First I want to tell you that the featured photograph is of a drone-shot taken off the coast of Khurma Dera Beach in South Andaman Islands.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, situated in the Bay of Bengal, are a captivating tropical island vacation destination known for their pristine beaches, lush greenery, tribal cultures, and rich marine biodiversity. Indian domestic tourists as well as foreign travelers are drawn to these islands to experience their natural beauty and cultural diversity. However, before planning a trip to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Indians and foreigners both should carefully review the rules, regulations, and restrictions. Not all islands in this archipelago are open to tourists, especially foreigners. Activities such as beach camping at night or venturing into the national park and protected areas without a guide and permit are strictly prohibited and can result in heavy penalties if violated. In this article we will discuss on all the rules and regulations and procedures of getting the Andaman and Nicobar Entry Permit.
To facilitate a smooth and enjoyable visit for tourists, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Administration has established entry guidelines and regulations.
Andaman & Nicobar Entry Permit for Indians:
Indian citizens do not require any permit to visit most parts of the Andaman Islands. However, there are a few exceptions where permits are necessary:
Restricted Areas Requiring Permits
Tribal Reserves: Entry into the Tribal Reserves is strictly prohibited to protect the indigenous tribes. Special permission is needed, which is rarely granted and typically limited to researchers or government officials.
Nicobar Islands: Campbell Bay in Great Nicobar is clearly mentioned as open to tourists, while the rest of the Nicobar Islands remain restricted for tourism without a Tribal Pass, which is not meant for tourists. The Tribal Pass is only granted under specific conditions, such as for researchers, government officials, relatives of posted officials, or individuals invited by the tribal community unions.
National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries: Indian tourists also need a permit from the Andaman & Nicobar Forest Department to visit the protected wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in the archipelago.
Andaman & Nicobar Entry Permit for the Foreign Tourists:
1. Restricted Areas Permit (RAP):
– Previously, foreign nationals visiting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands required a Restricted Areas Permit (RAP) for entry. However, since 2018, the Andaman administration has allowed foreign tourists to enter the islands without RAP.
– As of the latest updates in 2024, foreign tourists can visit 30 islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands without the need for a Restricted Areas Permit (RAP). These islands include East Island, North Andaman, Smith Island, and others (full list provided separately).
– For areas not covered by the exemption, foreign nationals still require a Restricted Areas Permit (RAP) to visit specific places in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
2. Registration Certificate Issuance:
– Though the RAP isn’t required, foreign nationals must have to Register themselves with the Immigration authorities at arrival in the Airport or Sea Port to enter Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
-Upon registration a Certificate will be issued by the administrative authority allowing the foreign tourists to enter Andaman & Nicobar and stay for a duration of maximum 30 days, which can be extended for another 15 days with permission.
– Alternatively, this Registration Certificate can be obtained from Indian Missions Overseas, Foreigner’s Registration Offices at Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Immigration authorities at designated airports in India.
3. Restricted Areas Requiring Permits for Foreigners:
Foreign tourists visiting the Andaman & Nicobar Islands are subject to additional restrictions, particularly in sensitive and protected regions. Below are the key areas where permits are required:
- Nicobar Islands:
- Restricted Access: Foreigners are generally not allowed to visit the Nicobar Islands. The islands are off-limits to tourists due to the need to protect the indigenous Nicobarese tribes and the delicate environment.
- Special Permits: In rare cases, researchers, government officials, or those on special missions may obtain permission with a Tribal Pass and other necessary approvals.
- Campbell Bay Foreign tourists are allowed to visit Campbell Bay in Great Nicobar, making it an exception among the Nicobar Islands, which generally remain off-limits for tourism. Access to other parts of the Nicobar Islands requires a Tribal Pass, a permit not available to regular tourists. This pass is only issued under specific conditions, such as for researchers, government officials, their relatives, or individuals invited by tribal community unions for official or research purposes.
- Tribal Reserves:
- No Access for Foreigners: Foreign nationals are strictly prohibited from entering Tribal Reserves to ensure the safety and preservation of the indigenous tribes such as the Jarwa, Sentinelese, and others.
- Special Exceptions: Only individuals involved in scientific research or government projects may apply for permits under exceptional circumstances, but general tourism is entirely restricted.
- National Parks & Wildlife Sanctuaries:
- Permits Required: Foreigners wishing to visit protected areas, including national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, must secure a permit from the Andaman & Nicobar Forest Department.
- Popular Protected Areas: Areas such as Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park and Rani Jhansi Marine National Park require these special permissions for foreigners.
- Restricted Islands:
- Foreigners are not permitted on certain restricted islands that are off-limits even with a Restricted Areas Permit (RAP). These include but are not limited to North Sentinel Island and several smaller uninhabited islands.
Islands in Andaman & Nicobar Open to the Tourists:
Islands Foreigners Can Visit without Restricted Areas Permit (RAP):
Foreigners do not require a Restricted Areas Permit (RAP) for visiting the following 30 islands. However, visiting Tribal Villages and Reserves requires a Tribal Pass, and visiting National Parks or Wildlife Sanctuaries requires a permit from the Forest Department:
| Island Group | Islands Open for Foreign Tourists (No RAP Required) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nicobar Islands | ||
| Car Nicobar Group | Chowra, Teressa, Tillang Chong | Tribal Pass required for researchers, government officials, relatives of posted officials, or people invited by tribal community unions; not for tourists. |
| Nancowry Group | Kamorta, Pulomilo, Katchal | Same conditions apply for the Tribal Pass in Katchal; not for tourists. |
| Great Nicobar Group | Campbell Bay | Campbell Bay in Great Nicobar Island is open to tourists. Separate permits are needed for visiting National Parks and Biosphere Reserves in the area. |
| Little Nicobar, Narcondam Island | Tribal Pass required for Little Nicobar; not for tourists. Narcondam; not for tourists. | |
| Andaman Islands | ||
| North Andaman Group | Smith Island, East Island, Curfew Island, Stewart Island, Landfall Island, Aves Island | Excludes tribal reserve areas. |
| Middle Andaman Group | Interview Island, Long Island, Strait Island, North Passage Island, Baratang | Excludes tribal reserve areas. |
| South Andaman Group | Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island), Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island), Flat Bay, Viper Island (Day visit only), South Sentinel Island | Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park requires a permit from the Forest Department; South Sentinel open (North Sentinel strictly prohibited). |
| Little Andaman Group | Little Andaman | Same conditions for tribal reserves; tourists may visit other areas. |
Nicobar Islands Tourism
Campbell Bay in Great Nicobar is clearly mentioned as open to tourists (Indians/Foreigners), while the rest of the Nicobar Islands remain restricted for tourism without a tribal pass which is not meant for tourists and requires certain conditions.
Places in the Andaman Islands Requiring Protected Area Permit (Foreigners/Indians):
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ National Parks and Sanctuaries are designated Protected Areas under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 and other conservation laws in India. These areas are specifically preserved to protect their rich biodiversity, unique ecosystems, and endangered species. The islands are home to diverse wildlife, including endemic species of plants, animals, and marine life, making them ecologically significant.
For both foreigners and Indians, entry into the National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands requires prior permission, known as a Protected Area Permit (PAP). This permit must be obtained from the Chief Wildlife Warden of the Department of Environment and Forest, Andaman and Nicobar Administration, along with the payment of a prescribed fee. However, foreign tourists are eligible to receive the Protected Area Permit only for places they are allowed to visit without needing a Restricted Areas Permit (RAP).
Entry Permit & Rules for Visiting the National Parks and Sanctuaries in A&N
This entry permit process outlines the procedure for entering National Parks and Sanctuaries in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands for various purposes, including investigation, photography, scientific research, and tourism.
Procedure for Permit Issuance (For Purposes of Investigation, Photography, or Scientific Research)
- Application Submission:
- A permit must be obtained from the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (WL)-cum-Chief Wildlife Warden, Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Download Form_TV Documentary Films for Entry_NP_Sanctuaries (2)
- Professional Cine Camera Use:
- Professionals making TV documentary films must sign an agreement with the State Government.
- Permit Validity:
- The permit will be valid for the specified period.
- Fees:
- Professional photographers using SLR cameras: ₹500 per day (for feature films: ₹10,000 per day for Indians, ₹25,000 per day for foreigners).
- Professionals using cine cameras: ₹3,000 per day for Indians, ₹10,000 per day for foreigners.
- Scuba diving: ₹500 per person per day (Indians), ₹2,000 per person per day (foreigners).
Procedure for Tourism Entry Permit
- Application Process:
- Submit an application in a specified form to the relevant Forest/Wildlife Officer.
- After an inquiry, permission will either be granted or rejected.
- Download ApplicationPermit for Entry_NP_Sanctuaries (2)
- Permit Issuance:
- Permits are issued at the office or park gate upon payment of fees.
- Entry Fees for Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park and Other Island Sanctuaries:
- Adults (Indian): ₹75 per person per day.
- Children (5-12 years): Free.
- Foreigners (Adults): ₹1,000 per person per day.
- Foreigners (Children): ₹500 per person per day.
- Foreign Yacht/Ship/Boat: ₹5,000 per vessel per day.
- Indian Yacht/Ship/Boat: ₹2,500 per vessel per day.
- Entry Fees for Other Sanctuaries and National Parks:
- Adults (Indian): ₹50 per person per day.
- Foreigners (Adults): ₹500 per person per day.
- Foreigners (Children): ₹200 per person per day (children up to age 12).
- Vehicle Fees:
- Motorcycle/Scooter: ₹20 per day.
- Light motor vehicle (car or jeep): ₹30 per day.
- Heavy motor vehicle (bus or truck): ₹100 per day (includes driver entrance fee).
- Cycle: Free.
- Boat Fees (for Tourism):
- Boat carrying less than 10 persons: ₹15,000 per annum.
- Boat carrying 11-50 persons: ₹1,00,000 per annum.
- Boat carrying 51 and above: ₹1,50,000 per annum.
Permit Issuance Timeline
Permits for bonafide applicants will be issued within 15 days from the date of application.
Top Protected Places in Andaman Nicobar that are Opened for Tourism:
– All Islands in Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (Night Halt in these islands: Boat, Hobday, Twin Islands, Tarmugli, Malay, and Pluto is not allowed and subject to special permission of the UT Admn.)
Islands opened for day visit only:
Cinque Islands
North Reef Island
Point and Paget Islands
Sound Island
Guitar Island
Brother Islands
Sister Islands
– Barren Island – restricted to visit on board vessels only with no landing ashore
These guidelines ensure that foreign tourists can explore specific areas of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands while adhering to the necessary regulations and permit requirements.
List of National Parks & Sanctuaries in Andaman & Nicobar
Here is the list of National Parks in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, including Campbell Bay National Park and Galathea National Park:
National Parks in Andaman & Nicobar
| Name of National Park | Area in Ha. | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Campbell Bay National Park | 42,500.00 | Nicobar District |
| Galathea National Park | 11,250.00 | Nicobar District |
| Marine National Park | 28,150.00 | Andaman District |
| Middle Button Island National Park | 64.75 | Andaman District |
| Mount Harriet National Park | 4,662.00 | Andaman District |
| North Button Island National Park | 44.00 | Andaman District |
| Saddle Peak National Park | 3,254.88 | Andaman District |
| South Button Island National Park | 3.80 | Andaman District |
Sanctuaries in Andaman Islands
| Name of Sanctuary | Area in Ha. | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Arial Island Sanctuary | 5.00 | Andaman District |
| Bamboo Island Sanctuary | 5.00 | Andaman District |
| Barren Island Sanctuary | 810.00 | Andaman District |
| Battimalv Island Sanctuary | 223.00 | Nicobar District |
| Belle Island Sanctuary | 8.00 | Andaman District |
| Benett Island Sanctuary | 346.00 | Andaman District |
| Bingham Island Sanctuary | 8.00 | Andaman District |
| Blister Island Sanctuary | 26.00 | Andaman District |
| Bluff Island Sanctuary | 114.00 | Andaman District |
| Bondoville Island Sanctuary | 255.00 | Andaman District |
| Brush Island Sanctuary | 23.00 | Andaman District |
| Buchanan Island Sanctuary | 933.00 | Andaman District |
| Chanel Island Sanctuary | 13.00 | Andaman District |
| Cinque Islands Sanctuary | 951.00 | Andaman District |
| Clyde Island Sanctuary | 54.00 | Andaman District |
| Cone Island Sanctuary | 65.00 | Andaman District |
| Curlew Island Sanctuary | 3.00 | Andaman District |
| Curlew (B.P.) Island Sanctuary | 16.00 | Andaman District |
| Defence Island Sanctuary | 1,049.00 | Andaman District |
| Dot Island Sanctuary | 18.00 | Andaman District |
| Dottrel Island Sanctuary | 13.00 | Andaman District |
| Duncan Island Sanctuary | 73.00 | Andaman District |
| East Island Sanctuary | 611.00 | Andaman District |
| East or Inglis Island Sanctuary | 355.00 | Andaman District |
| Egg Island Sanctuary | 5.00 | Andaman District |
| Elat Island Sanctuary | 936.00 | Andaman District |
| Entrance Island Sanctuary | 96.00 | Andaman District |
| Gander Island Sanctuary | 5.00 | Andaman District |
| Girjan Island Sanctuary | 16.00 | Andaman District |
| Goose Island Sanctuary | 1.00 | Andaman District |
| Hump Island Sanctuary | 47.00 | Andaman District |
| Interview Island Sanctuary | 13,300.00 | Andaman District |
| James Island Sanctuary | 210.00 | Andaman District |
| Jungle Island Sanctuary | 52.00 | Andaman District |
| Kwangtung Island Sanctuary | 57.00 | Andaman District |
| Kyd Island Sanctuary | 800.00 | Andaman District |
| Landfall Island Sanctuary | 2,948.00 | Andaman District |
| Latouche Island Sanctuary | 96.00 | Andaman District |
| Mangrove Island Sanctuary | 39.00 | Andaman District |
| Mask Island Sanctuary | 78.00 | Andaman District |
| Mayo Island Sanctuary | 10.00 | Andaman District |
| Megapode Island Sanctuary | 12.50 | Nicobar District |
| Montgomery Island Sanctuary | 21.00 | Andaman District |
| Narcondam Island Sanctuary | 681.20 | Andaman District |
| North Brother Island Sanctuary | 75.00 | Andaman District |
| North Island Sanctuary | 49.00 | Andaman District |
| North Reef Island Sanctuary | 348.40 | Andaman District |
| Oliver Island Sanctuary | 16.00 | Andaman District |
| Orchid Island Sanctuary | 10.00 | Andaman District |
| Ox Island Sanctuary | 13.00 | Andaman District |
| Oyster Island-1 Sanctuary | 8.00 | Andaman District |
| Oyster Island-2 Sanctuary | 21.00 | Andaman District |
| Paget Island Sanctuary | 736.00 | Andaman District |
| Parkinson Island Sanctuary | 34.00 | Andaman District |
| Passage Island Sanctuary | 62.00 | Andaman District |
| Patric Island Sanctuary | 13.00 | Andaman District |
| Peacock Island Sanctuary | 62.00 | Andaman District |
| Pitman Island Sanctuary | 137.00 | Andaman District |
| Point Island Sanctuary | 307.00 | Andaman District |
| Potanma Islands Sanctuary | 16.00 | Andaman District |
| Ranger Island Sanctuary | 426.00 | Andaman District |
| Reef Island Sanctuary | 174.00 | Andaman District |
| Roper Island Sanctuary | 146.00 | Andaman District |
| Ross Island Sanctuary | 101.00 | Andaman District |
| Rowe Island Sanctuary | 1.00 | Andaman District |
| Salt Water Crocodile Sanctuary | 2,221.00 | Andaman District |
| Sandy Island Sanctuary | 158.00 | Andaman District |
| Sea Serpent Island Sanctuary | 78.00 | Andaman District |
| Shark Island Sanctuary | 60.00 | Andaman District |
| Shearme Island Sanctuary | 785.00 | Andaman District |
| Sir Hugh Rose Island Sanctuary | 106.00 | Andaman District |
| Sisters Island Sanctuary | 36.00 | Andaman District |
| Snake Island-1 Sanctuary | 73.00 | Andaman District |
| Snake Island-2 Sanctuary | 3.00 | Andaman District |
| South Brother Island Sanctuary | 124.00 | Andaman District |
| South Reef Island Sanctuary | 117.00 | Andaman District |
| South Sentinel Island Sanctuary | 161.00 | Andaman District |
| Spike Island-1 Sanctuary | 42.00 | Andaman District |
| Spike Island-2 Sanctuary | 1,170.00 | Andaman District |
| Stoat Island Sanctuary | 44.00 | Andaman District |
| Surat Island Sanctuary | 31.00 | Andaman District |
| Swamp Island Sanctuary | 409.00 | Andaman District |
| Table (Delgarno) Island Sanctuary | 229.00 | Andaman District |
| Table (Excelsior) Island Sanctuary | 169.00 | Andaman District |
| Talabaicha Island Sanctuary | 321.00 | Andaman District |
| Temple Island Sanctuary | 104.00 | Andaman District |
| Tillongchang Island Sanctuary | 1,683.00 | Nicobar District |
| Tree Island Sanctuary | 3.00 | Andaman District |
| Trilby Island Sanctuary | 96.00 | Andaman District |
| Tuft Island Sanctuary | 29.00 | Andaman District |
| Turtle Islands Sanctuary | 39.00 | Andaman District |
| West Island Sanctuary | 640.00 | Andaman District |
| Wharf Island Sanctuary | 11.00 | Andaman District |
| White Cliff Island Sanctuary | 47.00 | Andaman District |
Total Area of Parks and Sanctuaries:
- Total Area of National Parks: 92,078.43 Ha.
- Total Area of Sanctuaries: 37,132.10 Ha.
- Total Combined Area: 129,210.53 Ha.
Let me know if you need any more information!
Areas Open to the Foreigners for Scuba Diving in Andaman Islands
Scuba diving enthusiasts visiting the Andaman Islands have a plethora of stunning underwater sites to explore. The following areas have been identified and kept open for scuba diving activities:
John & Henry Lawrence Islands (Marine National Park)
Inglis Island (Sanctuary)
Outram Island (Marine National Park)
Campbell Shoal
East Coast of South Andaman Island between North Point and Chidiyatapu, excluding certain specified areas
East and South coasts of Rutland Island outside the Marine National Park
Cinque Island Sanctuary (Marine National Park)
North of North Wandoor and North of Tarmugli Island, excluding certain specified areas
Havelock Island and shallow sites and barren rocks in open sea such as Pilot Reef and Minerva Ledge, excluding specified areas
Long Island
Avis Island
North & South Brother (Wildlife Sanctuary)
Sister Island
Jolly Buoy and Red Skin Island (Marine National Park)
Narcondam Island and Barren Island (no landing ashore)
Regulations and Fees:
- Scuba diving is permitted in the Marine National Park subject to the payment of prescribed fees. The fee is Rs. 500/- per person per day for Indian citizens and Rs. 1000/- per person per day for foreigners.
- Entry to the Marine National Park/Wildlife Sanctuary requires prior permission from the Chief Wildlife Warden, Department of Environment and Forest, Andaman Nicobar Administration, along with the payment of the prescribed fee.
- The list of areas open for scuba diving may be updated periodically, and a negative list will also be notified by the Administration.
Procedure of Obtaining Entry Permit to Protected Areas in Andaman & Nicobar Islands (For Both Foreign and Indian Nationals)
1. Application Process:
(i) Individuals intending to enter a Sanctuary/National Park, including for scuba diving, must submit Form No. 4 (A) to the Chief Wildlife Warden or an Authorized Officer. Applications can be lodged with the Deputy Conservator of Forests/Divisional Forest Officer/Assistant Conservator of Forests/Range Officer within their respective areas.
(ii) Upon receipt, the Chief Wildlife Warden or Authorized Officer will review the application and may grant or reject it after conducting necessary inquiries.
(iii) Upon approval, an officer authorized by the Wildlife Warden will issue Form No. 4 (B) upon payment of the prescribed fee.
Entry Fee Structure
(i) Marine National Parks and Island Sanctuaries/National Park:
Adults (Indians): Rs. 50/- per person per day
Children (Age 5-12 years) (Indians): Rs. 25/- per person per day
Foreigners: Rs. 500/- per person per day
Foreign Yacht/Ship/Boat: Rs. 1000/- per vessel per day
Indian Boat/Ship: Rs. 500/- per vessel per day
(ii) Other Sanctuary & National Park:
Adults (Indians): Rs. 25/- per person per day
Children (Age 5-12 years) (Indians): Rs. 10/- per person per day
Foreigners: Rs. 250/- per person per day
(iii) Scuba Diving:
Indians: Rs. 500/- per person per day
Foreigners: Rs. 1000/- per person per day
(iv) Students:
Indians: Rs. 5/- per head per day
Foreigners: Rs. 10/- per head per day
These fees are essential for the upkeep and conservation of the natural resources and ecosystems within the protected areas of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Guidelines for Tourists Visiting Andaman & Nicobar Islands in Brief
Foreign tourists visiting the open areas in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands must adhere to the following guidelines issued by the Ministry’s circular No.15011/14/91-F.I dated 30.06.92:
i) Accompaniment by Guide: Visiting parties to the Protected areas must need proper permit and also must be accompanied by a guide nominated by the Chief Wildlife Warden of Andaman & Nicobar Islands. It is essential to follow the code of conduct in the park area.
ii) Payment of Entry Fee: Visitors are required to pay an entry fee. Any violation of the National Marine Park Code may result in a suitable fine imposed by the A&N Islands Administration.
iii) Restrictions on Construction: No jetties or permanent structures are allowed to be built upon or off the islands. Barbecue or cooking activities are prohibited. Thatched enclosures made of local materials may serve as toilets, while brick and mortar shelters for shade are not permitted. Lean-to shelters for shade may be allowed.
iv) Restricted Boat Access: Visits to the marine park areas are restricted to small boats or glass bottom boats. Oil leakage is strictly prohibited in the area.
v) Scuba Diving and Photography: Scuba diving and underwater photography are permitted in identified areas. However, removal of coral, fish, or any other item from the Marine Park is strictly prohibited.
vi) Incorporation of Restrictions: Any Restricted Area Permit issued by an agency must incorporate the words “subject to restrictions imposed by the Chief Wildlife Warden, Andaman & Nicobar Islands.”
vii) Regulation of Visits to Mount Harriet and Madhuban: Foreigners visiting Mount Harriet and Madhuban Islands will be regulated by the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Administration in consultation with wildlife representatives in the A&N Islands.
viii) Visits to Volcanic Islands: Foreign tourists may be allowed to visit Barren Island on board vessels, but no landing ashore is permitted. The UT Administration will provide escort to tourists visiting the island. Narcondam Island may be opened to foreign tourists for diving and unescorted day visits.
ix) Restriction on Burmese Nationals: No Burmese national will be allowed to visit Mayabunder and Diglipur without prior permission from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Adhering to these guidelines ensures a responsible and enjoyable experience for foreign tourists visiting the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
