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On-Island Transportation

On-Island Transportation

Andaman And Nicobar Islands, India

Public Transportation

Havelock Island does not have a formal public bus or metro system like larger cities. Local transportation mainly consists of auto-rickshaws, two-wheelers for rent, and bicycles. This network presents a more informal, island-style transport network.

Auto-rickshaws are the most prevalent form of local public transport, acting as shared or private taxis. No fixed route maps exist for public transport; auto-rickshaws ply between the jetty, the main market area (Village No. 3), Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7), Elephant Beach (mainly by boat or trek), and Kalapathar Beach. These spots serve as informal hubs where you can easily find transport.

Local Transit Details

  • Fares for auto-rickshaws are typically fixed for popular routes. For longer distances or full-day hire, negotiating the fare beforehand is wise.
  • Payment is almost always cash.
  • Auto-rickshaws are available from early morning until late evening, especially around ferry arrival and departure times.
  • Public transport options on Havelock Island are generally not wheelchair accessible.

Auto-rickshaws

These three-wheeled vehicles are easily identifiable. Hail them on the road or find them at designated stands.

Private Taxis

While fewer in number, private cars acting as taxis are available, often near larger resorts or arranged through your hotel.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Apps like Uber or Ola, common in mainland India, are not operational on Havelock Island. Rely on traditional auto-rickshaws or arranged taxis.

Rental Options

Scooter Rentals
  • Scooters are widely available for rent across Havelock, especially near the jetty and in the main market area (Village No. 3).
  • A valid driving license is needed. For foreigners, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your home country’s license.
  • Cost: Scooter rentals typically cost around ₹400-₹600 per day, plus the cost of fuel. Fuel stations are available on the island.
Bicycle Rentals
  • Bicycles are available for rent at many guesthouses and local shops.
  • They typically cost around ₹100-₹200 per day.
  • Bicycles are ideal for short distances, leisurely exploration, and enjoying the island at a slower pace.

Driving Laws & Safety

Drive Left

As in all of India.

Helmets Mandatory

For both driver and pillion rider on two-wheelers.

Road Conditions

Main roads are generally paved, but side roads can be rough or muddy.

Night Driving

Poor visibility on less-lit roads. Drive cautiously.

Walking & Cycling

Havelock's serene environment encourages leisurely exploration on foot or by bicycle.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Radhanagar Beach is excellent for long, leisurely walks along its pristine shoreline.
  • The main market area (Village No. 3) is walkable, permitting exploration of shops and local life on foot.
  • Roads connecting the main villages and beaches are generally safe for walking during the day, though being mindful of traffic is wise.
  • Some resorts might offer guided nature walks within their premises or to nearby points of interest.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

  • Havelock has limited dedicated bicycle paths. Bicycles share the road with scooters and auto-rickshaws.
  • While traffic is generally lighter than on the mainland, exercising caution is important.
  • No specific "no-go" areas exist for pedestrians and cyclists during the day.
  • Remote roads can be poorly lit at night and are best avoided, especially if alone. Stick to main roads after dark.

Specialized Transportation

  • Elephant Beach is mainly accessed by a short boat ride from Havelock Jetty. Boats run frequently.
  • Alternatively, you can reach Elephant Beach via a 45-minute jungle trek.
  • Specialized boats are used by dive centers to transport divers and snorkelers to various dive sites.
  • These are part of organized dive or snorkeling trips.
  • Havelock Island does not have cable cars, funiculars, or other unique transport systems found in mountainous regions.
  • Tour buses and hop-on-hop-off services are not available on Havelock Island.

Accessibility Services

Limited Access

Accessibility services for travelers with mobility needs are limited on Havelock Island.

Infrastructure

Roads, pavements, and access to beaches and ferries are not typically designed for easy wheelchair access.

Resort Inquiry

Some newer or luxury resorts might offer ramps or accessible rooms; inquire directly with them.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing Guidance

Auto-rickshaws serve as the island’s main taxi service. You will find them easily available for local transport.

Hailing & Fares

  • Auto-rickshaws are easily identifiable and can be hailed on the road or found at designated stands.
  • Fares for auto-rickshaws are generally fixed for common routes. Negotiate for longer distances or custom routes before you start.
  • Payment is usually cash.
  • Upon arrival at Havelock Jetty, numerous auto-rickshaws and resort taxis are easily available. Many resorts offer pre-arranged pickup services.

Safety & Tips

  • Auto-rickshaws are generally safe. Confirm the fare before starting your journey to prevent potential disputes.
  • When hiring a private car acting as a taxi, make certain it is from a reputable source, like your resort or a known local operator.
  • Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Ola are not operational on Havelock Island.
  • For maximum flexibility and cost-effectiveness, especially if you plan to explore many areas, renting a scooter or bicycle is often the most efficient way to navigate the island at your own pace.

On-Island Mobility Options

No Formal Transit

Havelock Island does not have a formal public bus or metro system like larger cities.

Informal network of auto-rickshaws and rentals.

Informal Hubs

The jetty, main market (Village No. 3), Radhanagar Beach, and Kalapathar Beach serve as informal hubs.

Easy to find transport at these locations.

Limited Accessibility

Public transport options are generally not wheelchair accessible.

Plan for private arrangements if needed.

Walking & Cycling Opportunities

Pedestrian Zones
  • Radhanagar Beach is excellent for long, leisurely walks along its pristine shoreline.
  • The main market area (Village No. 3) is walkable for exploring shops and eateries.
  • Roads connecting the main villages and beaches are generally safe for walking during the day.
Cycling Expeditions
  • Havelock has limited dedicated bicycle paths. Bicycles share the road with scooters and auto-rickshaws.
  • You can create your own self-guided bicycle tours.
  • Cycling is a calm way to travel on the island's relatively flat terrain.

Local Safety & Driving Advice

  • Always wear a Helmet on two-wheelers; it is mandatory for both driver and pillion.
  • Driving standards can be erratic, with varying adherence to traffic rules.
  • Night driving on less lit roads calls for particular care due to poor visibility.
  • Adhere to traffic laws to avoid legal issues.
  • Stay aware of potholes, stray animals, and pedestrians.
  • Main roads are generally well-maintained, but some sections can be unpaved, especially after monsoon.
  • Parking is generally available and often informal near beaches and attractions.
  • Stick to main roads after dark for safety.

General On-Island Travel Guidance

For independent exploration, renting a scooter or bicycle presents the most flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Auto-rickshaws and hired taxis are also readily available.

Taxi & Auto-rickshaw Guidance

  • Auto-rickshaws are easily identifiable; hail them on the road or find at designated stands (jetty, main market).
  • Agree on the fare with auto-rickshaw drivers before starting the journey to avoid misunderstandings.
  • Payment for auto-rickshaws is usually cash.
  • Many resorts provide pre-arranged pickup services from the jetty if you inform them of your ferry details.

Tips for Smooth Travel

  • Auto-rickshaws are generally safe.
  • When hiring a car, make certain it is from a reputable source, like your resort or a known local operator.
  • Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Ola are not operational on Havelock Island.
  • For maximum flexibility and cost-effectiveness, renting a scooter or bicycle is often the most efficient way to navigate the island.

Walking Routes

Radhanagar Beach and the main market area are excellent for leisurely walks. Roads connecting villages are safe during the day.

Cycling the Island

Rent bicycles at guesthouses and local shops.

Safety Alert

Remote roads can be poorly lit at night and are best avoided, especially if you are alone. Stick to main roads after dark.

Accessibility & Specific Transport

Mobility Needs
  • Accessibility services for travelers with mobility needs are limited on Havelock Island.
  • General infrastructure (roads, pavements, ferry access) is not typically designed for easy wheelchair access.
  • Inquire directly with resorts about their accessibility features and assistance upon request.
Specialized Options
  • Elephant Beach is mainly accessed by a short boat ride from Havelock Jetty.
  • Specialized boats are used by dive centers to transport divers and snorkelers to various dive sites.
  • Tour buses and hop-on-hop-off services are not available on Havelock Island.

Final Transportation Tips

Always agree on auto-rickshaw fares beforehand to prevent misunderstandings.

For flexible exploration, renting a scooter or bicycle is a smart choice.