Table of Contents
- Introduction
- North Andaman at a Glance for Road-Trippers
- Car Rentals in North Andaman: Options and Availability
- Driving Rules, Permits, and Road Conditions
- Estimated Costs and Money-Saving Ideas
- Top Places to Cover by Car in North Andaman
- Suggested Tourist Circuits and Scenic Drives
- Activities and Experiences En Route
- Festivals and Seasonal Highlights
- Sample Itineraries by Car
- How to Reach North Andaman
- Accommodation Options for Road-Trippers
- Local Food, Shopping, and Culture
- Tips for Different Travelers
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Planning to explore the Andaman Islands beyond the usual Port Blair–Havelock circuit? North Andaman—home to Rangat, Mayabunder, and Diglipur—offers wild beaches, mangrove creeks, and the fabled twin isles of Ross & Smith. Given the distances and sparse public transport, car rentals in North Andaman (usually with a driver) make island-hopping on the Andaman Trunk Road practical, comfortable, and time-efficient.
North Andaman at a Glance for Road-Trippers
North Andaman is the quieter, more rugged side of the archipelago. Distances are long, fueling points are few, and phone signal can be spotty—perfect conditions for a slow road journey. Roads ribbon through rainforests, with stretches skirting protected tribal reserves where strict regulations apply. Expect small towns, eco-beaches, and nature-first experiences.
- Best months for road travel: November to April (drier seas, better roads).
- Main bases: Rangat (midway halt), Mayabunder (mangrove and beach hub), Diglipur (gateway to Ross & Smith, Saddle Peak).
- Signature drive: Port Blair–Baratang–Rangat–Mayabunder–Diglipur along the Andaman Trunk Road (NH4).
Car Rentals in North Andaman: Options and Availability
With-Driver Taxis (most common)
- Availability: Widely available in Rangat, Mayabunder, and Diglipur via local operators and hotels/guesthouses.
- Vehicle types: Hatchbacks and sedans for couples/small groups; SUVs/MPVs for families and rougher patches.
- Use cases: Full-day sightseeing, inter-town transfers, dawn departures to match restricted corridor timings.
Self-Drive Cars
- Availability: Very limited across Andaman. Most agencies do not offer self-drive cars due to local insurance and permit constraints.
- Reality check: Plan on hiring a car with a driver for North Andaman legs; it’s the norm and simplifies checkpoints and timing windows.
Two-Wheeler Rentals
- Availability: Occasional scooters/motorbikes in larger settlements (e.g., Diglipur town). Stock is limited and may be arranged via hotels.
- Requirements: Valid driving license, refundable deposit, fuel is extra.
- Best for: Short local hops; not recommended for long inter-town runs or monsoon months.
How to Book
- Through accommodation: Most guesthouses can arrange trusted drivers at fair, posted rates.
- Local stands and apps: Ride-hailing apps don’t operate here; rely on taxi unions, tour desks, or phone-in bookings.
- Advance notice: For peak season (Dec–Feb) and special permits (Ross & Smith timings), pre-arrange at least a few days ahead.
Driving Rules, Permits, and Road Conditions
Andaman Trunk Road (ATR/NH4) and Protected Corridors
- Speed and stops: No halting, honking at wildlife, or photography within protected tribal reserve stretches. Obey posted speed limits and instructions from the authorities.
- Time windows: Crossing certain segments operates in fixed time windows and/or regulated movement. These can change; confirm current timings locally the day before you travel.
- Checkposts: Carry a government-issued photo ID for all passengers; vehicles may be logged at entry/exit points.
Permits for Specific Attractions
- Ross & Smith Islands (Diglipur): Forest permit required; issued near Aerial Bay Jetty. Boats operate in fair weather with fixed return times.
- Saddle Peak National Park: Trekking permit is required; start early and register at the gate.
- Turtle nesting beaches (e.g., Kalipur): Access may be regulated at night during nesting season; follow forest staff guidance.
Road and Navigation Notes
- Surface: Mostly paved, narrow in parts, with speed breakers and occasional potholes—slow but scenic.
- Night driving: Avoid unless essential due to poor lighting, wildlife, and limited services.
- Fuel: Pumps in larger towns only; top up at Rangat, Mayabunder, and Diglipur.
- Connectivity: Mobile signal can be weak; download offline maps and carry cash.
Estimated Costs and Money-Saving Ideas
Typical Transport Costs (indicative, per 2024–25 season)
- With-driver sedan (local 8hr/80km): INR 3,000–4,500.
- With-driver SUV/MPV (local 8hr/80km): INR 4,500–6,500.
- Inter-town per km (sedan/SUV): INR 22–30 / INR 28–38; driver night allowance INR 300–500.
- Port Blair to Diglipur one-way (300–340 km): INR 10,000–16,000 depending on vehicle and season.
- Two-wheeler (where available): INR 500–800 per day + fuel + deposit.
- Ross & Smith permits and boats: Permit approx. INR 50–100 (Indians), higher for foreign nationals; shared seat INR 800–1,200 or charter INR 4,000–6,000 per boat (weather/season dependent).
Accommodation and Meals
- Budget lodges/guesthouses: INR 1,000–2,000 per night.
- Mid-range hotels/eco-stays: INR 2,500–4,500 per night.
- Higher-end eco-resorts (select areas): INR 4,500–7,500+ per night.
- Meals: INR 200–400 per person at local eateries; seafood platters INR 400–900.
Money-Saving Tips
- Share rides: Split long transfers with other travelers where possible.
- Use day circuits: Hire a car for full-day loops from each base instead of point-to-point hops.
- Travel off-peak within dry season: Shoulder months (Nov, Mar–Apr) often cost less than Christmas–New Year.
- Plan fuel and ATMs: Cash is handy for boats, permits, and small shops.
Top Places to Cover by Car in North Andaman
Rangat
- Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway: Elevated boardwalk through a serene mangrove canopy.
- Amkunj Beach: Eco-friendly beach with driftwood seating; lovely for sunsets.
- Mokroder Creek area: Quiet backwaters ideal for short halts.
Mayabunder
- Karmatang Beach: Long arc of sand, great for walks; turtle nesting zone (regulated).
- German Jetty and mangrove creeks: Photogenic stops with calm water vistas.
- Austin X and Interview Island viewpoints (where accessible on day boats; check permissions).
Diglipur
- Ross & Smith Islands: Two sandy twins joined by a sandbar; clear waters for swimming and light snorkelling.
- Kalipur and Ramnagar Beaches: Known for turtle nesting (seasonal, regulated night entries).
- Saddle Peak National Park: Highest point in Andaman (732 m); full-day forest trek.
- Alfred Caves (Ramgarh): Seasonal limestone cave exploration with a local guide.
Suggested Tourist Circuits and Scenic Drives
- Classic North Loop (5–6 days): Port Blair → Baratang (Limestone Cave/Mud Volcano) → Rangat → Mayabunder → Diglipur (Ross & Smith) → return.
- Rangat Day Circuit: Dhani Nallah → Amkunj → Panchavati Waterfall (seasonal) → back to Rangat.
- Diglipur Highlights: Aerial Bay Jetty → Ross & Smith (morning boat) → Kalipur Beach → Ramnagar → Saddle Peak trailhead (time permitting).
- Mayabunder Coastal Meander: Karmatang Beach → mangrove creeks → local viewpoints at golden hour.
Activities and Experiences En Route
- Beach time: Gentle swimming at Smith Island; observe safety flags and boat timings.
- Snorkelling: Off Smith Island beach in calm seas; bring your own mask for flexibility.
- Trekking: Saddle Peak (full-day, challenging), shorter plantation/mangrove walks near Rangat.
- Wildlife: Turtle nesting (Nov–Mar, regulated), birding along creeks and forest edges.
- Photography: Early mornings and late afternoons for soft light; respect no-photo zones.
Festivals and Seasonal Highlights
- Island Tourism festivities: Cultural programs and fairs are often scheduled in the dry season across the islands, with events varying by year.
- Turtle nesting season: Typically Nov–Mar around Kalipur and Karmatang; access is regulated and guided.
- Monsoon mood (May–Sep): Lush landscapes but heavy rain; some ferries and activities may be curtailed.
Sample Itineraries by Car
3-Day North Andaman Add-On (ex-Rangat)
- Day 1: Rangat arrival → Dhani Nallah → Amkunj Beach sunset.
- Day 2: Drive to Mayabunder → Karmatang Beach → mangrove creeks → overnight Mayabunder.
- Day 3: Drive to Diglipur → Aerial Bay → Ross & Smith (midday) → Kalipur sunset → overnight or return.
4-Day Diglipur Focus (ex-Mayabunder)
- Day 1: Mayabunder → Diglipur (scenic stops) → Kalipur.
- Day 2: Ross & Smith Islands (morning boat) → leisure.
- Day 3: Saddle Peak trek or Alfred Caves (seasonal) → evening at Ramnagar.
- Day 4: Drive back with photo stops along plantations and creeks.
5-Day North Andaman Road Trip (ex-Port Blair)
- Day 1: Port Blair → Baratang sights → Rangat.
- Day 2: Rangat loops → Mayabunder.
- Day 3: Mayabunder → Diglipur; Kalipur and local beaches.
- Day 4: Ross & Smith; optional snorkelling.
- Day 5: Return drive to Port Blair (start early to match corridor timings).
How to Reach North Andaman
- By air: Fly to Port Blair (IXZ). Commercial flights to North Andaman are not generally available; road/ferry onward.
- By road from Port Blair: Hire a taxi with driver or take early-morning government/private buses via the Andaman Trunk Road to Rangat/Mayabunder/Diglipur. Travel windows apply through protected stretches; departures typically pre-dawn.
- By ferry: Government ferries to Rangat/Mayabunder/Diglipur are limited and schedule-dependent. Seats sell out fast; check locally for current sailings.
Accommodation Options for Road-Trippers
- Budget: Simple guesthouses near Rangat bus stand and Diglipur market; clean rooms, basic amenities.
- Government eco-huts: Rustic beachside stays in select locations (booking and availability vary).
- Mid-range: Small hotels and eco-resorts around Mayabunder and Diglipur with in-house dining.
- What to check: Backup power, hot water availability, on-site dining hours, and proximity to your morning departure point.
Local Food, Shopping, and Culture
- Food to try: Island-style fish curry, crab masala, coconut-based veg curries, fresh fruit and tender coconut.
- Where to eat: Highway dhabas for hearty thalis; town canteens for seafood and snacks.
- Shopping: Keep expectations modest—look for spices, local produce, and handicrafts. Do not buy corals, shells, or turtle products (illegal).
- Culture: A mix of settler communities with deep respect for protected tribal zones. Responsible travel is the norm—follow all guidance.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families
- Choose SUVs/MPVs for space and comfort on longer drives.
- Carry snacks, water, and motion-sickness meds; restrooms can be sparse between towns.
- Target beaches with gentle entries (Smith Island, Karmatang) and observe lifejacket use on boats.
Honeymooners
- Time Ross & Smith for mid-morning light and fewer crowds; pack a picnic.
- Book stays close to beaches for golden-hour walks; request early breakfasts for pre-dawn departures.
- Consider a private vehicle for flexibility and quiet stops.
Friends and Backpackers
- Combine buses for long hauls with local cabs or scooters for day trips to cut costs.
- Start early to align with corridor timings and maximize daylight at beaches/treks.
- Bring a basic snorkel set and dry bags; rentals are limited.
Packing and Safety
- Essentials: Sun protection, reef-safe sunscreen, hats, insect repellent, quick-dry clothes, sturdy walking shoes, rain layers (if visiting shoulder/monsoon).
- Documents: Photo ID for all, DL for two-wheelers, cash for permits and small vendors.
- Etiquette: No off-road driving on beaches, no littering, no photography in restricted zones.
FAQs
Q: Can I rent a self-drive car in North Andaman?
A: Self-drive cars are generally not available in the Andaman Islands. Most travelers hire cars with drivers, which simplifies permits, checkpoints, and corridor timings. Limited self-drive scooters may be available in larger towns.
Q: What’s the best time for a North Andaman road trip?
A: November to April offers the most reliable weather, clearer seas for boats to Ross & Smith, and better road conditions. Monsoon months (May–September) can bring heavy rain and occasional disruptions.
Q: Do I need special permits to drive through the Andaman Trunk Road?
A: Tourists typically don’t need to pre-arrange permits for the road, but movement through protected stretches is regulated with time windows and strict no-stop rules. Carry photo ID and follow all instructions at checkposts.
Q: How much does a full-day car with driver cost in North Andaman?
A: Expect around INR 3,000–4,500 for a sedan and INR 4,500–6,500 for an SUV for an 8-hour/80 km package, with per-kilometre charges thereafter. Rates vary by season and availability.
Q: Is it safe to drive at night?
A: Night driving is discouraged due to poor lighting, wildlife, and limited services. Plan early starts to match corridor timings and maximize daylight.
Conclusion
North Andaman rewards patient road-trippers with pristine beaches, mangrove walks, and subtle wilderness. Given the distances and regulations, hiring a car with a driver is the most practical way to explore Rangat, Mayabunder, and Diglipur, align with protected corridor timings, and reach highlights like Ross & Smith and Saddle Peak. Travel in the dry season, start early, carry essentials, and move responsibly—the landscapes will do the rest.
