Bike Rentals in Andaman in 2024

Renting a bike in Andaman can be a convenient and exciting way to explore the islands’ beauty at your own pace. There are agencies that have a very organized bike rental service and provides rental bikes for hire on all major islands in Andaman, including Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) and Port Blair. The agencies sometime are proactive enough to deliver the rental bikes to your hotel if you are within city limits. Alternatively, you can also pick-up the vehicle from their offices at various locations. It is important to mark the petrol pumps that are quite abundant in Port Blair.

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Renting Bikes in Port Blair

You can find some major pumps near the Airport, Junglighat, Bathubasti and Aberdeen Bazaar. The petrol pumps that remain open 24/7 are those located at Junglighat and Aberdeen Bazaar. Also, as a caution, you need to keep in mind that in Andamans, there are no petrol pumps in and around the offbeat or secluded destinations. Thus you need to ensure that you keep some petrol in reserve before leaving for the far-fetched destinations. Chidiyatapu, Wandoor, and Mount Harriet are some popular destinations that tourists target after renting two-wheelers.

Renting Bikes in Havelock Island

In Havelock Island, unlike Port Blair there is only one petrol pump. So even though Havelock Island is a perfect place to explore on a bike, you need to ensure that you fill up your tank and also keep some reserve fuel every time you attempt a long exploration of the island. Major attractions of Havelock are Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, Kalapathar Beach and VIjaynagar Beach and all these popular destinations are connected by roads and are easily accessible. The roads are in good condition in summer but gets a bit muddy and slippery in the monsoon and winter.

Renting Bikes in Neil Island

The major attractions of Neil Island can be identified as Bharatpur, Laxmanpur and Sitapur Beaches. These can be comfortably explored in one day on a bike or scooter. The island is small and as you explore the island you can enjoy the verdant greenery and the freshness of nature all around. There is no traffic congestion and bike ride is a lot of fun. The roads are fine and safe in the summer season but are a bit slippery in monsoon. Driving in monsoon thus needs extra caution. There are no petrol pumps here. Government authorized shops sell petrol. Thus it is important that you keep the tank full before you leave for any sightseeing. These petrol selling shops close as early as 5 pm. In this island too, Internet is not to be depended upon as it is either slow or patchy or does not reach at all. An offline map of the island is thus recommended for hassle-free navigation here.

Advantages of Renting a Bike

Freedom and Flexibility: Renting a bike gives you the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace and convenience. You can easily navigate through narrow roads and reach secluded spots that might be inaccessible by larger vehicles. Also, it is not always easy to make arrangements for car rentals in these small remote islands to explore any specific remote spot.
Cost-effective: Compared to hiring a taxi or a private car, renting a bike tends to be more economical. Renting bikes is especially suitable for solo travellers, couples or small groups.
Easy Access to Remote Areas: Andaman has many remote and beautiful spots that are best explored on two wheels. Bikes allow you to reach these areas easily, letting you immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquillity.
Parking Convenience: Bikes are easier to park and navigate than larger vehicles in crowded areas frequented by tourists. You can often find parking spots closer to attractions, which saves time and hassle.
Environmental Impact: Bikes have a smaller environmental footprint compared to cars or larger vehicles, making them a more Eco-friendly choice for exploring the islands.
Adventurous Experience: Riding a bike through Andaman’s scenic routes can be an adventure in itself, offering a thrilling experience while taking in the breath-taking views along the way.
Local Interaction: Riding a bike allows for more interaction with locals and provide opportunities to learn about their culture, lifestyle and even getting tips on hidden attractions or lesser-known spots to visit.
Health Benefits: Exploring the islands on a bike/cycle provides physical activity and exercise, and contributes to your overall health and well-being during your vacation.

Practical Tips While Renting a Bike

Rent a bike in Port Blair. A scooter can be rented at 400-500/day rate and you can plan to visit the local attractions such as Cellular Jail and Chidia Tapu. Even while doing day trips to Ross Island or North Bay Island you park your vehicle in the ferry parking lot of the mainland.
Avoid going to forested area or secluded areas after sunset or late evening because roads often take you through jungles.
Get to know the closing day of the wheeler shop in advance, so that you can return your vehicle timely without hassle.
The same two-wheeler when rented cannot be taken to other islands so it is better to return it and rent a new one from the island agent where you go next.
In Havelock Island, if you venture out you can easily cover Kala Patthar beach, Radha Nagar and Elephant beach as these beaches are nicely connected via good roads.
An offline map of the island where you are venturing is highly recommended as the internet is considerably slow or does not reach at all in several off-beat and secluded locations of all the three major biking islands.

Options for Bike Rentals for Tourists/Visitors

Local Shops and Agencies: In areas like Port Blair, Havelock and Neil Island, there are several local shops and rental agencies offering bikes for hire. These places usually have a variety of bikes, including scooters, mopeds and motorcycles. This variety caters to different requirements, preferences and skill levels of the visitors.
Hotels and Resorts: Some hotels or resorts might have tie-ups with local rental shops to offer the facility to the visitors and sometimes they rent bike rental services directly to their guests. Inquire at your play of stay for recommendations or rental options they might facilitate.

Requirements for Renting a Bike

Valid Driving License: You’ll need a valid driver’s license to rent a bike in Andaman. Make sure to carry your license along with other identification documents as per the rental agency’s requirements.
Security Deposit: Rental shops often ask for a security deposit, which is refundable upon returning the bike in the same condition as rented. Ensure you understand the deposit terms before renting.
Insurance and Safety: Check the insurance coverage provided with the bike rental. Additionally, inspect the bike for any existing damages before taking it and familiarize yourself with safety precautions and local traffic rules.
Cost and Duration: Rental prices vary based on the type of bike and duration of rental. Negotiate the rental duration and cost beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings later.

Popular Attractions That Can Be Easily Reached By Biking

Havelock Island: Renting a bike here allows you to explore popular spots like Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, and Kalapathar Beach at your own pace.
Port Blair: Explore historical sites like Cellular Jail, Corbyn’s Cove Beach, and Chidiya Tapu using rented bikes to move around conveniently.
Neil Island: Biking around Neil Island offers a chance to visit stunning beaches like Sitapur, Laxmanpur, and Bharatpur Beach.

Tips and Considerations for Hassle-Free Bike Renting Experience

Plan Ahead: During peak tourist seasons, the demand for bikes as any other facility shoots up and thus it is advisable to book bikes in advance to ensure availability.
Check for Damages: Before taking the bike, thoroughly inspect it for any damages or issues. List them down and inform the rental agency to avoid misunderstandings when you return.
Fuel Stations: Check and get to know the locations of fuel stations on the islands and ensure the bike has sufficient fuel for your planned itinerary.
Road Conditions: Be aware of road conditions, especially if you’re venturing into less developed areas. Some roads might be rough or uneven.
Restrictions or Protected Zones: Always consult the local agent or travel guide of the resort/hotel where you put up before pinning a destination. Check timings and also if any restrictions are imposed in the locality. Andaman has a lot of protected areas where visitors are not allowed.
Avoid Overt Friendliness: Avoid being overly friendly with the localites. Do not be lured by strangers.
Driver’s License: A valid 2-wheeler driver’s license needs to be produced at the time when the bike is handed over.
Wearing Helmet: Both rider and pillion must wear a helmet during the ride, as per the ANTP’s orders. Helmets for two are provided along with the bike after booking.
Fuel: Petrol/Diesel should be filled by the guest as per usage requirements.
Rules: Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited.

Renting a bike in Andaman offers flexibility and the chance to explore the islands at your own pace. Always prioritize safety, adhere to traffic rules and abide by the general local rules and regulations. Respect the culture and the people you encounter. Enjoy the scenic rides across the pristine natural beauty of the islands and the refreshing beaches.