Andaman Islands vs Maldives: which island holiday?

By the Nexara Holidays travel desk · 2 min read

The Andaman & Nicobar Islands Islands and the Maldives both offer turquoise water and coral reefs, but they are very different holidays.

The experience

• Andamans: a mix of beaches, history (the Cellular Jail), forests, diving and island hopping by ferry.
• Maldives: resort-focused relaxation, with each resort on its own island.

Accommodation

• Andamans: beach resorts, boutique hotels and simple stays, with a few premium properties.
• Maldives: iconic water villas and luxury resorts, plus budget guesthouses on local islands.

Activities

• Andamans: snorkelling, scuba diving (try-dives on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)), kayaking, sea walks and history tours.
• Maldives: snorkelling, diving, spa, sandbank picnics and sunset cruises.

Travel

• Andamans: a domestic flight from Chennai, with no passport needed for Indian citizens, plus ferries between islands.
• Maldives: a short international flight; passport required. Resort transfers by speedboat or seaplane.

Budget

The Andamans are usually more affordable. The Maldives range from budget local islands to some of the world's most expensive resorts.

Seasons

Both are best from about November to April.

Who suits which

• Honeymooners seeking luxury: Maldives.
• Families and explorers: Andamans.
• Divers: both are excellent.
• No passport yet: Andamans.

Our verdict

Choose the Maldives for pure luxury and relaxation. Choose the Andamans for variety, value and an easy domestic trip. See Island holidays.

How long?

Five or six nights suits the Andamans, to allow for ferries between islands. Four or five nights is enough for most Maldives stays.