Port Blair is the capital city of the Andaman Islands. Port Blair can be visited all through the year. But the months from October to March are more crowded as the weather is ideal for sightseeing and water sports without being too sunny. But the beaches in and around Port Blair ad also the beautiful islands scattered all across give an excellent opportunity to have a splendid beach vacation.
Suggested Read: Kayaking in Andaman and How to reach Andaman
Port Blair houses the Veer Savarkar Airport and offers a mix of historical sites like the Cellular Jail and Ross Island located close by. The beautiful beach such as the Corbyn’s Cove is a haven of peace and serenity. Don’t miss the light and sound show at Cellular Jail for a dose of history. Enjoy the pleasant weather all through the year in Port Blair, nestled amidst the inordinate and expansive beauty of the group of islands called Andaman and Nicobar.
Port Blair can be especially enjoyed during the months from October to March. The best of the seas and the water activities can be enjoyed during the mild winters of abundant sunshine. The sheer delight of watching the ocean waters kissing the white sparkling sandy shores give a chance to indulge in all kinds of relaxing water activities. Be it a cosy swim in the warm waters or an adrenalin pumping scuba diving, these activities create memories worth cherishing for a lifetime. And if a trip to Port Blair in the winter months is your plan, then do make it happen because the glory of Andaman is best reflected under the winter skies.
In the winter month of December and January, the Andaman and Nicobar islands enjoy a mild temperature hovering between 15- 22 degree Celsius, which is perfect for a cosy holiday. The month of January is alluring and falls within the peak tourist season. Get a glimpse of Port Blair in winters to make the trip of a lifetime amidst the land in the midst of blue oceans!
You can also check our Andaman Tour Packages.
Port Blair in January
Experience the local culture of Andaman through its festivals held in January. In the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, January is a time for various local celebrations and festivals and all travellers and tourist will feel the joyous vibe of festivities all across the island.
- The first and foremost celebration that is rampant is the New Year’s Eve. Like all other places around the world, New Year’s Eve is celebrated in the islands with parties, music and fireworks. The hotels and resorts go to the extra length of ornamental and lighted bright festive décor and arrange various musical and dance nights with special menu getting served to the delight of the visitors.
- The birthday of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti is celebrated on January 23rd. This day, as the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, is a prominent Indian national festival honouring a well-known freedom fighter. The day is observed with patriotic zeal, through flag hoisting and various cultural events.
- The Andaman and Nicobar Administration also organizes the Island Tourism Festival in January. This festival features cultural programs, food festivals, sports events, and more, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the islands. Throughout the month of January, various local fairs and markets can be seen where you eat and shop to your heart’s content and experience local food, crafts and cultural performances.
- The islands have a mix of religions and communities and so they get vibrant and colourful through the many religious festivals and celebrations happening all around. The various Hindu, Christian and Muslim festivals, such as, Pongal, a Tamil harvest festival, Makar Sankranti and the Feast of St. Francis Xavier are celebrated in January.
- Even thrilling water sports competitions and events are held in January. Thus watch and have a great time enjoying activities like scuba diving, snorkelling and other water-based sports. Get a taste of the rich tradition of local music and dance by witnessing the local performances during your visit.
Port Blair in January is a popular time to visit because the weather is generally pleasant, making it an ideal time for exploring the beautiful Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The weather in January is considered one of the best months to visit Port Blair due to its being pleasant and mild. The average daytime temperature ranges from 23°C to 30°C. It’s neither too hot nor too cold, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. There is minimal rainfall in January, and it can be called a dry season in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. There is very little or no rainfall. This makes it an excellent time for outdoor adventures and water activities. The skies remain clear in January, making it a great time for sunbathing, water sports and enjoying the natural beauty of the islands. It’s an excellent time for photography and enjoying gorgeous sunsets. January falls under the peak tourist season in Port Blair and sees a large number of tourists from all across the globe. Accommodations, flights, and popular tourist attractions may be crowded, so it is recommended to book in advance to secure accommodations and tours. The beginning of the New Year is celebrated with huge furore and gusto in Andaman and Nicobar in January. January is immensely suitable for island hopping and you can take a complete advantage of the weather.
Suggested Read : Things to do in Port Blair
Port Blair in February
Port Blair in February continues to be a very pleasant time to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The weather starts getting better in winter and just like January, the following month of February also has pleasant weather with plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoors. The weather is more or less similar to January with mild and pleasant temperatures. The average daytime temperature ranges from 23°C to 30°C, making it suitable for outdoor activities and island exploration. February falls in the stretch of dry season in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and there is very little rainfall. This dry weather makes outdoor adventures possible. The skies remain clear in February and offers an unobstructed view of the beautiful landscapes and seas and oceans. It’s a great time for sunbathing, water sports, bird watching and enjoying the stunning natural beauty all around. Calm seas and good underwater visibility make February an ideal time for snorkelling, scuba diving, and other water sports. Exploring the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life that the islands is an important part of February visit. February is part of the peak tourist season in Port Blair and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and these are the days of crunch in accommodations, flights and crowded popular tourist attractions. It’s advisable to book your accommodations and tours in advance. The light and sound show at Cellular Jail and Ross Island are particularly enjoyable in the pleasant evening weather. Also, island hopping to places like Havelock Island, Neil Island etc., each offering unique experiences. February is a great time for birdwatching on islands like Chidiya Tapu where you can see so many species of migratory birds that visit the region during this season.
Port Blair in March
With the month of March begins the transition from the dry season to the pre-monsoon period in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. March in Port Blair sees a gentle and gradual increase in temperatures. The average daytime temperature ranges from 24°C to 33°C which is considerably warmer than the previous months of January and February but still it remains comfortable for outdoor activities. March is a transitional period from the dry season to the pre-monsoon season and so it might start to get occasional brief showers towards the end of the month. The first signs of the approaching monsoon become noticeable, but the majority of the month is generally rain-free. Water activities, such as snorkelling and scuba diving, are very much possible in March. Island hopping continues to be the primary attraction of Andaman and Nicobar Island trip. Explore the beautiful islands in the Andaman archipelago in March. Havelock Island, Neil Island, and other nearby islands are popular destinations for tourists. March is the time for birdwatching of migratory birds. Chidiya Tapu is a good location for birdwatching. March falls under the peak tourist season, so accommodations and tourist attractions are generally crowded. Booking accommodations and activities in advance is recommended. The beaches around Port Blair, including Corbyn’s Cove Beach are extremely enjoyable in March.
Port Blair in April
A visit to Port Blair in April is super fun. The temperature would be in the range of mid to high thirties and the minimum would be in the range of high twenties, 26°C to 34°C. With bright and sunny days, Port Blair is pleasant and ideal for a vacation. As it is a destination by sea surrounded by verdant greenery of tropical forests, the heat is never acute but there might be a certain level of humidity. An Andaman trip is a paradise for travel freaks and April is the month to plunge into the ocean and swim with the beautiful fishes as you scuba dive. Snorkel and observe the marine life and trek for miles till you are satisfied with taking enough of blue seas and skies and green forests. Port Blair, Andaman Islands, Havelock island, Car Nicobar, Neil Island, Great Nicobar Island, Diglipur, Little Andaman, Barren island are all extremely inviting to tourists and visitors during this time. People are often reluctant or have mixed feelings about visiting the islands during April, but this is an ideal time to plan a long relaxing vacation as the islands are calm, pleasant and less crowded during this time and you can have seclusion and peace during this month. The weather is never too hot as other parts of India with the maximum temperature climbing to approximately 33 degrees Celsius. The humidity quotient is a bit higher than the previous months and all water activities and various attractions remain open and operational in April. The beaches and other activities such as scuba diving, snorkelling, parasailing, sea walking, speed boat rides, submarine, glass bottom boat rides are enjoyed thoroughly. The beautiful beaches such as the Elephant Beach, Radhanagar and Kalapathar Beaches, Laxmanpur and Corbyn’s Cove Beaches are all great places to visit for some fun and adventure. The beaches are visited at any time during the day. April is also ideal for island hopping and visiting the famous islands such as Havelock, Neil, Jolly Buoy, Baratang, Diglipur, Rangat, Long Island, Little Andaman, Ross Island and North Bay Island. All the islands are open to tourists in the month of April and make sure you plan your trip accordingly to accommodate all the primary attractions.
Port Blair in May
Visiting Port Blair in May is fun. It is considered to be off-peak season but Andaman and Nicobar is made for all-the-year-round tourism. May month might be considered as falling in off-peak season for tourism in Port Blair, but that also means that you can often find cheaper accommodations and fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season. You will have smoother time booking tours and activities after reaching your vacation destination. May is a good time for water sports enthusiasts. The sea is generally calm during this period, making it an ideal time for activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving and the varied kinds of adventurous boat rides, such as submarine rides, banana boat ride and speed boat ride. You can explore the rich underwater world of the abundant coral reefs around the islands. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are known for their diverse wildlife and bird species. May is a good time for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers to explore places like the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park and Chidiya Tapu. You might also be a witness of the Island Tourism Festival, which is usually held in May. This festival showcases the cultural heritage of the islands and is an opportunity to experience local traditions, food, and art. Have a more relaxed and less crowded experience while exploring the historical sites of Port Blair, such as the Cellular Jail and the Anthropological Museum. Port Blair has some stunning beaches, and you can still enjoy them in May. Relax on the beaches, swim in the clear waters and take in the natural beauty of the islands.
Port Blair in June
October to May is considered to be the best season to visit Port Blair as the temperature, rainfall and humidity are all on the enjoyable side. The months from June to September experience high rainfall, and can therefore make your planned travel quite difficult, upsetting your booked trips or island-hopping sojourns. June definitely is not one of the best times to visit Port Blair, especially if you are a water person. Water activities are null and void as the sea remains unruly due to sporadic or continual rains. Island hopping will indeed be stalled as ferry services are severely disrupted. June marks the beginning of the monsoon season in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, including Port Blair. The weather is hot with high humidity and sudden and heavy rain showers. But June is the time when you can see lush greenery that blankets the islands. The landscapes are vibrant and beautiful, making it a picturesque time to explore nature.
Port Blair in July
Port Blair is a part of the tropical paradise of the archipelago of the Andaman Islands and experiences two distinct seasons: a rainy monsoon season from May to September and dry spell with clear skies from the months of October to April. In the month of July, it rains a lot if not for the whole day. The water activities such as scuba diving, boat rides, sea walking and snorkelling are disrupted. The ferry services for island hopping and sea activities such as dolphin watch, yacht rides and angling tours may get delayed or rescheduled to the next day. July will give the visitors the benefit of visiting this beautiful place without getting disturbed by too much crowd and will also demonstrate a fresh green rain-washed beauty.
Port Blair August
Visiting Port Blair in August is still visiting the beautiful island in the monsoon season. August continues to have heavy rainfall and the humidity level also remains high. The temperatures remain relatively constant, ranging from 25°C to 32°C with continuous rain and occasional storms. Water activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and boat rides remain closed due to the monsoon rainfall and rough seas. But the area remains lush green and portrays a picturesque landscape. The rain enhances the natural beauty of the region, making it an ideal time for nature lovers who appreciate greenery and fresh nature. August remains part of the off-peak season and sees fewer tourists. For visitors who prefer a more serene and quiet atmosphere, August month proves to be advantageous, though some tourist activities are impacted by the rainy weather. If you plan a trip to Port Blair during the month of August, consider exploring indoor attractions like museums, historical sites, and cultural centres. The Cellular Jail, Anthropological Museum, and Samudrika Naval Marine Museum are some of the interesting indoor options to consider.
Port Blair September
September marks the transition period from the monsoon season to the post-monsoon season in Port Blair and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. With the advent of September there is a decrease in rainfall compared to the peak monsoon months, but there may still be occasional showers. Temperatures in Port Blair in September hovers from 25°C to 32°C. The islands look fresh and vibrant with abundance of green due to the previous monsoon months of rain. The rains add to the vibrancy and picturesqueness of the landscape. Waterfalls are gorgeous with the added influx of monsoon rain showers and get milky white and forceful. Water activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving and boat rides resume after the months of lull and no-activity. September marks the setting off of the peak tourist season as the weather becomes more favourable. The outdoor attractions can once more be explored with greater ease. Consider visiting beaches, viewpoints, and natural attractions that may have been affected by the monsoon earlier in the season. September marks the resumption of some water activities and attractions that were temporarily closed during the peak monsoon season. However, it’s essential to check with local authorities and operators for the most up-to-date information. Overall, visiting Port Blair in September can offer a good balance between the lush landscapes of the monsoon season and improving weather conditions. Be flexible with your plans, stay informed about local conditions, and enjoy the natural beauty and cultural experiences that the islands have to offer.
Port Blair in October
October in Port Blair and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the beginning of peak tourist season. October enjoys beautiful and pleasant weather conditions with mild temperatures that remain relatively consistent, ranging from 24°C to 31°C. Humidity levels begin to decrease, making it a more comfortable time to explore. The islands look sparkling and fresh, lush and green due to the recent monsoon rains, and visitors can enjoy a vibrant and picturesque setting. October is a good time for water activities as the sea conditions are generally calmer. Snorkelling, scuba diving, and boat rides all come back to life during this period. The food shacks on the beaches and the vendors selling beautiful items with the touch of sea and salt in their creation are all available to the visitors. October marks the beginning of the peak tourist season in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. and is an excellent time for exploring the beaches, viewpoints and natural attractions. You can also plan some trekking and bird watching, maybe a short trip to Baratang and enjoying the mud volcanoes would be a good idea. Flights and Ferries start operating that normal regular pace and October makes your plans for visiting Port Blair much more enjoyable. Plan your itinerary accordingly and enjoy the natural beauty and cultural experiences that Port Blair has to offer in October.
Port Blair in November
Port Blair is beautiful in November. During this month, the weather is very pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and low humidity. November brings a transition from the monsoon season to more stable and comfortable weather with the temperatures ranging from 23°C to 30°C offering an enjoyable ambience for outdoor activities. Due to the previous few months of monsoon rains Port Blair has lush and green landscapes in November. The vegetation is rejuvenated, and you can witness vibrant colours, especially around the natural attractions and hills. November sees clear skies and an opportunity to enjoy scenic views, such as beaches, viewpoints or other outdoor attractions. With calmer sea conditions, November is an ideal time for water activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and boat rides. The underwater visibility is good and allows the visitors to explore the rich marine life around the islands.
Port Blair in December
December brings pleasant and beautiful weather to Port Blair. The temperatures range from 22°C to 30°C making it very suitable for all kinds of outdoor activities. December remains dry with clear skies and sunny days, providing ideal conditions for island hopping and taking in the beauty of the exotic places and attractions. The calm and clear seas during December make it an excellent time for water activities. Snorkelling, scuba diving, and boat rides are quite popular, allowing you to explore the vibrant marine life around the islands. December is part of the peak tourist season in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. December sees a wide influx of tourists and visitors in Port Blair and all tourist services and attractions operate at their full capacity. December has festivity in the air, and you may experience a lively buzzing atmosphere as all the hotels, resorts and restaurants in Port Blair. Local markets, restaurants and other attractions have special events or decorations for the holiday season. It is a joy to see the place coloured in festive vibes. The comfortable weather in December makes it an excellent time to explore outdoor attractions. Visiting beaches, viewpoints and historical sites without the discomfort of extreme heat or rain is enjoyable. Port Blair also hosts New Year celebrations, and if you’re there during this time, you have a chance to enjoy special events, parties and fireworks to welcome the new year. Hotels and accommodations as well as booking of flights and attractions will all be in high demand and hence very expensive.
Places to visit in Port Blair
• Cellular Jail
Cellular Jail is also very famously known across the country as Kala Pani. This historic jail served as a dark, sorrowful prison for the brave Indian freedom fighters during the British rule. It now houses a museum and a light and sound show that depicts the struggles of the freedom fighters. The glimpses of what these national fighters had to endure under the British regime comes to life through the narratives of the guides, the remnants of the prison cells, the photographs and the models of all the practices that were used by the British.
• Sagarika Marine Museum
This is a beautiful and informative place where you can learn about the shells and marine life of the region. You can also purchase unique shell and pearl souvenirs here to carry back for your loved ones as mementoes of the memorable Andaman vacation.
• Samudrika Naval Marine Museum
This museum is run by the Indian Navy and provides insights into the marine life, history and culture of the unique lifestyle and history of the indigenous tribes, local inhabitants and flora and fauna of the archipelago of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
• Anthropological Museum
Andaman has a distinct and unique history of its civilization. This museum located in Port Blair, displays a rich collection of artifacts, photographs and tools showcasing the indigenous tribal communities of the islands. A vivid idea about how these people live and adapt to the habitat and their daily struggles with the forces of nature since time immemorial will be a lesson to learn about the ethnicity and diversity of the cultures and people of the variegated population of India.
• Japanese Bunkers
Explore the remnants of World War II history by visiting the Japanese bunkers in Port Blair. It will give you a fascinating first-hand exposure to the war time dynamics. Some Japanese bunkers can be found near Corbyn’s Cove Beach, which is a popular tourist destination in Port Blair. These bunkers were used during World War II and provide a glimpse into the island’s history. Veer Savarkar Park, located near the Cellular Jail, is another place where you can find Japanese bunkers. Mount Harriet National Park has several Japanese bunkers from World War II.
• Munda Pahar Beach
A relatively secluded and serene beach where you can unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. This beach is known for its spectacular sunsets. Here you can watch the sun dip sink below the horizon and this beach is quite popular among all tourists. The changing colours of the sky and the tranquil setting make for a memorable Andaman vacation experience. Munda Pahar Beach is an ideal place to unwind and relax for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
• Aberdeen Clock Tower
A historical landmark in the heart of the city, this clock tower is a symbol of Port Blair. The tower was constructed in the late 19th century, around 1903, during the British colonial era. It was built in memory of Major Archibald Blair, who played a significant role in establishing the British presence in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The Aberdeen Clock Tower presents an interesting mix of Islamic and Gothic elements. It 26 meters or 85 feet high and is made of red-coloured brick and white-coloured stone, and thus has a distinctive appearance. The tower is adorned with four minarets and a central dome, and a clock is showcased at the top.
Things to remember before visiting Port Blair
- Plan in Advance: Plan your itinerary well in advance and consider booking guided tours or water sports activities well in advance to avoid the rush of on-the-spot booking. Make the most of your time in the Andaman Islands enjoying and not in the hassle of booking.
- Pack the Essentials: Due to the pleasant weather conditions throughout the year, you can pack light clothing. The essentials like sunscreen, a hat or cap and ample of designer beachwear and swimwear for water activities. Let the vacation be memorable.
- Cover the Hotspots or the Most Popular Destinations: Don’t forget to include the most popular destinations in your itinerary such as Port Blair, Havelock Island, Neil Island, Chidiya Tapu and Baratang Island. Each destination offers a unique experience and ranges from being glorious historical sites and pristine beaches to a hub of water sports and adventure activities.
- Permissions: Some of the attractions in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands require permits for entry. Ensure you procure the necessary permits for places you plan to visit and are included in the itinerary. Discuss it with your tour operator or tourism sites. These permits can be obtained through the local authorities or tour operators.