Imagine a place where the sea glows emerald, the air is laced with the scent of salt and tropical blooms, and every path leads to a quiet beach or a vibrant reef. Welcome to Neil Island—now officially known as Shaheed Dweep—a tranquil paradise tucked away in the heart of the Andaman archipelago.

While the Andaman Islands are a dream destination on their own, Neil Island stands out as a serene jewel that perfectly blends untouched nature, marine adventures, and heartfelt island hospitality. Unlike the more tourist-heavy Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), Neil is where time slows down, and every moment is a brush with raw, natural beauty.

Why the Andaman Islands are Uniquely Beautiful

Before diving into what makes Neil Island so enchanting, let’s take a step back and appreciate the bigger picture: the Andaman Islands. Located in the Bay of Bengal, this Indian Union Territory is a remote tropical wonder—home to over 300 islands, dense rainforests, volcanic rocks, and world-renowned coral reefs.

But what truly sets the Andamans apart?

• Emerald Waters: The sea here isn’t just blue—it’s crystal-clear emerald, with hues that shift with the light and depth. This clarity allows for unparalleled visibility while diving or snorkeling.

• Biodiversity: From rare species like the Andaman wood pigeon and dugong to vibrant coral gardens teeming with reef fish, these islands are an ecological treasure trove.

• Marine Trails & Underwater Sanctuaries: The underwater world of Andaman is a diver’s paradise. Reefs, walls, tunnels, and wrecks form intricate marine trails that attract marine life and adventure seekers alike.

And Neil Island encapsulates all of this—and more—on a smaller, more intimate scale.

Introducing Neil Island: A Quiet, Emerald-Touched Paradise

Neil Island is about 36 km northeast of Port Blair and can be reached via a ferry ride from Havelock or Port Blair. Unlike many over-commercialized tourist spots, Neil Island retains its small-island charm. It spans just 13.7 square kilometers, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in soul-stirring scenery and quietude.

In 2018, Neil Island was renamed Shaheed Dweep, a name that honors the sacrifice of Indian freedom fighters. Yet for locals and travelers alike, it’s still lovingly called Neil—an island where nature sings and serenity reigns.

What Makes Neil Island Unique? 

1. Pristine Beaches That Feel Private

Neil Island is blessed with some of the most picturesque and less-crowded beaches in the Andamans. Each beach has its own vibe and character:

• Laxmanpur Beach: Known for its sweeping sunsets, this beach offers dramatic rock formations, natural coral bridges, and stunning tidal pools.

• Bharatpur Beach: The hub for water sports on the island, this beach is ideal for snorkeling, jet skiing, and glass-bottom boat rides. The coral life just offshore is vibrant and colorful.

• Sitapur Beach: Located on the eastern edge, this is the spot to witness sunrise in its full glory, with golden rays kissing the emerald sea.

What sets these beaches apart is the lack of crowds and commercialization. You can often find yourself alone with nature—a rare luxury these days.

2. The Magic of Marine Trails

Neil Island is surrounded by coral reefs and seagrass beds that form underwater trails—natural paths through the sea where marine life thrives.

Snorkeling or diving in Neil introduces you to:

• Flourishing coral gardens

• Manta rays gliding over sandy bottoms

• Clownfish peeking through anemones

• Parrotfish crunching corals

• Even the gentle dugong (sea cow), the state animal of Andaman

Dive sites around Neil like Bus Stop, Junction, Margherita’s Mischief, and Rocky’s are loved by divers for their easy currents and biodiversity. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned diver, these underwater trails leave you mesmerized.

3. Eco-Friendly, Slow Island Living

Neil Island is the epitome of sustainable tourism. Most resorts and homestays here are built with eco-consciousness, and the island’s rhythm promotes slow travel. No loud parties, no big chain resorts—just laid-back vibes, starlit skies, and heartfelt conversations with locals.

You get around the island on rented scooters or bicycles, passing coconut plantations, rice fields, and village homes. It feels like a return to simpler times.

4. The Natural Coral Bridge

One of the most iconic sights on Neil Island is the Natural Coral Bridge, locally known as “Howrah Bridge.” This naturally formed rock arch lies just off the coast of Laxmanpur Beach and is best seen during low tide.

The area around it reveals colorful tide pools, starfish, sea cucumbers, and tiny crabs. It’s a photographer’s dream and a favorite among nature lovers.

Things to Do on Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)

Here’s a list of top experiences:

Best Time to Visit Neil Island

The ideal time to visit is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant, and the sea remains calm for water activities. The monsoon season (June to September) sees fewer tourists, and while the island is lush and green, some activities may be restricted.

Where to Stay on Neil Island

Neil offers a range of accommodations from beachside luxury to charming eco-resorts and budget guesthouses. Some resorts offer direct beach access, hammock-laden porches, and candle-lit dinners under the stars.

For a complete island experience, look for properties that offer snorkeling gear, dive packages, and local excursions.

Getting to Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)

You can reach Neil Island by ferry from either:

• Port Blair: A 1.5 to 2.5-hour ferry ride (depending on boat type)

• Havelock Island: About 1 hour via inter-island ferry

Government and private ferries operate daily, and advance booking—especially during peak season—is recommended.

Why Neil Island Should Be on Your Bucket List

Neil Island is the soul of the Andamans—unhurried, unspoiled, and unbelievably beautiful. It’s where you come not just to see, but to feel. Whether it’s the thrill of spotting a clownfish while snorkeling, the peace of walking barefoot on sun-warmed sands, or the joy of watching stars blaze across the night sky, Neil Island leaves an imprint on your heart.

For couples, it’s a romantic escape. For solo travelers, it’s a peaceful retreat. For families, it’s an immersive adventure in nature. And for divers—it’s heaven beneath the waves.

Read our detailed Blog on Havelock Island.