Bring the joy of Dussehra alive with a joyful trip to the land of serene sea, sun and sand. Dusshera, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the important Hindu festivals that is celebrated across India with great enthusiasm and fanfare. Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana and Goddess Durga’s triumph over the buffalo demon Mahishasura is celebrated across India as the victory of good over evil. Celebrations take different forms and patterns but it is about joy of togetherness, new clothes, great food, cultural programmes, firecrackers, elated spirits and mingling with each other with complete abandon. This festival reflects the country’s rich cultural diversity.
Suggested Read: Top restaurants in Andaman and How to reach Andaman
The people of North India find joy and solace by burning large effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran in open grounds, accompanied by dramatic enactments of the Ramayana called Ramlila. In the East, especially in West Bengal, Assam, Orissa Dusshera marks the end of the grand Durga Puja festival. Beautifully crafted idols of the goddess are immersed in rivers and huge magnificent pandals are untied while waiting for next year. Southern states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu observe the festival with processions, traditional dances, and elaborate displays of dolls known as Bommai Golu. In Maharashtra and Gujarat, people exchange apta leaves symbolizing gold and participate in Garba and Dandiya dances. Dussehra is looked upon as an auspicious time to begin new ventures, buy property, or start educational journeys. Dusshera reminds us that virtue and righteousness will ultimately prevail. This sentiment resonates deeply with the devotees across the country, marking a unifying celebration of faith, heritage, and joy.
Why Visit Andamans During Dusshera?
Dusshera translates to holidays in most parts of the country. Schools and colleges remain closed and even offices have at least restricted holidays if not completely off. Thus it is the perfect time to plan a serene escape to the secluded lands of the Andaman Islands . Here you will have a unique blend of celebration and relaxation. While mainland India gets absorbed in bustling festival crowds, the Andamans remain a tranquil paradise. Thus Andaman during Dusshera is ideal for a soulful vacation if you seek peace amid nature. The weather in October is pleasant. The skies remain clear and seas remain calm. Underwater visibility improves manifold with the settling of the monsoon fury. The seas once more look refreshing and inviting and ideal for plunging in, swimming and indulging in various water sports like scuba diving, snorkelling, and kayaking. Exploring vibrant coral reefs in Havelock, now is the time. Book your underwater activities sessions with the registered service providers. Walk along the powdery white sandy shores of Radhanagar Beach. Stretch your trip to include visiting and basking in the glory of serene seclusion of islands such as Ross or Neil, Baratang, Long Island, Diglipur, Ross & Smith Islands, Guitar Island, etc. These islands are shrouded in pure natural beauty that is unspoilt and will bring freshness and add charm to your Dusshera trip to Andaman.
Dusshera in Andamans is special with its subtle cultural flavours. You might not find over enthusiastic festive furore in the islands, but the locals and inhabitants of these secluded islands do celebrate Dusshera in their own unique way following the traditions and customs of the age-old culture that is embedded in the settlements from the past. Here the travellers will find the atmosphere to be more relaxed, demonstrating local customs even without the noise of overwhelming crowds. Feel the joy of smaller yet meaningful festivities, like Ravana effigy burnings or low-scale traditional performances in Port Blair. Also, explore nature’s wonders that the islands are blessed with. For families, couples, friend’s groups and solo adventurers alike, the Andamans offer a perfect balance between festive spirit and beach fun. The regalia of the offbeat Dusshera celebration that combines tradition with tropical bliss will be your unique way to celebrate Dusshera with your family this year.
Weather and Climate in Andamans During Dussehra
Dussehra usually falls in the month of October and the weather in the Andaman Islands is quite pleasant. During this time. The daytime temperature hovers between 28 to 30 degrees Celsius which makes the waters warm enough to enjoy the water sports and activities blissfully. It is generally comfortable for sightseeing and boat rides where you don’t feel the extreme heat with the gentle sea breeze adding to the relief. The coasts are plentifully relaxing and pleasant.
The monsoon season gets over for good and the sea returns to its calmest best. The islands get a new monsoon garb and look fresh and green. The mild sun fills the days with warmth and joy. The evenings get cooler and more refreshing. Take advantage of the sunset hours and have a great time with evening beach strolls. Attend cultural events held as part of the Dussehra Celebrations. It is the perfect time to enjoy the natural beauty of the Andamans with fewer people around and perfect weather.
How Dussehra is Celebrated in Andamans
Dusshera is celebrated in Andaman in the same way as in the mainland but in a lower key minus the raging crowds and noisy commotion. The locals in the Andamans offer traditional prayers and take part in the symbolic burning of effigies of Ravana to celebrate Dusshera. The celebration symbolizes the victory of good over evil. They are carried out without much fanfare and pomp but all these rituals have deep cultural significance in the lives of the people. Low-key affairs by means of simple cultural programs happen in Port Blair and other areas. These events are a great way to have a feel of Dussehra celebrations. Here the locals are more prone to eco-friendly celebrations, and take part in sustainable ways to celebrate, including limiting firecrackers and promoting the use of natural materials for decorations.
Best Places to Visit in Andamans During Dussehra
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep):
Havelock Island has pristine beauty. It is undoubtedly the best and most popular haunt for all the travellers who come to visit Andamans. Havelock has some unique diving and snorkelling locations and has some of the world’s best beaches with legendary beauty such as the Radhanagar Beach. Havelock Island is a perfect blend of thick and gorgeous tropical forests, blue seas with crystal clear waters alive with marine life, cool white sandy beaches, fun-filled water activities and varied endemic species of beautiful birds.
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep):
Neil Island is a must visit for your Dusshera Andaman trip. It is blessed with unexplored coral reefs, a thorough blend of biodiversity and golden sunny beaches along with dense deep verdant tropical forests and thick vegetation. The moment you land on Neil Island, the first thing that will enchant your senses is the warm blue liquid colour of the surrounding seas. It ranges from a subtle dazzling blue to a deeper and darker shades of sea-green blue to sometimes azure blue and cyan. You gaze at the water to find it thriving with a million miniature coloured fishes and enchanting corals. It is one of the favourite tourist destinations of Andamans and offers a memorable time spent in its heart.
Port Blair:
Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a scintillating potpourri of an amalgamation of history, legends, culture, natural beauty, enigma, seclusion, gorgeous beaches and thrilling activities. There is so much to enjoy and carry forth when you are on a vacation to Port Blair. The trip to Andaman and Nicobar begins at Port Blair since the connection point of the Andaman group of islands with the outer world is through the international Veer Savarkar Airport that is located in Port Blair. Port Blair offers a variety of attractions and activities and is an ideal vacation destination for all ages and for all types of visitor and tourists.
Baratang Island:
Baratang is known as a thrilling and sensational destination that is about 100 kilometres away from Port Blair. Baratang is a very popular tourist haunt for the excited travellers who venture out into the distant archipelago. Baratang Island has an idyllic charm rocking the world with its picturesque beaches contrasted with mangrove creeks and gifted with the unique nature’s marvel in the form of limestone caves and mud volcanoes. The surreal limestone caves along with the mud volcanoes form unique attractions for the tourists and the sites can be visited after obtaining permission from the local authorities. The Forest Department and the local guides extend help in conducting guided tours for the travellers.
Accommodation and Special Dussehra Offers
Look out for the budget-friendly and discounted offers that many hotels and resorts offer as special Dussehra packages. This will help on cutting down your trip costs significantly. The hotels offer discounts on rooms, customize festive dinners to suit your preferences, and arrange special cultural performances to bring the festive mood on. Spend Dussehra in Andamans at a beachside resort to have a serene festive flavour away from the crowds and noise. For more intimate and private experiences with your partner or family, choose the resorts that offer private cottages and villas, providing travellers with peaceful, solitary moments to enjoy the festival. Andamantourism.org will make customised packages for you and your family where you can enjoy a peaceful Dussehra vacation without disturbance of daily life.
Find out a fair deal where there is a blend of good food and relaxing stay and all attractive water sports included. Contact your travel partner for hotels and resorts that offer special Dussehra cuisine fests, featuring a mouth-watering combination of local and traditional Andaman dishes made with the freshest of ingredients and also the exotic continental and international dishes along with the popular Indian dishes. Combine the job of adventure activities like snorkelling, scuba diving and island hopping with your nature exploration. Look out for combo packages that add the thrill of Andaman’s underwater world activities with the joy of festive celebrations and relaxing soulful serene stay.
Dusshera Flight Availability
In general, during Dusshera, flight availability to a popular destination such as Port Blair for a Dusshera Andaman vacation becomes limited because of the increased tourist movement as festive travellers. Airlines typically see a higher demand during this Dusshera season as offices, schools and colleges have festive holidays. Due to a high demand, tickets sell out quickly, and you may not get tickets even a week before the festival. The fares also increase due to festive rush and you end up paying more than usual for the same trip. This advance booking is recommended at least 3 to 4 weeks before Dusshera to get the best of rates and confirm your seats without waiting for a last-minute uncertainty. Less popular timings will have even more discounts if you book early. October marks the start of tourist season in the Andamans, and Port Blair flights get booked at rapid rates. So the bottom line is if you are planning to travel during Dusshera, it’s best to book as early as possible to avoid last-minute price increase or ticket scarcity.
Dussehra Travel Tips
Plan your trip and book early. Dussehra falls at the beginning of the peak tourist season in the month of October making flights and hotels in Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil Island get booked fast and furiously. A sense of false scarcity builds up. Ticket prices thereby soar. Reserve tickets at least a month in advance for better prices and availability.
Pack light for the Andaman trip during Dusshera but pack smart. Keep in mind that the weather remains pleasant during this time with moderate humidity and occasional showers. So the best suitable items to be carried are cotton clothes, swimwear, hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, and maybe a light rain gear. Don’t forget waterproof cases for gadgets if you plan water activities.
Ferry and cruise reservations for inter-island ferries connecting Port Blair, Havelock and Neil are in high demand during holidays. Pre-book either government or private ferries online to avoid last-minute issues.
Enjoy seasonal activities during your Dusshera trip in October as this time is ideal for scuba diving, snorkelling, and sea walks since the water is clear. It is recommended that you book your adventure activities in advance, especially PADI scuba courses, as slots fill up quickly.
Combine festivity and relaxation while on your Andaman trip. Andaman celebrations are comparatively much quieter than on the mainland. You might still love to catch up with cultural programs or small Dussehra events in Port Blair. Enjoy the festive vibe while soaking in serene beaches and nature.
Connectivity and cash are two important aspects when it comes to the Andaman tour. Mobile connectivity can be patchy outside Port Blair. Carry sufficient cash as card payments may not always work on remote islands and ATMs might not be that abundant.
Activities to Enjoy in Andamans During Dussehra
Scuba Diving in Andaman
Scuba Diving in the chosen islands of Andamans under the able guidance of expert divers offers a mesmerizing experience. The deep blue sea looks lighter and brighter with the filtering sunrays. Corals flourish till the depth sunlight can reach underwater. The vast conglomeration of coloured fishes, big and small, needle like and disc like, the little families of clown fish shyly peeping out of the sea anemones all together create an enchanting fairy world of its own.
Snorkelling in Andaman
Snorkelling is exciting when you swim on the surface of water with the help of a face mask and a breathing tube called snorkel. If the water is pleasant and not too cold you don’t even have to wear a swimsuit. Snorkelling with the swim fins on makes you feel like a fish skimming across the water body. The breathing tube allows you to dip your head inside the water and the mask allows you to see and enjoy the beautiful water kingdom that lies hidden under the surface of the liquid blue waters. The whole enjoyment lies in the feeling of swimming merrily slightly underwater. And in places like Andamans where the waters are known for its beautiful and legendary coral reefs, you enjoy it all the more.
Kayaking Through Mangroves
Kayaking in the Andaman Islands is one of the most thrilling and scenic water-based activities you can experience. It offers a peaceful and close-up view of the region’s stunning coastal ecosystems, especially the dense mangrove forests and crystal-clear waters. Andaman offers a diverse landscape and water bodies to fill your senses with the perfect moist beauty. Kayaking will give rise to a unique and intimate connection with nature, allowing you to glide silently across serene waters while you remain awed by the breathtaking landscapes. Whether you are paddling through crystal-clear lagoons, navigating winding mangroves or exploring remote coastlines, the experience is both peaceful and exhilarating. The rhythm of the paddle, the gentle splash of water and the beauty of wildlife create a sense of harmony and tranquillity. Kayaking allows you to access hidden spots and secluded beaches that are unreachable by larger boats, making it a perfect way to enjoy the natural beauty of your surroundings combined with a sense of adventure and freedom.
Trekking and Nature Walks
The treks up the various trekking trails are not that difficult. And everywhere such as Mount Harriet or Baratang the trek up and down to enjoy the awesome views or destinations are always worth it. It is recommended that you go prepared with good trekking shoes, comfortable clothes, water bottles, face towel based on the weather conditions, camera – as there would be infinite picturesque spots along the trail and you might not want to miss the moments. After every few meters, you can stop to hold your breath and create memories via captures. Listen to the birds chirping and singing, whispering breeze, feel the sea salt and adore an occasional wild flower bush or singing thrush. Joyfully tread along the lesser roads to find the real thrill of nature at its wildest in Andaman.
Glass Bottom Boat Ride
If you are scared of entering the deep deep blue magnificent oceans, don’t worry. You can still enjoy the beauty of the marine creatures and colourful underwater life of Andaman seas by taking a joyful ride in a glass-bottom boat. Take the spirited journey into the seas in a glass bottom boat ride that is comfortable and yet allows you to enjoy the vibrant sea creatures of the Andamans. These boats give you a vivid glimpse of the spectacular coral reefs, massive fleets of marine fish, and other sea marine life. You can enjoy with your entire family together in a safe and secure environment by taking part in this family-friendly sea tour of glass-bottom boat ride.
Jet Skiing and Parasailing
Jet Skiing and Parasailing in Andaman make for an intensely thrill-seeking, water sports along with other popular rides such as Banana Boat Rides. Popular spots like Havelock and Neil Island have a water sports centre where you can enjoy these activities in a safe and exciting environment. It is a great way to sprinkle some adventure to your Dussehra celebration.
Sea Walking
For those who want to explore the underwater world without the complexities of Scuba Diving, Sea Walking is the popular alternative. Available at places like North Bay Island and Elephant Beach. Sea Walking allows you to walk on the ocean floor while wearing a special helmet, giving you a close-up view of colourful coral and marine life.
Sample Dussehra Itinerary for Andamans
Let’s look at a 5-day sample Dussehra itinerary for the Andamans to have a reference point on where to start and what to include in a short trip of five days.
Day 1 – Port Blair Arrival and Local Exploration
Land at Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair and check into your hotel and freshen up. Later visit the historic Cellular Jail and experience its moving Light & Sound Show in the evening, which unfolds the untold tales of India’s freedom struggle. Visit Corbyn’s Cove Beach for a relaxed sunset view, stroll, snack at the lively beach shacks and enjoy the ocean beauty.
Day 2 – Havelock Island and Radhanagar Beach
Catch a morning ferry to travel to Havelock Island. After check-in, head to the world-famous Radhanagar Beach, widely popular for its white sands and turquoise waters. Spend the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the calm Dussehra vibe by the sea.
Day 3 – Water Adventures at Elephant Beach
Reach Elephant Beach in Havelock to enjoy the famed water sports of Andaman. Collect adventure out into the seas with prolific snorkelling, glass-bottom boat rides, banana boat ride and other water sports. Explore the vibrant coral reefs and colourful marine life. Return to Havelock to enjoy an evening of leisure by the serene beach cafés. You can even look out for cultural programmes happening locally or arranged for the guests by the hotel or resorts.
Day 4 – Neil Island and Natural Wonders
Travel to Neil Island by ferry and be ready to get stunned by its variegated beach beauty. Visit Bharatpur Beach for water sports, Laxmanpur Beach for stunning sunsets, and the iconic Natural Bridge. Relish fresh seafood and soak in the laid-back island charm before heading back to Port Blair by evening ferry.
Day 5 – Ross Island and Departure
Take a half-day trip to Ross Island, the once-upon-a-time administrative headquarters of the British. Explore its ruins, Japanese bunkers, wandering peacocks and deer park. Return to Port Blair, shop for souvenirs at local markets, and depart with unforgettable memories of a Dusshera trip to Andaman.
Inclusions
- Airport transfers to and from Hotel/Resort
- Ferry tickets to Havelock and Neil Islands
- Accommodation at hotels/resorts of your choice and budget
- Guided tours to Chidiatapu, Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, Neil Island, and Port Blair
- Water sports and chosen activities
- Private AC Cabs for local sightseeing
- Entry fees to all tourist attractions in the Andamans
- Breakfast included or 2-meal or 3-meal plans as per choice
Exclusions
- Airfare
- Meals that are not specified in the itinerary
- Personal expenses of any kind such as shopping
- Optional tours or activities that are not mentioned in the package
Celebrate Dussehra in the Andamans for a festivity of a different kind. Choose your perfect getaway plan this Dusshera. Relax on a beach, watch lively marine life, or participate in local Dussehra traditions and cultural programmes; the Andamans provide the perfect setting for a memorable holiday.
FAQs
Here are 10 FAQs for a Dussehra trip to the Andamans:
- Is Dussehra a good time to visit the Andamans?
Yes, Dusshera falls in October and this month marks the start of the tourist season with pleasant weather, calmer seas, and clearer skies. This time is perfect for all kinds of sightseeing and water sports. - Are there Dussehra celebrations in the Andamans?
Dusshera celebrations in Andaman are small but they do happen. Such cultural and traditional festivities are mainly to be seen in Port Blair, with cultural programs, effigy burnings of Ravana to symbolise the victory of evil over good, and festive gatherings. - Do I need to book flights and hotels for the Dusshera Andaman trip in advance?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Dussehra is a holiday period with schools, colleges and even offices being closed in various parts of India. So book at least 3 to 4 weeks ahead to get the best prices and availability. - Which islands should I include in my Dussehra trip?
The must-visit destinations in your Dusshera Holiday to Andaman will include Port Blair with Cellular Jail and Corbyn’s Cove beach, Havelock with Radhanagar and Elephant Beach, and Neil Island with Laxmanpur, Bharatpur Beach, Kalapatthar and Sitapur Beaches. - Is it safe to travel with family during this time?
Yes, the Andamans are considered safe any time of the year apart from the monsoons. October is indeed weather friendly and favourable for family trips. - What kind of clothes should I pack?
You should pack light keeping in mind the tropical heat and humidity. Light cotton clothes, swimwear, comfortable sandals, a hat, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket are some must-include items for Andaman trip during Dusshera. - Are water sports available in October?
Andaman is famous for its coral reefs and the vibrant marine creatures to be viewed. So, yes, scuba diving, snorkelling, sea walks, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat rides are all open and very much in demand during this time as the waters remain calm and visibility is good. - Do I need any special permits to visit the islands?
If you are an Indian nationals, you don’t need special permits for most tourist islands. Foreigners require a Restricted Area Permit, usually issued on arrival at the Veer Savarkar Airport in Port Blair. - How do I travel between the various beautiful Andaman islands?
You can book government ferries or private ferries, catamarans, or cruises to get transported from one island to another. But it is recommended that you book tickets early during this festive Dusshera season. - Will shops and restaurants be open during Dussehra?
Yes, most tourist facilities remain open and will function with full glory during this time as the tourist season begins in Andaman in October. Some small local shops may close for festivities.
