Bharatpur Beach, Neil Island: Swimming, Snorkelling and Boats
Bharatpur Beach on Neil Island: swimming, snorkelling, glass-bottom boats, best time, how to reach it and how it compares with Laxmanpur.
Bharatpur is the beach that most visitors to Neil Island come for. It is a short, sheltered stretch of sand beside the jetty, with shallow water and a reef close to shore. It is the island's main place for swimming, snorkelling and glass-bottom boat rides.
This guide explains what it offers, when to go and how it compares with the island's other beaches.
Boats at Bharatpur Beach.
At a glance | |
|---|---|
Where | Near the jetty on the north-east of Neil Island |
Good for | Swimming, snorkelling, glass-bottom boats |
Entry | Free |
Best time | Morning, at high tide for swimming |
Time needed | 2 to 3 hours |
Season | October to May |
What you can do
Swim: the water is shallow and calm in the main section, and it suits families.
Snorkel: the reef is close to the shore and snorkelling gear can be rented on the beach.
Glass-bottom boat: short rides over the coral are on offer from the jetty area. Prices vary, so ask a few boatmen.
Water sports: some operators offer sea walks and jet skis, subject to the season and rules.
Tide matters. At low tide the water recedes, and the shallow reef is more exposed. Ask locally for the day's tide times.
How it compares
Bharatpur: the active beach. Best for swimming and the reef.
Laxmanpur: the sunset beach, with a long sandy shore and the famous natural bridge nearby.
Sitapur: a quieter beach for sunrise.
See our Neil Island guide for the full island.
The water off Bharatpur.
Getting there
Bharatpur is right beside the main jetty, a few minutes by auto or on foot from the pier. Hotels on the island are within a short ride.
By ferry: from Port Blair or Havelock. See the ferry guide.
On the island: autos and bikes are easy to find.
Tips
Go in the morning, before the boats get busy.
Carry sunscreen and a hat.
Use a life jacket if you are not a strong swimmer.
Do not touch or stand on the coral.
Keep small cash for boats and gear.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bharatpur Beach good for swimming?
Yes, especially at high tide in the morning.
Can you snorkel there?
Yes, gear is available for rent.
Are glass-bottom boats available?
Yes, from the jetty area.
Is there an entry fee?
No. The beach is free.
How long should I spend there?
Two to three hours.
Plan your Andaman days with us
We place Neil in the right slot and book the stay, ferry and boat. Explore the Andaman destination page or talk to a trip designer.
Photo credits
Bharatpur Beach: Harvinder Chandigarh, CC BY-SA 4.0. Water off Bharatpur: Ankur Panchbudhe, CC BY-SA 2.0. Both via Wikimedia Commons.
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