The Andaman Islands are a tropical destination, so the temperature hardly changes. What changes is the sea, and that decides how much you can do.
October to May: the main season
This is the dry season with mostly calm seas, and it is the best time for beaches, snorkelling and diving around Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep).
- November to February is the most comfortable period, with pleasant temperatures and good underwater visibility. It is also peak season, especially around Christmas and New Year.
- March to May is hotter and more humid but often has the calmest seas and the clearest water for diving.
- October is a shoulder month as the monsoon ends; ferries are running but weather can still be mixed.
June to September: the monsoon
The southwest monsoon brings heavy rain and rough seas. Some ferries and water activities are cancelled at short notice, and beaches can be closed for swimming. In return, the islands are lush, quiet and cheaper. It can suit travellers who want a slow, rainy island break, but it is not ideal for a first visit or for diving.
Ferries and flights
Most visitors fly into Port Blair and take ferries to Havelock and Neil. Ferries are weather-dependent, so:
- Never plan your flight home on the same day you return from Havelock or Neil.
- Pre-book private ferries in peak season; seats sell out.
- Keep one buffer day in case a sailing is cancelled.
Diving seasons
Visibility is generally best from about November to April. If you want to learn to dive, a beginner course on Havelock takes about three days; a try-dive takes a morning.
Quick answer
Go between November and April for the best mix of weather and sea conditions. Avoid June to August unless you want a rainy, quiet escape.
See our Island holidays and Honeymoon packages pages for Andaman itineraries.
When to go
When to go
When to go
When to go