Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why North Andaman for Coral Reefs
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Cities/Places for Reef Exploration
- Tourist Circuits
- Activities on the Reef
- Festivals & Seasonal Highlights
- How to Reach North Andaman
- Where to Stay
- Estimated Trip Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
- Tips for Different Travelers
- Nearby Attractions & Day Trips
- Suggested Itineraries
- Budget Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
North Andaman is the quieter, wilder end of the Andaman archipelago—home to emerald forests, turtle-nesting beaches, and shallow coral gardens that are perfect for laid-back exploration. If you dream of snorkelling over clear lagoons, drifting along healthy reefs, and spotting reef fish without the crowds, this is where the Andamans feel truly off-grid.
Why North Andaman for Coral Reefs
Fringing reefs around Ross & Smith, Kalipur, and the islets off Diglipur are known for calm, shallow lagoons, making them ideal for beginners and relaxed swimmers. Compared with the busier southern islands, the northern reefs see fewer visitors, which helps maintain better coral cover in selected pockets. The region also offers rare pairings—reef time by day and India’s northernmost island treks by afternoon—so you can mix marine life with rainforest adventures.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak (November–April): Calmer seas, good visibility, reliable boat operations. Ideal for snorkelling and island-hopping.
- Shoulder (October & late April–May): Some choppiness; early mornings are usually best.
- Monsoon (May–September): Rough seas and reduced visibility; boat services may be limited or suspended on bad-weather days.
- Wildlife note: Turtle nesting around Ramnagar/Kalipur often occurs roughly December–February (viewing is regulated).
Top Cities/Places for Reef Exploration
Diglipur (Base Town)
The northern travel hub with markets, ATMs (limited), and access to boats for Ross & Smith plus nearby snorkelling spots.
- Aerial Bay Jetty: Departure point for boats to Ross & Smith; permits are checked here.
Ross & Smith Islands
Two lush islands linked by a photogenic sandbar, encircled by clear, shallow waters with coral patches suitable for easy snorkelling.
- Experience: Calm lagoon snorkelling, beach walks, glassy morning water conditions.
- Permits: Issued via the Forest Department near Aerial Bay Jetty; carry a government ID. Opening days/timings can change for conservation—confirm locally.
Kalipur Beach
Known for black sand and reef flats dotted with coral heads; good for a quick snorkel close to shore when conditions are calm.
- Best time: Mid-morning at high to mid-tide for better depth over reef flats.
Craggy Island
A small islet off the Kalipur side with gentle drift snorkelling when tides align.
- Notes: Go with a local boat/guide; currents can pick up around the headlands.
Ramnagar Beach
Sandy beach with nearshore reef flats and seasonal turtle nesting.
- Etiquette: Strict no-light, no-disturbance rules during nesting season; follow ranger guidance.
Lamiya Bay (Saddle Peak foothills)
Rocky shoreline and dramatic scenery; not a primary snorkel spot but great for coastal walks.
Tourist Circuits
- Classic North Andaman Reef Circuit (3 days): Base in Diglipur → Ross & Smith snorkel day → Kalipur/Craggy Island half-day → Saddle Peak foothill walk.
- Extended Nature & Reef Circuit (4–5 days): Add Ramnagar (turtle season), Alfred Caves (limestone formations; dry season), and a second lagoon session at Ross & Smith for better odds on visibility.
- Overland Northbound (via Middle Andaman): Break journey with a night in Rangat or Mayabunder, then push to Diglipur for reef days.
Activities on the Reef
- Guided Snorkelling: The easiest, most reliable way to see coral gardens around Ross & Smith and Craggy Island.
- Glass-Bottom Boat: Available seasonally around popular lagoons; good for non-swimmers.
- Introductory Dives (availability varies): Limited operators in the far north; confirm in Diglipur before you travel.
- Freediving/Night Snorkel: Possible with specialist guides when conditions allow; prioritize safety and local advice.
- Citizen Science: Some operators collaborate with reef-monitoring workshops occasionally; check locally for current programs.
Responsible Reef Etiquette
- Use reef-safe, mineral sunscreen; avoid oxybenzone/octinoxate.
- Do not stand on, touch, or collect corals/shells; maintain neutral buoyancy.
- Keep a respectful distance from turtles and nesting sites; no flash/night lights on beaches.
- Pack out all trash; avoid feeding fish.
Festivals & Seasonal Highlights
- Island Tourism Festival (January, mainly Port Blair): Events sometimes ripple across the islands; check if any sub-events reach Diglipur.
- Local Melas/Fairs: Community fairs around winter/new year may occur; schedules vary year to year.
- Turtle Season (roughly Dec–Feb): Regulated viewing near Ramnagar/Kalipur with forest staff guidance.
How to Reach North Andaman
From Port Blair to Diglipur
- By Road (10–12 hours; ~325 km): Government and private buses, shared cabs, and private taxis via the Andaman Trunk Road. Parts of the route include regulated stretches and creek crossings; convoy timings and procedures can change—confirm a day prior.
- By Ferry (schedule-dependent): Inter-island ferries occasionally connect Port Blair/Mayabunder with Diglipur (Aerial Bay). Timetables can be irregular; book via the Directorate of Shipping Services counters in advance.
- By Air: Port Blair is the main gateway. As of recent updates, regular commercial flights to Diglipur are limited or subject to change—verify current operations before planning.
Local Transport
- Autos and jeeps for short hops; arrange boats at Aerial Bay or Kalipur through licensed operators.
- Fuel stations and ATMs are limited outside Diglipur; plan cash and fuel.
Permits
- Ross & Smith require permits from the Forest Department near Aerial Bay Jetty; carry a valid ID.
- Foreign nationals should confirm current area access rules; regulations change and some zones remain restricted.
Where to Stay
- Kalipur: Small beachside stays and eco-lodges; convenient for early snorkel runs and Craggy Island boats.
- Diglipur Town: Guesthouses with easy access to markets, ATMs, and transport.
Price guide (per night, double room):
- Budget guesthouses: INR 800–2,000
- Mid-range resorts/lodges: INR 2,500–5,000
- Eco-cottages with meals: INR 3,000–6,000
Advance booking is sensible in peak months; last-minute options can be limited.
Estimated Trip Costs
- Daily budget (per person):
- Backpacker: INR 2,500–4,000
- Comfort: INR 5,000–9,000
- Splurge: INR 10,000+
- Sample activity costs:
- Boat to Ross & Smith (return, small group): ~INR 3,000–5,000 per boat, plus permits
- Ross & Smith entry/permit: ~INR 100–500 per person (varies by nationality/season; confirm on-site)
- Snorkel gear rental: INR 300–600 per set; life jacket INR 100–200
- Glass-bottom boat (short ride): INR 500–1,000 per person
- Meals: Local thalis INR 150–300; seafood specials INR 300–900; tender coconut INR 40–80.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
Food
- Fresh fish curry thalis, fried reef fish, seasonal crab and lobster (availability varies).
- Bengali-influenced plates, South Indian breakfasts, and simple beachside snacks.
Shopping
- Small-town markets for spices, coconuts, dried fish, and handwoven mats.
- Avoid buying coral, shells, or wildlife products (illegal and harmful).
Culture
- Settler communities from across mainland India live here; respect local customs.
- Transit corridors pass near indigenous reserves; no halting/photography in restricted stretches.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families
- Pick calm, shallow lagoons (Ross & Smith mornings). Use life vests for kids; stay within flagged zones.
- Carry snacks, water, hats, and a basic first-aid kit with vinegar for jellyfish stings.
Honeymooners
- Book a private boat early in the morning for glassy conditions and quieter reefs.
- Choose a Kalipur stay for sunset strolls and easy access to reef sessions.
Friends/Groups
- Share boat charters and taxis to reduce costs; confirm fuel surcharges in advance.
- Rent scooters locally for short distances; check fuel availability.
Packing & Safety
- Reef-safe sunscreen, rash guard, water shoes, dry bag, personal snorkel/mask for better hygiene and fit.
- Motion-sickness tablets for choppy boat days; plenty of cash (ATMs limited).
- Check tide/wind forecasts; avoid entering water during rough conditions or poor visibility.
Nearby Attractions & Day Trips
- Saddle Peak National Park: Trek to the highest point in Andamans for panoramic views (full-day; permits at entry).
- Alfred Caves: Seasonal limestone cave excursions near Ramnagar (dry season recommended).
- Ramnagar Beach: Walks and regulated turtle-viewing in season.
Suggested Itineraries
3 Days: Reef & Relax
- Day 1: Arrive Diglipur → Kalipur sunset snorkel (conditions permitting).
- Day 2: Ross & Smith full-day lagoon time; beach picnic; gentle snorkel loops.
- Day 3: Craggy Island morning drift → Lamiya Bay walk → depart.
5 Days: Reefs, Caves & Peaks
- Day 1: Transit to Diglipur; easy swim at Kalipur.
- Day 2: Ross & Smith snorkel circuits; glass-bottom ride for non-swimmers.
- Day 3: Alfred Caves (seasonal) → Ramnagar beach time.
- Day 4: Saddle Peak hike (early start); evening rest.
- Day 5: Second reef day to catch best conditions → depart.
Budget Tips
- Travel by government bus for the long Port Blair–Diglipur stretch; reserve early.
- Share boats to Ross & Smith; costs drop significantly with 4–6 people.
- Carry your own snorkel/mask to avoid rental fees and ensure fit.
- Eat at local canteens and simple dhabas; seafood specials are best ordered early.
- Visit in shoulder season for better rates, but watch sea conditions.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to be a strong swimmer to see the reefs?
A: Not necessarily. Shallow lagoons at Ross & Smith are beginner-friendly, and glass-bottom boats are available for non-swimmers. Always use a life vest if unsure.
Q: When is the best visibility for snorkelling?
A: Typically November to April, with mornings offering the calmest water. Visibility can vary by wind and tide on any given day.
Q: Are scuba dive shops available in North Andaman?
A: Options are limited compared to Havelock/Neil. Some seasonal operators run introductory dives; confirm availability in Diglipur before planning a dive-focused trip.
Q: Can I carry my own snorkelling gear?
A: Yes. Bringing your own mask and snorkel ensures fit and hygiene. Rentals are available but may be limited in peak periods.
Q: Are drones allowed on the islands?
A: Drone use requires permissions and is often restricted near protected areas and beaches. Check current regulations with local authorities before flying.
Conclusion
North Andaman rewards patient travellers with serene lagoons, uncrowded coral patches, and nature-first experiences. Base yourself around Diglipur, time your reef days for calm mornings, and rely on local guides for safe, responsible exploration. With simple stays, hearty seafood, and a handful of standout snorkel spots, it’s a quiet corner of the Andamans where reef life still feels intimate and unhurried.
