ABOUT NEIL ISLAND (Shaheed Dweep)
A small yet beautiful island located about 37 kilometers from the southern end of Andaman Island is Neil Island which is filled with unexplored diversity, coral reefs, white sand beaches and tropical forest which is one of the tourist spots in Andaman. The island is mostly known as the ‘vegetable bowl’ of Andaman. The inhabitants of the land later named the beaches of the island after different characters from the myth in Ramayana like Bharatpur, Ramanar, Sitapur and much more. The island with its relaxing vibes, long and deserted beaches and ambiance is the perfect destination to chill after the hustle of the Havelock Island. TravTravelers walk through the widest parts of the island which is 5 km in length. One of the most attracting features of the island is the 3 sand islands that it holds with fascinating golden sand and crystal clear waters. The sea is unique with a mosaic of green, light blue and dark blue which fascinated and attracts the elers to the place. Bharatpur, Sitapur and Laxmanpur are the best destinations travellers could explore in the island. The breathtaking view place and the beauty of the beaches are things travtravelersiting the land should not miss.
The Shaheed Dweep aka Neil Island can be reached via sea only. There are Government ferries and private ferries that are available, you can choose as per your preference.
Regular Government ferry services are available from Port Blair TO Neil Island and vice-versa. The sailing schedules for these ferries are published in the Administrative News of Andamans daily. The government ferry tickets have to be booked in advance only and the tickets are subject to availability.
If you wish to take a government ferry you will have to book your tickets manually at the STARS counter by standing in a queue and you will have to book the tickets 3 days before your trip. You can request your tour agent to book your tickets in advance but you will be charged extra for it.
Laxmanpur Beach is a stunning beach at Neil Island. This beach is clean, however, it is not recommended to swim at this beach. Laxmanpur beach has the best sunset viewpoint in the entire Andaman Islands without a doubt. This beach is located about 2 km away from Neil Jetty. This beach is mostly visited for the clear waters and striking sunset view.
You have to walk around 500 meters to the tip of the coastal line to view the sunset point along the shore. The walk is a bit long to the sunset point but it’s an amazing view. It’s a good sightseeing place for all age groups people. Laxmanpur beach is quite a silent beach. It is a beautiful beach for peace-loving people. Waves of the sea create a mesmerizing scene forspectators.
2.BHARATPUR BEACH IN NEIL ISLAND
Bharatpur Beach is the most prominent beach in Shaheed Dweep and also the most visited one too. It is situated about half a kilometer from the island and is ideal for leisurely spending your evenings, swimming, or coral viewing. Bharatpur beach is the only hub for water sports activities in Shaheed Dweep.
Bharatpur Beach at Neil Island offers you water activities such as Jet Ski, Banana and Speed Boat Rides, Glass-Bottom Boat Rides, Snorkeling and Scuba Diving. You can indulge yourself in whichever activity excites you and have a fun-filled day at Bharatpur Beach.
Neil Island is famous for its natural rock formation. A natural bridge structure of dead corals stands beautifully in the Beach no. 2. This attraction is locally called as the Howrah Bridge. The attraction is a natural wonder that was formed by corals over the years and attracts people from all walks of life. The USP of this location is the magnificent natural rock formation. You will have to walk on a wet, rocky path that has dead corals scattered around, it is very tricky and slippery so do wear a good pair of footwear when you visit this place.
