Table of Contents
- Introduction
- North Andaman at a Glance
- Top Cities and Places in North Andaman
- Tourist Circuits and Routes
- Activities and Experiences Checklist
- Best Time to Visit and Seasonality
- How to Reach North Andaman
- Permits, Regulations, and Safety Checklist
- Accommodation Options and Where to Stay
- Estimated Trip Costs
- Local Food, Shopping, and Culture
- Packing List for North Andaman
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- Sample Itineraries
- Festivals and Events
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Planning a North Andaman trip? This complete checklist covers everything you need—routes, permits, the best beaches and treks, where to stay, budget ranges, and what to pack. From Diglipur’s Ross & Smith twin islands to the wild climb up Saddle Peak and turtle nesting beaches around Mayabunder and Rangat, this guide blends on-the-ground tips with a practical, ready-to-use list so you can explore the wilder side of the Andamans with confidence.
North Andaman at a Glance
North Andaman refers to the upper stretch of the Andaman archipelago beyond Rangat, including Mayabunder and Diglipur. It’s less commercial than Havelock/Neil, with mangroves, limestone caves, highland forests, and secluded beaches. Expect longer travel times, simpler amenities, and rich biodiversity.
- Major hubs: Rangat (gateway), Mayabunder (quiet base), Diglipur (largest town; launchpad to Ross & Smith, Saddle Peak).
- Vibe: Offbeat, nature-forward, community-run experiences, minimal nightlife.
- Best for: Trekkers, snorkelers, photographers, families seeking quiet beaches, eco-travelers.
Top Cities and Places in North Andaman
Diglipur and Around
- Ross & Smith Islands: Two sandbar-connected islands with crystal-clear shallows; great for swimming and snorkeling in calm seas.
- Saddle Peak National Park: Highest point in Andamans (732 m); full-day rainforest trek with viewpoints over the archipelago.
- Kalipur Beach & Craggy Island: Turtle-nesting zone (seasonal). Snorkeling around Craggy in settled seas.
- Lamiya Bay: Quiet pebble shore; start/finish point for Saddle Peak trek; coastal forest vibes.
- Alfred Caves: Seasonal limestone cave network; access often guided; check local conditions.
Mayabunder and Around
- Karmatang Beach: Long, shaded shoreline; turtle nesting by season with regulated night watches.
- Avis Island: Small, clear-water day trip (permits/boat required; access can vary).
Rangat (Middle–North Corridor)
- Amkunj Beach: Rocky, photogenic coast with eco-park elements.
- Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway: Elevated boardwalk through thick mangroves to a quiet beach.
- Cuthbert Bay Wildlife Sanctuary: Renowned turtle nesting beach (guided visits only).
Baratang (En Route)
- Limestone Caves & Mud Volcano: Popular stop while driving the ATR between Port Blair and Rangat (Baratang is technically Middle Andaman).
Tourist Circuits and Routes
Classic North Loop (Road-Based, 4–6 Days)
- Port Blair → Baratang (Limestone Caves) → Rangat (Dhani Nallah) → Mayabunder (Karmatang) → Diglipur (Ross & Smith, Saddle Peak) → Return.
Ferry-Assisted Route (Subject to Schedules)
- Port Blair → Rangat/Mayabunder/Diglipur by government ferry; combine with local road transfers for flexibility.
Trek & Nature Focus
- Base in Diglipur; allocate days for Saddle Peak, Craggy snorkel, Ross & Smith, and an inland day for Alfred Caves (season/guide dependent).
Activities and Experiences Checklist
Water-Based
- Snorkeling at Ross & Smith shallows and around Craggy Island (carry your own gear).
- Gentle swims in designated safe zones; heed local advisories.
- Mangrove boat rides (Rangat/Mayabunder) with naturalist guides.
Land-Based
- Trek Saddle Peak (full day; start early; permit at check-post).
- Boardwalks and nature walks (Dhani Nallah, Lamiya Bay trail).
- Cave visits (Alfred Caves; check season and guide availability).
Wildlife & Eco
- Seasonal turtle nesting watches at Karmatang, Kalipur, Cuthbert Bay (regulated; no flash/handling).
- Birding for Andaman endemics along forest edges and mangroves.
Cultural & Local Life
- Village markets, fisheries, local bakeries; sample settler cuisines (Bengali, Tamil, Telugu influences).
Best Time to Visit and Seasonality
- October–April (Peak/Good Seas): Clearer water, good snorkeling, comfortable trekking.
- November–February: Higher turtle activity at certain beaches (night watches with permissions).
- May–September (Monsoon/Shoulder): Lush forests; choppy seas, sporadic ferries, leeches on trails; plan buffers.
How to Reach North Andaman
By Air (to Port Blair)
- Fly into Port Blair’s Veer Savarkar International Airport from major Indian cities.
- North Andaman has no commercial airport; onward travel is by road or ferry.
By Road (ATR – Andaman Trunk Road)
- Port Blair → Baratang → Rangat → Mayabunder → Diglipur (approx. 8–12 hours to Diglipur depending on stops/traffic).
- The ATR crosses protected corridors with regulated convoys and no-stopping zones; follow timings and instructions.
- Options: Government/Private buses, shared jeeps, or hired cabs. Night travel is restricted on certain stretches.
By Ferry/Boat
- Government ferries (Directorate of Shipping Services) operate Port Blair ↔ Rangat/Mayabunder/Diglipur on varying schedules.
- Book early at counters; services can be weather-dependent and less frequent than those to Havelock/Neil.
By Helicopter
- Limited inter-island helicopter services may operate for residents/medical/logistics; tourist seats are limited and schedules change. Check locally.
Permits, Regulations, and Safety Checklist
- Entry/Stay: Indian nationals require standard ID. Foreign nationals must carry valid passport/visa; certain protected areas require additional permissions.
- Tribal Reserves: Strictly no entry or interaction. No photography along reserve corridors.
- Island/Beach Access: Ross & Smith and some beaches require entry tickets; carry cash and a government photo ID.
- Turtle Watching: Only with authorized guides/Forest Department; no lights, flash, or touching.
- Swimming/Crocodile Advisory: Some northern beaches report saltwater crocodile sightings. Swim only where expressly permitted; obey signage and local guidance.
- Environment: Do not buy/shell/coral/turtle products (illegal). Use reef-safe sunscreen; carry back all trash.
- Jarawa Corridor Transit: Follow convoy timings, no stopping/photography/interaction.
Accommodation Options and Where to Stay
Diglipur
- Kalipur/Lamiya Bay: Beachside resorts and simple cottages ideal for Ross & Smith and Saddle Peak access.
- Diglipur town: Budget lodges, homestays, easier access to markets/ATMs.
Mayabunder
- Quiet guesthouses and government tourist lodges near Karmatang; good mid-journey base.
Rangat
- Basic hotels and government-run lodges; convenient for Dhani Nallah and onward connections.
Indicative Price Ranges (Per Night)
- Budget: INR 1,200–2,500 (simple rooms, fan/limited AC).
- Mid-range: INR 2,500–5,500 (AC rooms, on-site dining).
- Comfort: INR 5,500–9,000+ (best available amenities in the area; limited inventory).
Book early in peak months; confirm power backup, hot water, and on-site dining due to limited town hours.
Estimated Trip Costs
- Daily (per person):
- Backpacker: INR 2,500–4,000 (bus/shared jeeps, budget stays, local eateries).
- Mid-range: INR 5,000–9,000 (private cab splits, better stays, guided trips).
- Comfort: INR 10,000–15,000+ (private cabs, top local stays, activities).
- Major line items: Transport (biggest), accommodation, permits/entry tickets, guides/boats, meals.
- Guides/Boats: INR 800–3,500+ depending on activity and group size.
Local Food, Shopping, and Culture
Food to Try
- Fresh fish thalis, crab curries, prawn masala; coconut-ginger flavors common.
- Bengali-style fish curry, Tamil/Telugu tiffins, local bakery snacks, seasonal fruits.
Shopping
- Handicrafts, cane/bamboo work, spices, local honey.
- Avoid coral, shells, and turtle-derived items (illegal, harmful to reefs).
Culture & Etiquette
- Modest beachwear away from tourist zones; ask before photographing people.
- Support community-run services; carry small change for village shops.
Packing List for North Andaman
Documents & Money
- Govt photo ID/passport, multiple photocopies (for tickets/check-posts).
- Cash in small denominations; ATMs are limited and may be offline.
Clothing & Footwear
- Light, quick-dry clothing; rain jacket (Nov–May occasional showers; monsoon heavier).
- Trekking shoes, aqua shoes, sandals; spare socks.
Gear & Health
- Reef-safe sunscreen, mosquito repellent, basic first-aid, motion-sickness meds.
- Reusable water bottle, electrolytes, dry bags, headlamp/torch.
Beach & Snorkel
- Mask/snorkel/fins, microfiber towel, rash guard, waterproof phone pouch.
Tech & Utilities
- Power bank, multi-plug, offline maps, spare memory cards.
Traveler-Specific Tips
Families
- Choose calm-water beaches; pack snacks and sun protection. Confirm room types and meal times in advance.
- Long drives: carry games/books and plan stretch breaks at Rangat/Mayabunder.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Stay near Kalipur/Lamiya Bay for quiet sunsets; plan a weekday Ross & Smith visit to avoid crowds.
- Arrange private boat/snorkel timings with licensed operators for gentler seas (mornings).
Friends/Backpackers
- Mix buses/shared jeeps to save costs; team up for cabs to Saddle Peak trailhead or Ross & Smith jetty.
- Aim for sunrise treks and golden-hour photography; keep buffers for weather.
Sample Itineraries
4 Days: North Highlights
- Day 1: Port Blair → Rangat (Dhani Nallah walk, Amkunj sunset).
- Day 2: Rangat → Diglipur (Kalipur/Lamiya Bay).
- Day 3: Ross & Smith Islands (snorkel/swim); evening Diglipur market.
- Day 4: Saddle Peak trek (early start) → overnight Diglipur or begin return.
6 Days: Nature & Turtles
- Day 1: Port Blair → Baratang caves (en route) → Rangat.
- Day 2: Cuthbert Bay/Amkunj → Mayabunder; Karmatang evening.
- Day 3: Mayabunder → Diglipur; Kalipur beach.
- Day 4: Ross & Smith + Craggy snorkel (conditions permitting).
- Day 5: Saddle Peak trek; Lamiya Bay cool-down.
- Day 6: Return to Port Blair.
8 Days: Deep North & Flex Buffer
- Days 1–2: Port Blair sights + travel to Mayabunder (buffer for weather/ferries).
- Days 3–5: Base in Diglipur for Ross & Smith, Craggy, Alfred Caves (seasonal), Saddle Peak.
- Days 6–7: Slow travel back via Rangat (Dhani Nallah) and Baratang (if missed).
- Day 8: Port Blair departure.
Festivals and Events
- Island Tourism Festival (Port Blair, typically Jan): Cultural shows, food, crafts; useful if your inbound/outbound aligns.
- Turtle Nesting Season (Nov–Feb peak): Guided night watch programs at Karmatang, Kalipur, Cuthbert Bay (subject to permissions).
- Local Melas/Community Fairs: Small-scale events occur seasonally; confirm dates locally as schedules vary year to year.
FAQs
Q: How many days do I need for North Andaman?
A: A focused highlights trip fits in 4 days, but 5–6 days allows Ross & Smith, Saddle Peak, and turtle beaches with weather buffers.
Q: Is it safe to swim at North Andaman beaches?
A: Swim only in designated safe zones and calm conditions. Some beaches have saltwater crocodile advisories—always follow local guidance and signage.
Q: Do I need a permit for Ross & Smith Islands?
A: Yes, an entry ticket/fee and ID are typically required at the Aerial Bay jetty. Rules can change; confirm locally on the day.
Q: What’s the best way to reach Diglipur?
A: The fastest and most reliable option is by road via the ATR (shared jeep/bus or hired cab). Ferries run on limited, weather-dependent schedules.
Q: Will my phone and internet work in North Andaman?
A: Coverage exists but is patchy, with slower data than mainland. Carry offline maps and don’t rely on stable connectivity in remote spots.
Conclusion
North Andaman rewards those who plan: long roads, simple stays, and world-class nature. With this checklist—routes, permits, activities, packing, costs, and safety—you can pace your trip around weather, choose calm-water days for Ross & Smith, start early for Saddle Peak, and savor quiet beaches and mangroves. Travel light, stay flexible, and keep it eco-friendly to experience the islands at their best.
