Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) in July
Andaman & Nicobar Islands, India
July on Neil is the worst month of the year. Rainfall touches 470-510mm, the southwest monsoon is at full strength, and ferry connections from Port Blair and Havelock are broken on most days. Even when boats run, the crossing is unpleasant - swells of 3-4m make the 1.5 hour ride genuinely uncomfortable. Snorkeling visibility is 5m or less. The Natural Bridge is a no-go. Cycling - the island's defining experience - is impossible in the constant rain. Most homestays are closed for staff leave. Air 25-29C is mild but persistent damp makes everything feel colder than the thermometer suggests. The next functional opening is October.
Why July scores 2.0/10
Weather
Peak monsoon. 480mm rain. Ferry network broken. Skip.
Who should go
- ✓First-time travelers
- ✓Senior citizens
- ✓Families with children
Who should think twice
- ✗Most travellers
All 12 Months
| Month | Score | Note |
|---|---|---|
| January | 10.0/10 | Peak. 24-29C, sea calm. Natural Bridge low tide windows daily. Cycle weather perfect. |
| February | 10.0/10 | Driest. 24-30C. Sitapur sunrise on glass-flat sea. Quieter post-Valentines. |
| March | 8.0/10 | Late peak. 26-31C. Snorkel vis 18-22m. Hotel rates 25% off January. Cycling pleasant pre-noon. |
| April | 8.0/10 | Hot 28-32C. Snorkel vis 18-20m. Sea calm, ferries on schedule. Off-peak with full operations. |
| May | 8.0/10 | Last clean window. 28-32C. First 18 days reliable. Late May squalls start. |
| June | 2.0/10 | Monsoon. 400mm rain. Ferries cancel. Beaches dangerous, snorkel impossible. Skip. |
| Julyviewing | 2.0/10 | Peak monsoon. 480mm rain. Ferry network broken. Skip. |
| August | 2.0/10 | Monsoon continues. 410mm rain. Most homestays closed. Ferry network broken. Skip. |
| September | 4.0/10 | Late monsoon. 270mm rain. Homestays reopening last week. Ferries patchy. Snorkel vis 12m. |
| October | 8.0/10 | Season opens. 110mm rain mostly first week. Vis recovers 18-22m. Cycling weather returning. |
| November | 8.0/10 | Strong shoulder. 60mm rain, 23-30C. Diwali week busy, otherwise excellent. |
| December | 10.0/10 | Peak. 23-29C, sea calm, snorkel vis 25m. Christmas-NY 50% premium and homestays sold out. |
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