Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do
- How to Reach
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Nearby Attractions
- Tips for a Responsible Visit
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
On silent Andaman nights, the surf hisses and the stars hang low as ancient sea turtles rise from the Indian Ocean to nest. Experiencing turtle nesting in the Andaman Islands is a rare, humbling encounter with nature’s oldest mariners—best witnessed at beaches like Kalipur and Ramnagar (Diglipur), Karmatang (Mayabunder), and the Dhaninallah boardwalk beach (Rangat). With forest guides, red-light torches, and careful etiquette, you can watch females lay eggs or see hatchlings make their first dash to the sea.
History & Importance
The Andaman & Nicobar archipelago is part of a key Indo-Pacific turtle corridor. Four species nest here:
- Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea) – globally endangered; major rookeries in the Nicobar group.
- Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea) – mass nesters across the Indian coastline, including Andaman beaches.
- Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas) – nests across select Andaman beaches.
- Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) – critically endangered; sporadic nesting.
Accessible, conservation-managed nesting sites for visitors are concentrated in North and Middle Andaman: Kalipur, Ramnagar, Karmatang, and the Dhaninallah mangrove boardwalk beach. Forest Department hatcheries operate at several beaches to safeguard eggs from predation and erosion. Strict guidelines (no flash, no touching, distance rules) protect turtles under India’s Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Note: Iconic leatherback rookeries in Great Nicobar are remote and sensitive; public access is restricted and subject to permits and conservation controls.
Best Time to Visit
- Prime season: December to March (peak sightings often January–February).
- Shoulder: November and April can still offer activity depending on tides and moon phase.
- Time of night: Typically after sunset, with higher chances around high tide windows (varies daily).
- Weather: Seas are calmer and skies clearer in winter. Monsoon (May–September) brings rough seas and restricted night activities.
Tip: Moonless nights increase your chances of witnessing nesting, but all visits must follow local forest guidelines and timings.
Top Things to Do
Guided Night Turtle Watch
- Join a Forest Department–approved guide at Kalipur, Ramnagar, Karmatang, or the Dhaninallah boardwalk beach.
- Use red-light torches only; keep 10–15 meters away; stay low and quiet.
- Understand that sightings aren’t guaranteed; patience is part of the experience.
Dawn Hatchling Release (When Applicable)
- Some hatcheries organize supervised releases when clutches hatch.
- These are conservation-led, limited, and may be announced on short notice.
Beach Clean-ups & Conservation Talks
- Participate in community or resort-led clean-ups that remove plastic and ghost nets.
- Attend ranger briefings to learn identification, tracks, and nesting behaviors.
Mangrove and Nature Walks
- Stroll the Dhaninallah mangrove boardwalk near Rangat; spot mudskippers and kingfishers.
- Combine with birdwatching in early mornings.
Island Add-ons
- Diglipur: Day trip to Ross & Smith Islands, a stunning twin-island sandbar.
- Trek to Saddle Peak (Andamans’ highest point) for panoramic rainforest views.
How to Reach
Entry: Port Blair
- Fly into Veer Savarkar International Airport (Port Blair) from major Indian cities.
- Ferry links to other islands depart from Port Blair; schedules vary by season and sea state.
Getting to Key Nesting Beaches
- Kalipur & Ramnagar (Diglipur, North Andaman):
- By road: ~325 km from Port Blair via the Andaman Trunk Road (NH4), typically 10–12 hours by bus/shared jeep/private car.
- By sea: Occasional government ferries to Diglipur via Mayabunder (check current schedules and book early).
- Karmatang (Mayabunder, Middle Andaman):
- By road: ~240 km from Port Blair; 3–4 hours from Diglipur; local taxis available from Mayabunder town.
- Dhaninallah (Rangat, Middle Andaman):
- By road: ~170–180 km from Port Blair; well-signed boardwalk near the highway.
- Little Andaman (Hut Bay):
- By ferry from Port Blair; sailings are weather-dependent. Visitor access and permits can change—confirm latest rules with the authorities before planning turtle activities here.
Important: Road and ferry operations may change due to weather, conservation controls, and route advisories. Always confirm current timings, permits, and guide availability locally.
Accommodation Options
Near Diglipur (Kalipur & Ramnagar)
- Range: Simple beachside resorts, eco-lodges, and homestays in Kalipur and Diglipur town.
- What to expect: Basic-to-midrange rooms, on-site eateries, assistance with guide coordination.
Near Mayabunder (Karmatang)
- Range: Government-run guesthouses and private lodges in Mayabunder; day visits to Karmatang by taxi/auto.
- What to expect: Clean, functional stays; limited nightlife; pre-arranged night pickups for turtle watch.
Near Rangat (Dhaninallah)
- Range: Budget guesthouses, select government tourist lodges in Rangat town.
- What to expect: Early starts and early nights; easy access to the boardwalk and highway eateries.
Little Andaman
- Range: A handful of simple stays near Hut Bay; options fluctuate seasonally.
- What to expect: Remote vibes, limited supplies; confirm permits and guide availability beforehand.
Booking Tips
- Reserve well ahead for Dec–Feb weekends and public holidays.
- Ask accommodations to liaise with local forest beat offices for guided night walks.
- Carry cash; ATMs and card acceptance can be patchy in remote areas.
Estimated Costs
- Stay (per night, double occupancy): Budget INR 1,500–3,000; Midrange INR 3,000–7,000; Upper-mid INR 7,000–12,000.
- Meals: INR 250–600 per person per meal at local eateries; seafood specials extra.
- Transport: Port Blair–Diglipur bus INR 700–1,200; private car with driver from Port Blair for 3–4 days INR 18,000–30,000 (fuel/tolls extra); local taxis INR 1,200–2,500 per short return trip at night.
- Guided turtle watch/hatchery visit: Often nominal or regulated; expect INR 200–1,000 per person where applicable. Some areas require permits (fees vary).
Sample 3-day turtle-focused trip (per person, twin share): Budget INR 9,000–14,000; Midrange INR 15,000–25,000, excluding flights.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Try seafood thalis, crab/reef fish curries, grilled fish with coconut-chilli marinades.
- Vegetarian staples: dal, sabzi, rotis, island-grown vegetables and bananas.
- Hydrate with tender coconut; carry snacks for late-night watches (leave no litter).
Shopping
- Government emporiums in Port Blair offer certified handicrafts.
- Avoid buying coral, turtle products, or shells; possession/transport is regulated and often illegal.
Culture & Etiquette
- Andamans host diverse settler communities; be respectful and dress modestly in smaller towns.
- Never attempt to visit or photograph protected tribal reserves.
- On beaches at night: keep noise low, avoid bright lights, and follow the guide’s lead.
Nearby Attractions
Diglipur Area
- Ross & Smith Islands: Famous twin islands connected by a sandbar; crystal-clear shallows.
- Saddle Peak National Park: Challenging rainforest trek with rewarding views.
- Alfred Caves (seasonal): Limestone cave network; go with a local guide.
Middle Andaman
- Dhaninallah Mangrove Boardwalk (Rangat): Serene, interpretive walk to a sea-facing beach.
- Karmatang Beach (Mayabunder): Long sandy sweep; turtle nesting in season.
Enroute/Port Blair
- Baratang: Limestone caves and mud volcano (enroute on NH4; timings apply).
- Chidiya Tapu (near Port Blair): Sunset views and coastal birding.
Tips for a Responsible Visit
- Use only red-light torches; never use flash photography or white lights.
- Maintain a 10–15 m distance from turtles; stay behind the turtle’s line of sight.
- Keep groups small and quiet; avoid sudden movements and vibrations.
- Do not touch turtles, eggs, or hatchlings; do not alter tracks for photos.
- Pack out all trash; avoid single-use plastic; skip beach fires.
- Heed local safety advisories. Some mangrove-fringed beaches can have saltwater crocodile advisories—follow posted warnings and guide instructions.
- Be flexible. Tides, weather, and conservation needs can change plans at short notice.
Traveler-Specific Tips
Families
- Choose early-night slots and beaches with easy access (e.g., Dhaninallah boardwalk).
- Carry light sweaters, snacks, insect repellent, and a backup power bank.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Pick quieter weekdays for more intimate experiences.
- Combine turtle watch with a day trip to Ross & Smith or a sunset at secluded beaches.
Friends/Backpackers
- Share private transfers to reach remote beaches at night affordably.
- Volunteer for beach clean-ups if available; it’s rewarding and social.
Packing List (Season-Ready)
- Red-light headlamp, breathable layers, light rain shell (shoulder months).
- Closed sandals/shoes for boardwalks; reef-safe sunscreen for day trips.
- Insect repellent, small first-aid kit, dry bags, reusable water bottle.
- Copies of IDs/permits, offline maps; mobile signal can be patchy.
FAQs
Q: Where are the best beaches to see turtle nesting in the Andamans?
A: For visitors, the most practical spots are Kalipur and Ramnagar (Diglipur), Karmatang (Mayabunder), and the Dhaninallah boardwalk beach (Rangat). Access depends on season, tides, and local advisories, so confirm with the Forest Department or your stay.
Q: What months offer the highest chance of sightings?
A: December to March is prime, with many visitors reporting the best luck in January–February. Sightings vary by tide, moon phase, and beach conditions.
Q: Can I take photos during nesting?
A: Only if the guide allows, using red light and no flash. Many sites prohibit photography during critical moments to prevent disturbance. Always follow your guide’s instructions.
Q: Do I need permits for turtle watching?
A: Some beaches or hatcheries require permissions or guided entry, especially at night. Your hotel or local Forest Department office will brief you on current rules and timings.
Q: Is it safe to swim at turtle beaches?
A: Daytime swimming may be allowed at some beaches, but conditions change. At night, swimming is not advised. In mangrove-lined areas, heed any saltwater crocodile advisories and posted warnings.
Conclusion
Andaman’s turtle nesting season offers a quiet, unforgettable window into marine life. With patient, guided night walks, respectful distances, and conservation-first behavior, you can witness turtles nest or hatchlings emerge—then round off your trip with mangrove walks, sandbar islands, and rainforest treks. Plan for December–March, confirm local advisories, and keep your footprint light to protect these remarkable shores.
