Most Beautiful Islands of India for a Perfect Vacay

Known For : Radhanagar Beach Elephant Beach Kalapathar Beach

Havelock Island, now officially known as Swaraj Dweep, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Andaman Islands. It is famous for its stunning beaches like Radhanagar Beach, which has been ranked among the best beaches in Asia. The island offers various water activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking, making it a paradise for adventure lovers. Havelock’s crystal-clear waters and lush green landscape make it a prime destination for relaxation and exploration.

Best Time: October to February

8 Havelock Island Attractions

Known For : Bharatpur Beach Laxmanpur Beach 2 Scuba Diving in Neil Island

Neil Island, also known as Shaheed Dweep, is a smaller, more laid-back island compared to Havelock. It is famous for its coral reefs, tranquil beaches like Laxmanpur and Bharatpur, and agricultural produce. The island's shallow, clear waters make it perfect for snorkeling and exploring marine life. Its serene atmosphere makes Neil Island a great spot for those seeking peace and relaxation.

Best Time: October to February

6 Neil Island Attractions

Ross Island, now called Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island, was once the administrative headquarters for the British in the Andaman Islands. The island is known for its colonial-era ruins, which include churches, a bakery, and a graveyard. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks among the old structures while spotting deer and peacocks that roam freely. The island offers a glimpse into the past, along with scenic views of the nearby islands.

Viper Island is another historically significant island in the Andamans, known for its role during British colonial rule. The island housed a jail that was used to imprison political prisoners before the construction of the Cellular Jail. Today, the ruins of the jail can still be seen, along with beautiful views of the surrounding waters. Viper Island serves as both a historical site and a peaceful retreat for visitors.

Long Island is a small yet picturesque destination in the Andaman archipelago, known for its unspoiled beaches, tropical forests, and vibrant marine life. Lalaji Bay Beach is a popular attraction, offering white sands and clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The island has minimal infrastructure, making it ideal for those seeking a secluded and quiet getaway. It’s also a great spot for eco-tourism with ample opportunities for trekking and wildlife viewing.

Barren Island is India's only active volcano and one of the most unique attractions in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Though landing on the island is prohibited, tourists can take boat trips around it to witness the smoking crater and volcanic activity from a safe distance. The surrounding waters are known for their rich marine life, making it a popular spot for diving. Barren Island offers a rare glimpse into the raw forces of nature in action.

North Andaman Island is known for its dense forests, pristine beaches, and rich marine life. It offers excellent opportunities for adventure seekers with activities like trekking, snorkeling, and bird-watching. The island is less populated and provides a tranquil escape from the busier parts of the Andaman archipelago. Its secluded location makes it an ideal spot for those looking to explore untouched natural beauty.

South Andaman is the most populous of the Andaman Islands, home to the capital city, Port Blair. The island boasts a variety of attractions, including Cellular Jail, a historical monument from India's colonial past. South Andaman is known for its beautiful beaches like Corbyn’s Cove and Wandoor, and it serves as the gateway to other islands in the archipelago. Its vibrant mix of culture, history, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit.

Middle Andaman Island is situated between North and South Andaman and is famous for its lush green forests and the beautiful Mangrove creeks. The island is relatively less visited, making it a peaceful destination for eco-tourism. Key attractions include the limestone caves and tidal swamp forests, along with wildlife such as the saltwater crocodile. It's a haven for nature lovers looking for offbeat experiences.

Little Andaman Island is one of the most remote islands in the Andaman chain, popular for its scenic waterfalls like White Surf and Whisper Wave. The island is less commercialized, providing an authentic tropical experience. Surfing is a key attraction here due to the island's relatively strong waves, and visitors also enjoy the tranquil, secluded beaches. It’s an ideal destination for travelers looking to escape the crowds.

Baratang Island, also known as Ranchiwalas Island, is a beautiful little island in the North and Middle Andaman Administrative district and is situated about 100 kilometres away from Port Blair by road. The island is well-known for its mangroves, mud volcanoes (only ones in India) and limestone caves. However, you may need to take permission from the Forest Department at Baratang to explore these caves.

Great Nicobar Island is the largest island in the Nicobar chain and is known for its diverse ecosystems, including tropical rainforests and mangroves. The island is home to the indigenous Nicobarese tribe and is largely untouched by tourism. Its southern tip features the Indira Point, India's southernmost point, which was partially submerged by the 2004 tsunami. The island’s remoteness makes it an adventurous destination for nature enthusiasts.

Car Nicobar is the northernmost island in the Nicobar group and serves as the administrative headquarters for the Nicobar district. It’s known for its coconut plantations and small, traditional villages. The island has a serene environment with clear blue waters and scenic landscapes. Though less developed than the Andamans, Car Nicobar offers a peaceful retreat with a unique cultural experience.

Nancowry Island is one of the central islands in the Nicobar group, and it is noted for its scenic beauty and remote location. The island is part of a group of islets that form the Nancowry Harbour, a natural, sheltered bay. This island is not frequently visited by tourists, making it a perfect place for those who want to experience the untouched beauty of the Nicobars. The surrounding waters are rich in marine biodiversity.

Katchal Island is part of the Nicobar Islands and is known for its lush forests and isolated beaches. The island gained prominence when it became the first place in India to see the sunrise in the year 2000. Katchal is a peaceful, less-commercialized destination, offering a unique blend of nature and tranquility. It remains off the beaten path for most tourists, providing an exclusive experience of the Nicobar Islands.

Little Nicobar Island lies to the south of the Nicobar chain and is known for its rugged terrain and rich biodiversity. It is home to various species of flora and fauna, and its thick forests create a secluded environment. The island is sparsely populated, primarily by indigenous tribes, and is rarely visited by outsiders. Little Nicobar offers an authentic and remote natural experience.

Campbell Bay is located on the Great Nicobar Island and is famous for the Campbell Bay National Park. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including species such as the Nicobar pigeon and the crab-eating macaque. The island also features dense tropical rainforests and beautiful coastlines. Campbell Bay is ideal for eco-tourism and wildlife enthusiasts seeking to explore the remote wilderness of the Nicobar Islands.

Agatti Island is one of the most beautiful islands in the Lakshadweep group, known for its pristine coral reefs and turquoise blue waters. The island offers activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing, making it a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Agatti is relatively small, and its untouched beaches provide a peaceful retreat for travelers.

Bangaram Island is famous for its uninhabited status and clear blue waters, offering an exclusive getaway for travelers seeking tranquility. It is surrounded by a coral reef and is a perfect spot for diving and snorkeling, with a rich variety of marine life to explore. The island’s isolation gives it a serene and peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal destination for those looking to disconnect from the world.

Kadmat Island is renowned for its long sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. The island is popular for scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking, offering an adventurous experience for visitors. Kadmat’s shallow lagoons make it a great spot for swimming and exploring the underwater world.

Kalpeni Island is known for its stunning lagoons, which are perfect for swimming and kayaking. The island is also famous for its traditional culture and friendly local community, offering a glimpse into the island way of life. The turquoise waters and coral reefs provide excellent opportunities for snorkeling and exploring marine biodiversity.

Kavaratti Island is the administrative capital of Lakshadweep and is known for its beautiful lagoons and white sandy beaches. The island offers a range of water sports, including kayaking, canoeing, and snorkeling, along with cultural experiences like visiting the local mosques and museums. Kavaratti’s peaceful atmosphere combined with its natural beauty makes it an excellent destination for both adventure and relaxation.

Minicoy Island is one of the largest islands in Lakshadweep, known for its unique culture influenced by the Maldives. The island is famous for its lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding ocean and lush greenery. Minicoy’s crescent-shaped beaches and crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and diving.

Chetlat Island is a small and less-visited island in Lakshadweep, known for its coconut plantations and simple village life. The island is surrounded by coral reefs, making it a great spot for snorkeling and fishing. Chetlat’s quiet and peaceful atmosphere offers a serene escape from the more tourist-heavy islands. Its untouched beauty and laid-back lifestyle make it a hidden gem in the Lakshadweep archipelago.

Amini Island is known for its rich cultural history and traditional craftwork, particularly its stone-carving and coconut-based products. The island’s natural beauty, combined with its cultural attractions, makes it a unique destination in Lakshadweep. Amini is also known for its peaceful beaches and coral reefs, which provide opportunities for relaxation and exploration. The island offers an authentic cultural experience along with its picturesque landscapes.

Androth Island is the largest and most densely populated island in Lakshadweep, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The island features ancient mosques and monuments, offering visitors a glimpse into its long history. Androth’s beaches and lagoons are perfect for relaxation, while its vibrant local culture provides an interesting cultural experience. The island’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a unique destination.

Bitra Island is the smallest inhabited island in Lakshadweep and is known for its extreme remoteness and serene environment. The island is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs and offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and bird watching. With only a small population, Bitra provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the crowds. Its isolation and natural beauty make it an offbeat destination for intrepid travelers.

Rameswaram Island, located in the Gulf of Mannar, is a prominent pilgrimage site, home to the Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The island is connected to mainland India by the historic Pamban Bridge, known for its unique cantilever design. It is also the starting point of the Ram Setu, a chain of limestone shoals believed to be the ancient bridge mentioned in the Ramayana.

Pamban Island, also known as Rameswaram Island, lies between the Indian mainland and Sri Lanka. The island is famous for the Pamban Bridge, India's first sea bridge, which connects it to the mainland. Pamban Island is an important religious site, attracting millions of pilgrims to its temples, particularly the Ramanathaswamy Temple. The island's location makes it a crucial spot for fishing and marine activities, contributing to the local economy.

Vypin Island is one of the densely populated islands in Kerala, located near the city of Kochi. The island was formed in the 14th century due to heavy floods and is now connected to the mainland by bridges and ferries. Vypin is known for its scenic beaches, such as Cherai Beach, and for its role in the fishing and coir industries. It also houses several churches and temples, reflecting Kerala's rich cultural and religious diversity.

Willingdon Island, an artificial island created by dredging the backwaters of Kochi, serves as a major port and naval base. Named after Lord Willingdon, a former British Viceroy of India, the island was developed in the early 20th century. It hosts the Cochin Port Trust, the Southern Naval Command, and several hotels, making it a hub for commerce and tourism. The island's strategic location has made it integral to Kochi's development as a key maritime city.

Munroe Island, located at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada River in Kerala, is known for its tranquil backwaters and traditional village life. The island is named after Colonel John Munroe, a British Resident of the erstwhile Travancore State, who played a significant role in the region's administration. Munroe Island is famous for its canoe tours through narrow canals, coir-making, and lush greenery. It is also a site for the annual Kallada Boat Race, attracting visitors from across the state.
Time Required : 2-3 hours

Dharmadam Island, also known as Dharmapattanam, is a small uninhabited island located near Thalassery in Kerala. The island is surrounded by the Arabian Sea and can be reached by walking through the shallow waters during low tide. It is covered with dense coconut groves and offers picturesque views, making it a popular spot for picnics and day trips. The island holds cultural significance and is associated with ancient Buddhist heritage.

Chorao Island, situated on the Mandovi River in Goa, is known for its serene landscape and the famous Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. The island was originally called Chudamani, meaning 'stunning jewel,' and was later colonized by the Portuguese, who renamed it Chorao. The bird sanctuary on the island is a haven for birdwatchers, hosting a variety of resident and migratory species.

Divar Island, located in the Mandovi River near Old Goa, is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty and traditional Goan lifestyle. The island was once a significant Hindu pilgrimage site before the Portuguese colonization, and it still retains traces of its ancient heritage. Divar is known for the annual Bonderam festival, a colorful event celebrating the island's history and culture. The island's lush green fields, old churches, and quiet lanes make it a peaceful retreat from the bustling mainland.

Grande Island, also known as Ilha Grande, is a popular tourist destination off the coast of Goa, known for its pristine waters and rich marine life. The island is a hotspot for snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water sports, attracting adventure enthusiasts. Grande Island is also home to the ruins of an old Portuguese fort and lighthouse, adding a historical dimension to its natural beauty.

Elephanta Island, located in Mumbai Harbor, is famous for its ancient rock-cut temples and caves dedicated to Lord Shiva. The island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features the Elephanta Caves, which are renowned for their intricate sculptures and carvings, including the iconic Trimurti statue. Elephanta Island, known locally as Gharapuri, meaning 'the city of caves,' is accessible by ferry from Mumbai and is a popular tourist attraction. The island's history dates back to the 5th to 7th centuries, reflecting India's rich cultural heritage.

Salsette Island, where Mumbai is situated, is one of the most densely populated islands in the world. The island was originally a cluster of smaller islands that were gradually united through land reclamation by the British. Salsette is home to several iconic landmarks, including the city of Mumbai, Bandra-Worli Sea Link, and the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The island's vibrant culture, economic significance, and historical sites make it a central hub in Maharashtra.

Diu Island, located off the southern coast of Gujarat, is known for its beautiful beaches, historic forts, and Portuguese colonial architecture. The island was a Portuguese colony for over 400 years before it became part of India in 1961. Diu's Fort, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, is a major attraction, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. The island's blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures, along with its serene environment, makes it a unique destination.

Pirotan Island, part of the Marine National Park in the Gulf of Kutch, Gujarat, is a secluded and ecologically significant area known for its diverse marine life. The island is home to coral reefs, mangroves, and various species of birds, making it a paradise for nature lovers and researchers. Pirotan Island is accessible only by boat and requires special permission from the Forest Department to visit. The island's untouched natural beauty and rich biodiversity are its main attractions.

Khadir Island, located in the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat, is known for its archaeological significance and unique landscape. The island is home to the ancient ruins of Dholavira, a major city of the Harappan civilization, which offers valuable insights into India's ancient history. Khadir Island is surrounded by the white salt plains of the Rann, creating a striking contrast with its green cover. The island is also a great place for wildlife enthusiasts, with sightings of various species like flamingos and wild asses.