Beyond its reputation for best beaches on Neil Island like Golden Laxmanpur or the rugged natural bridge at Howrah, the island brims with cultural and natural diversity. Travellers discover quiet seaside villages, tour lush spice plantations, encounter unique island wildlife, and visit ornate Hindu temples. Indeed with exceptional offerings on both land and sea, Neil Island rewards visitors with experiences found nowhere else in the Andamans.
Laxmanpur Beach, Neil Island
Rolling up to Laxmanpur, the first thing you notice is the uber-fine silky sand – we’re talking like powder here. The water glows that crystal teal colour too, with gentle waves that kids play in safely for hours. As you wander down the long and wide beach strewn with palm fronds, funky rock formations poke up adding interest. Laxmanpur remains peacefully low-key since the only people you see are some local fishermen coming ashore or other beach bums napping under their giant hats. With its natural beauty yet chill vibe, it’s obvious why Laxmanpur Beach made the list of the best beaches on Neil Island.
Bharatpur Beach, Neil Island
Bharatpur Beach can get a little more lively but still retains total tropical charm – especially right around sunrise when the skies glow orange and pink. Sure the sand has some small pebbles here and there, but off in the distance, you can view these majestic limestone cliffs. Plus the shallow turquoise waters offer great swimming without dangerous currents, perfect for families. Local shops sell fresh coconut water and fruit along the rustic wooden boardwalk too. Given all it has going for it, Bharatpur rightly earns a top spot as the best beach on Neil Island.
Sitapur Beach, Neil Island
The crescent shape of Sitapur Beach gives it super sheltered swimming coves with gently lapping waves. Beachcombers wander the shore as the lack of major resorts provides a peaceful, local island feel. In fact bright fishing boats sprinkled across Sitapur’s golden sands serve as your main backdrops. When hunger strikes, fruit carts and thatched-roof beach restaurants supply tasty local eats like just-caught grilled snapper. For an off-the-beaten trail ambience unmatched anywhere else on the island, Sitapur secures its rank among the best beaches on Neil Island.
Howrah Bridge, Neil Island
Spanning a narrow strait between Neil and a tiny uninhabited islet, Howrah Bridge deserves its namesake connecting the lands. During low tide, many simply walk across exploring seaside caves and the rugged shore on the other side. Come high tide, waves crash against the rocks as you stand atop the bridge soaking in views. Photographers flock here to capture the natural stone bridge itself set against glowing pink skies at sunset. With postcard panoramas and nice sand extension, it’s clear why the Howrah Bridge beach area marks one of the best beaches on Neil Island.
Ramnagar Beach, Neil Island
Curving between verdant tropical foliage, Ramnagar Beach delights visitors with its sparkling sands and laid back ambiance. Beachcombers survey the high tide line gathering crimson and orange seashells by the dozens. Snorkelers swim out from the north end revealing coral reefs right off shore teeming with clownfish and blue spotted rays. Wooden fishing boats dotting white foamy waves serve as your backdrop. With its serene atmosphere perfect for both swimming and photographing dazzling sunsets, Ramnagar stakes its claim among the best beaches on Neil Island.
Kalapathar Beach, Neil Island
Last but certainly not least of Neil Island’s best beaches sits Kalapathar fringed by lofty palms. Its name refers to the giant black boulders that surround the yellow sands adding drama. In fact sunset brings many here as the glowing orange and pink skies reflect off the shiny rocks. The photo ops prove incredible! Kalapathar also offers some of the calmest waters and best swimming holes on the island, especially for families. Indeed with vistas and atmosphere both rating off the charts, Kalapathar caps our list of best beaches on Neil Island.
Neil Island Jetty
No trip to Neil Island is complete without first passing through the iconic Neil Island Jetty. This long wooden peer stretches over a half mile into the Andaman Sea, serving as the gateway for ferries and small boats arriving from Port Blair. Fishing vessels bob gently in the harbour as travellers disembark to spectacular views of tropical palms swaying over sparkling waves. Small shops and eateries line the jetty entrance tempting new arrivals with local handicrafts, fruits, and snacks after the hour-long ferry crossing. A perfect first stop to stretch your legs, grab refreshments, and get acquainted with Neil Island.
Neil Kendra
Deeper inland rests the quiet seaside community of Neil Kendra known for its lush forested landscapes. Travellers wander jungle trails spying exotic birds like red whiskered bulbuls and brilliant green imperial pigeons. Nearby enzyme farms showcase local mangoes, jackfruits, guavas and more while spice plantations emit scents of cinnamon, cardamom and turmeric on the air. Sample delectable homemade banana cakes and hot chai as you watch the sunset over the tranquil countryside.
Saraswati Temple
No pilgrimage across Neil Island omits New Kalu Ghat’s vibrant Saraswati Temple devoted to the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music and arts. Intricately painted pillars, carvings and domes mark the crisp white compound capped with a vivid red shikhara spire. Worshipers walk clockwise around the inner sanctum bearing offerings of marigolds and incense blessing themselves at altars. Visitors not of Hindu faith still appreciate the riot of colours, sweet singing of daily aarti ceremonies and glimpses into island culture. An iconic site for all during their Neil Island stays whether seeking spiritual ritual or cultural insight.