Port Blair is the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located in the Bay of Bengal. Mumbai, a major metropolitan city on India's west coast, serves as a key gateway for travelers heading to this beautiful island destination. This route is popular among tourists seeking pristine beaches and historical sites.

This guide will help you understand the main travel options from Mumbai to Port Blair, including flights and sea routes. You will also find practical advice on planning your journey, local transport, and what to expect upon arrival.

Getting from Mumbai to Port Blair – Main Options

Flight

Flying is the most popular and fastest way to reach Port Blair from Mumbai. Direct flights are limited, so most travelers opt for connecting flights via Chennai or Kolkata.

• Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) offers daily flights to Chennai and Kolkata, which connect to Port Blair’s Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ). Total travel time ranges from 6 to 9 hours including layovers.

• Flight fares typically range from ₹5,000 to ₹12,000 one way, depending on the season and how early you book. Booking through IRCTC Air or airline websites is recommended for best prices.

• Flights operate frequently but can be affected during monsoon season due to weather delays, especially on the Chennai-Port Blair leg. Early morning flights have fewer delays.

• Veer Savarkar Airport is about 3 km from Port Blair city center. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available for last-mile connectivity with fares around ₹150-₹250.

• Carry valid ID and check luggage restrictions carefully, as smaller aircraft are used on the island route. Avoid heavy or bulky luggage to ensure smooth boarding.

Sea Route (Ship/Ferry)

Traveling by ship is an adventurous but much longer option. It suits travelers who want to experience the sea journey and transport goods.

• The main passenger ship departs from Chennai or Kolkata to Port Blair, taking approximately 3 to 4 days depending on the vessel and weather conditions.

• Tickets can be booked through the Directorate of Shipping Services or authorized agents. Fares vary widely from ₹1,500 to ₹4,000 depending on class and season.

• Ships dock at Haddo Wharf in Port Blair, about 5 km from the city center. Local buses and taxis are available but less frequent than airport transfers.

• Sea travel is subject to delays during the monsoon (June to September) and rough seas. It is advisable to check weather updates before booking.

• Facilities onboard range from basic to moderate. Carry your own food and water for comfort, as options are limited on some vessels.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Port Blair is not possible due to the sea crossing. However, you can drive to Mumbai airport or ferry terminals for convenience.

• Mumbai city has good road connectivity to the airport via Western Express Highway and Mumbai-Pune Expressway, with travel time of 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on traffic.

• Parking is available at Mumbai airport but can be expensive; pre-booking parking slots online is recommended.

• For local travel in Port Blair, renting a car or bike is a good option to explore the islands at your own pace.

• Self-drive options on the islands require valid Indian driving licenses and familiarity with local traffic rules.

• Fuel stations are limited on the islands, so plan refueling stops carefully when renting vehicles.

Bus

There is no direct bus service from Mumbai to Port Blair due to the sea crossing. However, buses are useful for local travel within Mumbai and Port Blair.

• Mumbai’s BEST buses and local trains connect the city to the airport and nearby areas efficiently and affordably.

• In Port Blair, government-run buses and private taxis provide transport to popular tourist spots like Cellular Jail and Corbyn’s Cove Beach.

• Bus frequency in Port Blair is limited; using prepaid taxis or app-based cabs is often more convenient for tourists.

• Bus fares in Port Blair are low, usually under ₹50 for city routes, but buses can be crowded during peak hours.

• Carry small change for bus fares and be prepared for limited English signage on some routes.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Mumbai to Port Blair to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

• Book your flight tickets early through official airline websites or IRCTC Air to get the best fares and confirm connecting flights to Port Blair.

• Pack light and carry essential documents like ID proof and flight tickets in hand luggage for easy access during check-in and security checks.

• Arrive at Mumbai airport at least 3 hours before your flight to allow for security, immigration, and possible delays during peak travel seasons.

• On arrival at Port Blair airport, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs to reach your accommodation safely and avoid overcharging by local drivers.

• Plan your local sightseeing using government buses or rent a bike/car for flexible travel, keeping in mind limited fuel stations and road conditions.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling, especially during monsoon months, and keep alternative travel dates in mind in case of flight cancellations or delays.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water in Port Blair to prevent stomach issues, as water quality varies on the islands.

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

• Use official prepaid taxi counters at Port Blair airport and ferry terminals to ensure fair pricing and avoid scams common with local drivers.

• Pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and light cotton clothes to handle the tropical climate and occasional mosquitoes on the islands.

• Keep digital and physical copies of your travel documents, including flight tickets and ID proofs, as they are often checked during inter-island travel.

• Be prepared for limited internet connectivity in some parts of Port Blair and the islands; download offline maps and guides beforehand.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Mumbai to Port Blair is during the dry season from October to May. This period offers pleasant weather and minimal travel disruptions.

Monsoon months from June to September bring heavy rains and rough seas, which can cause flight delays and ferry cancellations. Plan accordingly if traveling during this time.

• Avoid major Indian festivals like Diwali and Christmas when flights and accommodations are crowded and prices surge.

• Early morning flights from Mumbai tend to have fewer delays and smoother connections to Port Blair.

• Traveling during winter months offers comfortable temperatures in Port Blair, ideal for sightseeing and beach activities.

• Fog and low visibility are rare on this route but can occasionally affect early morning flights during winter in Mumbai.

Arrival at Port Blair & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Veer Savarkar International Airport, you will find a small but well-managed terminal with basic amenities. The airport is close to the city center, making transfers quick and convenient.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis, Ola and Uber cabs, and rental vehicles. Prepaid taxis are recommended for fair pricing and safety. Many hotels offer airport pick-up services, so confirm this when booking your stay.

Conclusion

Flying remains the most efficient and practical way to reach Port Blair from Mumbai, offering a balance of speed, comfort, and convenience. Booking flights early and choosing connecting routes via Chennai or Kolkata will help you secure the best fares and schedules.

Planning your local transport and accommodation in advance, along with awareness of seasonal weather challenges, will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. With proper preparation, you can confidently explore the stunning Andaman Islands starting from your journey from Mumbai.