The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a paradise for anyone looking for unspoiled beaches, blue waters, and a tropical getaway. But when it comes to staying connected, particularly in such a far-off place, most tourists ask: How is the mobile network in the Andaman?

Let's demystify all you want to know regarding mobile connectivity—from coverage and SIM card choices to internet speed and smart connectivity hacks—to enable you to have a seamless island getaway without digital glitches.

1. Learning the Mobile Network in Andaman

Why Connectivity Remains a Challenge

Even though Andaman is becoming popular as a tourist destination, geographical remoteness and scattered islands make mobile network signals somewhat erratic. While places such as Port Blair have relatively good signals and 4G coverage, remote islands suffer from patchy or zero connectivity.

Government's Push for Better Network

Over the past few years, the Indian government has launched major infrastructure projects to meet this challenge. Among the most important upgrades has been the laying of a submarine optical fibre cable connecting Chennai to Port Blair and other islands. This has enhanced internet bandwidth and facilitated mobile coverage extension, particularly in key tourist areas.

2. Best Mobile Networks in Andaman (2025)

Here's a summary of how the big mobile operators fare in various regions of the Andaman Islands:

BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited) has the best coverage in the Andaman. It is good in Port Blair, fair in Havelock Island, and moderately consistent in Neil Island. But BSNL's internet speeds are quite slow, so it's better for calls and light browsing.

Airtel is the second most dependable network. It offers good connectivity in Port Blair and decent performance in Havelock. Coverage is available but can be patchy on Neil Island. Airtel also reports higher 4G speeds than BSNL.

Jio works great in Port Blair, but once you are on the smaller islands, its reach significantly decreases. In Havelock, it's the best-case scenario average, and in Neil Island, it's nearly zero. If you rely on speedy internet, Jio may not be your first choice here.

Vodafone-Idea (VI) has very little coverage. Most tourists find it almost unusable outside Port Blair, and even within the city, the signal is poor.

3. SIM Card Options for Tourists

Do You Need a Local SIM?

If you have an Airtel, BSNL, or Jio SIM from mainland India, you might not require a new SIM. But if your connectivity is weak, particularly on islands such as Havelock or Neil, a local BSNL or Airtel SIM can prove useful.

Where to Purchase SIM Cards

• At Port Blair Airport, Mobile network booths are usually ready the moment you pick up your baggage.
• In Aberdeen Bazaar (Port Blair), Several local shops and telecom outlets are selling SIM cards to tourists.
• At official BSNL and Airtel outlets, you will get assistance with documentation and activations.

Documents Required

For Indian nationals:

• Valid photo ID (such as Aadhaar, Voter ID, or Passport)
• One passport-size photograph

For foreign nationals:

• Passport and visa copies
• One passport-size photograph
• Hotel booking or local reference (occasionally asked)

4. Internet and Mobile Data in Andaman

What Kind of Speeds Can You Expect?

• In Port Blair, you'll find good 4G speeds with both Jio and Airtel, enough for social media, emails, and even video calls.
• In Havelock Island, speeds are significantly slower. Simple activities such as texting, using maps, and browsing low-res websites are okay, but high-definition streaming or heavy downloads may be annoying.
• At Neil Island and other secluded places, internet speeds are too low for much more than WhatsApp messages and a light browse.

Connectivity Tips for Travellers

• Download Google Maps offline before you depart from Port Blair. This can be a saviour in case you have to navigate without a connection.
• Get a dual-SIM phone so you are able to use two networks—BSNL for coverage and Airtel for speed.
• Store your critical travel documents on your device so that you can use them without internet.
• Use hotel WiFi to upload photos, work, or stream—but keep in mind that most island WiFi is slow and usually shared.

5. Mobile Network Coverage by Region

Port Blair

Being the capital city, Port Blair enjoys the best mobile coverage in the Andaman. All major providers—BSNL, Airtel, and Jio—have stable signals here. You’ll find good connectivity in popular areas like:

• Aberdeen Bazaar
• Cellular Jail
• Corbyn’s Cove Beach
• Chatham Saw Mill
• Ross Island

Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)

Havelock has a developing tourist infrastructure, and mobile connectivity has increased over the last few years. BSNL and Airtel are the most reliable networks. Good coverage is available in:

• Govind Nagar
• Radhanagar Beach
• Kalapathar Beach

Remote beach resorts or scuba diving locations may have no or limited coverage.

Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)

Neil Island is quieter and less commercialised, and its mobile connectivity shows it. BSNL is the only network that works consistently in most areas. Airtel works in some areas, but Jio and VI are essentially non-functional.

Other Areas

• Baratang Island: A Limited network is available only from BSNL here.
• Diglipur and Rangat: BSNL is once again your only choice, and the signal can be weak.
• North Bay Island and Jolly Buoy Island: Little or no signal on these day-trip islands. Better to go phones off.

6. Remote Worker & Digital Nomad Tips

If you intend to work remotely during your stay in Andaman, particularly in Port Blair, it's doable—but you'll need to be clever about your arrangements.

• Choose a hotel or Airbnb that promises decent WiFi, and always check previous guest reviews.
• Bring a mobile hotspot that works with BSNL or Airtel SIMs.
• Avoid video conferences unless you’re in Port Blair or using a high-speed hotel connection.
• Download necessary files before ferry rides or island transfers, where the network might be nonexistent.

7. Do’s and Don’ts for Mobile Network Use in Andaman

Do:

• Choose BSNL or Airtel for the best overall coverage.
• Keep a power bank handy.
• Use messaging apps like WhatsApp that work on low bandwidth.
• Inform family about your location or travel itinerary before venturing into isolated areas.

Don't:

• Hope for uninterrupted network on ferries or isolated beaches.
• Depend only on Jio or VI for the entire trip.
• Post all your travel confirmations and tickets online—retain offline copies.
• Hope WiFi will be speedy; it's usually slower than 4G in hotels.

8. The Future of Mobile Networks in Andaman

With the installation of the undersea optical fiber cable and additional investment by the government, the future of mobile connectivity in Andaman appears bright. Plans to cover more areas with 4G and introduce 5G in Port Blair are on the anvil. A few ISPs and telcos are also looking at satellite internet solutions to cover the gap in more distant islands.

9. Final Thoughts: Don't Let Mobile Network Limit Your Trip

Yes, the Andaman mobile network is not always reliable. But the fact is, you're in one of the world's most stunning locations. Make use of it and disconnect from your devices, reconnecting with nature instead. Let the ocean breeze take the place of push notifications, and the waves' sounds replace the ringtones.

Stay prepared with the right SIM, backup maps, and offline essentials—but also allow yourself to unplug. Sometimes, the best memories are made when you’re offline.

Note:- Book your Andaman honeymoon packages from your trusted travel agent 

Frequently Asked Queston(FAQs)

Does Andaman have network issues?

Though the government makes concerted efforts from time to time to improve digital connectivity, BSNL has been unable to keep up the promised standards in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The MP expressed that the defects are reflective of serious supervisory lapses as well as an irresponsible attitude by BSNL authorities.

Is UPI accepted in the Andaman?

Some shops, such as Port Blair and Havelock Island, accept payment through UPI. However, this is not as prevalent as on the mainland, and carrying cash is always preferable. Even credit cards are acceptable on the larger islands only.

How to travel locally in the Andaman?

Taxis, autos, buses, and minibuses are the local mode of transport in Sri Vijaya Puram and other tourist destinations. Two-wheelers are on rent at most places for local sightseeing. For visiting small islands like Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep, cycles are best for visiting places of interest.

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