Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Top Attractions
10 Days in Neil Island for a Slow-Paced Island Getaway
Neil Island is the kind of place where time slows down. With its pristine beaches, lush greenery, and friendly locals, it's perfect for those who want to unwind without a packed schedule. I've spent weeks here just watching the sunsets, cycling through coconut groves, and eating fresh seafood by the shore. This itinerary lets you soak in the island's charm at your own pace.
Trip Highlights
Best Time to Visit
Share Your Adventure
Spread the word about this amazing trip!
Day 1
Day 1 in Neil Island
Start your Neil Island getaway with its most famous beaches and a taste of island life. Today is all about sun, sand, and seafood.
Activities
Bharatpur Beach Relaxation
Kick off your trip at Bharatpur Beach, Neil Island's most popular stretch of sand. The shallow turquoise waters are perfect for a lazy swim, and the coral reefs near the shore make for great snorkeling. Rent a beach umbrella, sip on fresh coconut water, and watch local fishermen bring in their catch.
- Bring water shoes - the coral near shore can be sharp
- Bargain for snorkeling gear - prices are flexible
Laxmanpur Beach Sunset
Head to Laxmanpur Beach II (not to be confused with Laxmanpur I) for what many call the best sunset spot in the Andamans. The long stretch of white sand turns golden as the sun dips below the horizon. Walk out to the natural coral bridge at low tide - it's like your own private pathway into the sea.
- Check tide timings - the coral bridge is only visible at low tide
- Stay for the 'blue hour' after sunset when the sky turns magical colors
Must Try Foods
Transportation
No destinations found for this itinerary
Day 2
Day 2 in Neil Island
A mix of natural beauty and local life, with visits to serene beaches and a peek into island culture.
Activities
Morning at Sitapur Beach
Start your day with the calm and untouched beauty of Sitapur Beach, known for its soft white sand and gentle waves. It's less crowded, making it perfect for a quiet morning stroll or just sitting by the shore with a book. The sunrise here is magical, painting the sky in soft hues.
- Carry a light snack and water as there aren’t many shops nearby.
- Wear comfortable sandals—the walk from the parking area is short but sandy.
Explore Natural Bridge at Laxmanpur Beach 2
Head to the less-visited section of Laxmanpur Beach (often called Laxmanpur Beach 2) to see the stunning Natural Bridge, a coral formation shaped by the sea over time. The clear waters and rocky outcrops make it a great spot for photos and a bit of tidepool exploration.
- Visit during low tide for the best view of the bridge.
- The rocks can be slippery, so watch your step.
Local Market and Lunch at Neil Kendra
Spend the afternoon at Neil Kendra, the island’s main village hub. Browse small shops selling handmade shell jewelry and souvenirs, then grab lunch at a local eatery. Try the catch of the day, usually grilled or fried with simple spices, served with rice and dal.
- Bargain gently at the market—prices are usually fair but flexible.
- Ask for 'toddy' (local palm wine) if you’re curious about island drinks.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Day 3 in Neil Island
A slower-paced day diving into hidden gems and local culture, with a mix of quiet beaches and village life.
Activities
Morning at Ramnagar Beach
Head to Ramnagar Beach, a lesser-known spot with soft white sand and shallow waters perfect for a peaceful swim. The lack of crowds makes it ideal for some quiet time with a book or just listening to the waves. You might spot local fishermen bringing in their catch early in the morning.
- Carry snacks and water—there are no shops nearby
- Wear reef shoes as the seabed can be rocky in patches
Cycle through Neil Kendra Village
Rent a bicycle and explore the heart of Neil Island—Neil Kendra village. Pedal past betel nut plantations, small homesteads, and friendly locals going about their day. Stop by the village temple or chat with fishermen mending their nets. It’s a great way to see everyday island life beyond the beaches.
- Bargain politely for cycle rentals
- Greet locals with a smile—they’re often happy to share stories
Sunset at Howrah Bridge (not the famous one!)
Skip the crowded Natural Bridge and visit the smaller, equally stunning Howrah Bridge rock formation near Bharatpur Beach. Time your visit for low tide when you can walk closer to the formation. The golden light before sunset makes the coral rocks glow, and you’ll likely have the place to yourself.
- Wear sturdy sandals—the rocks can be slippery
- Carry a torch if staying past sunset
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 4
Day 4 in Neil Island
A slower day to soak in the island’s hidden gems and local flavors, with a mix of quiet beaches and village life.
Activities
Morning at Kachhal Beach
One of Neil Island’s lesser-known beaches, Kachhal is perfect for a peaceful morning. The shallow waters and soft sand make it ideal for a lazy swim or just lounging with a book. You might spot locals collecting shells or fishing in the distance.
- Carry water and snacks—there are no stalls here
- Wear sturdy sandals—the path to the beach is a bit rocky
Village Walk and Coconut Grove Visit
Take a stroll through the quieter parts of Neil Kendra village, where time feels slower. Stop by a coconut grove to see how locals harvest coconuts—you might even get to try fresh coconut water straight from the tree. The groves are shaded and breezy, a nice break from the beach heat.
- Ask permission before entering groves—locals are friendly but appreciate courtesy
- Wear light, breathable clothing
Lunch at a Local Home Kitchen
Skip the restaurants and head to a small home kitchen for an authentic Andaman meal. Many families offer simple, hearty lunches—think fish curry, rice, and local greens—served on banana leaves. It’s a great way to taste real island flavors and chat with locals.
- Carry cash—most home kitchens don’t accept cards
- Try the 'tamarind fish' if available—it’s a local favorite
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 5
Day 5 in Neil Island
A mix of relaxation and local culture, with a focus on lesser-known spots and a taste of island life.
Activities
Morning at Neil Island Jetty
Start your day at the Neil Island Jetty, a quiet spot where you can watch fishing boats come and go. It's a great place to see the local rhythm of life and maybe even spot some dolphins if you're lucky. The calm waters and gentle breeze make it perfect for a peaceful morning stroll.
- Bring a camera for the scenic views
- Chat with local fishermen for interesting stories
Visit to the Neil Island Fish Market
Head to the small but lively fish market near the jetty. It's a great place to see the day's fresh catch and get a sense of the island's seafood culture. You can even pick up some fish to have cooked at a nearby eatery if you're feeling adventurous.
- Go early for the freshest catch
- Try bargaining if you're buying
Lunch at a Beachside Shacks
For lunch, head to one of the low-key beachside shacks that dot the island. These places serve up fresh seafood, often caught that morning, cooked with simple local spices. It's a no-frills experience but the flavors are unforgettable. Try the grilled lobster or fish curry with steamed rice.
- Ask for the day's special
- Bring cash as many shacks don't accept cards
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 6
Day 6 in Neil Island
A day to slow down and soak in the island's serene vibes, with a mix of quiet beach time and a peek into local life.
Activities
Sunrise at Bharatpur Beach (Different Experience)
While you've already relaxed at Bharatpur Beach, experiencing it at sunrise is a whole different vibe. The soft morning light, the calm waters, and the absence of crowds make it magical. Bring a book or just sit and watch the fishermen prepare their boats for the day.
- Carry a light shawl—mornings can be breezy
- Check sunrise time the night before
Breakfast at a Local Tea Stall
Skip the usual cafes and head to a small tea stall near the jetty area. Sip on strong, milky chai paired with crispy parathas or fluffy idlis. It's where the island's workers and fishermen gather, giving you a slice of local life.
- Try the 'bun maska' (buttered bun) if available
- Cash only—these stalls rarely accept digital payments
Explore the Secret Coral Cove
Ask a local fisherman to take you to a small, unnamed cove near Laxmanpur Beach—it's rarely visited by tourists. At low tide, you can spot vibrant coral formations and tiny marine life in the shallow pools. It's a quiet, almost private beach experience.
- Wear sturdy sandals—the rocks can be slippery
- Carry a snorkel if you have one (though the water is shallow)
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 7
Day 7 in Neil Island
A laid-back day exploring lesser-known spots and enjoying the island's slow pace, with a mix of nature and local culture.
Activities
Morning at Neil Island's Hidden Lagoon
Start your day at a secluded lagoon near Bharatpur Beach, a spot most tourists miss. The shallow, crystal-clear waters are perfect for a quiet swim or just soaking in the serenity. Bring a book and relax under the shade of palm trees—it’s like having your own private slice of paradise.
- Wear water shoes as the lagoon floor can be rocky
- Carry snacks and water—there are no vendors here
Lunch at a Local’s Favorite Seafood Spot
Head to a small, family-run eatery near Neil Kendra, where the catch of the day is grilled or fried to perfection. The place doesn’t have a fancy name or signboard, but the locals know it for the freshest seafood. Try the butter garlic lobster or the spicy fish curry with steamed rice.
- Ask for the day’s special—it’s usually the best choice
- Cash only—no card payments accepted here
Sunset at a Quiet Coconut Grove
Skip the crowded beaches and end your day at a peaceful coconut grove near Sitapur Beach. The golden light filtering through the palms makes for a magical setting. Bring a hammock or just sit on the grass and watch the sky change colors. It’s a great spot for some quiet reflection or a lazy nap.
- Carry mosquito repellent—it’s a must here
- Pack a light snack and enjoy a picnic-style sunset
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 8
Day 8 in Neil Island
A laid-back day exploring lesser-known spots and enjoying the island's natural beauty at a leisurely pace.
Activities
Morning at the Neil Island Mangrove Walk
Start your day with a peaceful walk through the mangroves near Bharatpur Beach. This hidden trail offers a serene escape, with the chance to spot small crabs, birds, and even the occasional monitor lizard. The quiet rustling of the mangroves and the gentle lapping of water make it a perfect spot for some quiet reflection.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the trail can be a bit muddy.
- Bring binoculars if you’re into birdwatching.
Visit to the Neil Island Turtle Nesting Site
Head to the quiet stretch of beach near Sitapur where local conservationists monitor turtle nesting sites. If you’re lucky, you might spot hatchlings making their way to the sea. Even if you don’t, the beach is pristine and far less crowded, perfect for a relaxed stroll.
- Respect the nesting areas and avoid disturbing the sand.
- Carry water as there are no shops nearby.
Sunset at the Secret Coral Point
End your day at a secluded spot known only to a few locals, where the coral formations create a stunning backdrop for the sunset. The water here is shallow and clear, making it ideal for a quick dip or just sitting on the rocks and watching the colors change.
- Wear sturdy sandals as the coral can be sharp.
- Bring a small picnic—it’s a great spot for it.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 9
Day 9 in Neil Island
A laid-back day exploring lesser-known spots and indulging in local flavors, perfect for winding down your island stay.
Activities
Morning at the Neil Island Banana Plantation
Start your day with a peaceful walk through a local banana plantation. The lush greenery and the sweet smell of ripe bananas make this a refreshing experience. Chat with the farmers to learn about their cultivation techniques and maybe even sample some fresh bananas straight from the tree.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the ground can be uneven
- Carry a small bag if you plan to buy fresh bananas
Lunch at a Local Betel Leaf Stall
Try a unique Andamanese tradition—betel leaf wraps (paan) with local fillings like coconut, fennel, and sweet spices. It's a light, refreshing snack that locals love after meals. Pair it with a cup of spiced chai from a nearby stall for an authentic taste of island life.
- Ask the vendor for a 'sweet' or 'minty' version based on your preference
- Not for everyone, but worth trying once for the experience
Sunset at the Neil Island Fishing Pier
Head to the quieter side of the island where local fishermen dock their boats. The pier offers unobstructed views of the sunset, and you can watch the day’s catch being unloaded. It’s a great spot for photography or just soaking in the serene atmosphere.
- Carry a light jacket as it can get breezy
- Respect the fishermen’s space and avoid interrupting their work
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 10
Day 10 in Neil Island
A leisurely final day soaking in the island's charm with a mix of relaxation and local flavors.
Activities
Morning at the Neil Island Paddy Fields
Start your day with a peaceful walk through the lush green paddy fields, a lesser-known but beautiful part of the island. The early morning light makes the scenery even more magical, and you might spot locals working in the fields. It's a great way to see the agricultural side of Neil Island.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the paths can be muddy.
- Carry water and a hat as it can get warm quickly.
Breakfast at a Local Coconut Seller
Head to a small roadside coconut seller for a fresh coconut water and some local snacks. These spots are often run by friendly locals who might share stories about the island. Try the 'nariyal paani' (coconut water) and 'chana chor garam' (spicy roasted chickpeas) for a simple yet satisfying breakfast.
- Ask the seller to cut the coconut open after drinking the water—you can eat the soft flesh inside.
- Carry small change as these sellers might not have change for large notes.
Final Sunset at the Neil Island Jetty
End your trip with a quiet sunset at the Neil Island Jetty. Unlike the crowded beaches, the jetty offers a serene spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon. The sound of the waves and the view of fishing boats returning home make it a perfect farewell to the island.
- Bring a light jacket as it can get breezy.
- Stay a little longer to see the jetty lights come on—it’s quite picturesque.