Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Ecological Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do
- Nearby Attractions
- How to Reach
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Tips for Different Travelers
- Practical Tips & Essentials
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
North Andaman is where the forested spine of Saddle Peak meets aquamarine lagoons and living coral gardens. Marine park visits here largely revolve around protected coastal waters near Diglipur—especially the idyllic Ross & Smith Islands, often referred to locally as a marine sanctuary. Expect translucent shallows, a powdery sandbar, and vibrant reef life ideal for gentle snorkeling and mindful beach time, far from the crowds of Havelock.
History & Ecological Importance
The northern Andaman seascape supports fringing reefs, seagrass meadows, and turtle-nesting beaches. Ross & Smith’s lagoon and the surrounding waters are managed by the Andaman & Nicobar Forest Department with day-visitor controls to reduce impact. Nearby beaches such as Kalipur and Ramnagar are known turtle-nesting sites (seasonal), underscoring the area’s conservation value.
Several nearby islets and coastal stretches fall under protected or regulated status (wildlife sanctuaries/marine-managed areas). Access, activities, and timings may be restricted to safeguard corals, nesting turtles, and shorebirds—so responsible travel and adherence to rules are essential.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak season: November to April (calm seas, better underwater visibility, reliable boat operations).
- Shoulder: October and early May (watch sea state; occasional showers).
- Monsoon: Late May to September (rough seas, intermittent boat suspensions; not ideal for marine visits).
- Daily timing: Mornings generally offer gentler winds and clearer water; tides influence snorkeling conditions.
Top Things to Do
- Snorkeling at Ross & Smith Islands: Wade into clear, shallow lagoons with a guide. Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid standing on corals.
- Walk the sandbar: The natural sand strip linking the twin islands shifts with tides—great for photography and a barefoot stroll.
- Forest-fringe ramble on Smith Island: A short shaded walk behind the beach reveals coastal vegetation and birdlife.
- Turtle season visits (with Forest Dept guidance): Kalipur and Ramnagar beaches sometimes run monitored nest-watch activities in season. Disturbance is strictly prohibited.
- Beach downtime: Gentle lagoons are ideal for paddling and relaxation; carry your own drinking water and snacks.
Nearby Attractions
- Saddle Peak National Park: The highest point in Andaman (trek 6–8 hours round trip). Coastal vistas and endemic flora.
- Kalipur Beach & Mud Volcano: A quiet bay; occasional access advisories due to wildlife. The small mud volcano nearby is a curious stop.
- Ramnagar Beach: Known for turtle nesting (seasonal) and sunrise walks.
- Alfred Caves (winter months): Limestone cave network near Diglipur; go with a local guide and check tide/season.
- Lamiya Bay: Pebbled shoreline at Saddle Peak’s base; moody seascapes and sunset hues.
How to Reach
- Base: Diglipur (North Andaman). The boat point for Ross & Smith is Aerial Bay Jetty, about 20–30 minutes by boat to the islands.
- From Port Blair by road: 12–14 hours via the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR), with check posts and brief ferry crossings. Government and private buses, shared jeeps, and taxis operate. Consider an overnight halt at Rangat or Mayabunder.
- By sea (inter-island ferries): Limited and schedule-dependent services may connect Port Blair/Rangat/Mayabunder with Aerial Bay/Diglipur. Check locally for current timetables.
- Local transport: In Diglipur, use autos, hired cabs, or rented two-wheelers. Boats to Ross & Smith are arranged at Aerial Bay after obtaining permits.
Accommodation Options
- Diglipur Town: Budget lodges and simple hotels; convenient for markets and transport.
- Kalipur & Ramnagar: Eco-stays and beachside cottages offering quieter settings closer to nature.
- Indicative prices: Approx. INR 1,200–5,000 per night for budget-to-midrange stays. Limited inventory—book ahead in peak months.
Estimated Costs
- Ross & Smith permits (day visit): Typically INR 50–500 per person (subject to change; pay at Forest/jetty counter).
- Boat transfer (Aerial Bay ↔ Ross & Smith): Approx. INR 2,000–3,500 per boat (capacity-dependent; shared options may lower cost).
- Snorkeling gear rental: Around INR 300–600; carry your own mask/snorkel if possible for better fit.
- Local transport (per day): Scooter rental ~INR 500–800; autos/taxis vary by distance.
- Meals: INR 250–500 per person at local eateries; seafood dishes priced higher.
- Guide fees (if hired): INR 800–1,500 for half-day, depending on expertise and group size.
Note: Prices are indicative and fluctuate by season and availability.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Fresh seafood thalis, fish curry, crab masala, and prawn fry at simple, local kitchens.
- Bengali- and South Indian-influenced meals; coconut, banana, and spices feature widely.
- Carry snacks and drinking water to marine sites; facilities are minimal on the islands.
Shopping
- Basic provisions available in Diglipur markets.
- Handicrafts and souvenirs are better found in Port Blair. Avoid buying corals, shells, or wildlife products—collection and trade are illegal.
Culture & Responsible Travel
- Settler communities from mainland India live alongside small island communities; Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, and English are commonly understood.
- Seek permission before photographing people; be sensitive at religious or community spaces.
- Respect protected areas: no littering, no drones without permissions, and no alcohol on the islands where prohibited.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families
- Choose morning boat slots for calmer water; ensure all swimmers use life jackets.
- Pack hats, rash guards, and plenty of water; shade is limited on the sandbar.
- Observe signage about currents and wildlife; always supervise children at the waterline.
Honeymooners
- Time your visit for weekday mornings to enjoy quieter beaches.
- Plan a sunset stop at Lamiya Bay or a stargazing night in Kalipur’s low-light skies.
- Carry a lightweight picnic (and pack out all waste).
Friends/Groups
- Hire a private boat for flexible timings and shared costs.
- Combine a half-day at Ross & Smith with an afternoon trek to Saddle Peak’s foothills or Alfred Caves (seasonal).
- Bring a dry bag and action camera; use float attachments and respect no-drone rules.
Practical Tips & Essentials
- Permits: Obtain day permits for Ross & Smith at the Forest/jetty counter (carry a government photo ID). Foreign nationals should also confirm current entry rules for protected areas.
- Operating hours: Day visits only; typical boat operations are mid-morning to mid-afternoon. Last return boat times are enforced—confirm at the jetty.
- Safety: Swim only in designated zones; avoid stepping on corals. Heed any crocodile advisory notices, especially near mangrove fringes. No lifeguards at most beaches.
- Health: Carry seasickness tablets, reef-safe sunscreen (non-oxybenzone), insect repellent, and a basic first-aid kit.
- Cash & connectivity: ATMs are limited; bring sufficient cash. Mobile data can be spotty—download offline maps.
- Gear: Snorkel mask, rash guard, water shoes (for pebbly entries), microfiber towel, and a dry bag.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash; avoid touching or collecting shells/corals; no feeding fish.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a permit to visit Ross & Smith Islands in North Andaman?
A: Yes. Day permits are typically issued by the Forest Department at Aerial Bay Jetty or the local Forest office. Carry a valid photo ID. Overnight stays on the islands are not allowed.
Q: What is the best time of year for marine park-style visits in North Andaman?
A: November to April offers the calmest seas and better visibility. Boats may be suspended in the monsoon (late May–September) due to rough conditions.
Q: Are crocodiles present around these beaches?
A: Sightings are infrequent but possible in some areas. Follow posted advisories, avoid swimming near mangroves, and enter the water only where permitted.
Q: Is scuba diving available near Diglipur?
A: Options are limited and seasonal. Snorkeling is the primary activity at Ross & Smith. If you plan to dive, confirm operator availability well in advance or consider established dive hubs like Havelock (Swaraj Dweep).
Q: Can I carry food and drinks to the islands?
A: Yes, but pack responsibly and bring all waste back. Glass bottles are discouraged. Freshwater availability on the islands is minimal—carry your own.
Conclusion
Marine park visits in North Andaman center on serene, well-protected waters with living reefs and tranquil beaches—chief among them the twin gems of Ross & Smith. With calm-season timing, permits in place, and low-impact habits, travelers can enjoy clear lagoons, soft sands, and intimate encounters with the region’s coastal biodiversity while helping preserve a fragile island ecosystem.
