How to Reach Havelock Island from Hyderabad – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach Havelock Island from Hyderabad by train, bus, car, and flight with practical tips on timings, fares, and local transport options.
Havelock Island is part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located in the Bay of Bengal. It is famous for its pristine beaches and clear waters, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Traveling from Hyderabad to Havelock Island involves multiple modes of transport, including flights, ferries, and local transfers. This guide will help you understand the best ways to plan your journey, including train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips.
Getting from Hyderabad to Havelock Island – Main Options
Train
Taking a train from Hyderabad is a budget-friendly option to reach the mainland port cities before heading to Havelock Island. It suits travelers who prefer scenic routes and can manage longer travel times.
Hyderabad’s main stations are Hyderabad Deccan (HYB) and Secunderabad Junction (SC), connecting to Chennai, Kolkata, and Vishakhapatnam, which are gateways to Andaman flights or ships.
Train journeys to Chennai or Kolkata take approximately 12 to 24 hours, with fares ranging from ₹400 to ₹1500 depending on class and train type.
Trains run daily but can be crowded during festival seasons; booking tickets early on IRCTC is recommended to secure seats.
From Chennai or Kolkata, you need to catch a flight or ship to Port Blair, the entry point to Havelock Island, as there are no direct trains to the islands.
Train travel offers basic catering at stations and onboard, but it is advised to carry water and snacks for long journeys, especially in summer months.
Bus
Bus travel from Hyderabad to coastal cities near Andaman is less common due to the long distance and sea crossing. However, buses can be useful for short legs of the journey on the mainland.
State-run buses like TSRTC connect Hyderabad to Chennai and Vishakhapatnam, with journey times of 12 to 18 hours and fares between ₹600 and ₹1200.
From these cities, you will need to take flights or ships to Port Blair; buses do not operate to the islands themselves.
Bus frequency varies, with more options during holidays; night buses are common but can be crowded and less comfortable for long trips.
Bus stations in Hyderabad include MGBS and JBS, which are well connected by local transport for easy access.
Road conditions on NH16 and NH65 are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause delays and slippery roads, so plan accordingly.
Car / Self-Drive
Driving from Hyderabad to the east coast ports is possible but involves a long journey. Self-drive is suitable for travelers who want flexibility on the mainland before taking a ferry or flight.
The drive from Hyderabad to Chennai or Vishakhapatnam covers about 600 to 800 km via NH65 and NH16, taking roughly 12 to 15 hours depending on traffic and stops.
Toll plazas are frequent on these highways, so keep cash or FASTag ready; toll costs may range from ₹300 to ₹600 on this route.
Rest stops with food and fuel are available at regular intervals, including popular dhabas and highway restaurants.
Parking options are limited near ferry terminals and airports, so plan to drop off your vehicle or arrange secure parking in the city.
Driving during the monsoon season requires caution due to waterlogging and reduced visibility, especially on rural stretches.
Flight
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Havelock Island from Hyderabad, involving a connecting flight to Port Blair followed by a ferry.
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) in Hyderabad offers daily flights to Port Blair (IXZ) via Chennai, Kolkata, or Delhi, with total travel time around 6 to 9 hours including layovers.
Flight fares typically range from ₹4000 to ₹9000 one-way, depending on the season and how early you book.
Port Blair’s Veer Savarkar International Airport is the gateway to Havelock Island; from here, you must take a ferry to the island, which takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
Ferries operate from Phoenix Bay Jetty and other ports; booking tickets in advance online or at the port is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Flights are more frequent in winter months; monsoon season may cause delays or cancellations, so check weather updates before traveling.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Hyderabad to Havelock Island, helping you navigate the multiple transport modes smoothly.
After arriving at Port Blair airport, proceed to the ferry booking counters or use authorized online portals to reserve your ferry ticket to Havelock Island; this ensures you avoid last-minute rush.
Take a prepaid taxi or app-based cab like Ola or Uber from the airport to the ferry jetty; prepaid taxis offer fixed rates and avoid haggling.
Board the ferry to Havelock Island, keeping your ID and ferry ticket handy; ferries can be crowded, so arrive early to secure good seating.
On reaching Havelock Island, use local shared jeeps, auto-rickshaws, or rent scooters to reach your accommodation or explore nearby beaches.
Carry light luggage for easy movement on ferries and local transport; pack essentials like sunscreen, water bottles, and snacks for the journey.
Practical Travel Tips
Always carry a valid photo ID such as Aadhaar card or passport, as it is required for ferry boarding and hotel check-ins in the Andaman Islands.
Drink only bottled or purified water during your trip to avoid waterborne illnesses common in island regions.
Book flights and ferries at least 2-3 weeks before travel, especially during holidays or peak seasons like December to February, to avoid sold-out situations.
Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs in Port Blair for safe and transparent fares; avoid unregistered taxis to prevent overcharging.
Pack light and waterproof luggage, as ferries can be affected by sudden rain or sea spray; carry a raincoat or umbrella during monsoon months.
Be prepared for limited mobile network coverage on Havelock Island; download maps and offline guides before you travel.
Best Time & Travel Conditions
The best time to visit Havelock Island is during the winter months from November to March when the weather is pleasant and sea conditions are calm. Summers can be hot and humid, while monsoons bring heavy rains and rough seas.
Travel conditions vary with seasons, affecting ferry schedules and flight punctuality. Planning your trip during stable weather ensures a smoother journey and better sightseeing experience.
Avoid traveling during the monsoon season (June to September) as heavy rains can delay ferries and cause flight cancellations.
Festivals like Christmas and New Year attract large crowds, leading to higher prices and fully booked accommodations and transport.
Early morning departures from Hyderabad and Port Blair are ideal to avoid traffic and catch connecting ferries on time.
Check weather forecasts and ferry schedules regularly during your trip, as sudden changes in sea conditions can impact travel plans.
Arrival at Havelock Island & What to Expect
When you arrive at Havelock Island’s ferry terminal, you will find basic facilities including ticket counters, restrooms, and small eateries. The island is small and easy to navigate, with local transport options readily available.
Shared jeeps and auto-rickshaws are common for short distances, while scooter rentals offer flexibility for exploring beaches and nearby attractions. Most accommodations are near the main jetty or popular beaches, making it convenient to reach your stay.
Conclusion
Flying from Hyderabad to Port Blair followed by a ferry to Havelock Island is the most efficient and comfortable way to reach this beautiful destination. Booking your flights and ferries in advance will help you avoid last-minute hassles and ensure a smooth journey.
By following the step-by-step plan and practical tips in this guide, you can confidently plan your trip from Hyderabad to Havelock Island. With proper preparation, you will enjoy a hassle-free travel experience and make the most of your time on this scenic island.