Table of Contents
- Introduction: Budget Travel Packages for North Andaman
- Budget Snapshot and Estimated Costs
- Top Places in North Andaman
- Tourist Circuits and DIY Routes
- Sample Budget Itineraries and Packages
- Activities and Experiences on a Budget
- Local Culture, Food, and Shopping
- Best Time to Visit and Weather
- How to Reach North Andaman
- Accommodation Options
- Practical Budget Tips
- Travel Tips by Traveler Type
- Nearby Getaways Beyond North Andaman
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction: Budget Travel Packages for North Andaman
North Andaman—spanning Rangat, Mayabunder, and Diglipur—is the quieter, wilder side of the Andaman Islands. Think twin islands linked by a sandbar, India’s northernmost beaches, mangrove boardwalks, turtle nesting sites, and the archipelago’s highest peak. This guide focuses on budget travel packages for North Andaman with DIY routes, realistic costs, and money-saving tips so you can experience Ross & Smith Islands, Saddle Peak, Kalipur, Karmatang, and more without overspending.
Whether you’re backpacking with friends, planning a frugal family holiday, or seeking a value-for-money honeymoon, use this structured plan to build your own cheap North Andaman itinerary or benchmark operator quotes.
Budget Snapshot and Estimated Costs
Average per-person costs for a budget North Andaman trip (excluding flights):
- Shoestring: INR 1,800–2,800 per day (USD ~22–34)
- Comfortable budget: INR 2,800–4,800 per day (USD ~34–58)
Typical line items (per person per day, shared basis):
- Stay (budget guesthouse): INR 800–1,800
- Food (local dhabas + seafood): INR 400–800
- Transport (buses/shared jeeps): INR 300–900
- Activities/permits/boats: INR 300–1,200
Key paid permits and boats (indicative; subject to change):
- Ross & Smith Islands boat (round-trip, per boat): INR 1,500–3,500 from Aerial Bay; share to reduce cost
- Ross & Smith forest permit: ~INR 100–200 (Indian nationals); higher for foreign nationals
- Saddle Peak trek permit: ~INR 50–500 + nominal camera fee
Note: Carry cash; ATMs are limited and may be offline.
Top Places in North Andaman
Diglipur
- Ross & Smith Islands: Iconic twin islands joined by a white sandbar; top budget-friendly day trip.
- Saddle Peak National Park: Highest point in Andaman (732 m); rewarding full-day trek.
- Kalipur Beach & Lamiya Bay: Quiet shores; turtle nesting occurs seasonally.
- Mud Volcano (Shyam Nagar): Natural mud domes; short walk.
- Morris Dera: Rocky beach with sea arches and sunset views.
Mayabunder
- Karmatang Beach: Long, clean beach ideal for families; turtle nesting zone.
- Avis Island: Small uninhabited isle with clear waters; short, inexpensive boat rides (check local permissions).
Rangat (Middle Andaman, gateway north)
- Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway: Elevated boardwalk through mangroves to a quiet beach.
- Amkunj Beach Eco Park: Driftwood art, eco-benches; good for sunrise.
- Panchavati Waterfall (seasonal): Short, refreshing stop in/after monsoon.
Tourist Circuits and DIY Routes
Build your budget North Andaman tour using these easy circuits from Port Blair (PB):
- PB → Rangat → Mayabunder → Diglipur → PB (classic north loop, 5–7 days)
- PB → Rangat → Diglipur (base) → Mayabunder (day trip) → PB (4–6 days)
- PB → Mayabunder (base) → Diglipur (2N) → PB (for families seeking shorter drives)
Road distances/time from Port Blair (variable due to check-posts and ferries):
- Port Blair → Rangat: ~170 km, 6–7.5 hours
- Port Blair → Mayabunder: ~240 km, 8–9.5 hours
- Port Blair → Diglipur: ~320 km, 10–12 hours
Sample Budget Itineraries and Packages
4D/3N North Andaman Highlights (Budget DIY)
- Day 1: Port Blair → Rangat (Dhani Nallah + Amkunj). Overnight Rangat.
- Day 2: Rangat → Diglipur; afternoon Kalipur Beach. Overnight Diglipur.
- Day 3: Ross & Smith Islands day trip; sunset at Lamiya Bay. Overnight Diglipur.
- Day 4: Diglipur → Port Blair.
Estimated budget (per person, twin-share): INR 9,500–13,500 including buses/shared jeeps, guesthouses, Ross & Smith boat/permit, meals.
5D/4N Affordable North Andaman + Mayabunder
- Day 1: PB → Mayabunder; Karmatang Beach. Overnight Mayabunder.
- Day 2: Avis Island boat + beach time; transfer to Diglipur. Overnight Diglipur.
- Day 3: Ross & Smith Islands. Overnight Diglipur.
- Day 4: Saddle Peak trek (full day) or Mud Volcano + Morris Dera. Overnight Diglipur.
- Day 5: Diglipur → PB.
Estimated budget (per person, twin-share): INR 13,000–18,500.
7D/6N Slow-Travel Budget Explorer
- Day 1: PB → Rangat; Dhani Nallah boardwalk. Overnight Rangat.
- Day 2: Amkunj Eco Park + Panchavati area; Rangat markets. Overnight Rangat.
- Day 3: Rangat → Mayabunder; Karmatang sunset. Overnight Mayabunder.
- Day 4: Avis Island half-day; Mayabunder local life walk. Overnight Mayabunder.
- Day 5: Mayabunder → Diglipur; Kalipur Beach. Overnight Diglipur.
- Day 6: Ross & Smith Islands; evening at Lamiya Bay. Overnight Diglipur.
- Day 7: Diglipur → PB.
Estimated budget (per person, twin-share): INR 19,000–27,000.
What budget operator packages typically include
- Accommodation (budget hotels/guesthouses, CP/EP plan)
- Surface transfers (shared jeep/van) + permits for Ross & Smith and Saddle Peak
- Assistance at check-posts and jetty boat bookings
Benchmark price for 5D/4N budget North Andaman package: INR 15,000–22,000 per person (twin-share), excluding flights. DIY often saves 10–25% if you use buses and share boats.
Activities and Experiences on a Budget
- Beaches and swimming: Free at Karmatang, Amkunj, Kalipur, Lamiya Bay.
- Ross & Smith Islands: Snorkeling in shallow lagoons; bring your own mask to save rental fees.
- Saddle Peak trek: Pack lunch and water; start early to avoid heat.
- Mangrove walks: Dhani Nallah boardwalk—great for birdwatching.
- Sunrise/sunset spots: Amkunj (sunrise), Karmatang/Lamiya Bay (sunset), Morris Dera (golden hour).
- Wildlife seasons: Turtle nesting around Kalipur/Karmatang (roughly Dec–Feb; sightings not guaranteed).
- Local markets: Affordable fruit, snacks, and simple souvenirs.
Local Culture, Food, and Shopping
Food to try (budget-friendly)
- Fish thali and crab curry at local dhabas
- Banana fritters, coconut water, seasonal fruits (jackfruit, mango, pineapple)
- South Indian breakfasts: idli, dosa, vada with filter coffee
Culture
- North Andaman is a mix of settlers from mainland India; respect local customs and dress modestly at villages.
- Photography is prohibited of and near notified tribal reserves; do not stop vehicles or interact along reserve stretches.
Shopping
- Handmade shell crafts and coconut products (avoid buying coral; collection/possession is illegal).
- Spices and small artisanal items from local markets in Rangat, Mayabunder, and Diglipur.
Best Time to Visit and Weather
- Peak pleasant season: November to April (calmer seas, better visibility for snorkeling).
- Shoulder: October and early May (lower prices, occasional showers).
- Monsoon: Late May to September (heavy rain, choppy seas, occasional disruptions). Budget stays are cheaper but outdoor plans may be limited.
How to Reach North Andaman
Gateway: Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), Port Blair.
From Port Blair to North Andaman
- Public STS buses: Cheapest; early-morning departures to Rangat/Mayabunder/Diglipur. Buy tickets at the bus stand a day in advance.
- Shared jeeps: Slightly faster; moderately priced; book via local counters near Aberdeen Bazaar/bus stand.
- Private cab: Most comfortable; INR 6,500–9,500 one-way to Diglipur (cost split among 4–6 makes it budget-friendlier).
Notes:
- Road crosses the Middle Strait by vehicle ferry; timings can affect total journey time.
- Carry a government ID; foreigners should verify current Restricted Area Permit (RAP/e-permit) rules before travel and keep passport handy for check-posts.
Accommodation Options
- Rangat: Budget lodges and government-run guesthouses near the bazaar; INR 1,000–2,200 per night (double, non/AC).
- Mayabunder: Simple hotels around town; INR 1,200–2,800. Good for families due to calm beaches.
- Diglipur: Wider choice; budget hotels/eco-huts near Kalipur/Lamiya Bay; INR 1,200–3,200. Book ahead in Dec–Feb.
Tips:
- Expect basic amenities; hot water and reliable Wi‑Fi may not be guaranteed.
- Government guesthouses can be very economical but require advance booking and flexibility.
Practical Budget Tips
- Travel early: First buses/jeeps are cheaper and more punctual.
- Share costs: Find co-travelers for Ross & Smith boats and long taxi hops.
- Pack snorkel gear: Saves daily rentals and ensures better fit.
- Carry cash: ATMs are few; some properties accept only cash.
- Hydration and snacks: Stock up in towns to avoid resort markups.
- Permits first: Get Ross & Smith and Saddle Peak permits early morning to secure slots.
- Eco-rules: No plastic littering, no coral/shell collection, no drone use near protected areas.
Travel Tips by Traveler Type
Families
- Base in Mayabunder or Diglipur for 2–3 nights each to reduce daily travel time.
- Choose AC shared jeeps or private cabs for long legs; carry snacks and ORS.
- Life jackets for all boat trips; avoid rough-sea days.
Honeymooners
- Pick sea-facing eco-huts near Kalipur or quiet stays near Karmatang.
- Plan sunrise/sunset walks and a weekday Ross & Smith visit to avoid crowds.
- Expect limited mobile data; download maps and playlists offline.
Friends/Backpackers
- Use STS buses and shared jeeps; split boats and cabs with other travelers.
- Wild camping on beaches is generally not permitted; opt for basic guesthouses.
- Keep copies of IDs and permits on phone for quick check-posts.
Nearby Getaways Beyond North Andaman
- Baratang Island: Limestone caves, mangrove creeks, mud volcano; good 1–2 day add-on while transiting north.
- Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil (Shaheed Dweep): Further south; famous beaches and snorkeling; costs are higher than the north but can be combined if time permits.
FAQs
Q: How many days are ideal for a budget North Andaman trip?
A: Four to five days cover Rangat, Ross & Smith, and Kalipur. Add two more days for Mayabunder and a Saddle Peak trek.
Q: Can I visit Ross & Smith Islands cheaply?
A: Yes. Go early to Aerial Bay Jetty (Diglipur), share a boat with other travelers, and carry snacks and water. Permits are issued locally.
Q: Are permits required for North Andaman?
A: Indian nationals generally need local forest permits for Ross & Smith and Saddle Peak. Foreign nationals should check current RAP/e-permit rules and carry passports for check-posts.
Q: What is the cheapest way to travel between towns?
A: STS public buses are the cheapest. Shared jeeps cost more but are faster. Private cabs are comfortable when split among 4–6 people.
Q: Is North Andaman good for families on a budget?
A: Yes. Choose Mayabunder for calm beaches and Diglipur for island day trips. Opt for budget guesthouses and plan fewer hotel changes to save money and energy.
Conclusion
North Andaman rewards budget travelers with serene beaches, mangrove walks, a scenic summit trek, and the postcard-perfect Ross & Smith sandbar. With early transport, shared boats, simple guesthouses, and smart permit planning, you can explore Rangat, Mayabunder, and Diglipur comfortably at low cost. Travel light, carry cash, respect eco-guidelines, and enjoy the quieter, more authentic side of the Andaman Islands.
