How to Plan Andaman Trip

Planning your vacation to the Andaman Islands? That’s fantastic! Known for their pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush greenery, the Andaman Islands are among India’s most stunning travel destinations. This step-by-step guide will help you plan a perfect trip, covering everything you need to know to stay within your budget and make the most of your experience.

Key Aspects to Consider for Your Andaman Trip

1. Season: Best Time to Visit Andaman Islands

• The ideal time to visit is October to May, offering pleasant weather and calm seas.
• Avoid visiting during monsoon months (June to September) as ferry services and water activities may be disrupted.

2. Duration: How Many Days Do You Need?

• A typical trip lasts 4 - 7 days, depending on the activities and islands you wish to explore.
• A 5-day itinerary is perfect for covering the highlights, such as Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil Island.

3. Must-Visit Places in Andaman

• Port Blair: Cellular Jail, Ross Island, Chidiya Tapu.
• Havelock Island: Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, Scuba Diving.
• Neil Island: Natural Bridge, Laxmanpur Beach, Bharatpur Beach.

4. Flight Costs

• Flights from major Indian cities like Chennai, Kolkata, or Delhi range between ? 5,000 - ? 15,000 (one-way).
• Booking in advance can save significant costs.

5. Accommodation Costs

• Budget, mid-range, and luxury options are available at Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil Island.
• Costs range from ? 1,500 per night (budget stays) to ? 40,000 per night (luxury resorts).

6. Ferry Costs

• Ferries are the primary mode of inter-island transportation.
• Government ferries and private ferries cost around ? 300 - ? 2,000 per person, depending on the route and class.

7. Cost of Water Activities

• Popular activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and sea walking cost between ?1,000 - ?5,000.
• Packages often include these, so plan accordingly.

8. Transportation Costs

• Options include cabs, autos, and two-wheelers for hire.
• Daily rental for a two-wheeler is around ?500 - ?800, while cab rides can vary based on distance.

9. Food Costs

• Local seafood and Indian cuisine dominate the menu.
• Meal costs range from ?150 (budget eateries) to ?1,000 (luxury dining) per person.

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Day-Wise Cost Example

5-Day Trip for 2 Adults (from Chennai)

Flight Costs: ?8,000 × 2 (return fare) = ?32,000

Accommodation:

• Port Blair (2 nights in 3-star hotel): ?3,500 × 2 = ?7,000
• Havelock (2 nights in 3-star hotel): ?4,500 × 2 = ?9,000
• Total Accommodation: ?16,000

Ferry Costs: ?1,500 × 4 rides = ?6,000

Water Activities: ?3,000 per person × 2 = ?6,000

Transportation: ?3,000 for 5 days

Food Costs: ?500 × 2 × 5 days = ?5,000

Total Estimated Cost: ?68,000

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Planning a trip to the Andaman Islands requires attention to detail, but it is entirely manageable. By focusing on flight, accommodation, and ferry costs, you can cover the major expenses while keeping additional costs (like activities and food) in check.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your Perfect Andaman Island Trip

Step 1: Choose the Best Time to Visit Andaman Islands

The first step in planning your Andaman adventure is selecting the right time to visit based on your preferences and budget.

Ideal Travel Season

• Best Months: September to May : Enjoy calm seas, pleasant weather, and fully operational activities.
• Peak Season: October to March :  Popular among travelers, especially during December holidays. Expect higher prices due to increased demand.

Off-Peak Travel

• Monsoon Season: June and July
• Experience the islands in a unique, lush, and serene atmosphere.
• Be prepared for rain and occasional rescheduling of water activities due to weather.

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What to Expect

• Activities: Most water activities, including snorkeling and scuba diving, are operational year-round. On rare days of heavy rainfall, these activities might be postponed to the next day.
• Budget Tip: Avoid December if you're looking for cost-effective options, as prices tend to spike during this period.

Planning your visit during the right season ensures you enjoy the Andaman Islands at their best!

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How is the Weather in Andaman Islands During Your Visit?

The Andaman Islands enjoy a tropical climate throughout the year, making them a favorable destination in any season. Here’s what you can expect:

Temperature Range

• Daytime Temperatures: 25°C to 33°C
• Peak Summers: 30°C to 35°C (still comfortable due to the island breeze)
• Evenings: Usually cooler, especially near the beaches.

Climate Highlights

• The islands maintain a warm and humid tropical atmosphere year-round.
• Summers are not extreme, and the sea breeze helps balance the heat.
• Rainfall is frequent during the monsoon (June-July), giving the islands a lush and refreshing appearance.

Whether you're visiting in peak season or off-peak, the Andaman Islands' weather remains inviting for exploration, relaxation, and adventure.

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Step 2: How Many Days Are Required to Visit Andaman?

The number of days needed for an Andaman trip depends on how many places you want to cover. Here's a breakdown of suggested itineraries based on different durations:

6-Day Trip: South Andaman Islands

This is the most common and recommended itinerary for first-time visitors. It focuses on the popular South Andaman destinations: Port Blair, Havelock Island, and Neil Island.

Itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrival at Port Blair
• Day 2: Travel from Port Blair to Havelock Island (overnight stay at Havelock)
• Day 3: Explore Havelock Island (e.g., Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach)
• Day 4: Travel from Havelock to Neil Island (overnight stay at Neil)
• Day 5: Return from Neil Island to Port Blair
• Day 6: Departure from Port Blair

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9 - 10 Day Trip: South, Middle, and North Andaman Islands

This extended trip covers the major spots in South Andaman, as well as unique attractions in Middle and North Andaman.

Itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrival at Port Blair
• Day 2: Travel from Port Blair to Havelock Island (overnight stay at Havelock)
• Day 3: Explore Havelock Island
• Day 4: Travel from Havelock to Neil Island
• Day 5: Return from Neil Island to Port Blair
• Day 6: Travel to Diglipur (North Andaman) via Baratang Island (visit limestone caves and mud volcano)
• Day 7: Explore Diglipur (e.g., Ross and Smith Islands, Saddle Peak National Park)
• Day 8: Return from Diglipur to Port Blair, covering Middle Andaman
• Day 9: Departure from Port Blair

Optional: Add 2-3 days for a leisurely pace or to explore offbeat destinations like Long Island.

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4-Day Trip: Short and Quick Visit

Ideal for travelers with limited time, this itinerary focuses on Port Blair and Havelock Island.

Itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrival at Port Blair (overnight stay)
• Day 2: Travel to Havelock Island (overnight stay)
• Day 3: Return from Havelock to Port Blair (overnight stay)
• Day 4: Departure from Port Blair

Additional Notes

• Port Blair as a Hub: All trips start and end at Port Blair since it houses the only commercial airport. Ferry transfers to other islands also operate from here.
• Offbeat Destinations: For more adventurous travelers, places like Long Island require an additional 3 days.
• Customizable Itinerary: Depending on your interests and budget, you can adjust the duration and destinations accordingly.

Whether it's a short trip or a detailed exploration, Andaman offers options to fit every traveler's schedule.

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Step 3: Top Places to Visit in Andaman

When planning your trip to the Andaman Islands, it's essential to know the must-visit spots and experiences to make the most of your adventure. Here's a guide to the top places and activities:

Port Blair, Andaman Islands

Discover the Charm of Port Blair - The Gateway to the Andaman Islands

Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, serves as the gateway to the archipelago, offering a perfect blend of rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant marine life. Located on South Andaman Island, Port Blair is a charming coastal city with an interesting mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a nature lover, Port Blair offers something for everyone.

Top Attractions in Port Blair

• Cellular Jail (Kala Pani): A historic site with a light and sound show depicting India's freedom struggle.
• Corbyn’s Cove Beach: A serene beach perfect for relaxation and water sports.
• Ross Island: A short ferry ride away, this island offers ruins of British-era buildings amidst lush greenery.
• Samudrika Marine Museum: Learn about the islands’ marine biodiversity and cultural heritage.
• Chidiya Tapu: A tranquil spot for sunset views and bird watching.

Cellular Jail

A historical landmark, the Cellular Jail is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Built during the British colonial era, it was used to imprison political prisoners. Today, it houses a museum and offers light-and-sound shows that recount the painful history of India's freedom struggle.

Corbyns Cove Beach

Just a few kilometers from the city, Corbyns Cove Beach is known for its serene surroundings, clean sands, and calm waters. It’s a great spot for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying water sports like jet skiing and speed boating.

Chidiya Tapu

Known as the "Bird Island," Chidiya Tapu is a tranquil escape from the city, famous for its rich birdlife, lush greenery, and spectacular sunsets. It's perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Samudrika Marine Museum

Managed by the Indian Navy, this museum showcases the rich marine biodiversity of the Andaman Islands. Visitors can learn about the unique marine life, coral reefs, and the islands' ecosystems.

Anthropological Museum

This museum offers insights into the indigenous tribes of the Andaman Islands, providing an educational experience on the culture and history of the local people.

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Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)

Known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, Havelock is a must-visit.

Top Attractions:

• Radhanagar Beach: Voted one of the best beaches in Asia, ideal for sunsets and swimming.
• Elephant Beach: Famous for snorkeling and water sports.
• Kalapathar Beach: A quiet beach with black rocks and turquoise waters, perfect for unwinding.

Radhanagar Beach (Havelock Island)

Though not directly in Port Blair, Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island is easily accessible by ferry from Port Blair. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing in a pristine environment.

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Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)

A smaller and quieter island, Neil is known for its natural beauty and laid-back vibe.

Top Attractions:

• Bharatpur Beach: Great for swimming and glass-bottom boat rides.
• Laxmanpur Beach: A scenic spot for sunsets and coral viewing.
• Natural Bridge (Howrah Bridge): A unique rock formation accessible during low tide.

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Step 4: Get Your Flight Tickets

Booking your flight tickets is one of the most significant steps in planning your trip to the Andaman Islands. The cost of flights can vary greatly depending on the time of booking, season, and departure city, so securing tickets early can help you save significantly.

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Airport Details

• Destination Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), Port Blair.
• Direct Flights Available From: Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.
• Connecting Flights Available From: Mumbai, Delhi, and other major cities.

Approximate Flight Costs (One Way, Per Person)

City	Direct Flights	Cost Range (INR)
Chennai (MAA)	Direct Flights	?6,000 - ?9,000
Kolkata (CCU)	Direct Flights	?6,000 – ?9,000
Bangalore (BLR)	Direct/1 Stop	?8,000 – ?12,000
Hyderabad (HYD)	Direct/1 Stop	?8,000 – ?12,000
Delhi (DEL)	Direct/1 Stop	?10,000 – ?16,000
Mumbai (BOM)	Direct/1 Stop	?10,000 – ?16,000

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Tips for Booking Flights

1. Book Early: Flight prices can spike as the travel date approaches, especially during peak season (October-March).
2. Flexible Dates: Use tools to find cheaper rates if your travel dates are flexible.
3. Seasonal Variations: Prices tend to be higher during December and holiday seasons.
4. Compare Rates: Check prices across multiple platforms for the best deal.
5. Group Discounts: Contact travel agents or agencies for group booking discounts.

Cities With Best Prices

If you're flying from Chennai, Kolkata, or Bangalore, you are likely to find the most budget-friendly fares to Port Blair.

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Contact for Assistance

For group bookings and discounted rates, you can connect with agencies like Arrange My Trips for assistance. They often provide series airfare options, helping to lower your overall travel costs.

Booking your flights at the right time ensures you start your Andaman adventure without overspending!

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Step 5: Estimating the Cost of Accommodation

After determining the flight costs from your city, the next step is calculating the cost of accommodation across the islands you plan to visit as per your itinerary. In the Andaman Islands, accommodations need to be booked at Port Blair, Havelock Island, and Neil Island.

Accommodation Costs at Port Blair

• Budget Accommodation: Below ?1,500 per night (double-sharing)
• 2-Star Properties: Around ?2,500 per night (double-sharing)
• 3-Star Properties: ?3,500–?4,500 per night (double-sharing)
• 4-Star Properties: ?5,000–?9,000 per night (double-sharing)
• 5-Star Properties: ?8,000–?15,000 per night (double-sharing)

Accommodation Costs at Havelock Island

• Budget Accommodation: Below ?1,500 per night (double-sharing)
• 2-Star Properties: Around ?3,000 per night (double-sharing)
• 3-Star Properties: ?4,500–?5,500 per night (double-sharing)
• 4-Star Properties: ?5,000–?18,000 per night (double-sharing)
• 5-Star Properties: ?20,000–?40,000 per night (double-sharing)

Accommodation Costs at Neil Island

Similar to Havelock Island, accommodation costs at Neil Island follow the same budget ranges.

Key Insight

Accommodation and flight expenses together contribute to about 70% of your total trip cost to the Andaman Islands.

Example Calculation

Let’s calculate the approximate cost for a couple traveling from Chennai to the Andaman Islands for 5 days, staying 2 nights in Port Blair and 2 nights in Havelock Island:

1. Flight Ticket Cost: ?8,000 (one-way fare) × 2 (adults) × 2 (return) = ?32,000
2. Accommodation Cost in 3-Star Hotels:

• Port Blair: ?3,500 × 2 nights = ?7,000
• Havelock: ?4,500 × 2 nights = ?9,000
• Total Accommodation Cost (with Breakfast): ?16,000

Total Trip Cost So Far:

• Flight: ?32,000
• Accommodation: ?16,000
• Grand Total: ?48,000

What’s Next?

To get the complete picture, we’ll include the costs of ferry transfers, local transportation, activities, and meals in the next steps.

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Step 5: Cost of Ferry to Travel Between Islands

Ferries are an essential mode of transportation in the Andaman Islands, connecting Port Blair, Havelock, Neil, and other islands. Proper planning and booking of ferry tickets are crucial to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip.

Importance of Ferry Services

1. Gateway to Other Islands: You will land at Port Blair, and ferries are the only way to reach Havelock and Neil Island.
2. Availability Matters: Ensure that ferry schedules align with your itinerary to avoid delays or additional costs.
3. Peak Season Impact: During the peak season (October–March), ferry tickets can sell out quickly, so advance booking is recommended.

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Types of Ferries in Andaman

1. Government Ferries

• Budget-friendly.
• Limited seating and less luxurious.
• Tickets need to be booked in person at the counter, often leading to queues.

2. Private Ferries

• Faster, more comfortable, and with better services.
• Higher ticket costs compared to government ferries.
• Advance online booking available.

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Approximate Ferry Costs (One Way, Per Person)

Route	Government Ferry (INR)	Private Ferry (INR)
Port Blair ↔ Havelock Island	?600 – ?800	?1,200 – ?2,500
Havelock ↔ Neil Island	?600 – ?800	?1,200 – ?2,000
Port Blair ↔ Neil Island	?600 – ?700	?1,200 – ?2,500

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Top Private Ferry Operators

1. Makruzz: Known for its speed and comfort.
2. Green Ocean: Offers scenic open-deck views.
3. ITT Majestic: Luxurious seating with air conditioning.
4. Nautika: A premium option with excellent service.

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Tips for Ferry Booking

1. Plan Ahead: Book ferry tickets as soon as you finalize your itinerary, especially during peak seasons.
2. Allow Buffer Time: Ensure there is enough time between your flights and ferry rides to avoid missing connections.
3. Stick to Popular Routes: Opt for routes with frequent services to avoid being stranded.
4. Check Weather Conditions: Ferries may get delayed or canceled due to rough seas.

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By planning your ferry rides carefully and booking in advance, you can ensure seamless travel between the picturesque islands of Andaman, adding convenience and joy to your trip!

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Step 6: Cost of Water Activities

After planning your flights, accommodation, and ferries, the next exciting step in your Andaman trip is experiencing the various water activities the islands have to offer. Havelock Island, in particular, is a hub for thrilling aquatic adventures that cater to all kinds of travelers, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts.

Popular Water Activities in Havelock Island

Scuba Diving

• Explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
• Suitable for both certified divers and beginners with introductory sessions.
• Cost: ?3,500 – ?6,500 per dive (includes training and gear).

Snorkeling

• Enjoy an up-close view of the underwater world near the shoreline.
• Popular spots include Elephant Beach.
• Cost: ?1,000 – ?2,500 per session.

Sea Walking

• Walk on the seabed and interact with marine life without needing to swim.
• Perfect for non-swimmers.
• Cost: ?3,500 – ?4,000 per session.

Kayaking

• Paddle through serene waters, often amidst mangroves or calm lagoons.
• Cost: ?2,000 – ?3,000 per session.

Jet Skiing

• Experience the thrill of high-speed rides over the waves.
• Cost: ?600 – ?1,000 per ride.

Banana Boat Rides

• A fun group activity, ideal for families and friends.
• Cost: ?600 – ?1,000 per ride.

Game Fishing

• Suitable for fishing enthusiasts wanting to catch big game in the open sea.
• Cost: ?6,000 – ?8,000 per session (varies based on duration and equipment).

Glass-Bottom Boat Rides

• A family-friendly activity that allows you to view marine life without getting wet.
• Cost: ?500 – ?800 per ride.

Other Activities Across Andaman Islands

• Night Kayaking (Bioluminescence): ?3,500 – ?4,500 (Available at Havelock).
• Parasailing: ?3,000 – ?5,000 per ride (Port Blair and Havelock).
• Trekking: Free to ?2,000 depending on the trail and guide requirements (Chidiya Tapu, Mount Harriet).

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Tips for Booking Water Activities

• Book in Advance: Popular activities like scuba diving and sea walking can get booked out during peak season.
• Weather Check: Activities may be canceled due to rough sea conditions; ensure flexibility in your itinerary.
• Verify Operators: Choose certified operators for safety and quality of service.
• Combo Deals: Look for packages that combine multiple activities for a discounted rate.

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Water activities are a highlight of any Andaman trip, providing unforgettable experiences that let you explore the islands' unique marine ecosystem. Be sure to include these adventures in your itinerary for a truly immersive Andaman holiday!

Adding Water Activities to Your Andaman Package

The Andaman Islands offer a variety of water activities across its different islands. To explore a comprehensive list of all the activities available, please check the detailed section on our website.

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Example Cost Calculation with Water Activities

Building on our previous itinerary for a 4 Nights/5 Days trip, with 2 Nights in Port Blair and 2 Nights in Havelock Island, let’s add Scuba Diving for two people to the package:

1. Flight Tickets (2 Persons): ?32,000

2. Accommodation (4 Nights in 3-Star Hotels): ?16,000

• Port Blair: ?3,500 x 2 = ?7,000
• Havelock: ?4,500 x 2 = ?9,000

3. Ferry Tickets (2 Persons): ?6,000

4. Scuba Diving (2 Persons): ?7,000

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Updated Package Cost

• Total Trip Cost: ?32,000 (Flight) + ?16,000 (Stay) + ?6,000 (Ferry) + ?7,000 (Scuba Diving) = ?61,000 Per Couple

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Adding More Activities

Many travelers like to include 2–3 additional activities, such as sea walking, snorkeling, or kayaking, which will increase the overall budget of your trip. The final cost depends on the activities chosen:

Example Add-On Costs:

• Sea Walking for 2: ?7,000
• Snorkeling for 2: ?3,000
• Kayaking for 2: ?4,000

Revised Package with Add-Ons:

?61,000 (Base Package) + ?7,000 (Sea Walking) + ?3,000 (Snorkeling) + ?4,000 (Kayaking) = ?75,000 Per Couple

Plan Your Budget

Tailor your trip by selecting the activities that appeal most to you, and adjust your budget accordingly. Remember, every activity adds a unique experience to your Andaman adventure, making your trip truly memorable!

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Step 7: Cost of Transportation as per Your Itinerary

Let’s break down the transportation costs based on the itinerary for a 4 Nights/5 Days trip, with 2 Nights in Port Blair and 2 Nights at Havelock Island:

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Itinerary Overview:

• Day 1 - Airport Pickup, visit Corbyns Cove Beach and Cellular Jail, Overnight at Port Blair.
• Day 2 - Travel from Port Blair to Havelock in a ferry, visit Radhanagar Beach, Overnight at Havelock.
• Day 3 - Visit Elephant Beach.
• Day 4 - Scuba Diving at Havelock, Return to Port Blair.
• Day 5 - Departure.

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Transportation Breakdown:

• Airport Pickup and Drop:

The total cab cost for all pickups and drops throughout the trip will be approximately ?7,000.

• Two-Wheeler at Havelock:

If you choose to rent a two-wheeler in Havelock Island, the cost for Port Blair pickup and drop will be ?4,000. The two-wheeler rental for 2 days will cost you ?500 per day, and including fuel, we estimate around ?1,500 for the two days.

• Total Transportation Cost:

The total transportation cost for the trip will be approximately ?6,000.

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Entry Tickets and Additional Costs:

• The entry tickets for Cellular Jail, the Light and Sound Show, and the ferry ticket to Elephant Beach are not included in the above transportation costs.
  • The total cost for these tickets for a couple will be around ?3,000.

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Revised Total Trip Cost:

• Flight Cost (for 2 persons): ?32,000
• Hotel Stay (for 2 persons): ?16,000
• Ferry Tickets (for 2 persons): ?6,000
• Scuba Diving (for 2 persons): ?7,000
• Transportation Costs: ?6,000
• Entry Tickets for Cellular Jail and Light & Sound Show: ?3,000

Total Trip Cost:

?32,000 (Flight) + ?16,000 (Stay) + ?6,000 (Ferry) + ?7,000 (Scuba Diving) + ?6,000 (Transportation) + ?3,000 (Entry Tickets) = ?70,000 Per Couple for a 4 Nights/5 Days trip with 2 Nights in Port Blair and 2 Nights in Havelock Island.

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Summary:

The above breakdown covers the costs for flights, hotels, ferry, scuba diving, transportation, and entry tickets. The last leg of the budget is the food cost, which will bring you to the overall cost of your trip.

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Step 8: Food Cost

The final part of your cost comes from food and personal expenses. Let's break it down:

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Food Cost Calculation:

• Average meal cost per person: ?500
• For a 4-day trip, you will be having 8 meals in total (lunch and dinner each day).
• Food cost per couple:
  • ?500 per meal x 2 persons x 4 days x 2 (lunch and dinner) = ?8,000
  • For a more comfortable estimate, let's consider an upper range, including snacks and other small meals: ?10,000

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Revised Total Trip Cost:

• Flight Cost (for 2 persons): ?32,000
• Hotel Stay (for 2 persons): ?16,000
• Ferry Tickets (for 2 persons): ?6,000
• Scuba Diving (for 2 persons): ?7,000
• Transportation Costs: ?6,000
• Entry Tickets for Cellular Jail and Light & Sound Show: ?3,000
• Food Cost: ?10,000

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Total Final Trip Cost:

?32,000 (Flight) + ?16,000 (Stay) + ?6,000 (Ferry) + ?7,000 (Scuba Diving) + ?6,000 (Transportation) + ?3,000 (Entry Tickets) + ?10,000 (Food) = ?80,000 Per Couple for a 4 Nights/5 Days trip with 2 Nights in Port Blair and 2 Nights in Havelock Island.

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Summary:

For a 5-day trip to the Andaman Islands, the approximate cost will be ?80,000 per couple. The key to saving money on your trip lies in getting the best deals for flights and hotels. If you find lower prices for these, you could save even more during your trip.