North Bay Lighthouse
An iconic lighthouse on a coral island, famous from the Rs. 20 note, offering breathtaking ocean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler climb
North Bay Lighthouse
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler climb
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic lighthouse on a coral island, famous from the Rs. 20 note, offering breathtaking ocean views.
"The view from the top is really worth the climb."
Climb for the View! :climbing:
The 150 steps to the top are worth it for stunning panoramic ocean views. Minimal entry fee applies.
Boat Trip Essentials :boat:
Book boat tickets from Port Blair in advance, especially during peak season. Many tours include water activities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
North Bay Lighthouse Summit
Top of the lighthouse
Climb the 150 steps for breathtaking panoramic views of the turquoise ocean and surrounding islands. Truly worth the effort!
Iconic Rs. 20 Note View
Near the lighthouse
Recreate the famous view from the old Rs. 20 Indian currency note featuring the lighthouse and island.
Coral Island Scenery
North Bay Island
Enjoy the pristine beaches and clear waters of this coral island, a perfect backdrop for relaxation and photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to North Bay Lighthouse
Getting to North Bay Island
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Climb for the View! :climbing:
The 150 steps to the top are worth it for stunning panoramic ocean views. Minimal entry fee applies. +1
Boat Trip Essentials :boat:
Book boat tickets from Port Blair in advance, especially during peak season. Many tours include water activities.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing some walking and climbing, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the island and lighthouse.
Hydrate Well :droplet:
The Andaman sun can be intense. Carry water, especially if you plan to climb the lighthouse.
Tips
from all over the internet
Climb for the View! :climbing:
The 150 steps to the top are worth it for stunning panoramic ocean views. Minimal entry fee applies. +1
Boat Trip Essentials :boat:
Book boat tickets from Port Blair in advance, especially during peak season. Many tours include water activities.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing some walking and climbing, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the island and lighthouse.
Hydrate Well :droplet:
The Andaman sun can be intense. Carry water, especially if you plan to climb the lighthouse.
Capture the Iconic Shot :camera_with_flash:
Don't miss the chance to photograph the lighthouse, famously featured on the old Rs. 20 note.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the North Bay Lighthouse for its stunning panoramic views from the summit, calling the climb absolutely worth it. The iconic status, recognized from the old Rs. 20 note, adds a unique charm. While the route to the lighthouse can be hot and the path may have some minor issues, the overall experience is described as serene and memorable, with the mesmerizing ocean vistas being a major draw.
"It's a nice place to visit. Ticket price is 10 rupees per person(adult). The route to this light house is good. But you will see the road covered with cow dung. There is shops to buy jewelleries, bags, dress and food near the beach."
jinjith pj
"This was a good find in north bay island. If the weather is hot you will sweat while climbing to the foot of the light house. To climb the light house ticket cost is 10 rupees pp and it has overall 150 steps. But the view from top is really worth the climb. Do visit this if you are in north bay island."
Aakash Kumar
"The view from the top of lighthouse is nothing like anything. North Bay Lighthouse is a wonderful place to visit! The views of the ocean are absolutely stunning, and the area around the lighthouse is clean and peaceful. The lighthouse has an interesting history. If you love nature and quiet places, this is a perfect spot to spend some time!"
Sandeep Rathod
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
North Bay Lighthouse is located on North Bay Island and is accessible by boat from Port Blair. Several tour operators offer boat services, often as part of a package that includes other attractions and water sports. The journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes.
While the island itself is reached by boat, there is road access to the jetty in Port Blair from where you can catch a boat. Some content mentions 'North Bay via Road' which refers to the road leading to the departure point. 
Yes, parking facilities are generally available near the boat jetties in Port Blair for those traveling by private vehicle.
The boat ride from Port Blair to North Bay Island typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on sea conditions and the type of boat.
Boat operators usually provide life jackets, and safety briefings are common. It's always good to be aware of your surroundings and follow the crew's instructions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a nominal entry fee of approximately 10 rupees per person to climb to the top of the lighthouse. +1
The lighthouse is typically open for visitors until around 3:00 PM. It's advisable to check the exact timings upon arrival or with your tour operator.
While entry to the island might not require advance booking, securing boat tickets, especially during peak tourist seasons, is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
Many tour packages combine boat travel with water activities like snorkeling or scuba diving. Inquire with local tour operators for available options.
Generally, there is no separate fee for personal photography at the lighthouse or on the island, but drone usage might require special permissions.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of the lighthouse offers unparalleled panoramic views. The area around the lighthouse, with its stripes, and the beach itself are also great for capturing memorable shots.
Drone photography is possible, and some stunning aerial shots have been captured. However, be aware of any local regulations or restrictions regarding drone usage.
Yes, the iconic North Bay Lighthouse was featured on the reverse side of the older Indian Rs. 20 currency note, making it a historically significant landmark for photography.
Morning light offers softer illumination and fewer harsh shadows, ideal for landscape and portrait photography. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful golden hour light.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are shops and eateries near the beach that offer food, snacks, and beverages for visitors.
You can find local snacks, refreshments, and some basic meal options. It's advisable to carry some cash as not all vendors might accept digital payments.
Bringing your own snacks and water is a good idea, especially if you have specific dietary preferences or want to save time. Please ensure you dispose of any waste responsibly.
While there are shops and food stalls near the beach and jetty, dedicated restaurants are not typically found right at the lighthouse itself.
Prices for food and drinks on tourist islands can be slightly higher than on the mainland. Budget accordingly for your meals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing extra water and snacks as the island can get warm, and children might need frequent refreshments. The water activities like snorkeling can be a fantastic experience for older kids who are comfortable in the water. Ensure you choose reputable operators for these activities. The overall experience is relatively safe, with a police booth available for assistance.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Don't forget to capture the famous Rs. 20 note perspective, a nod to the lighthouse's cultural significance. Aerial shots using drones can provide unique and dramatic perspectives of the island and lighthouse, showcasing the scale and beauty of the location. Be mindful of the weather; clear skies offer the best visibility, but dramatic clouds can add mood to your shots.
+1🚶 Solo Travelers
It's a great place to meet fellow travelers if you wish, or simply enjoy the solitude and the natural beauty. The presence of shops and eateries means you won't be without amenities. Safety is generally good, with positive mentions of feeling secure even when visiting alone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of North Bay Lighthouse
+1Visitors can ascend the lighthouse, a climb of approximately 150 steps, to reach its summit. The effort is rewarded with mesmerizing panoramic views of the surrounding turquoise waters, lush green landscapes, and distant islands. This vantage point offers a unique perspective on the archipelago's natural beauty and strategic maritime importance. The area around the lighthouse is generally well-maintained, providing a peaceful environment for visitors to appreciate the scenery and reflect on the structure's history.
The lighthouse is situated on what is also known as Coral Island, highlighting the rich marine biodiversity of the region. While the lighthouse itself is a historical structure, the island offers opportunities for enjoying the serene coastal environment. The journey to the lighthouse from the jetty involves a short walk, and while the path is generally good, some reviews mention it can be hot and sweaty during peak hours, underscoring the importance of visiting during cooler parts of the day.
Experiencing North Bay Island: Beyond the Lighthouse
The island's beaches are characterized by white sand and clear, azure waters, providing a picturesque setting for relaxation. While the climb to the lighthouse is a highlight, simply enjoying the coastal scenery, taking a leisurely stroll along the shore, or relaxing by the sea are equally rewarding experiences. The presence of shops selling local handicrafts, bags, and dresses, along with food stalls, adds to the visitor experience, offering a chance to pick up souvenirs and enjoy local refreshments.
For those interested in unique perspectives, FPV drone footage has captured breathtaking aerial views of the lighthouse and its surroundings, showcasing the island's beauty from above. This highlights the photogenic nature of the location, appealing to both casual visitors and photography enthusiasts. The island's accessibility via boat from Port Blair makes it a convenient day trip, allowing visitors to combine historical exploration with aquatic adventures and natural beauty.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit