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Ritchie's Archipelago

Islands

A chain of Andaman Islands east of Havelock, Ritchie's Archipelago offers coral reefs, sandy beaches and small island settlements; tourists come for snorkeling, diving and beach‑hopping.

Ritchie's Archipelago DelhiAgraJaipurVaranasiGoaMumbaiUdaipurRitchie's Archipelago
In this guide

Ritchie's Archipelago essentials

Country: India
Pay in: Rupee (₨)
Emergency: 101

Ritchie's Archipelago at a Glance

When to Go

Best Time to Visit Ritchie's Archipelago

The best time to visit is the dry season, roughly December through March, when sea conditions allow regular ferry services and underwater visibility is highest.

Dry season (best)
December-March · 24-30°C
Calm seas, excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving; the busiest tourist months.
Monsoon shoulder
November and April · 24-29°C
Fewer visitors but still generally good sea conditions; services may be less frequent.

Weather & Climate near Ritchie's Archipelago

Climate
Air Quality: AQI 63 Moderate
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
34°
Warmest Month
23°
Coldest Month
Getting There & Around

How to Get to Ritchie's Archipelago

Ferries and government launches run from Port Blair to the main islands of Ritchie’s Archipelago (Havelock/Swaraj, Neil). Regular private and public ferry services operate in the dry season; crossings take between 1.5 and 3 hours depending on the vessel and destination. Port Blair is served by flights from Chennai, Kolkata and other Indian cities.

Tips for Visiting Ritchie's Archipelago

  • Use the inter-island passenger ferries operated from Port Blair to reach the Ritchie's group; book crossings well in advance during peak season (Dec-Mar).
  • Hire local guides on each island - they know the best snorkel flats and avoid seasonal jellyfish patches.
  • Respect local village rules: some islands have protected wetland areas and limited visitor numbers.