Manama to Port Blair Flights

  About Bahrain

The jewel of the Persian Gulf, the Kingdom of Bahrain is an island nation and an archipelago. With 33 small natural islands in addition to the 51 artificial islands, the country is a haven for tourists who lust the sea. Bahrain is recognised not just for its beautiful beaches and relics of the Dilmun civilisation but also for being a wealthy nation. The World Bank has also acknowledged the same as it has called Bahrain a high-income economy.

Booking flights to Bahrain is quite cheap and convenient from India. The country witnesses a tremendous number of tourists and individuals from India settled in Bahrain.

Best time to visit in Bahrain

The fall season in Bahrain is favoured as the best time for travellers to take a trip to the small archipelago. The temperatures during the fall season are quite pleasant despite the humidity. Basically, you wouldn't have to worry about the fact that the precipitation in the air would make it a hot weather. Thanks to the cold breeze during the fall month, followed by the winter season, the atmosphere is pleasant, and the vibe is favourable. June to August is definitely the worst month to visit. Due to the extreme climates of Bahrain, the summers are quite hot. This might even make stepping out of the hotel room a tab bot difficult. Hence, it should be avoided at all cost. October is the perfect month to visit Bahrain as it has a melange of climates. The residual autumn leaving the city while the cold winter breeze arrives to set camp is quite the time to be in the city. Besides, in October, the flight ticket prices to Bahrain are also quite cheap and affordable. The mediocre range of flight tickets to Bahrain gives tourists the push they need to book tickets to the city.

For those who love the winter breeze and want more of the cold weather action, you should opt for the winters between December to February for travelling. Tourist places will be open although they will be frigid because the temperature gets quite cold. Meanwhile, the accommodation prices also see a drop as many people do not wish to see Bahrain during winters due to its extreme reduction in temperature level. This means the tourist crowd is automatically reduced, giving you ample cheap flight deals and hotel booking options in Bahrain. As the prices drop, budget travellers can take this opportunity to visit the city.

Places to visit in Bahrain

The island nation of Bahrain is famously known for its flourishing history and Arabic lifestyle. As a small archipelago made up of 33 islands, Bahrain doesn't just have exquisite azure blue waters to attract tourists but also a rich culture and historical significance. The city streets look pristine with intriguing architecture, not to mention some archaeological treasures too, that is worth exploring. Visit the Bahrain National Museum and get a glimpse of some of the national history and more insights on the Dilmun civilisation. It easily becomes one of the most prominent and famous places to visit in Bahrain, owing to the preserved past of the island nation. Check out the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Qal'at al-Bahrain, a preserved relic of the Dilmun heritage. The mosques in Bahrain are just as stunning as the waters that touch the island. You should visit the Al Fateh Mosque and relish the exquisite marble work on the walls of the structure.

Bahrain's fame also comes from the motorsport culture and terrains that favour the same. When in Bahrain, do catch a race at the Bahrain International Circuit. You will be surprised to see the karting circuit and races that take place in this space. In fact, Grand Prix is also often hosted in Bahrain. However, if these aren't too touristy for you, then you should visit Manama's Financial Harbour Towers and World Trade Centre. The tall stunning skyscrapers would certainly marvel you. Take a day out to visit the Riff, one of the historical pearls of Bahrain, which boasts Bahraini-styled architecture and lifestyle.

Things to do in Bahrain

Bahrain's azure blue waters beckon you so do not hold up. Book yourself a swanky hotel room in Bahrain and head straight to the waters. The islands in Bahrain are worth exploring and something you should indulge in as soon as you reach the country. From Manama's fancy lifestyle to Muharraq's modern beaches, there are too many beaches in Bahrain that should be visited. You can also take up go-karting at the Bahrain International Circuit. You don't need to be a seasoned driver for the same. Amid the beautiful islands is the Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park. It is engaging and certainly ideal for a family rendezvous. Of course, when in the city, you simply cannot miss the shopping culture of Bahrain. The city's oldest traditional marketplace, Suq Al-Qaisariya, is literally century-old. There are malls as well with City Centre Bahrain takin the cake.

Food and Restaurants in Bahrain

Bahrain, much like all the Middle-Eastern countries, favours Arabic cuisine, which is quite evident in some of the traditional restaurants with a quaint vibe. Before you venture into their cuisine, it is important for you to know what is what. Bahraini cuisine has some standoffish dishes such as balaleet which is basically a breakfast item made from vermicelli and egg omelette. Then you've got the famous shakshooka, a melange of flavours in a pan of tomatoes, spices, peppers and scrambled eggs. You should also try out some of their other famous dishes such as mahiawa, madrooba, ouzi and tikka items. While a majority of their meals have eggs as the primary ingredient, it is the fact the flexibility of these dishes and the flavours it brings forth, that make them delicious. You should also check out lamb chops in Bahrain as they do know how to skewer their meat and present the best on a platter. Eggs and tomato are like staple dishes that are present in almost every traditional Bahraini dishes.

Some of the restaurants in Bahrain have a quaint environment with traditional Arabic vibe in terms of the architectural setting. They are culturally rich and flavourful too. Some of the restaurants that give the best culinary experience in Bahrain include Saffron by Jena Bakery, Leyan Cafe and restaurant, Haji Gahwa, Emma-Wash, Basta 23, to name a few. Bahrain also entertains varied global cuisines such as Mediterranean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Indian, Indonesian and more. You can find these cuisines at Maki Bahrain, Mirai, Jim's Restaurant, Curry Country, Bushido Restaurant, Masso, Zoe Cafe and Restaurant, Veranda restaurant and cafe, to name a few. Overall, you will be happy and satiated with their dishes and the melange of spices they bring forth.

How to reach Bahrain (Transportation)

By Air

The demand for Middle Eastern countries is always high in the country, paving the way to airlines and airports accommodating as many flights to Middle Eastern countries as possible. Flight connectivity to Bahrain from India is also quite excellent. Airlines such as Air India, Air India Express are the only ones who have direct dedicated flights to Bahrain. Cities such as Kochi, Delhi, Kozhikode, Kannur and Mangalore service these flights to Bahrain from their respective airports. Gulf Air, Emirates, Singapore Airlines and many such flights that have connectivity to Bahrain also halt in Indian cities. In fact, due to the excess demand for Bahrain, there are many flights scheduled for the same day to and from India. Bahrain International Airport is one of the oldest airports in the globe. The airport came into existence back in 1927 and had its first commercial flight land the same year. It was a London flight reaching Delhi. The flight tickets to Bahrain from India are quite cheap.

Since a tremendous number of travellers going from India, Bahrain sees great international route connectivity. This very reason has enabled the ticket prices to Bahrain to drop to an affordable rate. The distance from India to Bahrain is not too much, which further adds to the reduction in the ticket prices to Bahrain. You can book flight tickets to Bahrain irrespective of the peak season or off-season, and you will be able to get some cheap and affordable tickets. In fact, during peak season, the ticket prices to Bahrain only increase marginally and not exorbitantly. The accommodations are something you will have to look into before reaching the city. Bahrain enjoys luxury living as well as modest hotels as well. Before heading to the city, make sure you peruse through the internet and book a decent hotel room in Bahrain.

By Water

Interestingly, there are cruise facilities that connect India with Bahrain. Although the cruise passes through Mumbai port, Kochi port and even the Bay of Bengal, it is perhaps a trip you can take if you have the big bucks and the time to invest. The cruise starts Dubai and passes through Bahrain's Al Manamah before heading towards Mumbai port. If leisure is the kind of trip, you're looking at, then you would certainly have a good time on this cruise. In terms of connectivity, the trip would be super time consuming and not ideal for people who don't have enough time to spend.

  About Port Blair

Port Blair, famously known to have been a prison during the British era, is the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar islands. It is the only city in the archipelago with airport connectivity. The beautiful city of Port Blair has a significant history and culture that you should definitely explore. Not to mention the stunning beaches and green expanses that envelop the island city. The flight tickets to Port Blair are a little on the expensive side, but you can always opt for ferry or ships as an alternative to reach the city.

Best time to visit Port Blair

Port Blair offers a different vibe in every season, making it one of the most interesting places to visit. The summer season from March to May are perfect for scuba diving. The weather is not too harsh compared to the other places in India. The sky is clear, as are the waters, making it a diver's Shangri-La. The temperatures during summer in Port Blair range between 28 degree Celsius and 30 degree Celsius, which is quite pleasant and bearable. Besides, the waters would be there to cool your senses.

October to February is yet another stretch of months that sees good weather in Port Blair. The winters are quite mild but pleasant with temperatures dwindling between 15 degree Celsius to 34 degree Celsius. The weather plus the clear skies make it the most favourable season to visit Port Blair. Many honeymooners and travellers choose this season to visit the lovely Andaman Islands and explore its beaches. The city is full of life with bustling markets and beaches. Getting cheap tickets to Port Blair during the peak season is going to be quite challenging. However, if you spend more time online to figure out a good flight deal to Port Blair, immediately take it up.

Monsoon is definitely not ideal for visiting Port Blair, especially if you're planning to visit via the sea route. The heavy rainfall would cause a lot of discomfort during your voyage. Even flights might get delayed owing to bad weather.

Places to visit in Port Blair

Cellular Jail, famously known as Kalapani, is easily one of the top tourist attractions of Port Blair. What makes this place famous is how it played as a gruelling prison during the Colonial era, the memorial celebrates the lives of freedom fighters who were imprisoned on the island. The historical relevance of the place draws a lot of attention, as does the intriguing landscape. While you're here, also ensure to check out the Japanese Bunker, a complex boasting the relics of World War II. The place certainly has made several contributions to the Indian as well as global history and is definitely worth a visit. Aside from historic sites, the place also has one of the biggest pilgrim sites with a massive Murugan Temple. The exquisite Dravidian-style architecture with deities nestled on the gopuram makes for quite an experience.

An interesting excursion would be to check out the Mangkutan village where you will be taken through the rubber plantation, which is the primary source of income for people residing in Port Blair. You should also add the Marina Park and Aquarium in your list of places to visit in Port Blair. It hosts over 350 marine species, including turtles and sharks.

Things to do in Port Blair

As a city on an island, much of the place is surrounded by pristine beaches and azure blue water touching the shores. You can take up beach hopping as a way to visit some of the finest beaches of Port Blair and its surrounding. Do add Ross and Smith Islands, Butler Bay Beach, Rutland Island, Parrot Island, Cinque Island and Karmatang beach in your list. These beautiful beaches will give you the best treatment with open waters and a calming breeze. If you wish to indulge in some water sports, which we do recommend you should, go over to Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex to make the most of your time on the island. From parasailing to banana boat rides, the complex would give you a bunch of water sports activities to choose from.

Corbyn's Cove is quite a sight for sore eyes. The quaint space with its pristine blue waters would keep you engaged. Not to mention how the coconut and palm trees lining the beach would further add more scenic beauty to your pictures. If the beaches have started to bore you and you wish to get an aerial view of the lovely island where Port Blair is located, then you should trek up to the Madhuban Ranges. It is located in the Mount Harriet National Park and is known to offer the best views of the city and island from atop.

Food and Restaurants in Port Blair

Being an island could mean barely any options for vegetarians. However, vegetarians don't have to worry about that in Port Blair. The famous Annapurna restaurant and Kattabomman restaurants, both offer amazing South Indian food at an affordable cost. You will find vegetarian Chinese dishes at these food institutions as well. As for the travellers who cannot wait to check out what the seafood platter in Port Blair restaurants consists, head straight to New Lighthouse restaurant located near Marina Park in the city. You will definitely not be disappointed by the food or the ambience. You also have Sinclair's Bayview resort with its sea-facing restaurant to visit. The place has cuisine ranging from local Port Blair speciality to continental spread.

The city also caters to honeymooners and has some lovely romantic setting to give them a splendid experience. Amaya Lounge Bar is one such place where the location will blow your mind and the food, your senses. The cuisine is friendly to all as it sells experience more than heavenly food. Speaking of a romantic setting, to make things more personal, you can opt to go to Bonova Cafe and Pub, which is located close to the Govind Nagar Beach. The place has an exquisite vibe and food so divine. Mandalay restaurant is also one such restaurant in Port Blair that faces the sea and offers top-rated food. Plus, the price is not too expensive so you can try more for less money.

How to reach Port Blair

By Air

Port Blair, being the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has a domestic airport, commercially known as Veer Savarkar Airport. The airport has great flight connectivity from Port Blair to major cities in India. In fact, there are direct flights from Port Blair to Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Vizag and Delhi. These are the only destinations in India from where you can find flights to Port Blair. As for the other cities, options of connecting flights and layovers would be the only way to reach Port Blair by flight. There are no international routes connected to Port Blair as there is provision for only domestic flights. Airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, GoAir and Vistara have regular flights flying in and out of Port Blair. The closest cities to the Andaman Islands are Chennai, Vizag and Kolkata.

Reaching the island state from these three cities is known to be the easiest domestic route that can be taken. It barely takes 2.5 to 3 hours to reach Port Blair by flight from Chennai and Kolkata. However, if you are travelling from Delhi, the flight duration to Port Blair would easily take you 5 hours. International services to Port Blair are not allowed so travellers flying in from international routes will have to take a connecting flight to Port Blair. It is imperative that you carry your official documents and government papers as an international traveller. The airport conducts strict immigration checks to ensure non-natives do not enter unless the government gives them the green signal.

Interestingly, there are chopper services also available to reach Port Blair from Indian cities. Pawan Hans Helicopter Ltd. has dedicated chopper services transporting people to Port Blair from Chennai.

By Water

Various private and government ferries connect to Port Blair. You can find these ferries at the Chennai port as well as Vizag and Kolkata. Although reaching Port Blair from the sea is time-consuming, it does give you a different kind of experience, which is worth it. Out of the ships and ferry options, Chennai port is closer compared to Vizag and Kolkata, so it is recommended that you board your ships from here. Travelling by ship works perfectly if you are planning a long vacation. However, if the trip is time-bound, then you should opt to fly to Port Blair. The ship and ferry services connect to Port Blair and some of its famous islands such as Havelock, Neil Island and more.

For travellers opting ship and waterways as the medium of transport, it is recommended that you book your tickets 15 days in advance. You can make online bookings for your tickets to Port Blair as these government-owned as well as private ships have active online portals. At the same time, be abreast of the challenges that would come with travelling by sea. Many people tend to fall seasick, and this results in the whole trip being ruined. Be mindful and cautious before choosing ships.