The story
The Andaman Islands draw visitors for coral reefs, beaches and the Cellular Jail national memorial in Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair). Better flights and inter-island ferries have opened Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep to dive schools, resorts and homestays. Tourism is now the islands' main private-sector activity alongside fisheries.
In numbers
The Sound & Light Show at Cellular Jail recorded 417,944 visitors in 2024, compared with 267,327 in 2023; day visits to the jail rose to 363,494 in 2024 from 310,127 in 2023.
Tourism Newsletter 2025, Andaman & Nicobar Administration · 2025
GI tag
- Padauk Wood Craft of Andaman & NicobarApplication no. Application No. 1060Registration details of Geographical Indications (state-wise register), IP India
Ways in for a newcomer
- Licensed dive schools and water-sports operators
- Homestays and small eco-resorts with local permits
- Local transport, tour guiding and island-hopping packages
- Souvenir shops selling local crafts such as padauk woodwork
Problems the cluster faces
- Strict coastal and forest rules limit construction
- High cost of goods shipped from the mainland
- Fragile reefs and waste management
Businesses to start here
Homestay (Bed and Breakfast) →Adventure Tourism Complex (Day Camp and Tents) →Community-Based Village Tourism →Wooden Memento and Souvenir Making →Camping Site (Tented Camp) →