The Nicobar Islands lie to the south of the Andaman Islands in the Bay of Bengal. Both island groups are part of the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Traveling between these islands is common for tourists, researchers, and locals.

This guide explains the main ways to reach Nicobar from Andaman, including boat and flight options. You will also find detailed travel plans, practical tips, and advice on what to expect on arrival.

Getting from Andaman to Nicobar – Main Options

Boat

Boat travel is the traditional and most common way to reach Nicobar from Andaman. It suits travelers who want an affordable and scenic journey but should be prepared for longer travel times and sea conditions.

• Government-operated passenger ships run between Port Blair (Andaman) and Car Nicobar, the northernmost Nicobar Island, taking about 18 to 24 hours depending on weather and vessel type.

• Fares for government ships range from ₹500 to ₹1,500 per person in economy class, with limited seating and basic facilities; booking is usually done through the Directorate of Shipping Services.

• Private boats are rare and less reliable; government ships depart weekly or biweekly, so plan ahead to avoid long waits at Port Blair harbor.

• Sea conditions can be rough during the monsoon (June to September), causing delays or cancellations; travelers should check weather updates before departure.

• Food options on board are limited; carrying your own snacks and water is advisable, and restrooms are basic but functional.

• Disembarkation at Car Nicobar involves a short local commute to nearby villages or the airstrip; local transport is limited, so pre-arranged pickups are recommended.

Flight

Flights offer a faster and more comfortable way to reach Nicobar from Andaman, mainly connecting Port Blair to Car Nicobar Airport. This mode suits travelers with limited time or those seeking convenience.

• Daily flights operate between Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair and Car Nicobar Airport, with a flight time of about 40 to 50 minutes.

• Airfares typically range from ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 one way, depending on the airline and booking time; booking in advance through official airline websites or travel portals is recommended.

• Flight frequency can reduce during monsoon or due to operational restrictions; checking schedules a few days before travel is important.

• Car Nicobar Airport has limited facilities; pre-booked taxis or local jeeps are the main options to reach accommodations or other parts of the island.

• Security checks and permits may be required for Nicobar travel due to restricted area status; ensure all documents are ready before arriving at the airport.

• Flights are preferred during the dry season (October to May) for smoother travel and fewer cancellations.

Car / Self-Drive

Self-driving between Andaman and Nicobar Islands is not possible due to the sea gap. However, local transport options exist within each island for onward travel after arrival.

• On Andaman, you can rent scooters or cars in Port Blair to reach the harbor or airport comfortably before departure.

• In Nicobar, local transport includes shared jeeps, taxis, and sometimes rented two-wheelers, but availability is limited and often requires prior arrangement.

• Roads in Nicobar are basic and may be affected by weather; driving conditions can be challenging during monsoon months.

• Fuel stations are scarce in Nicobar; ensure your vehicle is well-fueled before starting local travel.

• Driving licenses from mainland India are valid, but local permits may be needed for Nicobar; check with local authorities.

• Self-drive is practical only within islands, not between them, so plan inter-island travel by boat or flight.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan helps first-time travelers move smoothly from Andaman to Nicobar, covering booking, travel, and arrival.

• Book your boat or flight tickets well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or festivals, to avoid last-minute hassles; use official websites or government offices for reliable bookings.

• Arrive at Port Blair harbor or airport at least 2 hours before departure to complete security and boarding procedures without stress; carry valid ID and permits.

• Pack light but include essentials like water, snacks, and medicines, as services on boats or flights are limited; a small bag is easier to manage during transfers.

• On arrival at Car Nicobar, confirm your local transport or accommodation pickup in advance, as options are limited and irregular; phone connectivity may be weak, so plan ahead.

• Carry copies of your travel permits and ID, as Nicobar Islands have restricted access and officials may check documents at checkpoints.

• If traveling by boat, prepare for seasickness by taking preventive medication and dressing comfortably; weather can change quickly, so bring a light raincoat during monsoon.

Practical Travel Tips

• Nicobar Islands have restricted access; obtain necessary permits from the Andaman and Nicobar administration before travel to avoid denied boarding or entry.

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water on both islands to prevent stomach issues; buy snacks from trusted vendors before boarding boats or flights.

• Book tickets through official channels like IRCTC for boats or airline websites to avoid scams; avoid last-minute purchases from unauthorized agents.

• Local transport in Nicobar is limited; arrange pickups or taxis in advance, especially if arriving late in the day to avoid waiting at the airport or harbor.

• Pack light and waterproof luggage, as handling bags during boat boarding and disembarkation can be challenging, especially in wet weather.

• Monsoon season brings heavy rains and rough seas; avoid travel during June to September unless necessary, and always check weather forecasts before departure.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Andaman to Nicobar is during the dry season from October to May. Weather is pleasant, seas are calm, and travel disruptions are minimal.

Monsoon months from June to September bring heavy rains, strong winds, and rough seas, causing frequent delays or cancellations of boats and flights. Plan accordingly.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali or Christmas when transport services are crowded and bookings fill up quickly.

• Early morning departures are preferable to avoid afternoon sea breezes and potential delays; flights also tend to be more punctual in the morning.

• Fog and low visibility can occur in winter months, occasionally affecting flight schedules; keep updated with airline notifications.

• During peak tourist season (December to February), book accommodations and transport well in advance to secure availability and better rates.

Arrival at Nicobar & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Car Nicobar, you will find a small airport and harbor with basic facilities. The local community is welcoming, but infrastructure is limited compared to Andaman.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis, shared jeeps, and sometimes cycle rickshaws. App-based cabs like Ola or Uber are not available, so arrange pickups through your hotel or trusted contacts.

Accommodation options are few and mostly simple guesthouses or government rest houses. Staying near the airstrip or main village areas like Malacca is convenient for first-time visitors.

Carry cash in small denominations, as ATMs are scarce and card payments are not widely accepted. Mobile network coverage may be patchy, so plan communication accordingly.

Explore local markets and eateries cautiously, preferring freshly cooked food and bottled water to avoid health issues. The Nicobar Islands offer a unique cultural experience but require some travel flexibility.

Conclusion

Traveling from Andaman to Nicobar is best done by government passenger ships or flights from Port Blair to Car Nicobar. Flights offer speed and comfort, while boats provide a budget-friendly and scenic option. Both require advance planning due to limited frequency and seasonal weather challenges.

Ensure you have the necessary permits, book tickets early, and prepare for basic facilities on arrival. With proper planning and realistic expectations, you can enjoy a smooth journey and experience the unique beauty of the Nicobar Islands confidently.