Port Blair is the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located in the Bay of Bengal. Ahmedabad, a major city in Gujarat, serves as a gateway for travelers heading to this tropical island paradise. Many tourists and business travelers take this route to explore the unique culture and natural beauty of the islands.

This guide will help you understand the main travel options from Ahmedabad to Port Blair, including flights and sea routes. You will also find a step-by-step travel plan, practical tips, and advice on what to expect upon arrival in Port Blair.

Getting from Ahmedabad to Port Blair – Main Options

Flight

Flying is the most popular and fastest way to reach Port Blair from Ahmedabad. Since Port Blair is an island, air travel is the primary mode for most visitors. Several airlines operate flights with one or two stops.

• Flights from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD) in Ahmedabad to Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) in Port Blair typically involve a stopover at major hubs like Chennai, Kolkata, or Delhi, with total travel time ranging from 7 to 12 hours depending on the connection.

• Airfares generally range between ₹6,000 and ₹12,000 one-way, depending on the season and how early you book. Booking tickets 3-4 weeks in advance via IRCTC Air or airline websites helps secure better prices.

• Flight frequency varies, with 2-3 flights per week connecting Ahmedabad to Port Blair via Chennai or Kolkata. Flights tend to be less frequent during monsoon months due to weather disruptions.

• Veer Savarkar Airport is well connected to Port Blair city center by prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber, with a 15-20 minute drive costing around ₹200-₹300.

• During peak tourist seasons like December to February, flights can get fully booked quickly, so early booking is essential to avoid last-minute price surges and availability issues.

Sea (Ferry)

Traveling by sea is less common from Ahmedabad due to the distance but is possible by combining flights and ferry rides. Ferries operate mainly between Port Blair and other islands or mainland ports like Chennai and Kolkata.

• There are no direct passenger ferries from Ahmedabad to Port Blair because of the long distance and open sea. Travelers usually fly to Chennai or Kolkata first, then take government-operated or private ferries to Port Blair.

• Ferry journeys from Chennai or Kolkata to Port Blair can take between 3 to 5 days, depending on the vessel and weather conditions, and are mainly used for cargo and limited passenger transport.

• Ferry fares vary widely, from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 for economy class, but comfort levels are basic, and facilities are limited compared to flights.

• Sea travel is subject to seasonal weather, with the monsoon (June to September) causing frequent cancellations or delays. It is advisable to check schedules well in advance and be prepared for rough seas.

• For travelers interested in island hopping within the Andaman Islands, ferries connect Port Blair to Havelock and Neil Islands, but these are separate from the mainland journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Ahmedabad to Port Blair is not possible due to the sea crossing. However, you can drive to nearby airports or ports for connecting flights or ferries.

• Ahmedabad is well connected by road to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, with good highway access and ample parking facilities for long-term stays if you plan to leave your vehicle behind.

• Self-drive options are popular within Port Blair and the Andaman Islands, where you can rent scooters or cars to explore local attractions after arrival.

• Driving to Chennai or Kolkata from Ahmedabad is possible but takes several days and is not practical for most travelers heading to Port Blair.

• Within Port Blair, roads are well-maintained, and driving is on the left side, similar to mainland India, but traffic is light and easy to navigate.

• Car rentals in Port Blair typically cost ₹800-₹1,500 per day for small cars, with additional charges for fuel and driver if hired.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Ahmedabad to Port Blair to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Book your flight tickets early through IRCTC Air or airline websites to get the best fares and confirm your travel dates well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

• Arrive at Ahmedabad airport at least 2 hours before your flight to complete security and check-in procedures without rush, as domestic airports can get busy.

• On arrival at Veer Savarkar International Airport, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs to reach your accommodation safely and avoid overcharging by local drivers.

• Reserve your hotel or guesthouse in Port Blair beforehand, focusing on areas like Aberdeen Bazaar or near the airport for easy access to transport and amenities.

• If planning island tours, book ferry tickets to Havelock or Neil Islands through authorized agents or official websites to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Carry a valid photo ID and copies of your travel documents, as these are often required for ferry boarding and hotel check-ins in the Andaman Islands.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry bottled water during your journey, as tap water in Port Blair and on ferries may not be safe to drink; avoid street food until you are sure of hygiene standards.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber at the airport to avoid inflated fares and ensure reliable transport to your hotel.

• Book flights and ferries at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during holidays and tourist seasons, to avoid last-minute price hikes and sold-out seats.

• Pack light but include essentials like sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and comfortable walking shoes, as Port Blair has tropical weather and outdoor activities.

• Be prepared for occasional flight delays or cancellations during the monsoon season due to weather; keep flexible travel plans and check airline updates regularly.

• When using ferries within the Andaman Islands, arrive early at the jetty to secure good seats, as these boats can get crowded during weekends and holidays.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Ahmedabad to Port Blair is during the dry season, from October to May, when the weather is pleasant and sea conditions are calm. This period offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and island activities.

Avoid traveling during the monsoon season (June to September) as heavy rains and rough seas can cause flight delays and ferry cancellations, disrupting your plans.

• Peak tourist season is December to February; expect higher flight fares and hotel rates, so book well in advance to secure availability.

• Summer months (March to May) can be hot and humid in Port Blair, but this is still a good time for travel with fewer crowds.

• Early morning flights tend to have fewer delays compared to afternoon or evening flights, making them ideal for smoother connections.

• During major Indian festivals like Diwali and Holi, flight and hotel bookings can be tight, so plan accordingly if traveling during these times.

Arrival at Port Blair & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Veer Savarkar International Airport, you will find a small but well-organized terminal with basic amenities. The airport is located about 2 km from the city center, making transfers quick and convenient.

Local transport options include prepaid taxi counters, app-based cabs like Ola and Uber, and auto-rickshaws. Prepaid taxis are recommended for safety and fixed fares. Aberdeen Bazaar and the Marina Park area are popular places to stay, offering easy access to markets, restaurants, and ferry jetties.

Conclusion

Flying from Ahmedabad to Port Blair is the most efficient and practical option for most travelers, offering a balance of speed, comfort, and convenience. While there are no direct sea routes from Ahmedabad, connecting flights and ferries from Chennai or Kolkata provide alternatives for adventurous travelers.

Planning ahead by booking flights early, choosing reliable local transport, and being mindful of seasonal weather will help you enjoy a smooth journey to Port Blair. With this guide, you can confidently prepare for your trip and look forward to exploring the beautiful Andaman Islands.