NEIL ISLAND BEACHES

Neil Island has as many beaches as villages, five in number. Few of them are suitable for swimming, but they offer the possibility of sumptuous walks, alone in the world, or almost.

Laxmanpur Beach (Beach n° 1): located at the north-western tip of the island, it is reached by a road that crosses the coconut grove, then a mysterious forest. Its white sand and dead corals on the beach make it a photogenic place. Its rocky and coral bottoms are very popular with snorkeling enthusiasts. In the evening, many people gather here to watch the sun set the sky and sea on fire, with Havelock as a backdrop.

Beach n° 2 : located in the southwest of the island, this beach is famous for its natural stone arch, called Howarah Bridge. At the end of the road, you will have to climb a few steps and take a path through the forest before arriving on a huge beach littered with driftwood. The arch is on your left. The beach is only accessible at low tide, and you will probably have the opportunity to observe turtles. Ask your hotel for the schedule before going there.

Ramnagar Beach (Beach n° 3) : Located in the south of the island, this cove of powdery white sand is perfect for sunbathing and snorkeling. It can be reached from the Blue Sea Restaurant or the Kalapani resort.

Bharatpur Beach (Beach No. 4): the only beach on the island really suitable for swimming is located to the north, to the right of the jetty. Its curaçao waters, its pink sand and its forest make it an idyllic place to rest for a few minutes or a few hours. The government has even installed a few straw huts along the beach, which are often crowded. However, you should know that the sand bank is barely wide enough to put a towel and the beach is frequented by Indian tourists: decent dress for women is required. This beach is also suitable for water activities: snorkeling, diving, jet-skiing, glass-bottom boat rides...

Sitapur Beach (Beach n° 5) : at the east of the island, at the end of the road along Ramnagar Beach, this small cove with crystal clear waters is not very popular. Swimming can be dangerous because of currents and reefs nearby. At low tide, you can explore some natural caves. A path starts on the right side of the beach, crosses the forest and leads to other deserted beaches (of rocks). But be careful where you put your feet, some walkers have come across snakes there! However the place is recommended to admire the sunrise.