Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, is a bustling metropolis on India's southeastern coast. Andaman Islands, a stunning archipelago in the Bay of Bengal, are famed for their pristine beaches, coral reefs, and tropical forests. Traveling from Chennai to Andaman is popular among tourists seeking a tropical getaway and nature lovers eager to explore the islands' unique biodiversity.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Andaman from Chennai, including flights and sea routes. You will find detailed information on travel times, costs, booking tips, and what to expect on arrival, helping you plan your trip with confidence.

Getting from Chennai to Andaman – Main Options

By Flight

Flying is the most popular and convenient way to reach Andaman from Chennai. Direct flights connect Chennai International Airport (MAA) to Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) in Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

• Flight duration and frequency:

  Direct flights take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Airlines like IndiGo and Air India operate regular weekly flights, though frequency can vary seasonally. Booking in advance is advisable.

• Ticket costs and booking tips:

  Airfare ranges from ₹4,000 to ₹8,000 one-way, depending on the season and how early you book. Use IRCTC Air or airline websites for best deals and check for seasonal discounts.

• Airport facilities and transfers:

  Chennai airport is well-equipped with lounges and eateries. At Port Blair, taxis and prepaid cabs are available outside the terminal; Ola and Uber are not operational here.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flights may be affected by monsoon weather between June and September, so plan accordingly. Early morning flights often face fewer delays.

• Travel tips:

  Carry valid ID and print your boarding pass in advance. Arrive at Chennai airport at least 2 hours before departure due to security checks.

By Ship

For travelers seeking a more adventurous route, passenger ships connect Chennai to Port Blair, though this option is less frequent and takes significantly longer.

• Ship operators and schedule:

  The Government-run ship MV Swaraj Dweep operates monthly between Chennai and Port Blair. The journey takes around 60 to 70 hours, so plan for a multi-day voyage.

• Ticket booking and costs:

  Tickets can be booked via the Directorate of Shipping Services website or at Chennai's ferry terminal. Prices range from ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 depending on the class.

• Comfort and facilities:

  Ships offer basic accommodation with shared and private cabins. Food is available onboard but limited, so carry snacks and water.

• Seasonal impact:

  Sea travel is best avoided during the monsoon (June to September) due to rough seas and cancellations.

• Port and last-mile connectivity:

  The ship docks at Haddo Wharf in Port Blair, about 5 km from the city center. Prepaid taxis and auto-rickshaws are available for onward travel.

By Train and Ship (Indirect)

There is no direct train to Andaman, but some travelers combine train and ship travel for a unique experience.

• Train to Chennai and onward ship:

  Travelers from other parts of India can take trains to Chennai Central, then board the ship or catch a flight to Port Blair.

• Train facilities:

  Chennai Central is a major railway hub with good amenities and easy access to Chennai airport and ferry terminals.

• Planning connections:

  Ensure sufficient layover time between train arrival and ship or flight departure to avoid missing connections.

• Booking tips:

  Use IRCTC for train tickets and official shipping websites for ship bookings to coordinate schedules.

By Road

Traveling by road from Chennai to Andaman is not possible due to the islands' location in the Bay of Bengal. The only viable options are air and sea travel.

• Road travel to ports:

  Travelers can drive or take taxis to Chennai airport or ferry terminal, depending on their chosen mode.

• Local transport to departure points:

  Use Ola, Uber, or prepaid taxis in Chennai for convenient transfers to departure locations.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Chennai to Andaman, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your flight or ship tickets early:

  Secure your seats at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (October to March) to avoid last-minute price hikes or unavailability.

• Prepare travel documents:

  Carry a valid government-issued photo ID like Aadhaar or passport, as it is mandatory for flights and ship boarding.

• Arrive early at departure point:

  Reach Chennai airport 2 hours before flight departure or the ferry terminal 3 hours before ship departure to complete check-in and security procedures smoothly.

• Pack essentials for the journey:

  For flights, carry light luggage and a water bottle. For ships, pack snacks, medicines, and entertainment for the long voyage.

• On arrival at Port Blair:

  Use prepaid taxis available at the airport or Haddo Wharf for hassle-free transfers to your hotel or tourist spots.

• Plan local transport in Andaman:

  Rent scooters or use local taxis to explore the islands, as public transport is limited.

Practical Travel Tips

• Book flights via official airline websites or IRCTC Air:

  This helps avoid third-party scams and ensures reliable ticket confirmation.

• Carry bottled water and light snacks:

  Especially important for the ship journey where food options are limited and onboard water may not be potable.

• Use prepaid taxis or authorized cabs:

  At Port Blair airport and ferry terminals, avoid unmetered taxis to prevent overcharging.

• Check weather updates before travel:

  Monsoon season can cause flight delays and ship cancellations; plan accordingly.

• Keep photocopies of ID and tickets:

  Useful for verification during boarding and local travel.

• Download offline maps and travel apps:

  Apps like Ola and Uber do not operate in Andaman, so offline navigation helps when exploring remote areas.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Chennai to Andaman is during the dry season from October to March when the weather is pleasant and sea conditions are calm. Monsoon months bring heavy rains and rough seas, affecting both flights and ships.

Avoid traveling during major Indian festivals or long weekends when flights and accommodations are in high demand and prices surge.

• Avoid monsoon months (June to September) due to frequent flight delays and ship cancellations.

• Early morning flights from Chennai tend to be more punctual and less affected by weather.

• Plan departures on weekdays to avoid weekend rush and higher fares.

• Check for local holidays in Andaman to ensure availability of services and attractions.

Arrival at Andaman & What to Expect

Landing at Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, travelers are greeted by a tropical climate and warm hospitality. The airport is small but functional, with prepaid taxi counters just outside the arrival hall.

Port Blair serves as the gateway to the islands, with several hotels and guesthouses nearby. Local transport options include taxis, auto-rickshaws, and scooter rentals. Popular nearby attractions like Cellular Jail and Corbyn's Cove Beach are easily accessible.

Conclusion

Flying from Chennai to Andaman is the most efficient and comfortable option, offering quick travel and regular schedules. For those seeking adventure and a budget-friendly alternative, the government-operated ship provides a unique sea journey, though it requires more time and planning.

With proper preparation and awareness of seasonal conditions, travelers can confidently plan their trip from Chennai to Andaman and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this island paradise.