How can I go Andaman by train?

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located in the Bay of Bengal, are a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. Known for their stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and rich marine life, these islands attract thousands of tourists every year. While there are no direct train services to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, you can still reach this tropical paradise by taking a combination of train and ferry or flight. In this blog post, we will explore the various ways to reach the Andaman Islands by train.

Train Journey to Port Blair

Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is the main gateway for tourists visiting the archipelago. However, as the islands are not connected to the mainland by rail, you need to reach either Chennai or Kolkata, the two nearest major cities with railway stations, to start your journey to the Andaman Islands.

Chennai to Port Blair

The most popular route to reach the Andaman Islands by train is from Chennai. Chennai is well-connected to major cities in India by rail, making it a convenient starting point for your journey.

To reach Port Blair from Chennai, you need to take a train to Chennai Egmore Station and then travel to the Chennai Port Trust (CPT) jetty. From there, you can take a ferry or a ship to Port Blair. The journey by sea takes approximately 60-70 hours, depending on the weather conditions and the route taken.

It is important to note that ships depart from Chennai to Port Blair at fixed intervals, usually once a week. Therefore, it is advisable to check the schedule and book your tickets in advance. The fare for the ship journey varies depending on the class and the type of accommodation you choose.

Kolkata to Port Blair

If you are located in the eastern part of India, Kolkata can be a more convenient starting point for your journey. Similar to the Chennai route, you need to travel from Kolkata to the Kolkata Port Trust (KPT) jetty to catch a ferry or ship to Port Blair.

The journey by sea from Kolkata to Port Blair takes approximately 66-70 hours. Just like the Chennai route, ships depart from Kolkata to Port Blair at fixed intervals, usually once a week. It is advisable to check the schedule and book your tickets well in advance.

Alternative Option: Train + Flight

If you prefer a faster and more convenient way to reach the Andaman Islands, you can opt for a combination of train and flight. Both Chennai and Kolkata have airports with regular flights to Port Blair.

In this option, you can take a train from your city to either Chennai or Kolkata and then book a flight to Port Blair. The flight duration is approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the route and the airline.

Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Check the train and ship/ferry schedules in advance and book your tickets accordingly.
• Carry essential documents like ID proof, tickets, and valid identification for the ship/ferry journey.
• Pack light and carry only necessary items for your trip to the Andaman Islands.
• Keep track of weather conditions, as sea journeys can be affected by rough seas or cyclones.
• Stay updated with the latest travel advisories and guidelines related to COVID-19.

Conclusion

Although there are no direct train services to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, you can still reach this tropical paradise by combining train and ferry or flight. The Chennai and Kolkata routes offer convenient options for travelers to embark on their journey to Port Blair. Whether you choose the train + ferry or train + flight option, the Andaman Islands are well worth the effort. So, pack your bags, plan your journey, and get ready to explore the mesmerizing beaches and vibrant marine life of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands!

If you found this blog post helpful, feel free to share it with your friends and family who are planning to visit the Andaman Islands.