Imagine waking to cerulean oceans, sipping coconut water beneath swaying palms, and dancing bare feet on the beach at sunset. A dream come true? Well, these Indian islands are making it happen. Packing your bags yet? Here’s the top 5 islands of India need to get on your bucket list.
Havelock Island, Andaman & Nicobar
A stunner! Havelock Island, previously referred to as Swaraj Dweep, is like that dramatic friend of yours who takes center stage wherever they go. Crystal-clear waters? Check! Coral reefs? Check! White sandy beaches that make you go “is this real?” Yes! What makes Havelock so special is Radhanagar Beach, often called one of the best beaches in Asia. Think Maldives vibes but way more chill (and budget-friendly).
Must-do: Scuba diving with sea turtles and chilling at beach shacks with seafood so fresh it practically jumps onto your plate.
Agatti Island, Lakshadweep
This is a little-known secret; Agatti Island may not be as sought after as Andaman, but it should be in the spotlight. In the Lakshadweep archipelago, Agatti is known for its virgin beauty, rainbow-colored marine life, and lagoon perfect for kayaking or glass-bottom boat cruises. It’s tiny small—you can literally cycle over it—but that’s half the charm. No crowds, no commotion. Just you, the waves, and Insta-perfect sunsets.
Tip: Since you have to take a special permit to get to Lakshadweep, make that a pre-plan!
Neil Island, Andaman & Nicobar
Where Havelock is the diva, Neil Island (also known as Shaheed Dweep) is the artsy, chill one. It’s where you escape to when you want to unplug from the madness and just breathe. Hammock naps, local cafes, and empty beaches with dramatic rocky outcrops come to mind. Beaches here are literally so adorably named like Laxmanpur, Bharatpur, and Sitapur—and they all have that feel of your own little heaven. It’s peaceful, romantic, and totally Instagrammable.
Ideal for: Couples, solo travelers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle.
Diu Island, Gujarat
Surprise! Not everything beautiful is south. Diu, off the coast of Gujarat, mixes Portuguese heritage with seafront charm. Old sea forts, churches, and palm-lined beaches where you can have chilled drinks to cool down the heat!Diu’s a little quirky, very cool, and full of surprises. The beaches are not crowded, seafood is finger-licking, and sunsets? Absolutely magical.
Hotspot: Nagoa Beach is perfect for water sports, while Ghoghla Beach is ideal for a quiet stroll.
Majuli Island, Assam
Majuli isn’t your typical tropical island; it’s a river island in the mighty Brahmaputra. It’s brimming with cultural richness, monasteries, mask-making artists, and eco-villages. What makes Majuli stand out is the vibe. It’s spiritual, soulful, and totally off the tourist map. If you love folk culture, dance, and handcrafts, Majuli is your own heaven.
Tip: Live in bamboo huts, converse with monks, and bike the island by bicycle. It’s the slow, reflective kind of travel.
India is just surprising! These islands are not the usual beach holidays; they’re a flavorful, charming, and can’t-help-but-smile affair. Some have underwater adventures, others dazzle with culture, and some? They’re just right for doing absolutely nothing at all. It’s amazing how many of these gems fly under the radar. But now that you’re in the know, you’ll never look at tropical vacationing in the same way again. So whenever someone says “Maldives” in casual conversation, lean in and respond, “Cute. But have you been to Havelock?
For more information, check out Visit India!
