Travel to a remote beach on Swaraj Island

India is one of the most popular destinations in the world and with good reason. The country has a rich history, beautiful scenery, and friendly people. Havelock Island officially known as Swaraj Island is the destination for those who want to explore India without the hassle of staying in one place too long or without having to worry about jet lag.

Why should you travel to Havelock Island?

The Andamans are a lesser-known Galapagos. You’ll find over 5,000 animal species in the Andamans, from endangered sperm whales to a tiny, red-crested bird known as the Andaman treepie. Easily reachable by private cruise or government ferry, the sun-soaked island is home to the amazingly photogenic Radhanagar Beach, lush mangrove forests that can be visited by boat. There’s no nightlife on this remote island. It’s the ideal place for digital detoxing from your social media, apps, and email – you can hardly find decent cellphone or internet coverage.

What activities you can enjoy on Havelock Island?

The most popular of the Andaman Islands is Swaraj Island when it comes to snorkelling and diving. Glass-bottomed boats provide a similar up-close marine life experience. Jungle treks and camping are popular landlubbing activities, though the more delicate can choose to retire to one of several luxury resorts. Refuel with fresh coconut milk.

Time to head inland to explore its untouched jungle landscapes in a kayak or trek with guided hikes that end with emerald-watered Kalapathar and Elephant Beach.

Where to stay in the region

1. Barefoot at Havelock

Choose from 31 unique options inspired by local tribal architecture. Guests can arrange walking tours of the hotel’s own kitchen garden and livestock farm, or choose from a number of outside excursions like jungle treks to Kalapathar or Elephant beaches, by foot or by bike, or kayaking through mangrove groves.

2. Havelock Island Beach Resort

This resort is beautiful, with its own private beach and two swimming pools. People can get picked up from the jetty next to the hotel. This place also has a bunch of excursions offered by the hotel that people can take part in.

3. Coral Reef Resort

One of the island’s most stunning, white-sand shorelines is at Kalapathar Beach. The resort offers a private beach within walking distance so guests can escape its luxuries in privacy. It has suites and cottages that are perfect for unwinding.

Transportation

To get to Swaraj, you have a few options. There is a helicopter that gets you there with limited capacity and a government ferry that operates three crossings a week. You can also take a private boat company like Makruzz, which takes 90 minutes.

When to visit?

The Andaman Islands have mild winters and hot summers, so they are an almost year-round destination. From October to February, you can enjoy temperatures from 30-35C (86-95F) – ideal for enjoying the idyllic beaches. Divers and snorkelers can’t go wrong planning a trip anytime from October to May when underwater visibility is at its clearest. You’ll want to avoid the July through September monsoon season.

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