Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) is one of the 38 inhabited islands in the Andaman & Nicobar archipelago. The island is fairly tiny with an area of just 13.7 square kilometres. Most people cover Neil Island in just 24 to 48 hours. Neil island is known for its chill, calm and collected vibe. This island is surrounded by the cerulean waters of the Bay of Bengal. The waters of Bay of Bengal are teeming with coral reefs and tropical aquatic life. One of the main attractions of Neil Island is Howrah Bridge, a natural rock formation accessible during the low tide. If you are planning for a peaceful yet adventurous trip in Andamans, you must visit Neil Island.
The beaches of Neil Island are beautiful and serene for having a candle light dinner. The proximity of Sir Hugh Rose Island (locally known as “Chhota” Neil or small Neil) gives an opportunity to view turtle nesting. The natural trails in Neil Island are excellent for trekking, hiking and going for nature walks. Scroll down to know more on how to make the best use of your time on Neil Island.
7 Things to do in Neil Island for a Memorable Trip
Table of Contents:
1. Beach Hopping
2. Picnics or Candle Light Dinner
3. Jungle Trekking in Neil Island
4. Snorekelling in Neil Island
5. Shopping in Neil Island
6. Scuba Diving - Discover the Underwater Life
7. Cycling - Paddle Your Way Around
1. Beach Hopping
As mentioned earlier, Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) can be covered in a day. Beaches are located in close proximity to each other. Therefore, it isn't a herculean task for any one to go around the island and explore the beaches. The best way to go beach hopping is to rent a scooter or a bicycle. The very first beach you will come across after deboarding at Neil jetty is Bharatpur Beach. This is where all the water sports activities take place. You will see people gearing up for diving or snorkeling. If not water sports, people here are seen sunbathing, playing volleyball, or simply walking along the shoreline.
Next, you should visit the Laxampur Beach that has ivory-hued sand and some rocky formations. It is one of the best places in Neil island to catch a gorgeous sunset. Similarly, Sitapur Beach is where you should go for an early morning jog and watch a glorious sunrise at the break of dawn. Lastly, if you seek a secluded beach getaway, head to Ramnagar beach. This beach has crystal clear waters and soft sands, perfect for strolling and spending time by yourself. You can also watch turtles nesting on this beach.
Q. When is the best time to go beach hopping on Neil Island?
The most suitable time for going beach hopping on Neil Island is from November to February. The weather during this time is cool, pleasant and less humid. You can also consider months of March and May (shoulder season). But remember the days are warmer and more humid.
2. Picnics or Candle Light Dinner
Relish a heartwarming picnic with your family or friends on the beaches of Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep). Find a peaceful corner on a stretch of sand, lay out your picnic mat and basket, and indulge in an al-fresco brunch on the beach. Similarly, if you are vacationing in Neil Island with your partner, many resorts offer candlelight dinner on their private beach. And upon request can also provide extra arrangements for special occasions like proposals, wedding anniversary and birthdays. Picnics or candlelight dinners are indeed one of the top things to do in Neil Island.
3. Jungle Trekking in Neil Island
Most tourists visit Neil island with the expectations of just water sports and beach exploration. However, trekking is also possible around the jungles near Sitapur Beach. If trekking excites you, put in your boots, carry a trekking pole and head out for a hike. The lush foliage, butterflies, birds and the sounds and damp smell of the jungle soothes and calms one mind. But please note that some parts of the jungle are also protected and reserved. It’s best to hire a local guide and partake in trekking as a group activity. Take a pair of binoculars for birdwatching or a high quality camera for clicking photos of flora and fauna. The best time to go for a jungle trek in Neil Island is during the dry season.
4. Snorekelling in Neil Island
Snorkelling is a must-do activity for all the water babies visiting Neil Island. And no you don't have to worry about not knowing how to swim. With an experienced guide, even non-swimmers can perform snorkelling around Bharatpur Beach. The waters around Baratpur beach are supremely clear and perfect for spotting the S-shaped coral reef. You will also spot some dead corals who faced the brunt of over tourism and water pollution. Other good places to go snorkelling include Ramnagar Beach where you can also spot turtles. For a great variety of marine life, visit Lakshmanpur Beach.
5. Shopping in Neil Island
Shopping in Neil Island is mostly centred around beach markets. It’s where you can see people bargaining, picking souvenirs, and buying gifts for thor loved ones. Walk through the busy street of Neil Kendra Village and you will see plenty of colourful stalls. Here you will find a little bit of everything—from accessories to clothes to footwear to hats. You can pick souvenirs for friends and family back home. Another busy shopping spot in Neil island is Bharatpur Beach bazaar. Stop by for a refreshing coconut drink or a glass of freshly squeezed juices.
6. Scuba Diving - Discover the Underwater Life
We all know how much of a thrilling experience scuba diving seems to be on the surface. Now, it’s time to get a first hand experience of testing your nerves in the waters. Neil Island has excellent dive sites with gentle sea currents and remarkable visibility. The underwater life bubbling in the waters of Bay of Bengal is fascinating to say the least. You will observe shallow coral reefs to rock formations during your dive experience. The two most famous spots in Neil Island for diving are called Bus Stop and Junction. You can observe marine life like snappers, fusiliers, sea turtles, and manta rays.
7. Cycling - Paddle Your Way Around
Cycling is a commonly used transportation in Nell Island since it’s quite tiny in size. Even for visitors, facilities of bike rentals are available at many shops and resorts. You, too, can hire a rented bike and pass through different beaches, villages and markets and pathways of Neil Island. The rental price of a cycle may differ from operator to operator. However, the estimated cost of rental bicycles can start from INR 50 to INR 100 per day. The condition and the type of bike (gear or non-gear) can also influence the prices.
These were the top 7 activities to do in Neil Island on your Andaman tour. Whether it’s water activities or trekking or shopping, Neil Island continues to fascinate its visitors with the amount of activities it offers. Add some of the above mentioned activities to your Andaman trip itinerary and have a blast on your holidays!
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