The Taj Exotica Havelock Island opened in spring 2018 and is the first luxury hotel to build in these most remote of archipelagos. Nestled amongst the verdant greenery and just moments from beautiful Radhanagar Beach, the resort prides itself on its commitment to conservation, sustainability and eco credentials and has its own biogas facility, water bottling plant, a reservoir for rainwater harvesting and partial harvesting of solar energy.

With just 75 villas, the resort feels intimate yet with plenty of space to explore and relax. Be sure to experience the sublime sunsets on Radhanagar Beach and watch out for a myriad of crabs scuttling along the beach.

When to go

December through to March is the very best of year to visit the Andaman Islands. Scuba diving is at its very best during this period and you can also enjoy the turtle nesting season and game fishing. During the day you can expect dry and warm weather with cooler evenings. Although October and November can bring short rains there is also a good chance of uninterrupted sunshine.

Location

The Andaman Islands form an archipelago in the Bay of Bengal between India to the west and Myanmar (formerly Burma) to the north and east. The approximately 300 islands are well known for their palm-lined, white-sand beaches, mangroves and tropical rainforests. Beneath the azure sea, beautiful coral reefs support a wealth of marine life including sharks and rays which makes the islands excellent diving and snorkelling sites. Some of the most remote islands are inhabited by indigenous Andamans however do note that many of these particular islands are off limits to visitors.

Havelock Island is known as the Pearl of the Andaman and has seven glorious untouched beaches flanked by sweeping coconut palms. Here, on the renowned Radhanagar Beach, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa sits nestled over 46 acres of land.

Accommodation

The Deluxe Villas at Taj are inspired by Jarawa huts and whilst rustic, they provide every modern comfort and each has a private pool. The modish, 1580 sq. ft. villas built in sustainable plantation timber are inspired by the dwellings of the Jarawa tribe. There are 75 villas each with plenty of space to unwind and all the modern conveniences you’d expect of a luxury hotel.  Inside, the standard villas are decorated in a modern yet classic Taj style. Each air-conditioned villa is raised up on stilts and has a king-sized bed and bathroom with rain shower and separate bath tub. Relaxing outside seating areas are furnished with deck chairs and beds so you can spend your days in comfort.

Dining

The hotel has two restaurants. The Turtle House is a classic grill restaurant with a relaxed bistro feel serving delicious food all day. Overlooking the enormous infinity pool, it is simply perfect for long lunches and a romantic dinner under the stars. The menu has classics from around the world freshly made with local ingredients.

The hotel’s signature restaurant is The Settlers which showcases the cuisine of immigrant communities brought to the Andaman islands over 70 years ago. Expect a refined and interesting dining experience with typically excellent levels of Taj service.