The Nicobar Islands are a group of remote islands located in the southeastern part of the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago in the Bay of Bengal. Known for their pristine beaches and tribal culture, these islands attract travelers seeking offbeat destinations and natural beauty.

This route is less commonly traveled due to restricted access and limited transport options. This guide will help you understand how to reach the Nicobar Islands, including necessary permits, transport modes, and practical travel advice to plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Mainland India to Nicobar Islands – Main Options

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most popular way to reach the Nicobar Islands, mainly via Port Blair in the Andaman Islands. Direct flights to Nicobar are limited, so most travelers connect through Port Blair.

• Flights from Chennai, Kolkata, or Delhi land at Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair, with durations ranging from 2.5 to 4 hours depending on origin and fare between ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 one way.

• From Port Blair, you need special permission to fly to Campbell Bay or Car Nicobar airports; these flights are infrequent and primarily for government or authorized travelers.

• Flight frequency to Nicobar is limited, often only a few times a week, so booking well in advance via DGCA-approved carriers is essential.

• Weather conditions like monsoon rains can cause flight delays or cancellations, especially from June to September.

• Airport facilities in Nicobar are basic; plan for limited transport options on arrival and carry essentials.

Ship / Ferry

Sea travel is an alternative but slow and less comfortable option. Passenger ships connect Port Blair to Nicobar Islands but operate irregularly and require permits.

• Government-operated ships depart from Haddo Wharf, Port Blair, to Campbell Bay and Car Nicobar, with journeys taking 36 to 48 hours depending on sea conditions.

• Fares range from ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 for economy class, with limited seating and basic amenities onboard.

• Sea travel is subject to weather disruptions, especially during the monsoon season, and rough seas can cause discomfort.

• Advance booking through the Andaman and Nicobar administration is mandatory, and travelers must carry valid tribal permits.

• Food options onboard are limited; carry your own snacks and water for the long journey.

Permits and Access

Access to Nicobar Islands is restricted due to tribal protection laws. All travelers must obtain permits before traveling.

• Apply for Restricted Area Permits (RAP) through the Andaman and Nicobar administration or online portals well before your travel date.

• Permits require valid ID proof, travel itinerary, and sometimes a letter of recommendation or purpose of visit.

• Permits are generally valid for 30 days and must be carried during travel and stay.

• Unauthorized travel to Nicobar Islands is prohibited and can lead to fines or deportation.

• Local authorities may conduct checks at airports and ports; cooperate fully to avoid delays.

Car / Self-Drive

Self-driving is not applicable for Nicobar Islands due to their island nature and lack of road connectivity from the mainland. However, local transport options exist on the islands.

• Once on Nicobar Islands, you can hire local taxis or rent two-wheelers in Car Nicobar and Campbell Bay for sightseeing.

• Roads on the islands are basic but navigable; expect limited signage and occasional unpaved stretches.

• Fuel availability is limited; plan your trips carefully and carry extra fuel if possible.

• Local drivers often know the best routes and tribal areas to avoid; hiring them is safer and more convenient.

• Self-driving vehicles cannot be brought from the mainland due to shipping restrictions and quarantine rules.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling to the Nicobar Islands for the first time, follow this step-by-step plan to ensure a smooth journey.

• Step 1: Obtain the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) from the Andaman and Nicobar administration online or at designated offices. This is mandatory and can take up to 7-10 days to process.

• Step 2: Book your flight to Port Blair well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons from October to March, to secure the best fares and availability.

• Step 3: Arrange connecting flights or government ship passage from Port Blair to Nicobar Islands after confirming your permit and travel dates.

• Step 4: Pack light but carry essentials like bottled water, snacks, medicines, and a power bank, as facilities on Nicobar are limited.

• Step 5: On arrival at Nicobar, use prepaid taxis or arrange local transport through your accommodation for safe and hassle-free travel.

• Step 6: Respect local tribal customs and regulations; avoid restricted areas and follow guidelines provided by authorities to ensure a respectful visit.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry multiple copies of your Restricted Area Permit and ID proof; authorities frequently check documents at airports and ports.

• Drink only bottled or purified water on the islands to avoid waterborne illnesses; avoid street food unless recommended by locals.

• Book flights and ships well in advance, as seats are limited and cancellations are common during bad weather.

• Use app-based cabs like Ola or Uber only in Port Blair; on Nicobar Islands, rely on prepaid taxis or hotel-arranged transport.

• Pack light luggage due to limited transport options and strict baggage allowances on small aircraft and ships.

• During monsoon (June to September), expect delays and rough seas; plan extra days in your itinerary to accommodate travel disruptions.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Nicobar Islands is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and sea conditions are calm. Monsoon months bring heavy rains and rough seas, making travel difficult.

Peak travel periods coincide with winter holidays and festivals, leading to higher fares and crowded transport. Planning your trip during shoulder seasons can offer better deals and quieter experiences.

• Avoid traveling during June to September due to monsoon rains causing flight cancellations and rough sea conditions for ships.

• Festivals like Diwali and Christmas see increased tourist traffic; book transport and accommodation early to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Early morning flights and ships are less prone to delays and offer smoother travel conditions.

• Temperatures remain moderate year-round, but humidity is high; carry light, breathable clothing and sun protection.

Arrival at Nicobar Islands & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Nicobar Islands airports or ports, you will find basic facilities with limited public transport. Prepaid taxis and hotel pickups are the most reliable options to reach your accommodation.

Popular areas to stay include Campbell Bay and Car Nicobar, where guesthouses and government rest houses are available. Local markets offer limited shopping, so carry necessary supplies from Port Blair.

Mobile network coverage is patchy; plan communication accordingly. Respect local tribal customs and avoid photographing restricted areas or people without permission.

Conclusion

Traveling to the Nicobar Islands requires careful planning due to restricted access, limited transport options, and permit requirements. Flying via Port Blair remains the most efficient and comfortable way to reach the islands, followed by government-operated ships for those preferring sea travel.

Ensure you obtain the necessary permits well in advance, book your transport early, and prepare for basic facilities on arrival. With proper planning and respect for local regulations, you can enjoy a unique and memorable trip to the beautiful and remote Nicobar Islands.