Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Top Cities and Places in North Andaman
- Tourist Circuits and Romantic Routes
- Activities: Most Romantic Things to Do
- Best Time to Visit
- How to Reach North Andaman
- Where to Stay: Romantic Stays
- Estimated Costs for Couples
- Local Culture, Food and Shopping
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- Safety, Permits and Responsible Travel
- Suggested Romantic Itineraries
- Festivals and Events
- Budget Tips for Couples
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Wild, far-flung, and blissfully uncrowded, North Andaman is the Andamans at their most intimate. Think sandbars that appear like a dream at low tide, turtle-nesting beaches where the night sky glows with stars (and sometimes bioluminescence), and rainforest trails that rise to the archipelago’s highest peak. If you’re planning a honeymoon or a quiet couple’s escape, this northern nook—centered around Diglipur and the legendary Ross & Smith Islands—delivers romance without the rush.
Top Cities and Places in North Andaman
Diglipur (Gateway to the North)
- Largest town in North Andaman; base for Ross & Smith, Kalipur, and Saddle Peak.
- Facilities: markets, basic pharmacies, ATMs (limited), Aerial Bay Jetty.
Ross & Smith Islands
- Twin islands linked by a milky-white sandbar—perfect for hand-in-hand walks and photos.
- Great for shallow snorkeling and lazing in turquoise lagoons.
Kalipur Beach
- Known for sea turtle nesting (seasonal) and occasional bioluminescence on dark, calm nights.
- Rocky-sandy shoreline with romantic, quiet evenings.
Saddle Peak National Park
- Home to Saddle Peak (732 m), the highest point in the Andamans.
- Lush rainforest, viewpoints over the archipelago; sunrise treks are unforgettable.
Lamiya Bay and Ramanagar Beach
- Secluded stretches ideal for picnics, sunrise/sunset strolls, and couple photography.
Craggy Island (near Kalipur)
- Snorkeling hotspot with clear waters; boat access from Kalipur/Aerial Bay (weather-permitting).
Alfred Caves (Ramnagar)
- Honeycombed limestone cave system; guided visits in dry months only.
Mud Volcano (Shyam Nagar)
- Small but intriguing natural phenomenon; pair with a nearby beach visit.
Tourist Circuits and Romantic Routes
Classic North Andaman Circuit (from Port Blair)
- Port Blair → Baratang (limestone cave/bridge views en route) → Rangat → Mayabunder → Diglipur.
- Best for couples who enjoy scenic drives and a gradual build-up to the North’s remoteness.
Island & Beach Romance
- Base in Diglipur or Kalipur → Ross & Smith Island day trip → Lamiya Bay sunset → Kalipur stargazing.
Nature & Adventure Loop
- Sunrise Saddle Peak trek → Relax at Ramanagar → Optional Alfred Caves (seasonal) → Calm evening at Kalipur.
Quiet North Base with Day Forays
- Stay 2–3 nights in Kalipur; add short boat to Craggy Island (clear seas), and slow market strolls in Diglipur.
Activities: Most Romantic Things to Do
- Walk the Ross & Smith sandbar at low tide and lounge in the lagoon’s shallow blues.
- Plan a private beach picnic at Ramanagar or Lamiya Bay; carry waste back out.
- Snorkel together off Craggy Island; hire vetted local boatmen and use life vests.
- Stargaze at Kalipur Beach; on new-moon nights you may spot bioluminescence in calm seasons.
- Join a ranger-guided turtle-watching session at Kalipur/Ramnagar (Nov–Feb; strictly no flash or disturbance).
- Sunrise trek to Saddle Peak for sweeping island-and-ocean views.
- Capture golden-hour couple portraits among driftwood and volcanic rocks at Kalipur.
- Cycle or scooter along quiet village roads near Diglipur for slow-travel moments.
- Share a candlelight seafood dinner arranged by your resort on the beach (where permitted).
- Kayak or paddle in calm coves (when offered by your stay and seas are safe).
Best Time to Visit
- Peak dry season: November to April (best seas, clear skies, most boat trips operate).
- Turtle nesting: Typically November to February (permits/guided viewing only).
- Shoulder: October and May (some humidity/early rains; fewer crowds).
- Monsoon: Late May to September (rough seas, intermittent closures; romantic if you love rain but expect limited boats).
How to Reach North Andaman
Via Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport)
- By road (Andaman Trunk Road): 8–10 hours to Diglipur via Baratang, Rangat, Mayabunder. Shared buses, private cabs, and tourist coaches available.
- By sea (inter-island ferries): Government/private ferries occasionally run to Aerial Bay (Diglipur). Schedules are limited and weather-dependent; check locally in Port Blair.
- By air to Diglipur: Limited or irregular civil operations; do not rely on regular commercial flights. Information changes; confirm before planning.
Note: Travel on ATR passes near protected tribal reserves with strict regulations. No halts, photography, or interactions are allowed in reserve stretches.
Where to Stay: Romantic Stays
Best Areas for Couples
- Kalipur Beach: Quiet, beachfront cottages; easy access to sunsets, stargazing, and turtle beaches.
- Diglipur Town: Practical base with markets/ATMs; short rides to Aerial Bay Jetty and beaches.
- Near Aerial Bay/Lamiya Bay: Nature-forward stays, closer to Saddle Peak trailhead.
Types of Accommodation and Typical Range (per night)
- Budget guesthouses: ₹1,500–₹3,000
- Mid-range beach resorts: ₹3,000–₹6,000
- Boutique cottages/sea-view huts: ₹6,000–₹12,000+
Amenities vary; power and internet can be intermittent. Confirm generator backups and hot water if important to your comfort.
Estimated Costs for Couples
- Port Blair → Diglipur road transfer (one-way): Shared bus ₹800–₹1,200 per person; private cab ₹12,000–₹18,000 (vehicle type/season dependent).
- Ross & Smith permits (indicative): ~₹50–₹100 (Indians); higher for foreign nationals. Camera/eco fees may apply.
- Boat to Ross & Smith (round trip): ~₹1,200–₹2,500 per boat depending on season, sharing, and negotiation.
- Saddle Peak entry: ~₹50 (Indians), higher for foreigners; guide optional; carry ID.
- Snorkel gear rental: ~₹300–₹600 per set; guided snorkel extra.
- Meals: Local seafood/thali for two ₹400–₹1,000; resort dinners ₹1,200–₹3,000.
Approximate Daily Budget for Two
- Budget: ₹5,000–₹8,000
- Comfort: ₹8,000–₹15,000
- Splurge: ₹15,000–₹30,000+
These are estimates and vary by season, availability, and sea conditions.
Local Culture, Food and Shopping
Food to Try
- Fresh seafood: grilled fish, crab curry, squid fry (check sustainable sourcing/season).
- Andamani fish curry with coconut, red rice, and local greens.
- Simple beachside barbecues arranged by stays (where permitted).
Culture
- Multi-ethnic settler communities with a slow, sea-linked lifestyle.
- Respect protected indigenous tribes: there is no cultural tourism involving them.
Shopping
- Diglipur Bazaar for local snacks, spices, and handicrafts.
- Avoid buying corals, shells, or turtle products—strictly illegal.
- For wider choices, plan major shopping in Port Blair (Aberdeen Bazaar).
Traveler-Specific Tips
Honeymooners/Couples
- Choose Kalipur or Aerial Bay side stays for seclusion; confirm beach access and generator backup.
- Plan Ross & Smith on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and choppy afternoon seas.
- Carry a lightweight beach throw, dry bag, reef-safe sunscreen, and a headlamp for stargazing walks.
Families
- Pick accommodations with on-site dining and easy beach access.
- Use life vests for all water activities; avoid strong-current zones.
- Check age restrictions for treks/caves; carry snacks and ORS.
Friends/Small Groups
- Charter a boat and split costs for Ross & Smith/Craggy Island.
- Early starts maximize daylight for multi-stop days.
- Respect quiet hours—North Andaman is serene, with limited nightlife.
Safety, Permits and Responsible Travel
- Foreign nationals require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), typically issued on arrival at Port Blair; check latest rules.
- ATR tribal reserve stretches: no stopping, photography, or engagement. Follow convoy/traffic rules if applicable.
- Turtle nesting: guided viewing only; no lights, flashes, or touching; keep distance.
- Sea safety: obey local advisories; monsoon swells can be strong; wear life vests.
- Drones require permissions; many zones are no-fly.
- Carry cash; ATMs and mobile data can be unreliable. Keep photocopies of IDs.
Suggested Romantic Itineraries
3 Days in North Andaman (Romance Focus)
- Day 1: Arrive Diglipur → Sunset at Lamiya Bay → Quiet dinner at stay.
- Day 2: Morning Ross & Smith Island (snorkel, sandbar walks) → Late afternoon Kalipur → Stargazing.
- Day 3: Saddle Peak sunrise trek (or easy beach morning) → Market stroll in Diglipur → Depart.
5 Days Extended Escape
- Day 1: Port Blair → Diglipur via ATR (scenic stops en route where permitted).
- Day 2: Ross & Smith full day; pack a picnic and plenty of water.
- Day 3: Craggy Island snorkel (weather-permitting) → Kalipur evening.
- Day 4: Saddle Peak trek or Alfred Caves (seasonal) → Relaxed evening.
- Day 5: Linger at Ramanagar → Return to Port Blair or onward plans.
Festivals and Events
- Subhash Mela (Diglipur, around late January): Local fair with food and cultural programs.
- Turtle Nesting Season (Kalipur/Ramnagar, Nov–Feb): Conservation-oriented viewing with forest staff.
- Island Tourism Festival (primarily Port Blair, Jan): Worth attending if your route aligns.
Budget Tips for Couples
- Travel in shoulder months (Oct or May) for better rates, keeping an eye on sea conditions.
- Share boats to Ross & Smith to cut costs; start early for calmer seas.
- Eat local thalis and seafood shacks; save splurge dinners for one or two special nights.
- Use government ferries when available; pre-check schedules to avoid last-minute changes.
- Carry cash to avoid card surcharges and network issues.
FAQs
Q: Is North Andaman good for a honeymoon?
A: Yes. It’s quieter than South Andaman, with secluded beaches, scenic islands like Ross & Smith, and starry, crowd-free nights—ideal for couples who value privacy and nature.
Q: How many days should couples spend in North Andaman?
A: Minimum 2–3 nights to see Ross & Smith and Kalipur at an easy pace. With 4–5 nights, add Saddle Peak, Craggy Island, and slower beach days.
Q: Can foreigners visit Diglipur and Ross & Smith Islands?
A: Generally yes, with a valid Restricted Area Permit (RAP). Local permits/entry fees also apply for Ross & Smith. Always check current rules before travel.
Q: Is Ross & Smith open year-round?
A: Boat operations depend on weather and sea conditions. The dry season (Nov–Apr) is the most reliable; rough monsoon seas may lead to temporary closures.
Q: Are ATMs and mobile networks reliable in North Andaman?
A: Coverage is patchy and ATMs can run out of cash. Carry sufficient cash and inform your stay of expected arrival times.
Conclusion
North Andaman blends pristine seascapes with rainforest silence, creating a naturally romantic backdrop. From the ethereal sandbar of Ross & Smith to starlit evenings on Kalipur and the panoramic heights of Saddle Peak, it’s a place for unhurried moments. Plan around the dry season, build in flexibility for sea conditions, and embrace the region’s off-grid calm for a memorable couple’s escape.
