Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Best Sunrise and Sunset Spots in North Andaman
- Top Cities and Places in North Andaman
- Tourist Circuits and Suggested Routes
- Activities for Sunrise and Sunset Chasers
- Festivals and Seasonal Highlights
- Sample Itineraries
- Budget Tips and Estimated Costs
- How to Reach North Andaman
- Accommodation Options
- Local Food, Shopping, and Culture
- Tips for Different Travelers
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
From sleepy fishing jetties to wild headlands and silky sandbars, North Andaman (broadly covering Diglipur, Mayabunder, and Rangat) serves up some of India’s quietest and most dramatic sunrise and sunset moments. This guide highlights the very best viewpoints, along with the practical travel details, itineraries, and tips you need to witness golden hour at the edge of the Andaman Sea.
Best Sunrise and Sunset Spots in North Andaman
Ross & Smith Islands Sandbar (Sunrise & Sunset)
Two emerald islands linked by a powdery white sandbar—this is the region’s signature golden-hour scene. At low tide, the curve of sand glows pink at dawn and turns molten gold at dusk.
- Location: Off Aerial Bay, Diglipur
- Access: Boat from Aerial Bay Jetty; a forest permit is required (issued locally). Operating windows vary with weather and daylight.
- Why it’s special: 360-degree horizon, pastel skies reflected in glassy shallows.
- Tips: Go early for fewer crowds; carry reusable water; no plastic and no alcohol on the islands; respect lifeguard/forest rules.
Saddle Peak National Park (Best for Early-Morning Light)
The highest point in the Andamans (approx. 732 m) offers sweeping views over rainforest to reefs. While summiting exactly at sunrise is seldom practical due to entry timings, the first hours after park opening gift luminous, low-angled light.
- Trailhead: Lamiya Bay (Diglipur)
- Access: Entry permit at the forest checkpost; start early; carry water and snacks.
- Why it’s special: Misty ridgelines, birdsong, and painterly light on the canopy.
- Tips: Wear sturdy shoes; the trek is long and humid. A local guide enhances safety and navigation.
Ramnagar Beach (Diglipur) – Sunrise
An east-facing arc of sand with coconut shade and gentle rollers. A tranquil place to watch the day begin.
- Why it’s special: Soft swells catch first light; often empty.
- Seasonal note: Turtle nesting occurs in winter months—stick to marked zones and follow forest guidance.
Aerial Bay Jetty – Sunrise
Fishermen head out at blue hour and return in rosy dawns. The interplay of boats and mountain silhouettes makes evocative photos.
- Why it’s special: Everyday island life as the sky warms.
- Tips: Be respectful; keep clear of working areas; tripod-friendly.
Lamiya Bay – Sunrise
At the foot of Saddle Peak, this pebbly beach catches early light on glassy pools and driftwood.
- Why it’s special: Wild textures, moody skies, rainforest backdrop.
- Tips: Wear sandals with grip; pebbles can be slippery.
Kalipur Beach – Golden Hour & Dusk
Known for turtle nesting and volcanic black sand patches, Kalipur’s sky often ignites at dusk with reflections on tide pools.
- Why it’s special: Dramatic clouds, silhouettes of fishing boats.
- Note: Obey seasonal nesting restrictions; avoid bright lights at night.
Karmatang Beach (Mayabunder) – Sunset
One of the widest beaches in the north. The sun drops behind casuarina lines and calm surf, bathing the shore in amber.
- Why it’s special: Long shoreline for long walks; family-friendly vibe.
- Tips: Sandflies can appear near dusk—carry repellent.
Morrice Dera Beach (Rangat) – Sunset
Wave-carved rocks and a coastal walkway create layered compositions as the sky burns orange.
- Why it’s special: Natural rock forms and leading lines for photographers.
- Tips: Check tide times; some rock areas can be slippery at high tide.
Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway & Amkunj Beach (Rangat) – Sunrise
Boardwalks through mangroves open to an east-facing beach—perfect for soft, filtered morning light.
- Why it’s special: Birds, mangrove reflections, gentle colors.
- Tips: Arrive pre-dawn; bring a headlamp and insect repellent.
Avis Island (Mayabunder) – Sunset
A small, palm-fringed isle with clear shallows. When accessible, it offers calm-water horizons and fiery evening skies.
- Access: Local boat; permissions and timings may change—confirm in Mayabunder.
- Why it’s special: Lagoon hues and quiet sands at day’s end.
Top Cities and Places in North Andaman
- Diglipur: Gateway to Ross & Smith, Saddle Peak, Kalipur, Ramnagar, Aerial Bay.
- Mayabunder: Base for Karmatang and Avis Island; low-key town with rural charm.
- Rangat: Midway halt on the Andaman Trunk Road; access to Dhani Nallah, Amkunj, Morrice Dera.
Tourist Circuits and Suggested Routes
- Classic North Circuit (4–5 days): Port Blair → Rangat (Dhani Nallah sunrise) → Mayabunder (Karmatang sunset) → Diglipur (Ross & Smith, Saddle Peak, Kalipur).
- Slow-Travel Loop (6–7 days): Base in Diglipur for multiple golden hours, add day trips to Ramnagar, Lamiya Bay, and Aerial Bay; return via Mayabunder and Rangat.
- Photography-Focused Route: Time visits around tide charts and weather windows; prioritize Ross & Smith at both sunrise and sunset on different days.
Activities for Sunrise and Sunset Chasers
- Trekking: Early starts for Saddle Peak and coastal forest trails.
- Beach walks and tide-pooling: Kalipur, Lamiya Bay, Karmatang.
- Boat trips: Ross & Smith; check sea conditions and permits.
- Wildlife watching: Seasonal turtle nesting (with forest oversight); birding in mangroves at dawn.
- Photography: Long exposures on rock shelves (Morrice Dera), silhouettes of boats (Aerial Bay), reflections on sandbars (Ross & Smith).
Festivals and Seasonal Highlights
- Peak season: November–April for clearer skies and calmer seas—best for golden hours.
- Monsoon: May–September brings lush greens and dramatic clouds; showers can obscure views.
- Island Tourism Festival (mainly Port Blair, Jan): Events ripple across the isles; check for local programs up north.
- Cultural observances: Major Indian festivals are celebrated quietly in towns; expect limited services on key holidays.
- Nature calendar: Turtle nesting typically in winter months at select beaches—follow restrictions.
Sample Itineraries
2 Days (Diglipur Focus)
- Day 1: Arrive Diglipur; sunset at Kalipur or Aerial Bay.
- Day 2: Early Ross & Smith (sunrise), relax midday; Saddle Peak lower viewpoints for late-afternoon light; depart or stay over.
4 Days (North Highlights)
- Day 1: Port Blair → Rangat; sunset at Morrice Dera.
- Day 2: Sunrise at Dhani Nallah; continue to Mayabunder; sunset Karmatang.
- Day 3: Diglipur; afternoon Ross & Smith; sunset on sandbar.
- Day 4: Early light at Lamiya Bay; optional Saddle Peak hike; depart.
6 Days (Photographer’s Plan)
- Day 1–2: Diglipur sunrises (Aerial Bay, Ramnagar); sunsets (Kalipur, Ross & Smith).
- Day 3: Saddle Peak early start; blue hour at Lamiya Bay.
- Day 4: Mayabunder; sunset at Karmatang or Avis Island (if accessible).
- Day 5: Rangat sunrise walk at Dhani Nallah; sunset at Morrice Dera.
- Day 6: Buffer for weather; repeat best conditions.
Budget Tips and Estimated Costs
- Transport (approximate, one-way):
- Port Blair → Rangat: Government bus INR 400–700; shared cab INR 1,200–2,000.
- Port Blair → Diglipur: Government bus INR 700–1,000; private taxi INR 7,000–12,000.
- Inter-island ferries: When available, INR 300–1,000 depending on sector and class.
- Boats & permits:
- Ross & Smith boat (shared or charter): Roughly INR 1,500–3,000 per person or INR 5,000–7,000 per boat; local permit fee extra.
- Saddle Peak entry: Nominal forest fee; guide optional but recommended.
- Meals: Simple eateries INR 200–400 per person; seafood platters higher.
- Photography extras: Carry spare batteries and memory; power backups help (electricity can flicker).
- Money: ATMs are limited; carry adequate cash from Port Blair.
How to Reach North Andaman
- By air to gateway: Fly into Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport). From there, continue by road or ferry.
- By road (Andaman Trunk Road):
- Port Blair → Rangat: ~6–8 hours.
- Port Blair → Mayabunder: ~8–9 hours.
- Port Blair → Diglipur: ~9–11 hours.
Expect checkpoints and protected-area rules; stopping is restricted in certain stretches—follow all directions.
- By ferry: Government ferries occasionally connect Port Blair with Rangat/Mayabunder/Diglipur; schedules vary—check locally well in advance.
- Flights to Diglipur: As of recent updates, regular commercial services are limited or unavailable. Verify current status before planning.
Accommodation Options
- Diglipur: Beachside resorts near Kalipur, simple lodges in town, a few nature-stay options.
- Mayabunder: Basic hotels and guesthouses; limited beachfront stays.
- Rangat: Budget hotels and homestays; handy for overnight en route.
Typical price ranges (per night, indicative):
- Budget: INR 1,000–2,500 (fan/AC rooms, basic amenities).
- Mid-range: INR 2,500–5,000 (AC, on-site dining, better locations).
- Upper mid: INR 5,000–9,000 (limited availability; book early in peak season).
Local Food, Shopping, and Culture
- Food: Fresh catch (fish, crab), veg thalis, South Indian staples, Bengali-influenced curries; try coconut-based preparations.
- Markets: Small town bazaars for fruit, snacks, and essentials.
- Responsible shopping: Avoid shells, coral, or turtle products. Choose authorized handicrafts; reuse bottles and bags.
- Culture: Friendly, slow-paced; respect local customs. Never photograph or interact with indigenous communities; adhere to all reserve-area rules.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families
- Choose gentle beaches: Karmatang, Amkunj, Ramnagar (check local swim advisories).
- Pack: Sun hats, reef-safe sunscreen, light long sleeves, basic meds.
- Timing: Aim for shorter golden-hour outings; carry snacks and water.
Honeymooners
- Quiet hours: Ross & Smith at sunrise; sunset picnics at Karmatang.
- Photos: Hire a local guide/boatman who knows scenic angles and timing.
- Privacy: Opt for stays near Kalipur or rural Mayabunder beaches.
Friends & Backpackers
- Budget moves: Government buses, shared cabs, and early ferries.
- Adventure: Sunrise treks, mangrove walks, tide-pool exploring.
- Gear: Headlamp, quick-dry shoes, dry-bag for boat rides, insect repellent.
General Safety
- Sea safety: Currents vary; swim only where advised. Be alert to jellyfish and posted crocodile advisories.
- Environment: Pack out all trash; drones and campfires are restricted in protected areas.
- Connectivity: Mobile data can be patchy; download maps offline and share plans with your stay.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best month for sunrise and sunset photography in North Andaman?
A: November to April offers clearer skies and calmer seas, with January–March typically delivering the most consistent golden hours.
Q: Do I need a permit for Ross & Smith Islands?
A: Yes, a local forest permit is required and issued near Aerial Bay/Diglipur. Boat timings depend on weather and daylight; plastic is restricted.
Q: Can I summit Saddle Peak for actual sunrise?
A: Park entry timings usually prevent a true summit-at-dawn hike. Start at opening time to enjoy beautiful early-morning light on the trail and viewpoints.
Q: Are there ATMs and mobile networks in the north?
A: ATMs exist but are few; carry cash. Mobile networks work in towns with variable data speeds; expect patchy coverage on beaches and trails.
Q: Is swimming safe at all beaches?
A: Conditions vary. Follow local guidance, heed any crocodile or jellyfish advisories, and avoid isolated swimming where warnings exist.
Conclusion
North Andaman rewards patient travelers with unhurried sunrises over mangroves and unforgettable sunsets across silent sandbars. Base yourself around Diglipur, Mayabunder, and Rangat, plan around tides and weather, and keep your footprint light. With smart logistics and early starts, the region’s wild edges deliver India’s most intimate golden hours.
