Shaheed Dweep: Andaman's Tranquil Gem

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Discover Shaheed Dweep: A serene Andaman island with stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a tranquil escape from the everyday hustle.

Shaheed Dweep, formerly known as Neil Island, is a serene island in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago. Renamed in 2018 to honor Indian freedom fighters, it offers a peaceful escape with stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a relaxed pace of life.

A brief summary to Shaheed Dweep

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, IN

Local tips

Visit during the dry season (October to May) for pleasant weather and ideal conditions for beach activities.
Book accommodations and ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Rent a bicycle to explore the island's villages, beaches, and farmlands at your own pace.
Try the local seafood, which showcases a fusion of Indian and Southeast Asian flavors.
Visit the Natural Bridge (Howrah Bridge) at Laxmanpur Beach during low tide to witness the unique rock formation.

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Getting There

Ferry

The primary way to reach Shaheed Dweep is by ferry from Port Blair. Ferries depart from Phoenix Bay Jetty in Port Blair and arrive at Neil Kendra, the island's main jetty. The journey typically takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Several government and private ferry services are available. Government ferries are more economical, with fares ranging from INR 315 to INR 1755 depending on the class. Private ferries offer more comfort and speed, but are more expensive. As of July 2025, direct ferry services between Shaheed Dweep and Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island) are limited to government-operated ferries, with less frequent schedules. It's advisable to travel from Port Blair to Havelock, then to Neil, and back to Port Blair. Tickets can be booked online through the DSS website or at CSC counters. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Passenger service fees of INR 50 per person may apply.
Local Transport

Once on Shaheed Dweep, the most common modes of transport are auto-rickshaws, taxis, and rental scooters or bicycles. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available near the jetty. Typical auto-rickshaw fares for short trips around Neil Kendra or to nearby beaches range from INR 50 to INR 150. A full-day rental of a scooter or bicycle costs approximately INR 300 to INR 500. Walking is also a pleasant way to explore the island, especially the areas around the beaches and villages. However, distances between some attractions can be significant, so consider renting a vehicle for longer journeys.

Discover more about Shaheed Dweep

Shaheed Dweep, once known as Neil Island, is a captivating island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, approximately 36 km northeast of Port Blair. Renamed in 2018 as a tribute to Indian freedom fighters, it provides a tranquil escape from the hustle of modern life. The island is relatively small, covering about 13.7 square kilometers, and is characterized by its flat terrain, making it ideal for leisurely exploration. Shaheed Dweep is known as the 'Vegetable Bowl' of the Andamans, due to its agricultural abundance. The island's culture is a blend of rural and semi-urban influences, with a relaxed, tropical lifestyle. Shaheed Dweep boasts several stunning beaches, each offering a unique experience. Bharatpur Beach is ideal for swimming and water sports, with shallow, clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Laxmanpur Beach is famous for its breathtaking sunsets and natural rock formations. Sitapur Beach is known for its tranquil environment and scenic beauty, perfect for watching sunrises. The Natural Bridge, also known as Howrah Bridge, is a natural rock formation accessible during low tide. Visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat rides to explore the colorful marine life. Nature walks and jungle trekking offer opportunities to appreciate the island's lush greenery. Bicycles are available for rent, allowing for independent exploration of the island's villages and farmlands. Shaheed Dweep played a role in the history of India's struggle for independence, having served as a place of imprisonment for freedom fighters. Today, the island stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the independence movement.