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Havelock Island, officially renamed Swaraj Dweep, is the most popular tourist destination in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Located about 41 km northeast of Port Blair, the island is famous for its pristine beaches, rich coral reefs, and adventure activities.
Name Change : Formerly known as Havelock Island, it was renamed Swaraj Dweep in 2018 to honor Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
World-famous Beach : Radhanagar Beach is consistently ranked among the Top 10 Beaches in Asia by TripAdvisor.
Diving Paradise : Home to Asia’s best scuba diving sites, including Elephant Beach, Nemo Reef, and The Wall.
Eco-tourism Model : Only limited development is allowed; much of the island is still covered in dense tropical forests.
Coral Reef Hotspot : Rich coral diversity and crystal-clear waters make it one of the best snorkeling destinations in India.No Nightlife,
Pure Nature : Unlike many beach destinations, Swaraj Dweep is calm and serene with stargazing opportunities.
Accessible by Cruise & Ferry : The island is well-connected from Port Blair by government ferries and luxury cruises.
Radhanagar Beach, located on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) in the South Andaman district, is one of the most famous beaches in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Awarded as the Best Beach in Asia by TIME Magazine (2004), it is celebrated for its powdery white sands, turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets.
How to Reach Radhanagar Beach
Transportation Options
- By ferry from Port Blair to Havelock Island (1.5 to 2.5 hours), then by road to the beach.
- By ferry from Neil Island (approx. 1 hour).
Interactive Map
Radhanagar Beach
https://maps.app.goo.gl/vHd9kXbJ3CrLLAWSA
Beach Activities
Located on Swaraj Dweep, it is one of the most famous beaches in Asia, often listed among the top 10 beaches in the world. It’s known for its white sand, turquoise blue waters, and lush green surroundings. It is a prime attraction for tourists visiting the Scuba diving & snorkeling spots are available nearby (not directly on the beach).
Sunset viewing and beach photography.
Leisure beach walks on the long shoreline.
Picnicking under shaded forest areas.
Beach Highlights
White Sand & Crystal Waters – Perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Stunning Sunsets – One of the best sunset points in the Andamans.
Surrounded by Forests – A natural setting with lush greenery.
Calm & Wide Stretch – Ideal for long beach walks and photography.
Do’s ✅
- Find out about safe swimming/diving areas from Tourist Info Center, Local Tour Operators or Forest Dept. Staff. Avoid Protected Areas.
- Look for safety sign boards to identify potential dangers.
- Ask a lifeguard about swimming conditions like currents, tides, visibility, and presence of marine creatures.
- Swim with a friend; supervise children; avoid swimming in the dark.
- Raise your hand for help if in trouble, stay calm and signal for assistance.
Don’t ❌
- Do not dangle arms or legs from boats.
- Avoid swimming under influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Remove shiny jewellery or bright colored clothes to avoid attracting predatory fishes.
- Avoid swimming with open wounds.
- Do not swim or dive among schools of fish; avoid night swimming/diving.
Look out for Harmful Marine Animals ⚠️
- Jelly Fishes: Sting may cause pain and giddiness. Apply vinegar or ice pack if stung. Don’t rub.
- Sharks: Present in open sea & coral reefs. Avoid swimming alone or with open wounds.
- Sea Snakes: Poisonous; recognized by paddle-like tail. Stay away from them.
- Stone Fish: Venomous dorsal spines. Wear sturdy sandals, avoid stepping on corals or rocks.
- Salt Water Crocodiles: Found in creeks, mangroves, and sheltered waters. Get ashore if spotted and alert authorities.
