Port Blair is the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located in the Bay of Bengal. Delhi, the national capital of India, is situated in the northern part of the country. Traveling from Delhi to Port Blair is a popular route for tourists seeking a tropical island experience away from the mainland.

This guide will help you understand the main transport options available, including flights, trains, and road travel to nearby airports or ports. You will also get practical advice on planning your journey, local transport at Port Blair, and seasonal travel tips to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Delhi to Port Blair – Main Options

Flight

Flying is the most common and fastest way to reach Port Blair from Delhi. Direct flights connect Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) in Port Blair. This option suits most travelers due to convenience and time savings.

• Direct flights from Delhi to Port Blair take around 4.5 to 5 hours, covering approximately 2,200 km. Airlines like Air India and IndiGo operate daily or near-daily flights, making it easy to find suitable timings.

• Flight fares typically range between ₹6,000 and ₹12,000 one-way, depending on the season and how early you book. Booking at least 3-4 weeks in advance can secure better prices.

• Flights may be delayed during the monsoon season (June to September) due to weather conditions. Early morning flights tend to be more reliable than late evening ones.

• Veer Savarkar International Airport is about 13 km from Port Blair city center. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available outside the airport for last-mile connectivity, costing around ₹300 to ₹500.

• Carry valid photo ID and keep your boarding pass handy, as security checks are strict for flights to the islands. Also, check baggage restrictions as some low-cost airlines have strict limits.

Train

There is no direct train service to Port Blair since it is an island. However, you can take a train from Delhi to Chennai or Kolkata and then continue by flight or ship. This option is less popular due to longer travel times but may suit those wanting to explore multiple cities.

• Delhi to Chennai or Kolkata by train takes approximately 28 to 36 hours, depending on the train chosen. Popular trains include the Rajdhani Express and Duronto Express for faster travel.

• Train fares range from ₹1,000 for sleeper class to ₹3,500 for AC 2-tier, depending on the class and train. Booking through IRCTC well in advance is recommended due to high demand.

• From Chennai or Kolkata, you can catch a direct flight to Port Blair, which takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. Flights are frequent and affordable, with fares between ₹3,000 and ₹6,000.

• Alternatively, passenger ships operate from Chennai and Kolkata ports to Port Blair, but these journeys take several days and are less comfortable, suitable only for adventurous travelers.

• Train travel in India can be crowded during festivals and holidays, so plan your journey accordingly to avoid last-minute hassles and ensure seat availability.

Bus

There is no direct bus service from Delhi to Port Blair due to the island location. However, you can use bus services to reach nearby airports or seaports before flying or sailing to Port Blair.

• From Delhi, long-distance buses operated by private and state transport companies connect to cities like Kolkata and Chennai. These trips can take 30 to 40 hours and are usually overnight journeys.

• Bus fares range between ₹1,000 and ₹2,000 depending on the operator and bus type, such as Volvo or sleeper coaches. Booking online through platforms like RedBus is recommended.

• Once you reach Kolkata or Chennai, you can take flights or ships to Port Blair. Local buses and taxis are available at these cities for airport or port transfers.

• Road travel in India can be affected by traffic congestion near major cities and toll plazas on national highways like NH44 and NH16, so plan extra time for transfers.

• Bus travel is less comfortable for such long distances compared to trains or flights, and may not be suitable for travelers with luggage or those seeking faster options.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to the nearest ports or airports for Port Blair is possible but impractical due to the island location and long distances. However, self-drive can be combined with flights or ships for flexible travel.

• The road distance from Delhi to Kolkata is about 1,500 km via NH19 and NH44, taking around 28 to 32 hours of continuous driving. From Delhi to Chennai, it is approximately 2,200 km via NH44, requiring 40 to 45 hours.

• Driving through multiple states means crossing many toll plazas, with toll charges adding up to ₹2,000 to ₹3,000. Carry sufficient cash or use FASTag for smooth toll payments.

• Self-drive offers freedom to stop at rest areas, dhabas, and tourist spots along the way, but requires good stamina and familiarity with Indian road conditions.

• Parking and traffic congestion in metro cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai can be challenging. Plan your route to avoid peak hours and busy city centers.

• After reaching Kolkata or Chennai, you will need to park your vehicle safely before boarding flights or ships to Port Blair, as vehicles cannot be taken to the islands.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If this is your first time traveling from Delhi to Port Blair, follow these steps to make your journey smooth and hassle-free. Each step includes practical advice specific to Indian travel.

• Book your flight tickets early through official airline websites or trusted travel portals to get the best fares and seat availability. Use the IRCTC Air app or airline apps for easy booking and updates.

• Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport at least 2 hours before your flight to complete security checks and boarding procedures without rush. Carry valid ID proof as required for domestic flights.

• On arrival at Veer Savarkar International Airport, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola to reach your accommodation safely and affordably. Avoid unmetered taxis to prevent overcharging.

• Carry light luggage and pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and mosquito repellent, as Port Blair has a tropical climate and occasional insects. Keep your documents and tickets handy during transfers.

• Plan your local travel in Port Blair using auto-rickshaws, rented scooters, or taxis. Many hotels can arrange transport for sightseeing and island tours, so inquire in advance.

• Check weather forecasts and local news for any travel advisories, especially during monsoon months. Adjust your travel dates or times to avoid delays caused by storms or heavy rains.

Practical Travel Tips

• Port Blair is generally safe for tourists, but always keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded places like markets and bus stands. Use hotel safes for valuables and avoid isolated areas at night.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues. Many hotels provide purified water, but carry a refillable bottle with a built-in filter for day trips.

• Book flights and accommodations well in advance during peak tourist seasons like December to February to avoid last-minute price hikes and unavailability.

• Use local transport apps or prepaid taxi counters at the airport to avoid bargaining and ensure fair fares. Auto-rickshaws are common but agree on the fare before starting the ride.

• Pack light and carry waterproof bags for your electronics and documents, especially during monsoon season. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring beaches and heritage sites.

• Be mindful of the tropical climate; carry sunscreen, hats, and light cotton clothes. Avoid traveling during heavy rains as some roads and ferry services may be disrupted.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Port Blair is during the dry season from October to May. This period offers pleasant weather and minimal rain, making flights and local travel more reliable.

Monsoon months from June to September bring heavy rainfall, which can cause flight delays and rough seas affecting ferry services. Winter months are cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing.

• Avoid traveling during major Indian festivals like Diwali and Holi as flights and trains are crowded and prices surge significantly.

• Fog in Delhi during December and January can cause flight delays or cancellations, so plan for buffer time if connecting flights are involved.

• Early morning flights from Delhi tend to be more punctual and less affected by weather or air traffic congestion.

• Port Blair experiences occasional cyclones during the monsoon, so check weather updates before booking travel during this season.

Arrival at Port Blair & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Veer Savarkar International Airport, you will find prepaid taxi counters and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber just outside the terminal. These options provide safe and convenient transport to your hotel or city center.

Port Blair city is compact, and many popular hotels and guesthouses are located near Aberdeen Bazaar and the waterfront area. Auto-rickshaws and rental scooters are common for local travel. The airport is about 13 km from the city, so expect a 30 to 40-minute drive depending on traffic.

Conclusion

Flying directly from Delhi to Port Blair is the most efficient and popular way to reach the islands. It saves considerable time and offers multiple daily flight options. Booking early and choosing morning flights can help avoid delays and higher fares.

Plan your journey carefully by considering seasonal weather, local transport options, and safety tips. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a smooth and memorable trip from Delhi to the beautiful Andaman Islands.