Andaman vs Shimla - Which Is Better for Your Next Holiday?

Are you planning for a memorable holiday but quite confused between Andaman Islands or Shimla? Well, this is one of the common questions every traveler asks us before planning their vacation.

Honestly, both Andaman and Shimla are beautiful in their own way but the kind of experience they offer is completely different from each other. When we talk about Shimla, Shimla is a stunning hill station that offers cool weather, colonial architecture, mall road and classic mountain town feel. Reaching Shimla is very convenient because this destination is accessible by road but it is mostly crowded with tourists every time of the year. But on the other hand, Andaman Island feels like magic because it is like stepping into a different world full of crystal clear water, white sandy beaches, marine life, stunning island and stunning sunsets. Visiting Andaman island is a kind of experience that will immediately refresh your soul and will brighten your day.

So today, we will break it down together and see which will give you a more relaxing and luxurious experience.... Andaman or Shimla?

1. Andaman Island - A Friendly Overview

Just imagine you plan your trip to Andaman Islands and the moment you land on the airport, you will be surrounded by crystal blue water, soft white sandy beaches, coconut trees, fresh air full of greenery all around you. That is the magic of the Andaman Islands. It is one of the rare yet beautiful tourist destination where you can relax, breathe and feel comfortable.

What Makes Andaman Island so Special and Unique

• Andaman Islands is often considered as a perfect destination for honeymoon couples, families and adventure lovers.
  
• Andaman Islands is a home to famous Radhanagar Beach, which is ranked as Asia's cleanest and most beautiful beaches.
  
• Andaman Islands offers one of the top best water sports activities in India.
  
• This beautiful island is both peaceful, luxurious and less crowded than any other tourist spots.
  
• Andaman Island is one of the safest destinations and even solo travelers can enjoy it stress free.

From the world famous Radhanagar Beach to the colorful coral reefs of Neil Island, each and every destination of Andaman Islands feels international, vibrant and stunning. 

2. Shimla - A Quick Honest Review

Shimla, the queen of hills definitely has its own charm. This destination offers cool weather, mountains, hills and colonial architecture that feels completely different and overall it gives a new experience. But currently, Shimla has become quite crowded and commercial, mostly during the peak seasons. Earlier Shimla used to come under top tourist destinations because it felt peaceful but now it often feels busy and more crowded.

What Makes Shimla so Special

• Exploring the Mall Road, hopping between cafes and enjoying colonial era architecture.

• Shimla destination is a perfect choice for a short and budget friendly trip.

• This destination offers a heavy crowd during summer, long weekends and festival seasons.

• Shimla offers less activities compared to beach destinations. The moment you explore the main spot, there are not any other places left to explore.

Shimla is one of the lovely and beautiful destinations for a quick weekend trip. But if you are dreaming of a vacation that feels different, refreshing and unforgettable, then we suggest you visit Andaman Islands, because it gives you an experience like no other.

Why Andaman Is Better Than Shimla?

1. Andaman Feels Like an International Destination

You can ask those travelers who have visited Andaman Islands, they will say the same thing that Andaman Island does not feel like India at all. There are many travelers who describe Andaman Island as a perfect blend of Maldives, Bali and Seychelles. The moment you visit Andaman Islands, you will be greeted with:

• The water of Andaman beaches are so clear that you can see the sand beneath.

• The beaches of Andaman island look untouched and clean.

• You can spot the coral reefs shining in the shades of red, orange and blue.

Shimla destination is lovely and gives a familiar feel like Manali, Mussoorie, Dalhousie or any popular hill station. On the other hand, Andaman Island gives a completely new and unique experience. 

2. Zero Pollution, Zero Traffic, Zero Noise

 Shimla is more beautiful and stunning but lets be honest, during the summer and holiday, Shimla becomes extremely crowded and busy. The Mall Road of Shimla is crowded and busy with massive traffic and hotels fill up very quickly. But on the other hand, Andaman Islands are totally opposite. Because, it offers:

• Quiet and empty beaches.

• Peaceful islands with slow and calming vibes.

• Clean and well maintained roads.

• Fresh air with no pollution

• No rush, no traffic and no chaos.

  
  

3. Better Weather All Year Round

Shimla is one of the lovely destinations but the weather can become harsh, especially during the peak winter season when it gets very cold that makes the long walk and sightseeing uncomfortable. Andaman Islands on the other hand, welcomes you with an all year round climate that feels very natural and calming. In Andaman Islands, you will get:

• A pleasant and calming weather throughout the year.

• It offers soft and comfortable sunshine which is not too hot and not too cold.

• It offers a gentle sea breeze that makes it perfect for outdoor activities.

  
  

4. Andaman Island offers World Class Water Sports Activities

If you get more excited to adventure water activities, then you should visit Andaman islands. Because this island offers an experience that you will not find in any of the hill stations and mountains. In Andaman Islands, you can explore:

• Scuba Diving: You get the chance to explore colorful coral reefs and vibrant marine life.

• Sea Walk: You will be walking on the ocean floor that gives a complete new experience.

• Snorkeling: Float near the shore of Andaman ocean and enjoy colorful fishes and marine life.

• Glass Bottom Boat Ride: Explore the colorful coral without even getting wet.

• Jet Ski: Feel the thrill of riding on the open sea of Andaman Islands.

• Night Kayaking: Enjoy kayaking and witness the sea glow with bioluminescence.

• Dolphin Watching: You will get the chance to explore playful dolphins on the open sea.

This is the unique experience that you will not find in Shimla. Andaman islands is not just about beaches but gives you a unique experience that you will never forget.

5. A Much Better Honeymoon Destination Than Shimla

If you are a newly married couple and looking for a romantic vacation, then we suggest you to visit the Andaman Islands because it offers peace, privacy and luxury. Couples can enjoy many things together like:

• Candlelight dinner near the sea.

• You will be experiencing a long, peaceful walk on uncrowded beaches.

• Get a chance to stay at beautiful luxury resorts near the beaches.

• Enjoy dreamy sunsets with breathtaking views.

• Capture complimentary romantic beachside photoshoots with your partner.

Shimla is also one of the best destinations for honeymoon because it offers privacy and scenic beauty but it is filled with crowded tourists and cold weather that would be suitable for everyone. So, if you want a honeymoon that feels more magical and intimate, then Andaman islands should be your choice.

6. Andaman Offers Better Scenic Beauty and Photography

If you are someone who loves capturing moments of scenic beauty, then Andaman Islands offers scenic attractions that feel straight out of a movie. 

• Radhanagar Beach: This beach offers crystal clear water, white sandy beaches and stunning sunset views.

• Laxmanpur Beach: This beach offers beautiful golden skies that look amazing.

• Elephant Beach: This beach is known for this charming underwater colorful coral and marine life. You can capture the underwater beauty while scuba diving and many other activities.

• Ross Islands: Surround yourself with friendly deers and peacocks with a vintage surroundings.

When we talk about Shimla, you will get only similar views of hills, mall roads and snowfall. But on the other hand, Andaman offers a different and colorful view from scenic to underwater world that eventually creates a truly eye catching experience.

What Makes Shimla So Special?

• Snowfall (Seasonal)

Snowfall in Shimla is definitely beautiful and stunning, everything around your surroundings turns white, you will hear kids playing and enjoying the snowfall. But the moment the snowfall season starts, this destination becomes double crowded with huge traffic and it becomes very difficult to find a peaceful spot nearby. 

• Toy Train

The toy train ride in Shimla is scenic and gives an amazing experience. But once you experience it, your excitement level will fade because there is not much activity to enjoy in Shimla. 

• Good for Budget Travelers

Shimla offers a beautiful weekend, especially if you are looking for a budget friendly vacation. But if you want a long vacation with some space, calmness and privacy, Shimla crowded markets and repetitive landscapes can feel irritating.

• Hill Views

The hills and mountains of Shimla look stunning but after sometime it feels the same like any other towns like Manali, Mussoorie or Dharamshala. All these destinations offer the same experience and views.

In short, Shimla offers stunning views and wonderful experiences but it is quite crowded and commercial. This destination is great for a short and budget friendly holiday, but is not ideal for a long and refreshing vacation. On the other hand, Andaman offers a far different experience with coral reefs and each island offers a different experience that will make your travel experience truly unforgettable.

Andaman or Shimla - A Detailed Trip Comparison

• Adventure Activities

Andaman:

If you want your vacation to be a little adventurous, then Andaman Islands should be the perfect choice for you. You can participate in many water activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, sea walks, parasailing, jet skiing and even island hopping as well. Each islands of Andaman offers a different experience and each activity feels fresh and exciting.

Shimla: 

Travelers usually visit Shimla to experience the snowfall, because instead there are not any other activities you can do. You can participate in trekking, try ice skating in winter or do some sightseeing. These experiences are nice, but not as exciting as activities in the Andaman Islands.

• Food & Culture

Andaman:

The foods of Andaman Islands are amazing, especially if you love sea foods. You can enjoy many fresh sea foods like fresh fish, prawns, crabs and lobsters. You will also find huge amounts of fresh fruits like mangoes, bananas and coconut. The culture in Andaman Islands offers a perfect mix of Bengali, Tamil and Nicobari so everything feels new and completely different.

Shimla:

Shimla offers delicious North Indian and Himachal foods, but it almost tastes the same as what you will get in many other hill stations. The cultural experience in Shimla is good but not specifically unique or different.

• Weather

Andaman:

Andaman Island offers pleasant and almost the same weather conditions all year. You will get the chance to experience warm sunshine, cool sea breeze with no harsh winter. 

Shimla: 

Shimla usually gets very cold in winter, that makes most of the travelers explore that destination. In summer, this destination becomes very crowded and the peaceful hill station starts losing its charm.

• Crowd & Cleanliness

Andaman:

The beaches of Andaman Islands are very clear and well maintained. There are many places in the Andaman Islands that feel quiet and untouched. 

Shimla: 

Shimla usually gets more crowded, especially around mall roads and popular viewpoints. The excess crowds can even disturb your vacation for travelers who are looking for peace and quiet vacation.

Budget Comparison: Andaman vs Shimla

Andaman Trip (5 to 6 Days)

The package will cost you around INR 22,000 to 45,000 per person.

The cost of Andaman package usually includes:

• Comfortable hotels (beachside resorts are also available).

• It includes sightseeing tours to many destinations like Havelock, Neil and Port Blair.

• The package includes inter island ferry transfers which gives a unique travel experience.

• The package includes many water sports activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, sea walking and many more.

• All facilities like airport transfers, sightseeing tours, complimentary breakfast, complimentary photoshoot and snorkeling session and pick up and drop are included in this package.

When it comes to the Andaman package, it is not about just paying for the holiday but you will be exploring natural beauty, pristine beaches that you will not find in any other places of India.

Shimla Trip (4 to 5 Days)

The package of 5 Days will cost you around INR 12,000 to 20,000 per person.

This package usually includes:

• Standard to premium accommodation.

• Provide local sightseeing within Shimla and nearby Kufri.

• Includes basic transportation within the city.

Yes, I agree that Shimla is cheaper than Andaman, but it will overall give you a very casual experience, but on the other hand, Andaman Islands will give you an experience like never before. It is a once in a lifetime experience that you will remember forever. 

Best Time to Visit 

Andaman:

The perfect time to visit the Andaman Islands is October to May. During these months, the weather of Andaman is calm, sunny and perfect for travelers who want to participate in water sports activities. However, the islands are beautiful and greenery throughout the year. 

Shimla:

If you want pleasant weather, then we suggest you visit during March to June. If you want to experience the snowfall, then visit during the month of December to January. But the winter months can get very cold and makes it difficult for sightseeing. Whereas, the summer season becomes a bit crowded with tourist. 

Andaman Bliss - Your Trusted Local Tour Operator

We are a trusted local tour operator, based right here in the Andaman Islands. With Andaman Bliss, you can enjoy:

• You will get local guidance from people who truly know the islands.

• We offer customized tour packages as per your interest and budget.

• We offer budget, standard and luxury packages for every type of traveler.

• We offer 24x7 customer support.

• We make sure you have hassle free transfers between islands.

• We offer the best rates of ferries, hotels, sightseeing and activities.

Whether it is a honeymoon, family vacation, group tour or any adventure holiday, we make sure to plan everything according to your interest so that you get the best and stress free Andaman vacation.

Final Thoughts: Andaman vs Shimla - Which Is Better?

If you are looking for a destination that offers clean beaches, tropical weather, peaceful surroundings, luxury experience and adventure activities, then Andaman Islands is clearly a winner. This destination is quite unique, refreshing and will give you a kind of memory that will stay with you forever. But on the other hand, Shimla is a perfect destination for a short and casual vacation, but when it comes to an unforgettable Andaman holiday, then with no doubt Andaman Islands stands far ahead.