The Andaman Islands are an archipelago comprising more than 500 islands out of which only 38 are inhabited. This archipelago lies on the confluence of the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. Known for their beautiful white beaches, aquamarine waters, lush tropical forests, thrilling watersports, and delicious seafood, did you know the Andaman Islands celebrates its profound history, culture and diversity through various festivals? As someone who has frequently visited the beautiful Andaman Islands and experienced its culture, Andamans are home to some of the most enthralling festivals and events. These festivals and celebrations not only add memorable experiences to a tourist’s journey but also introduce them to the rich heritage of this picturesque archipelago.  

If you plan a trip to the Andaman islands and want to explore its culture in-depth, you must attend its festivals and annual events that will bring closer to the diverse traditions of the islands. Beyond the beaches and watersports, Andaman celebrates both religious festivals and cultural extravaganza that are catered towards tourists and islanders alike. 

Top Festivals of Andaman Islands to Attend

Most Andaman festivals fall in the peak tourist season which runs from October to March. However, the government and local authorities are taking initiatives to spread the celebrations of festivals and carnivals throughout the year. Such initiatives are undertaken to attract tourists round the year beyond the traditional tourist seasons—the celebration of Monsoon Music Festival is one such example. Read below the famous festivals of the Andaman Islands that you can attend on your trip. 

1. Island Tourism Festival 

The Island Tourism Festival (ITF) is an annual event which is gaining popularity with each passing year. Held annually in December and January in the capital Port Blair, this festival is a vibrant extravaganza of art and culture. Organised and hosted by the Directorate of Information, Publicity & Tourism, Directorate of Art & Culture, and other departments of Andaman and Nicobar Administration, this 10-day festival aims to showcase and promote the colourful culture, traditions and natural beauty of the Islands. Upon attending the festival, you will be fascinated by the diverse range of traditional music, arts, cultural performances, exhibits of local arts and craftsmanship, and mouth-watering epicurean delights. You can also participate in water sports competitions taking place at this festival.

An incredible ensemble of music bands, poets, artists, and other performers put on a spectacular display of artistry. The primary festival is held at Port Blair, but you will see an extension of this festival taking place at other parts of the island as well including Havelock, Neil, Wandoor, Hut Bay, Diglipur etc. If you are attending this festival for the first time, I would recommend attending the one in Port Blair.

2. Subhash Mela 

Organised in Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) and held annually in January, the Subhash Mela commemorates the birth anniversary of freedom fighter and revolutionary Netaji Subash Chandra Bose. This week-long fair typically takes place around January 23rd, which marks Netaji Subash Chandra Bose’s birthday. This mela is a delightful event for both adults and children. As an attendee, you can enjoy colourful rides, cultural shows, parades, arts and sports competitions, and watch numerous exhibitions, displaying the integrated heritage and history of these islands. You can also visit the Cellular Jail where the revered freedom fighter Subash Chandra Bose is honoured for all his bravery, freedom struggle, and service towards the motherland. 

3. Beach Festival 

The Andaman Islands are blessed with some of the best beaches in India. These beaches are known for their spectacular powdery soft sand, lush palm fringes, and crystal clear waters. To celebrate the beautiful beaches and welcome in tourists and locals under one festive fervour, the Tourism Department of Andaman & Nicobar, organises the beach festival. 

Held annually at Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, and Kalapathar Beach in the balmy weather of November or December, the beach festival is a memorable experience to add to your Andaman tour packages. The best part about this festival is irrespective of age everyone can be a part of this festivity. Various beach activities and sports competitions are organised in this event that includes beach volleyball, tug of war, boat racing, coconut tree climbing competitions, beach kabbadi, kite flying competitions, performances by local artists. And of course, how can any festival be complete without relishing the incredible culinary delights of the region. So, make sure to attend the Andaman Beach festival for a unique island holiday experience. 

4. Panorama Film Festival

Are you a film buff? If yes, then you will surely enjoy your visit to the Andaman Island in February. The Panorama film festival offers a chance and a platform to young filmmakers to display their work and gain recognition by the industry greats, critics and audiences. From short films to documentaries and from feature films to high-octane musicals, movies across genres and categories are showcased here. The festival also helps the Andaman and Nicobar islands to gain attention as a potential location for filmmaking and shooting documentaries around nature and wildlife.  

5. Monsoon Music Festival

It is generally believed that an off-season trip to Andamans during the monsoon season is only good for budget stays and discounts, as most tourist activities and water sports are temporarily closed. However, the Andaman & Nicobar Tourism Department in order to make the islands a year-round destination, has introduced the Monsoon Music Festival. Attending this festival will offer you a chance to take a deep dive into Andaman's culture, and witness heartfelt performances of singers and dancers, showcasing both traditional and modern art forms.

6. Holi

If you are planning a trip to Andaman during or around late February or early March, chances are you will get to experience the holi celebrations on the islands (if you plan your trip around that time). The beaches of Andamans are filled with tourists and locals soaked in the water and colours of the Holi festival, welcoming the arrival of spring. Many resorts and hotels also organise exclusive Holi parties for their guests with music, snacks, Thandai drinks, and games, creating an atmosphere of merriment and revelry. 

7. Panguni Utthiram

Taking place at the end of the peak (March) and the beginning of shoulder season (April), Panguni Utthiram is one of the most awaited religious festivals in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Celebrated widely with great joy and fervour amongst the Tamil community, this colourful festival pays reverence to Lord Murugun and and Devasena. It further celebrates the marital union of many Hindu deities like Shiva and Parvati, Rama and Sita, and Ranganatha (Vishnu) and Andal. The word Panguni refers to the last Solar month in the Tamil calendar, while the word Uthiram refers to Uttara Phalguni nakstra in which the moon transitions. 

Religious processions, colourful rituals, and dressing up in traditional attire is a significant part of the festival. A group of devotees carry an ornamented idol of Lord Murugan on thor shoulders, walk in the procession, and gather together at Port Blair’s Kali Temple. The streets of Port Blair are filled with colours, rhythmic sounds of drums and traditional music, and chants of mantra, creating an atmosphere of devotion and festivity. You, too, can experience this festival and seek blessings at the temple. 

8. Christmas & New Year’s Eve

Most of us have celebrated or experienced Christamas festival in cities or perhaps in hill-stations during our year-end holidays. How about this time you experience this celebration in the Andaman Islands with an added flair of tropical vibe? On Christmas eve, decorations, community gatherings, and attending Christmas mass is a common sight in the Islands. Many hotels and resorts with private beaches, host their exclusive Christmas celebrations/parties for guests. Similarly, the new year’s eve is a gala event at many places in the Andaman Islands where both locals and tourists gather to bid farewell to the passing year and welcome the new year with music, dance, food and fireworks. 

These are top festivals that one must look forward to on their trip to the Andaman Islands. These festivals aren’t a mere celebration but a way to honour the unique traditions and celebrate the rich culture and heritage of these islands.