Table of Contents
- Introduction
- North Andaman in March: Weather and Vibe
- Top Places in North Andaman
- Tourist Circuits and Routes
- Best Activities to Do in March
- Festivals and Seasonal Events
- Practical Travel Information
- Where to Stay
- Estimated Trip Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Suggested Itineraries for March
- Budget Tips
- Tips for Families, Honeymooners, and Friends
- FAQs about North Andaman in March
- Conclusion
Introduction
North Andaman, the wilder and quieter side of the Andaman Islands, comes alive in March with calm seas, warm sunshine, and excellent visibility for snorkelling. From the twin gems of Ross & Smith Islands to the cloud-kissed summit of Saddle Peak, this region blends castaway beaches, mangroves, turtle nesting sites, and rainforest treks—without the bustle you’ll find on the southern islands.
This guide covers everything you need to plan North Andaman in March: weather, routes, permits, activities, stays, costs, and smart tips for different travelers.
North Andaman in March: Weather and Vibe
- Temperature: around 25–32°C in the day; nights are balmy.
- Rain: generally low; occasional brief pre-monsoon showers possible.
- Sea conditions: typically calm; ideal for boat trips and sandbar walks.
- Underwater: water temp ~28–29°C; good snorkel visibility.
- Crowds: lighter than peak winter; easier permits and boat slots.
- Wildlife: late-season turtle nesting around Kalipur, Ramnagar, and Karmatang (viewing only with forest guidelines).
Top Places in North Andaman
Diglipur
- Ross & Smith Islands: a powdery sandbar linking two islands; turquoise shallows perfect in March.
- Kalipur and Ramnagar Beaches: known for turtle nesting (regulated access).
- Saddle Peak National Park: highest point in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands (732 m); trek via Lamiya Bay.
- Alfred Caves: labyrinthine limestone caves accessible in dry months; go with a guide.
- Craggy Island: compact snorkelling spot near Kalipur.
Mayabunder
- Karmatang Beach: long, serene beach with turtle nesting zones.
- Rampur and Pokadera: quiet bays and local life; short coastal drives.
- Avis Island (day trip): small isle with calm waters (check local boat availability).
Rangat
- Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway: scenic boardwalk through mangroves; birding is good in March mornings.
- Amkunj Beach: pebbled, photogenic shoreline with eco seating.
- Yerrata Mangrove Viewpoint: elevated views and interpretive boards.
Tourist Circuits and Routes
- Classic North Circuit (by road from Port Blair): Port Blair → Baratang area → Rangat → Mayabunder → Diglipur → return or onward boat trips.
- Islands & Sandbars Focus: Port Blair → Rangat (Long Island/Lalaji Bay side trip) → Mayabunder (Karmatang) → Diglipur (Ross & Smith, Kalipur).
- Trekking & Nature: Base in Diglipur for Saddle Peak, Alfred Caves, Craggy Island snorkel; add mangrove walks in Rangat.
Best Activities to Do in March
- Sandbar walks and snorkelling at Ross & Smith (clear, calm water in March).
- Trek Saddle Peak: start pre-dawn to avoid heat; forest permit required.
- Guided turtle-watching: strictly with forest staff; no lights/flash; maintain distance.
- Mangrove and birding trails: Dhani Nallah, Yerrata; bring binoculars.
- Caves and coastal rambles: Alfred Caves (dry season only), Amkunj sunsets.
- Boat rides to small islets (weather and permits permitting).
Festivals and Seasonal Events
- Holi (March, dates vary): celebrated quietly across towns; check local updates for community events.
- Local fairs/markets: occasional village melas; ask your stay for current happenings.
Practical Travel Information
How to Reach
- Fly to Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport) from major Indian cities.
- From Port Blair to North Andaman:
- By road: via the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR) to Rangat/Mayabunder/Diglipur. Parts of the route pass through protected reserves; stopping is prohibited in designated stretches. Travel is in regulated timings—confirm locally before departure.
- By sea: government ferries (subject to schedules and weather) to Mayabunder/Diglipur from Port Blair. March seas are usually calm.
- By helicopter: limited seats; schedules change. Check locally for availability.
Local Transport
- Intercity buses connect Rangat, Mayabunder, and Diglipur; they are economical but slow.
- Private cabs and shared jeeps are faster and convenient for sightseeing hops.
- Boats to Ross & Smith depart from Aerial Bay Jetty (near Diglipur), subject to weather and permits.
Permits and Rules
- Indian nationals: no special permit for general tourist zones; carry valid ID.
- Foreign nationals: current policies allow travel to notified areas without a Restricted Area Permit, but some islands/parks require local permits. Carry passport and check the latest advisory before travel.
- Ross & Smith and Saddle Peak require permits (issued locally; small fee).
- Photography, drones, and stopping are prohibited in tribal reserve areas; follow all signage and instructions.
Health and Safety
- Sun protection is essential: reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses; hydrate frequently.
- Carry a basic first-aid kit and personal medicines; hospitals are limited to small clinics/PHCs in the north.
- Mobile network is patchy beyond towns; BSNL has the widest footprint, others vary.
Where to Stay
- Diglipur: beachside cottages near Kalipur, simple guesthouses in town, and eco-resorts around Ramnagar/Lamiya Bay.
- Mayabunder: modest lodges and government-run tourist rest houses near Karmatang/Rampur.
- Rangat: basic hotels in town and eco-huts near Amkunj/Dhani Nallah.
Tip: Book Ross & Smith boat slots and permits via your stay or local operator a day in advance, especially on weekends.
Estimated Trip Costs
- Port Blair → Diglipur by AC bus: approx. ₹800–₹1,200 per person (one-way); shared jeep slightly higher.
- Private cab Port Blair → Diglipur: approx. ₹10,000–₹14,000 (one-way), depending on vehicle and route.
- Ferries Port Blair ↔ Mayabunder/Diglipur: approx. ₹800–₹2,000 per person (class-dependent; schedules vary).
- Ross & Smith boat and permits: boat ₹1,000–₹2,000 per person (sharing basis) or ₹4,000–₹6,000 per private boat; entry permit nominal (local rates subject to change).
- Accommodation:
- Budget guesthouses: ₹1,000–₹2,000 per night.
- Mid-range cottages: ₹2,500–₹5,000 per night.
- Eco-resorts/prime locations: ₹5,000–₹9,000+ per night.
Note: Prices fluctuate by season and availability; March is moderate. Always reconfirm current rates and ferry schedules on the ground.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Seafood thalis with fresh catch: reef fish curry, prawn masala, fried fish.
- Kalipur/Diglipur shacks serve simple grilled fish, coconut-based curries, and seasonal fruits.
- Vegetarian options: dal, sabzi, rice, and rotis are available at most local eateries.
Shopping
- Small-town markets for spices, areca nut, coconut products, and locally harvested honey.
- Avoid buying coral or protected shells; it’s illegal and harmful to reefs.
Culture
- Communities include settlers from mainland India and indigenous groups (in protected areas). Respect all rules in reserve zones.
- Life is unhurried; many shops close early. Plan dinners accordingly.
Suggested Itineraries for March
4 Days: Highlights of North Andaman
- Day 1: Port Blair → Rangat; sunset at Amkunj.
- Day 2: Rangat → Mayabunder (Karmatang) → Diglipur.
- Day 3: Ross & Smith Islands; late afternoon Kalipur beach.
- Day 4: Saddle Peak trek (early start) or Alfred Caves (with guide) → return.
5–6 Days: Nature and Beaches
- Day 1: Port Blair → Rangat; Dhani Nallah boardwalk.
- Day 2: Boat to Long Island (Lalaji Bay) if running; overnight in Rangat/Mayabunder.
- Day 3: Mayabunder to Diglipur; Ramnagar and Kalipur.
- Day 4: Ross & Smith full day.
- Day 5: Saddle Peak trek; evening at Lamiya Bay.
- Day 6: Optional Alfred Caves or Craggy Island snorkel → return.
Budget Tips
- Use state buses/shared jeeps for long hops; hire local autos for short sightseeing.
- Share boats to Ross & Smith to reduce costs; go early to secure spots.
- Eat at local canteens for affordable thalis; pre-order seafood at small shacks.
- Carry adequate cash; ATMs are limited and may be out of service.
- Bring your snorkel mask to avoid rental fees and ensure fit.
Tips for Families, Honeymooners, and Friends
Families
- Choose calm-water beaches like Ross & Smith’s lagoon side; carry snacks and water.
- Keep travel days shorter; plan breaks at mangrove walkways and beaches with shade.
- Pack motion-sickness tablets for winding roads and boat rides.
Honeymooners
- Stay near Kalipur or Karmatang for quiet sunsets and low footfall.
- Plan a private boat to Ross & Smith early morning for solitude.
- Expect limited nightlife; focus on nature, stargazing, and beach walks.
Friends/Adventure Groups
- Trek Saddle Peak at dawn; carry 2–3 liters of water per person.
- Combine Alfred Caves with snorkelling at Craggy Island for a full adventure day.
- Respect turtle nesting protocols; no lights, noise, or touching sandbanks.
What to Pack for March
- Light cottons/linens, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, polarized sunglasses.
- Closed trekking shoes, quick-dry towel, reusable water bottle.
- Basic meds, insect repellent, power bank, cash.
FAQs about North Andaman in March
Q: Is March a good time to visit Ross & Smith Islands?
A: Yes. Seas are usually calm, water is clear, and the sandbar is fully visible at low tide. Go early to avoid heat and check tide timings locally.
Q: Can I see turtle nesting in March?
A: March can still have nesting activity at Kalipur, Ramnagar, and Karmatang, but it’s regulated. Always go with forest staff or approved guides and follow no-light, no-touch rules.
Q: Do I need a permit for Saddle Peak or Ross & Smith?
A: Yes, both typically require local permits obtainable in Diglipur (small fee). Carry ID and arrange them a day in advance when possible.
Q: How long is the road trip from Port Blair to Diglipur?
A: Around 10–12 hours by road depending on stops, regulation timings, and traffic. Many travelers break the journey with a night in Rangat or Mayabunder.
Q: Is network and cash availability reliable in the north?
A: Mobile coverage is patchy outside towns and data can be slow. ATMs are limited and occasionally offline—carry sufficient cash.
Conclusion
March in North Andaman offers bright days, calm lagoons, and fewer crowds, making it excellent for sandbar strolls at Ross & Smith, rainforest treks up Saddle Peak, and mindful turtle encounters. With smart planning around permits, transport timings, and the heat, you’ll experience a quieter, nature-forward side of the Andamans that feels wonderfully remote and refreshingly real.
