Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a major metropolitan city in eastern India. Havelock Island, part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches and natural beauty. Many travelers journey from Kolkata to Havelock Island to enjoy its serene environment and water activities.

This guide explains the main ways to travel from Kolkata to Havelock Island, including trains, buses, cars, and ferries. You will also find a step-by-step travel plan, practical tips, and advice on the best times to visit to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Kolkata to Havelock Island – Main Options

Train

Train travel from Kolkata is a common way to reach the port city of Port Blair, the gateway to Havelock Island. Trains offer comfort and affordability but require planning due to long travel times.

• The nearest major railway station is Howrah Junction in Kolkata, which connects to Chennai and Vishakhapatnam, from where you can catch flights or ferries to the Andaman Islands.

• Direct trains to Port Blair are not available, so you must combine train travel with flights or ships from Chennai or Kolkata airports.

• Train travel from Kolkata to Chennai or Vishakhapatnam takes about 24 to 30 hours, with fares ranging from INR 500 to 1500 depending on class and train type.

• Book tickets early via IRCTC, especially during holiday seasons, as trains tend to be crowded and waitlists are common.

• Carry light luggage and keep your ID and ticket handy, as trains can be busy and stations crowded.

Bus

Bus travel is not practical for the entire journey due to the sea crossing but can be used to reach nearby airports or ferry points. Buses are useful for local transfers within Kolkata or Port Blair.

• From Kolkata, you can take local buses or taxis to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport for flights to Port Blair.

• In Port Blair, state-run buses and private taxis connect the airport, ferry terminals, and city center.

• Bus fares in Kolkata and Port Blair are affordable, usually under INR 50 for city routes, but buses may be crowded during peak hours.

• MSRTC and private operators run buses in the Andaman Islands, but schedules can be irregular, so check timings in advance.

• For last-mile connectivity to ferry terminals, pre-booked taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are more reliable than buses.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to the Andaman Islands is not possible due to the sea crossing. However, you can drive to the airport or ferry terminals and rent vehicles locally on Havelock Island.

• Drive or hire a taxi from Kolkata city to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, about 20 km away, taking 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic.

• On Havelock Island, rent scooters or bicycles to explore, as private cars are limited and roads are narrow.

• Local car rentals on Havelock Island are available but can be expensive and require advance booking during peak season.

• Be prepared for tolls and traffic congestion when driving in Kolkata, especially during rush hours and festivals.

• Use GPS and offline maps, as network coverage can be weak in some parts of Havelock Island.

Flight and Ferry

Flying from Kolkata to Port Blair followed by a ferry to Havelock Island is the most popular and efficient travel option. Flights save time, and ferries connect the islands smoothly.

• Direct flights from Kolkata to Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair take about 2.5 to 3 hours, with fares ranging from INR 3500 to 7000 depending on season and airline.

• Book flights early on airline websites or travel portals to get better fares and confirm schedules, as flights can be limited and affected by weather.

• From Port Blair, government and private ferries operate to Havelock Island, taking about 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the vessel.

• Ferry tickets cost between INR 300 and 1000, with government ferries being cheaper but less frequent and private ferries offering more comfort and speed.

• Ferry schedules vary seasonally and can be canceled during rough seas or monsoon, so check timings and book tickets in advance at the Phoenix Bay Jetty or online.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Kolkata to Havelock Island, combining flights and ferries for a smooth journey.

• Book your flight from Kolkata to Port Blair well in advance through official airline websites or trusted travel portals to secure the best fares and seats.

• Arrive at Kolkata airport at least 2 hours before your flight to complete security and boarding procedures without stress.

• On arrival at Port Blair airport, take a prepaid taxi or app-based cab to Phoenix Bay Jetty, about 15 km away, to catch your ferry to Havelock Island.

• Purchase your ferry ticket in advance online or at the jetty to avoid last-minute rush and ensure your preferred departure time.

• Board the ferry on time, carry your ID and ferry ticket, and keep your luggage secure during the journey, as ferries can be crowded during peak season.

• On reaching Havelock Island, use local taxis, rented scooters, or bicycles to reach your accommodation and explore the island comfortably.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a valid photo ID such as Aadhaar or passport, as it is required for flight check-in and ferry boarding in the Andaman Islands.

• Drink only bottled water and eat at hygienic places to avoid stomach issues, especially when traveling on ferries or in remote areas.

• Book flights and ferries at least 2-3 weeks in advance during peak tourist seasons like December to February to avoid sold-out situations.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber in Kolkata and Port Blair for safer and transparent fares compared to haggling with local drivers.

• Pack light and waterproof luggage, as ferry journeys can be bumpy and sudden rain showers are common in the islands.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling, as monsoon rains or rough seas can delay or cancel ferries, especially from June to September.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Kolkata to Havelock Island is during the dry winter months when the weather is pleasant and sea conditions are calm. Monsoon season brings heavy rains and rough seas, causing delays.

Peak tourist season runs from December to February, so expect higher prices and crowded flights and ferries. Traveling during shoulder seasons offers a balance of good weather and fewer crowds.

• Avoid traveling during major Indian festivals like Durga Puja and Diwali in Kolkata, as transport and accommodation become expensive and crowded.

• Monsoon months from June to September bring heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions, often causing ferry cancellations and flight delays.

• Early morning flights and ferries are less likely to be delayed due to weather and traffic, making them the best choice for smooth travel.

• Summer months can be hot and humid in Kolkata, but the islands remain cooler; however, afternoon ferries may be uncomfortable due to heat and sun exposure.

Arrival at Havelock Island & What to Expect

When you arrive at Havelock Island’s ferry terminal, you will find basic facilities and local transport options. The island is small, so getting around is easy but requires some planning.

Prepaid taxis and shared cabs are available at the jetty, but renting a scooter or bicycle is the most popular way to explore beaches and attractions. Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses to mid-range resorts near the main market area.

Conclusion

Flying from Kolkata to Port Blair followed by a ferry to Havelock Island is the most efficient and comfortable way to reach this beautiful island. While train and bus options exist for parts of the journey, they require multiple transfers and longer travel times.

Plan your trip by booking flights and ferries in advance, especially during peak seasons. Keep practical tips in mind for safety, comfort, and smooth transfers. With proper preparation, you can confidently enjoy your journey from Kolkata to Havelock Island and explore its stunning beaches and natural beauty.