Best Time to Visit the Andaman Islands

The Andaman Islands, nestled within the Bay of Bengal like emeralds on the blue, are among the finest tropical getaways in India. They offer turquoise lagoons, gentle white sands, and vibrant coral habitats that entice countless visitors every year. 

Nevertheless, it is important to understand Andaman weather in advance of your travels, as experiences here will dramatically shift with the weather. The Andaman Islands will have a warm, tropical climate all year-round, but month to month, there will be significant variations in rainfall, humidity, and sea conditions. 

Choosing the right travel season for the Andaman Islands can affect a variety of aspects of your trip, including your budget, your comfort, and what sorts of experiences you can enjoy while you are here.

More often than not, the best time to visit the Andaman Islands is during the dry season from October to May, when outdoor activities are at their best due to the climate being dry climate and the ocean is also calm. 

Understanding Andaman’s Climate

Get to know Andaman’s tropical climate, its seasons, and how the weather shapes your island experience. 

Geographical Setting

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are located approximately 1200 km east of mainland India, and are surrounded by the Bay of Bengal. This geographical isolation results in a unique marine environment and climate that is fundamentally different from coastal India.

Climate Type

The islands have a tropical humid maritime climate that is influenced by the northeast and southwest monsoons. For most of the year, the islands have sunny weather, with tropical downpours interrupting them sporadically.

Average Temperature

The temperature in the Andaman Islands remains consistent throughout the year, usually ranging from 23 oC to 31 oC. The evenings are pleasantly warm in the cooler months, making this an ideal place for beach walks or eating al fresco.

Rainfall and Seasons

The Andamans experience their major rainfall between June and September, with intermittent showers expected before and after. The non-monsoon months, primarily October to May, are rather dry and are the preferred period for tour and marine activities.

In summary:

• Temperature: 23°C–31°C
• Climate: Tropical, humid and oceanic.
• Dry Months: October–May
• Wet Season: June–September

(Read More: Andaman Weather Guide)

Andaman Seasons Overview

You can categorize the year in Andaman into three intervals of interest, because each experience will be different.

a. Winter (October to February) – The Peak Season

Winter is the busiest time and probably the best time to visit Andaman. The daily temperatures will be between 24 and 28 degrees Celsius. There will not be much rain, and the seas will be calm. The islands will be at their best to offer stunning skies, bright beaches, and crystal clear waters to enjoy. 

Highlights:  

• Peak time for scuba dives, snorkelling and island hopping  
• The weather is pleasant for sightseeing and trekking  
• Offers significant cultural events, such as the Island Tourism Festival, which takes place in January  
• Perfect for families and honeymooners.  

Pros:  Excellent climatic conditions, colourful events and all tourist services are accessible  

Cons:  In general, accommodation will be more expensive, and there will be crowds at the popular places.

b. Summer (March to May) – Warm but Enjoyable

The months of summer are warm, sunny, and still good for travel. Temperatures will be in the range from 26°C to 31°C, and humidity levels will be on the rise. Since it’s summer, this is a great time for diving, snorkelling, and boating, with calm ocean conditions and good underwater visibility.

Reasons to Visit in the Summer:

• Great for underwater photography or water sports
• More moderate crowds and affordable hotel options
• Enjoy spectacular sunset views during the season

Pros: Less expensive packages than in the winter; excellent underwater viewing

Cons: Some humidity and a chance of rain showers in the evenings

c. Monsoon (June to September) – Offbeat & Rainy

The Andaman monsoon brings rain and storms periodically. Ferry schedules may change depending on wind and sea conditions. But it is also when the islands become green and vibrant. It is a great time for anyone more inclined to relaxation and natural beauty than adventure sports.

Reasons to Visit During the Monsoon:

• Perfect for relaxing getaways and beautiful nature photography
• Lowest hotel rates and airfare of the year
• Lush green landscape and misty backgrounds

Pros: Travelling in a peaceful and budget-oriented manner

Cons: Less ferry trips and water activities

Month-by-Month Weather Breakdown in Andaman

Here is a month-wise table of Andaman weather:

Month	Avg. Temp (°C)	Weather Conditions	Travel Suitability
January	24–28	Cool, dry, ideal for all activities	Excellent
February	25–29	Pleasant and sunny	Excellent
March	26–30	Warm, calm seas	Great
April	27–31	Hot but perfect for diving	Good
May	28–31	Start of rains, less crowd	Fair
June–September	25–30	Heavy rain, humid	Avoid/Offbeat
October	25–29	Rain subsides, green landscapes	Great
November–December	24–28	Clear skies, festive mood	Excellent

Best Seasons for Experiencing the Best Activities in Andaman

The Orkney Islands can be a destination for tourists with all different aspects of our travel justice, from deep-sea divers and honeymooners, to photographers, to backpackers. Each of these activities is optimal for some time of the year. 

Scuba Diving & Snorkelling: October to May

This is the best scuba diving season in the  Andaman. The sea is flat, the visibility is up to 30m, and marine life is occurring in abundance. Diving and snorkelling conditions from Havelock’s Elephant Beach to Neil Island’s coral gardens are adequate during the aforementioned times. 

Why is this time of year best?

• We have no waves and the cleanest water

• Active marine biodiversity
• Most diving schools open and provide full days of diving

Avoid the South West monsoon months, as many dive centres will be closed due to safety restrictions.

Beach Relaxation & Sightseeing: November to April

The period from November to April captures a dream beach atmosphere with sunny skies, mild humidity, and smooth seas. The famous beaches of Radhanagar, Kalapathar, and Corbyn’s Cove are perfect for swimming or simply lounging in the sun.

It’s also a great time to visit Ross Island, Cellular Jail, and the Limestone Caves since the ferries run often and the visibility is good.

Honeymoon Trips: November to February

The cool, dry months of the Andaman Islands are the most romantic. Couples can enjoy sunsets, beautiful accommodations, and intimate dinners under the stars.  Havelock and Neil Islands also have resorts that arrange special honeymoon packages for couples.

Reasons why couples love this time frame:

• Beautiful sunsets and starry evenings
• Comfortable weather for walking by the beach
• Calm sea conditions for couples’ activities such as snorkelling and kayaking

Budget Travel: June to September

If cost is a consideration for what you are looking for, nothing beats going off-season, June to September. At this time, hotels, cruises, and tours are reduced significantly. Yes, it may rain heavily, but the sound of the rain, the lack of tourists at that time, and the green surroundings for long, relaxing stays are compelling attributes to make this schedule worthwhile.

Reasons it is worthwhile: 

• The best deals on hotels and flights
• Less tourists
• Refreshing scenery and solitude

Photography & Nature Tours: Post-monsoon (October–November)

Photographers will truly love the post-monsoon season. The forests, washed by the rain, look colourful while the skies are beautifully clear. This is a good time to shoot wildlife photography in Chidiya Tapu, sunrise photography in Kala Pathar, and landscape photography in Mount Harriet National Park. 

Recommended for: Nature walk, Drone shots, sunrise/sunset images

(Also read: Scuba Diving in Andaman)

Events and Vibrant Festivals of the Andaman Islands

Numerous cultural and tourism-related functions occur throughout the year in the Andamans, where visitors can experience the local atmosphere.

• Island Tourism Fair (January): A lively fair with food stalls, handicrafts, and entertainment held throughout Port Blair.
• Subhash Mela (January): Celebrates the visit of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose to the Andamans, with cultural programs and parades.
• Monsoon Festival (June to July): Celebrates rain and promotes eco-tourism, featuring exhibitions of local art from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
• Beach Carnivals: Informal gatherings featuring music and games are hosted on the beach at Radhanagar or Corbyn’s Cove.

When Not to Visit Andaman

The islands are stunning throughout the year, but post-summer, June to August, is indisputably the worst time to visit the Andaman if you are looking to experience activities and adventures. 

Because of monsoonal downpours, strong winds and rough seas may impact ferry operations, however, flights are usually unaffected. Not to mention water sports and inter-island movement across the Apollo. 

Furthermore, don’t be shocked if your flight(s) are delayed or rescheduled because of weather. Planning a trip with a group can be a true adventure when travelling between the islands, and you may consider getting cancellation insurance to cover if a change in weather occurs. Take into careful consideration about moving between different islands.

Tips for Planning Your Trip

You may find it useful to do a little planning for your trip to Andaman: 

• Reserve flights and ferries in advance: Especially in the peak time months of November-January, flights and ferries can be fully booked. Reserve excursions to secure some of the best prices. 
• Pack light tropical clothing: Important items you will want to have in your bags include a quick-drying cotton shirt and shorts, sunscreen (the higher SPF the better), both kinds of swimwear, and a pair of flip-flops/shoes. If you’re travelling in the shoulder months, bring a light rain jacket. 
• Stay Current and aware of weather reports: Something to note is that the seas can change quickly and affect your ferry schedule. 
• Always purchase travel insurance: This is more crucial than if you’re travelling during the monsoon months. 
• Always respect the rules of the environment: It is important never to toss trash or touch coral reefs.

(More insights: Andaman Travel Tips)

Conclusion

Choosing the ideal season to go to Andaman is the first step to fully enjoying the wonders of this beautiful destination. From October to May, you can have it all: slight seas, beautiful blue skies, and the best diving conditions. This is the time of year when the islands are at their best for beach lovers, families and adventure travellers alike.

Travellers who want price and crowds to be manageable might prefer the March to May period. The islands will be hot but enjoyable. You can find no better sense of quiet and budget in the June-September Monsoon period when the Andaman emerges greener and far more quiet, with a great sense of solitude and a look of charm and beauty (all of which cannot be escaped, bearing witness in this region).

No matter when you arrive, the pristine waters, friendly locals, and immense tranquillity are sure to captivate you. Start planning your ideal Andaman vacation now and truly experience why Andaman is one of the world’s best tropical travel destinations in the history of tourist travel in India.

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