Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do
- How to Reach
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
- Nearby Attractions
- Tips for Birdwatchers
- Traveler-specific Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Birdwatching in Chidiya Tapu, at the southern tip of South Andaman Island near Port Blair, is a lush, salt-scented immersion into one of India’s richest island ecosystems. “Chidiya” means “bird” in Hindi, and this coastal forest and mangrove mosaic lives up to its name with endemics like the Andaman drongo and Andaman woodpecker flitting through emerald canopies. Pair dawn forest walks with flaming sunsets over the Bay of Bengal, and you have a day that’s equal parts field notes and quiet wonder.
History & Importance
Chidiya Tapu has long been known locally as a birding hotspot thanks to its intact mixed evergreen forests, littoral woodlands, and mangroves. The adjacent Chidiya Tapu Biological Park was established to support conservation and awareness of the Andamans’ unique flora and fauna. The area offers accessible habitat for a high concentration of island endemics, making it a valuable site for nature education, ethical tourism, and biodiversity research close to the capital, Port Blair.
- Habitats: coastal forest, mangroves, rocky shoreline, forested ridges.
- Why it matters: easy access to endemic birds without long inter-island travel.
- Conservation: sensitive coastal and forest ecosystems—follow marked paths and leave no trace.
Best Time to Visit
- Season: October–April (dry season) offers the most reliable weather and bird activity.
- Monsoon: May–September brings heavy rain, slippery trails, and fewer comfortable hours in the field.
- Time of day:
- Dawn to 9:00 AM for peak song and movement inside forests.
- 4:00–6:00 PM for canopy and edge activity plus sunset photography.
Top Things to Do
1) Dawn birding on the Munda Pahad trail
Start at first light from the trailhead near Chidiya Tapu Beach. Move slowly along the forest path towards Munda Pahad viewpoint, scanning mid-canopy and listening for endemic calls.
- Possible sightings: Andaman drongo, Andaman woodpecker, Andaman bulbul, Andaman treepie, Andaman cuckooshrike, Andaman shikra, Andaman flowerpecker.
- Tips: Keep voices low; pause frequently to watch mixed-species flocks.
2) Edge and mangrove birding near the beach
Work the mangrove edges and coastal scrub for kingfishers and shore-associated species.
- Likely birds: Collared kingfisher, White-bellied sea eagle, Pacific reef heron, Black-naped tern (seasonal, offshore), emerald dove in adjoining scrub.
3) Chidiya Tapu Biological Park periphery
Though the park focuses on conservation awareness, the surrounding forested stretches and approach roads are excellent for spotting endemics along quieter segments.
- Listen for: Andaman scops owl and Andaman hawk-owl at dusk (check local regulations and safety before any low-light outing).
4) Golden-hour photography at Sunset Point
End your day with silhouettes of sea eagles and dramatic skies at Sunset Point. Wildlife is active along the edges as light softens.
5) Species to watch for (shortlist)
- Endemics: Andaman drongo, Andaman bulbul, Andaman woodpecker, Andaman treepie, Andaman flowerpecker, Andaman serpent-eagle, Andaman scops owl.
- Others: Collared kingfisher, White-bellied sea eagle, Oriental magpie-robin, Scarlet minivet (island race), emerald dove.
How to Reach
- Nearest hub: Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport), with regular flights from major Indian cities.
- Road distance: ~25 km south of Port Blair; 45–60 minutes by car/scooter via forested roads.
- Transport:
- Taxi: Easiest for pre-dawn starts; arrange round-trip with waiting time.
- Scooter: Budget-friendly; carry rain cover and a headlamp for early starts.
- Bus: Limited schedules; better for daytime visits.
- Navigation: Aim to arrive before sunrise for bird activity; check road conditions after heavy rain.
- Permits: No special permit typically required for Chidiya Tapu; carry valid photo ID. Follow any forest entry rules at checkpoints.
Accommodation Options
Most birders base themselves in Port Blair and day-trip to Chidiya Tapu. Options near Chidiya Tapu are limited and basic.
- Budget (Port Blair): Simple guesthouses and homestays; clean rooms, early breakfasts on request.
- Mid-range: Boutique hotels with better soundproofing (helpful for pre-dawn rest), in-house dining.
- Nature lodges (Wandoor side): Good for a quieter forest atmosphere; slightly longer drive to Chidiya Tapu.
Book early for peak season (Dec–Feb). Confirm breakfast timings and takeaway options for dawn starts.
Estimated Costs
- Taxi (Port Blair–Chidiya Tapu round trip with wait): approx. INR 2,500–3,800.
- Scooter rental (per day): approx. INR 500–900, plus fuel.
- Local bird guide (half-day): approx. INR 2,000–3,500 depending on expertise and group size.
- Entry/parking fees: nominal where applicable; camera fees may apply at certain facilities.
- Meals and water for a day trip: INR 300–800 per person (packable breakfast and snacks recommended).
- Accommodation (Port Blair):
- Budget: INR 1,500–3,000 per night.
- Mid-range: INR 3,500–7,000 per night.
- Boutique/upper mid: INR 7,000–12,000+ per night.
All figures are indicative and vary by season, availability, and negotiation.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
Food
- Near Chidiya Tapu: Limited stalls; carry water, fruits, and a packed breakfast.
- Port Blair: Fresh seafood thalis, South Indian meals, Bengali-influenced curries, and light snacks ideal for field days.
Shopping
- Aberdeen Bazaar & Sagarika Emporium (Port Blair): Handicrafts, shell and coconut art, spices.
- Sustainability: Avoid buying coral, certain shells, or any wildlife products—many are protected.
Culture & Etiquette
- Respect sensitive island ecosystems; stick to paths and do not litter.
- Local communities are welcoming; seek permission before photographing people.
- Tribal areas across the Andamans are protected and not open—follow all signage and rules.
Nearby Attractions
- Munda Pahad Viewpoint: Short hike from Chidiya Tapu; grand coastal vistas, raptor watching.
- Chidiya Tapu Biological Park: Conservation-focused facility and green environs.
- Wandoor & Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (Jolly Buoy/Red Skin Islands): Crystal waters and snorkeling; permits/boat schedules apply.
- Sippighat Wetlands (Port Blair area): Productive for waterbirds at dawn and dusk.
- Mount Harriet National Park (across the channel): Forest birding with altitude variation; ferry and road combo from Port Blair.
Tips for Birdwatchers
- Gear: 8×42 or 10×42 binoculars; 300–600mm lens for photography; rain cover, microfibre cloths, spare batteries.
- Clothing: Lightweight, breathable, neutral colors; hat, quick-dry layers; sturdy shoes with good grip.
- Health: Insect repellent, basic first-aid, electrolytes; hydrate often in humid conditions.
- Fieldcraft: Move slowly, pause to scan, learn a few key calls (Andaman drongo and bulbul are good starters).
- Safety:
- Heed crocodile warning signs near mangroves; stay back from water edges.
- Avoid swimming; currents and wildlife can be hazardous.
- Mobile signal may be patchy on trails; inform your hotel of your plan.
- Ethics: Keep distance, no baiting/playback in sensitive areas, leave nests undisturbed, pack out all trash.
- Permissions: Night entry into forests may be restricted—check locally and prioritize safety.
Traveler-specific Tips
For families
- Stick to early-morning edge habitats and the first section of Munda Pahad trail.
- Carry snacks, sun protection, and a lightweight field guide for kids.
For honeymooners
- Combine dawn birding with a relaxed evening at Sunset Point.
- Choose a Port Blair boutique stay for quieter nights and early breakfast support.
For friends and small groups
- Hire a local bird guide to maximize endemics in a single morning.
- Split taxis and rotate binoculars/camera gear to keep packs light.
FAQs
Q: Is Chidiya Tapu good for beginner birders?
A: Yes. Easy access from Port Blair, clear trails, and a high chance of spotting endemics make it ideal for first-time island birders.
Q: Do I need a guide for birdwatching here?
A: Not mandatory, but recommended. Local guides know calls, microhabitats, and current hotspots, which helps you see more in less time.
Q: What endemic birds are most likely?
A: Frequently recorded endemics include Andaman drongo, Andaman bulbul, Andaman woodpecker, Andaman treepie, Andaman flowerpecker, and Andaman serpent-eagle.
Q: Are drones allowed?
A: Drone use is generally restricted around forests and coastal security zones. Obtain necessary permissions and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Q: Can I swim at Chidiya Tapu?
A: It’s not advised due to currents and crocodile presence in nearby mangroves. Enjoy the beach and viewpoints from shore.
Conclusion
Chidiya Tapu blends accessible forest trails, mangrove edges, and sweeping seascapes into one of the Andamans’ most rewarding day trips for birders. Visit in the dry season, start at dawn, and move slowly through the Munda Pahad trail to meet charismatic island endemics. With Port Blair as a convenient base, you can pair serious birding with local food, markets, and nearby marine parks—an island itinerary that balances discovery with care for a fragile ecosystem.
