Pune is a bustling city in Maharashtra known for its educational institutions and vibrant culture. Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is famous for its pristine beaches and historic sites. Traveling from Pune to Port Blair is a popular route for tourists seeking a tropical getaway.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Port Blair from Pune, including flights, trains, and road travel options. You will also find practical advice on planning your journey, local transport, and what to expect on arrival.

Getting from Pune to Port Blair – Main Options

Flight

Flying is the most common and practical way to reach Port Blair from Pune, as the islands are accessible only by air or sea. Direct flights are not available, so you will need to connect through major cities.

• Flights from Pune Airport (PNQ) to Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) in Port Blair usually require a stopover in Chennai, Kolkata, or Delhi, with total travel time ranging from 7 to 12 hours including layovers.

• Airfare typically ranges from ₹6,000 to ₹12,000 one way, depending on the season and how early you book through airlines like IndiGo, Air India, or SpiceJet.

• Flights operate daily but frequency may reduce during monsoon months; booking at least 3-4 weeks in advance is advisable to secure better fares and seats.

• Port Blair airport has limited public transport; prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available for last-mile connectivity to hotels or ferry terminals.

Train

There is no direct train connectivity to Port Blair since it is an island. However, you can take a train from Pune to Chennai or Kolkata and then catch a flight or ship to Port Blair.

• Pune Junction connects to Chennai Central via several trains such as the Pune–Chennai Express, taking approximately 18 to 22 hours, with fares ranging from ₹500 to ₹1,500 depending on class.

• From Chennai, you can take a flight to Port Blair or board a passenger ship, though ships take 3-4 days and operate weekly, suitable only for those with flexible schedules.

• Train tickets can be booked via IRCTC, and it is best to book at least 2 weeks in advance due to high demand on popular routes.

• Train travel offers a budget-friendly option to reach the mainland gateway cities but adds significant time compared to flying directly from Pune.

Bus

Bus travel is not practical for the entire journey from Pune to Port Blair due to the sea crossing. However, buses can be used to reach nearby airports or railway stations on the mainland.

• MSRTC and private buses connect Pune to Mumbai and Chennai, with journey times of 15 to 24 hours, depending on the route and service type.

• From Mumbai or Chennai, you can take flights to Port Blair; buses offer a cheaper alternative to trains but are slower and less comfortable for long distances.

• Bus fares range from ₹700 to ₹1,500, with sleeper and non-sleeper options; booking tickets online or at bus depots is recommended.

• Long bus journeys may face delays during monsoon due to road conditions, so plan accordingly and avoid night travel in hilly areas.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Port Blair is not feasible due to the sea gap. However, you can drive to major airports like Mumbai or Chennai and then take a flight to Port Blair.

• The drive from Pune to Mumbai is about 150 km via NH48 and takes 3 to 4 hours, while Pune to Chennai is approximately 1,200 km and takes 20 to 24 hours with breaks.

• Highways like NH48 and NH44 are well-maintained, but tolls are frequent; expect to pay ₹500 to ₹1,500 in tolls depending on the route.

• Driving allows flexibility in timing and luggage but requires planning for fuel stops, food breaks, and overnight stays on long routes.

• Parking at airports in Mumbai or Chennai is available but can be costly; consider airport shuttles or prepaid parking for convenience.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Pune to Port Blair, focusing on ease and comfort.

• Step 1: Book your flight tickets early through airline websites or travel portals to get the best fares and preferred timings; avoid last-minute bookings during peak seasons.

• Step 2: Reach Pune Airport at least 2 hours before departure; use prepaid taxis or app cabs to avoid last-minute hassles and traffic delays.

• Step 3: During layovers in Chennai or Kolkata, follow airport signage carefully and check flight status regularly; keep essential documents and water handy.

• Step 4: Upon arrival at Port Blair airport, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs for safe and reliable transport to your accommodation or ferry terminals.

• Step 5: If planning to visit nearby islands, book ferry tickets in advance at the Port Blair jetty; carry valid ID and check weather conditions before travel.

• Step 6: Keep local SIM cards or roaming active for easy communication and navigation; offline maps can be helpful in areas with poor network.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a bottle of water and light snacks during layovers or long waits, as airport food options can be limited and expensive in smaller airports.

• Use IRCTC and official airline apps for booking and real-time updates to avoid scams and last-minute cancellations common in Indian travel.

• Port Blair experiences tropical weather; pack light cotton clothes, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent to stay comfortable and safe.

• Prepaid taxis at airports and ferry points are safer and cheaper than hailing random cabs; always insist on meter usage or fixed fares.

• Keep your luggage light and secure; avoid carrying valuables in checked bags and use locks to prevent theft during transfers.

• Monsoon season (June to September) can cause flight delays and ferry cancellations; check weather forecasts and have flexible plans during this period.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Pune to Port Blair is during the dry season when weather conditions are favorable for flights and sea travel. Avoid monsoon months for a smoother journey.

Port Blair’s tropical climate means hot and humid weather most of the year, with occasional heavy rains during monsoon. Planning your trip during winter months ensures pleasant temperatures and less travel disruption.

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

• Monsoon season can cause flight delays and ferry cancellations due to rough seas; plan extra days if traveling between June and September.

• Early morning flights often face fewer delays and offer better chances of smooth connections compared to late evening flights.

• Traveling during weekdays can be less crowded and more economical than weekends or holiday periods.

Arrival at Port Blair & What to Expect

On arrival at Veer Savarkar International Airport, you will find basic facilities and a small but efficient terminal. The airport is about 2 km from the city center, making local travel convenient.

For local commute, prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available outside the airport. Auto-rickshaws operate within the city but may not be suitable for travelers with heavy luggage. Popular areas to stay include Aberdeen Bazaar and near the Marina Park, offering easy access to restaurants and ferry terminals.

Conclusion

Flying is the most efficient and practical way to reach Port Blair from Pune, with connecting flights through Chennai or Kolkata. Booking flights early and choosing convenient layovers can save time and money. Train and bus options are available to mainland gateways but add significant travel time and complexity.

Planning your journey with attention to seasonal weather, local transport options, and advance bookings will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. With this guide, you can confidently prepare for your travel from Pune to Port Blair and look forward to exploring the beautiful Andaman Islands.