Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Top Cities and Places for Cyclists in North Andaman
- Tourist Circuits for Cycling Tours
- Activities for Cyclists and Beyond
- When to Plan Your Ride
- How to Reach North Andaman
- Accommodation Options
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Festivals and Events
- Suggested Itineraries for Cycling Tours
- Budget and Cost Tips
- Permits, Road Rules and Safety for Cyclists
- Travel Tips by Traveler Type
- FAQs: Cycling Tours in North Andaman
- Conclusion
Introduction
North Andaman is the wilder, quieter end of the Andaman archipelago—home to emerald mangroves, rolling village roads, hidden beaches, and the islands’ highest peak. For cyclists, it’s a rewarding blend of coastal breezes and rainforest climbs, with traffic-thin tarmac linking Diglipur, Mayabunder, and Rangat. Whether you’re planning self-supported bikepacking or day rides with a support vehicle, this guide maps the best routes, logistics, seasons, and safety so you can pedal the North Andaman at your pace.
Top Cities and Places for Cyclists in North Andaman
- Diglipur: The main base up north. Access to Ross & Smith Islands (via Aerial Bay), Kalipur and Ramnagar beaches, Lamiya Bay, and the Saddle Peak trailhead.
- Mayabunder: A laid-back town with mangrove creeks and the Karmatang Beach stretch; scenic village roads via Webi and Rampur.
- Rangat: Mid-North hub for the Dhani Nallah Mangrove Boardwalk, Amkunj Beach, and Yeratta mangrove areas—great for short, flat rides.
- Nature highlights for riders: Saddle Peak National Park (trek, not ride), mangrove boardwalks, turtle-nesting beaches (seasonal), and clear-water snorkeling stops.
Tourist Circuits for Cycling Tours
1) Diglipur Coastal Loop (Scenic, rolling)
- Route: Diglipur Town – Aerial Bay Jetty (Ross & Smith crossing) – Kalipur – Lamiya Bay – Ramnagar – Diglipur
- Distance: ~45–60 km depending on spurs; short climbs near Lamiya Bay
- Highlights: Early ride to Aerial Bay for island permits and photos, basalt beaches at Kalipur, rainforest shade toward Saddle Peak base.
2) Mayabunder Mangrove Circuit (Easy-moderate)
- Route: Mayabunder – Karmatang Beach – Rampur – Webi – Mayabunder
- Distance: ~35–50 km
- Highlights: Quiet village lanes, occasional sea views, mangrove creeks; best started before 7 am for soft light and low traffic.
3) Rangat Blue & Green (Relaxed, flat-to-rolling)
- Route: Rangat – Amkunj Beach – Dhani Nallah Mangrove Boardwalk – Yeratta – Rangat
- Distance: ~25–40 km
- Highlights: Boardwalk detour on foot, beachside breaks, birdlife in the mangroves.
4) Point-to-Point: Rangat → Mayabunder → Diglipur (Touring)
- Route: Rangat to Mayabunder (~65–80 km) and Mayabunder to Diglipur (~70–90 km)
- Road: Andaman Trunk Road segments with rolling terrain; shoulders are narrow—ride single file and use lights.
- Tip: Split into two days with an overnight in Mayabunder for a relaxed pace.
Activities for Cyclists and Beyond
Cycling-Focused
- Sunrise coastal spins: Start at first light to beat heat and traffic.
- Birding breaks: Carry binoculars for mangrove and forest edges; hornbills are occasional treats.
- Photo stops: Aerial Bay, Karmatang viewpoint spurs, Amkunj Beach.
Great Add-ons on Rest Days
- Ross & Smith Islands: Sandbar paradise; snorkeling and lazing. Access via Aerial Bay with a nominal island/boat permit and day timings.
- Saddle Peak Trek: Highest point in Andamans (forest permit required). Full-day hike; not a cycling trail.
- Mangrove Boardwalks: Dhani Nallah (Rangat) for an easy nature stroll.
- Turtle Watching (seasonal): Kalipur and Ramnagar beaches see nesting typically Nov–Feb; follow local guidelines.
Bike Rentals, Spares, Support
- Rentals: Availability in North Andaman is limited. Many riders arrange cycles in Port Blair and transport them north. Check with Port Blair tour operators or hotels for advance arrangements; e-bikes are rare.
- Spares: Carry tubes, a patch kit, multi-tool, pump, brake pads, chain lube, and a quick-link. Bike shops are scarce.
- Support vehicles: For groups, arranging a backup vehicle from Diglipur or Port Blair improves safety and logistics.
When to Plan Your Ride
- November to April: Prime window with drier weather, clearer seas, and more reliable ferries.
- May to September (Monsoon): Heavy rain, slippery roads, occasional landslides, and ferry disruptions. Not ideal for cycling tours.
- October & late April: Transitional months—humid with possible showers; start early and hydrate well.
How to Reach North Andaman
- Fly to Port Blair (IXZ): Daily flights from major Indian cities.
- Port Blair to North Andaman by road: Buses, shared cabs, and private cars run the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR) to Rangat, Mayabunder, and Diglipur. Travel time to Diglipur is typically 10–12 hours with breaks.
- Critical note for cyclists: The ATR segment through protected reserve areas (south of Rangat) operates under restrictions. Independent cycling is not allowed on the protected stretch; most riders transport their bikes on a bus/vehicle for that section and start cycling from Rangat or further north. Confirm latest rules locally.
- By ferry: Government and occasional private ferries connect Port Blair with Rangat/Mayabunder/Diglipur subject to schedules and weather. Check the Directorate of Shipping Services notice board in Port Blair for current timings.
Accommodation Options
- Diglipur: Budget guesthouses in town; beachside stays near Kalipur/Aerial Bay; limited boutique options.
- Mayabunder: Simple hotels and government-run lodges; good for a midway halt.
- Rangat: Functional stays near the market or along the highway; handy for short riding days.
- Booking tips: Inventory is limited. Book ahead in peak season (Dec–Feb). Ask properties about bike storage and early breakfast.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Food: Fresh fish thalis, coconut-based curries, simple South Indian breakfasts, and bakery snacks. Vegetarian meals available at most town eateries.
- Hydration: Carry two bottles; refill at tea stalls and dhabas. Between towns, services can be sparse.
- Shopping: Small-town markets sell basic spares, fruits, and local produce. Souvenir options are limited; consider spices or coconut/areca-based handicrafts when available.
- Culture: A mix of communities (including settlers from mainland India and a Karen community around Mayabunder). Respect local customs; photography is prohibited near any tribal reserve areas.
Festivals and Events
- Island Tourism Festival (Jan, dates vary): Celebrated mainly in Port Blair; occasionally smaller related events reach North Andaman.
- Community festivities: Local pujas and fairs occur seasonally in Diglipur, Rangat, and Mayabunder. Ask your host for current happenings.
- Note: Organized cycling events are irregular; most rides are independent or operator-led.
Suggested Itineraries for Cycling Tours
3 Days: North Andaman Taster
- Day 1: Port Blair to Rangat by road; afternoon 20–30 km spin to Amkunj and Dhani Nallah.
- Day 2: Rangat to Mayabunder (65–80 km). Sunset at Karmatang Beach.
- Day 3: Mayabunder local loop (30–40 km) and transfer back, or continue by vehicle to Diglipur.
5 Days: Diglipur Focus
- Day 1: Transfer to Diglipur; evening shakedown ride (10–15 km).
- Day 2: Diglipur Coastal Loop (45–60 km); beach time at Kalipur.
- Day 3: Ross & Smith Islands rest day (swim/snorkel); short recovery ride (10–20 km) if time allows.
- Day 4: Ramnagar and village spurs (35–50 km); prep for hike.
- Day 5: Saddle Peak trek (permit required) or optional ride toward Kishorinagar; return.
7 Days: North Andaman Traverse
- Day 1: Port Blair to Rangat (vehicle).
- Day 2: Rangat loops (25–40 km).
- Day 3: Rangat to Mayabunder (65–80 km).
- Day 4: Mayabunder mangrove circuit (35–50 km).
- Day 5: Mayabunder to Diglipur (70–90 km).
- Day 6: Diglipur Coastal Loop (45–60 km).
- Day 7: Ross & Smith or Saddle Peak hike; depart.
Budget and Cost Tips
Estimated Costs (indicative)
- Cycle rental: Limited locally; arrange via Port Blair operators if possible. Expect a wide range depending on bike type and availability.
- Accommodation: Budget rooms from modest local rates; mid-range stays higher; boutique options limited in Diglipur.
- Meals: Local eateries are affordable; seafood and thalis are value buys.
- Transport: Long road transfers and ferries add to costs—check current fares locally.
- Permits: Nominal fees for certain islands/parks (e.g., Ross & Smith, Saddle Peak).
Money-Saving Ideas
- Ride early to reduce midday snack/water buys and heat fatigue.
- Travel with a small group to share support vehicle costs.
- Carry essential spares to avoid premium last-mile fixes.
- Book stays that include breakfast and filtered water refills.
Permits, Road Rules and Safety for Cyclists
- ATR restrictions: Cycling is not permitted through protected reserve stretches south of Rangat. Transport your bike by vehicle for those sections.
- Island/Park permits: Obtain day permits at Aerial Bay for Ross & Smith; forest permits are required for the Saddle Peak trek. Carry ID.
- Beach safety: Heed crocodile-warning boards, especially around Kalipur/Ramnagar and estuaries. Avoid swimming where advised.
- Traffic and lighting: Rural roads lack shoulders and streetlights. Use front/rear lights, reflective gear, and ride single file.
- Weather: Intense sun and humidity—use SPF 50+, sleeves, and electrolytes. Expect sudden showers.
- Connectivity & cash: Mobile data is patchy. ATMs exist in main towns; carry adequate cash for remote stretches.
- Responsible travel: Do not enter or photograph tribal reserve areas. Pack out all trash; avoid single-use plastics.
Travel Tips by Traveler Type
Families
- Choose short, flat loops near Rangat or Mayabunder; schedule long transfers by vehicle.
- Mid-morning mangrove boardwalks and evening beach visits are kid-friendly.
- Carry snacks, ORS, and sun protection; confirm lifejackets for boat outings.
Honeymooners
- Base in Diglipur for quieter stays; time Ross & Smith early for fewer crowds.
- Plan golden-hour rides to beaches; consider a private support vehicle.
- Book rooms with ocean proximity and sunset views where available.
Friends and Adventure Groups
- Do the Rangat → Mayabunder → Diglipur traverse with a backup vehicle.
- Add a Saddle Peak hike and a snorkeling day for variety.
- Carry a group first-aid kit, tubeless plugs, and a floor pump in the support car.
FAQs: Cycling Tours in North Andaman
Q: Can I rent a bicycle in North Andaman?
A: Local rentals are very limited. Most riders arrange bikes in Port Blair and transport them north by road or ferry. Check with Port Blair outfitters in advance; e-bikes are uncommon.
Q: Is it safe to cycle on the Andaman Trunk Road?
A: North of Rangat, riders commonly use segments with caution. The protected reserve section further south does not allow independent cycling—move yourself and the bike by vehicle there. Always use lights and ride single file.
Q: What’s the best time of year for cycling tours?
A: November to April is ideal for drier weather and calmer seas. Monsoon months (May–September) bring heavy rain and reduced visibility, making rides and transfers challenging.
Q: Do I need permits for my rides?
A: Road cycling itself doesn’t require special permits, but access to certain sites does—Ross & Smith Islands (day permit) and Saddle Peak National Park (forest permit). Carry photo ID.
Q: Are crocodiles a concern for cyclists?
A: Not on the road, but some beaches and estuaries in North Andaman post crocodile advisories. Follow signage and local advice; avoid swimming where warned.
Conclusion
North Andaman rewards cyclists with quiet tarmac, coastal air, and rainforest backdrops. Base yourself around Diglipur, Mayabunder, and Rangat, link scenic loops with cultural stops, and respect local rules—especially on protected stretches of the ATR. With early starts, smart hydration, and simple logistics, your rides can pair perfectly with island highlights like Ross & Smith and the Saddle Peak hike.
