resort, Green Valley Resort

🍲 Food & Restaurants in Havelock

Some of the best restaurants in Havelock include:

Full Moon Café – Seafood & continental dishes
Something Different Café – Beachfront dining with multiple cuisines
Anju Coco Resto – Famous for Indian, Thai, and seafood

🚢 How to Reach Havelock Island

✈️ By Air: Fly to Port Blair’s Veer Savarkar International Airport, then take a ferry
🚤 By Ferry/Cruise: Government ferries & private cruises (Makruzz, Green Ocean, Nautika) connect Port Blair to Havelock
⛴️ By Sea: Ships also operate from Kolkata, Chennai, and Vizag to Port Blair

📅 Best Time to Visit Havelock Island

October to May – Perfect weather for beach vacations & water activities
June to September – Monsoon season, heavy rains, not ideal for water sports

📞 Important Contact Numbers in Havelock Island

Tourism Information Center (Port Blair): +91-3192-232694
Havelock Police Station: +91-3192-282405
Government Hospital, Havelock: +91-3192-282410
Private Ferry Enquiries (Makruzz): +91-9531909000
Havelock Island Beach Resort: +91-9932088858

🌐 Travel Tips for Havelock Island

Book ferries & resorts in advance during peak season
Carry cash, as ATMs are limited on the island
Internet & mobile connectivity is weak, so plan accordingly
Respect the environment and do not litter beaches
Always follow safety rules for water sports

🎯 Why Visit Havelock Island?

Havelock Island is the jewel of Andaman tourism, offering the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. Whether you are a honeymooner, family traveler, solo backpacker, or adventure seeker, this island has everything to make your holiday unforgettable.

📌 Conclusion

Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) is a must-visit destination in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, offering world-class beaches, luxury resorts, delicious food, and thrilling water sports. From romantic getaways to family vacations, Havelock promises a magical experience for every traveler.