Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Top Cities and Places in North Andaman
- Tourist Circuits for Eco-Adventurers
- Best Activities and Eco-Adventures
- When to Visit
- Festivals and Seasonal Highlights
- Suggested Itineraries
- How to Reach North Andaman
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Budget Tips for Sustainable Travel
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Tips for Different Traveller Types
- Sustainable Travel and Safety Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
North Andaman is the wilder, sleepier side of the Andaman Islands where rainforest-clad hills tumble into turquoise creeks, coral-fringed islets, and turtle-nesting beaches. Centered around Diglipur and Mayabunder, this region is perfect for low-impact, high-reward eco-adventures—think trekking to the highest peak in the archipelago, kayaking through mangroves, snorkeling off sandbar-linked twin islands, and watching baby turtles make their first dash to the sea. This guide blends on-ground insights with practical tips so you can explore responsibly while supporting local communities and fragile ecosystems.
Top Cities and Places in North Andaman
Diglipur
- Saddle Peak National Park: Home to the Andamans’ highest summit (732 m), dense evergreen forests, orchids, and endemic birds.
- Ross & Smith Islands: Two idyllic islands joined by a natural sandbar; crystal-clear lagoon ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Kalipur & Ramnagar Beaches: Known for turtle nesting (seasonal), black-sand stretches, and reef shallows.
- Alfred Caves (Ramnagar): A seasonal limestone cave system with bats and swiftlets; guided visits only.
- Shyam Nagar Mud Volcano: A short forest walk leads to bubbling mud domes—small but geologically intriguing.
Mayabunder
- Karmatang Beach: A long, quiet bay with dune vegetation; seasonal turtle nesting area.
- Mangrove Creeks (Austin Strait area): Calm waterways ideal for sunrise or sunset kayaking and birdwatching.
- Local Settlements: Culturally diverse communities with markets and homestays offering authentic meals.
Tourist Circuits for Eco-Adventurers
1) Diglipur Eco-Loop (Full Day to 2 Days)
- Aerial Bay Jetty → Boat to Ross & Smith Islands → Snorkel/lagoon time → Return
- Evening at Kalipur or Ramnagar for guided turtle watch (in season and with permissions)
2) Peaks, Caves, and Bays (1–2 Days)
- Early trek to Saddle Peak via Lamiya Bay gate (permits needed)
- Next morning: Guided walk to Alfred Caves (dry-season access only)
3) Mayabunder Mangrove & Beach Circuit (1 Day)
- Sunrise kayak in mangrove creeks
- Afternoon at Karmatang Beach for beachcombing and birding
Best Activities and Eco-Adventures
Trekking and Forest Walks
- Saddle Peak Trek: 6–8 hours round-trip; moderate–strenuous. Start early; carry water (no shops inside). Entry permit at Lamiya Bay gate.
- Nature Trails: Shorter walks near Lamiya Bay and Kalipur for coastal vegetation and birdlife.
Marine and Beach Experiences
- Snorkeling: Best around Ross & Smith’s lagoon edge; visibility depends on tides and swell. Use reef-safe sunscreen.
- Swimming: Calmest at Ross & Smith lagoon; follow lifeguard or ranger instructions.
- Diving: Limited operators in Diglipur; availability varies by season—check ahead.
Wildlife and Conservation
- Turtle Watching: Kalipur and Karmatang see olive ridley, green, and occasionally leatherback nesting (typically Dec–Mar). Only with forest staff/authorized guides.
- Birding: Endemics like Andaman woodpecker, Andaman drongo, and swiftlets around Saddle Peak and coastal forests.
Kayaking and Caving
- Mangrove Kayaking (Mayabunder): Serene creeks with kingfishers and herons; best at sunrise/sunset and on a mid-tide.
- Alfred Caves (Ramnagar): Seasonal limestone caves; go with a certified local guide and adhere to no-touch rules.
When to Visit
- October–April: Prime season for clear seas, trekking, snorkeling, and turtle nesting.
- May–September: Monsoon brings rough seas and occasional access disruptions; lush forests but outdoor plans may be limited.
Festivals and Seasonal Highlights
- Subhash Mela (Diglipur, January): A local fair with food and cultural performances; dates vary annually.
- Pan-Island Celebrations: Durga Puja, Pongal, and other mainland festivals reflect the region’s diverse communities.
- Turtle Season: Dec–Mar most reliable for nesting/hatching events with ranger oversight.
Suggested Itineraries
3 Days: First-Timer Eco Highlights
- Day 1: Arrive Diglipur by road. Evening walk at Kalipur.
- Day 2: Morning boat to Ross & Smith; snorkel and relax. Sunset at Ramnagar.
- Day 3: Saddle Peak trek (early start) → Depart.
5 Days: Deeper North Andaman
- Day 1: Port Blair → Diglipur (road). Check-in.
- Day 2: Ross & Smith Islands. Optional sunset turtle watch (in season, with permissions).
- Day 3: Saddle Peak trek. Evening at Kalipur.
- Day 4: Transfer to Mayabunder. Mangrove kayaking; local market stroll.
- Day 5: Karmatang Beach morning. Return journey.
How to Reach North Andaman
- By Road (most common): Port Blair → Diglipur via Andaman Trunk Road (approx. 8–10 hours). Government and private buses, shared cabs, and private cars available. Road crosses forest reserves; follow checkpoint rules.
- By Sea: Infrequent government ferries connect Port Blair with Mayabunder/Diglipur; schedules change—check locally well in advance.
- By Helicopter (limited seats): Inter-island services may operate for residents and urgent travel; tourists should not rely on availability.
Permits: Indians typically do not need special permits for North Andaman. Foreign nationals require Restricted/Protected Area permits (often issued on arrival at Port Blair). Separate day permits are needed for Ross & Smith and select protected areas—obtainable at Aerial Bay/forest offices. Rules can change; verify before travel.
Accommodation Options
- Eco-Resorts and Cottages (Diglipur/Kalipur): Beachside stays near Kalipur with basic-to-comfortable amenities.
- Guesthouses and Homestays: Budget-friendly rooms in Diglipur and Mayabunder; great for local meals and cultural exchange.
- Government/Forest Rest Houses: Limited; advance booking typically required, facilities are simple.
Tip: Power outages and patchy connectivity are common; choose stays with backup power and confirm hot water availability if needed.
Estimated Costs
- Transport: Port Blair → Diglipur
- Government bus: ~INR 500–900 per person (one-way)
- Shared cab: ~INR 800–1,500 per person (one-way)
- Private car: ~INR 9,000–14,000 (one-way, vehicle)
- Boats & Permits:
- Ross & Smith boat (shared): ~INR 800–1,500 per person; private charters cost more
- Ross & Smith permit: ~INR 50–150 (Indians), higher for foreign nationals; camera fees may apply
- Saddle Peak entry: ~INR 50–200 (Indians), higher for foreign nationals
- Guides: ~INR 1,500–3,000 per day (trek/caves/kayak), depending on group size
- Activities:
- Mangrove kayaking: ~INR 1,500–3,000 per person
- Intro dive (if available): ~INR 3,500–6,000 per person
- Accommodation: Budget: INR 800–1,500; Mid-range eco-stays: INR 2,000–4,500 per night
- Meals: Local eateries: INR 200–400; Resort restaurants: INR 500–900 per meal
Note: Prices fluctuate seasonally and by operator; confirm on arrival.
Budget Tips for Sustainable Travel
- Use government buses/shared cabs between towns; walk or cycle locally where feasible.
- Carry your own snorkel mask and refillable water bottle to reduce rentals and plastic waste.
- Travel Oct–Nov or Feb–Apr for good weather without peak rates.
- Choose homestays/community-run tours to keep money local.
- Avoid buying coral/shell products—illegal and harmful; support certified handicrafts instead.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Try Andaman-style fish curry, grilled reef fish, crab, and coconut-based vegetable curries.
- Diglipur’s farms yield pineapples, bananas, and seasonal fruits—look for roadside stalls.
Shopping
- Small markets sell spices, island honey, and woven handicrafts. Forest department outlets occasionally stock legal souvenirs.
- Avoid coral, turtle shell, and black corals—possession and trade are prohibited.
Culture
- A mix of Bengali, Tamil, and Ranchi/Chotanagpur settler heritage. Local fairs and pujas offer music and food stalls.
- Tribal reserves are strictly off-limits; respect all signage and photography restrictions.
Tips for Different Traveller Types
Families
- Pick calm-water days for Ross & Smith; carry snacks, sun protection, and reef-safe sunscreen.
- Short nature trails and mangrove boat rides are kid-friendly; avoid long treks in mid-day heat.
Honeymooners
- Time your Ross & Smith visit for a weekday morning to enjoy quieter shores.
- Choose eco-cottages near Kalipur for starry skies and early-morning beach walks.
Friends/Adventure Groups
- Combine Saddle Peak, kayaking, and a cave walk over 2–3 days for variety.
- Hire a local naturalist to deepen the experience and split guide costs.
Solo Travellers
- Book buses early; carry cash as ATMs and connectivity can be unreliable.
- Join group activities (kayak/snorkel) to cut costs and increase safety.
Sustainable Travel and Safety Tips
- Sea Conditions: Currents and tides vary; swim/snorkel only in advised zones.
- Wildlife Caution: Saltwater crocodile advisories may apply at certain beaches—obey local notices strictly.
- Turtle Etiquette: Red-light torches only, maintain distance, no flash photography, follow ranger instructions.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash, avoid stepping on corals or touching cave formations.
- Permits & Boundaries: Some areas require forest permits; tribal reserves are no-entry zones.
- Health & Gear: Carry ORS, insect repellent, basic first-aid, and adequate water on treks.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a permit to visit Ross & Smith Islands?
A: Yes. Day permits are issued at Aerial Bay (near Diglipur) by forest authorities. Fees vary for Indians and foreign nationals, and camera fees may apply.
Q: When is the best time for turtle watching in North Andaman?
A: Typically December to March at Kalipur and Karmatang beaches. Visits must be guided and follow conservation rules; not all nights guarantee sightings.
Q: How difficult is the Saddle Peak trek?
A: It’s a moderate to strenuous 6–8 hour round-trip with steep, humid sections. Start early, carry at least 2–3 liters of water per person, and obtain the park entry permit.
Q: Are ATMs and mobile networks reliable in Diglipur and Mayabunder?
A: They can be patchy. Carry sufficient cash and expect intermittent data connectivity, especially in remote beaches and forest areas.
Q: Can beginners snorkel at Ross & Smith?
A: Yes, conditions are beginner-friendly on calm days along the lagoon side. Always check tide and wind, use reef-safe sunscreen, and avoid standing on corals.
Conclusion
North Andaman rewards patient, low-impact travelers with pristine beaches, rainforest treks, mangrove creeks, and powerful conservation moments like turtle hatching. Center your trip around Diglipur and Mayabunder, plan for permits and long road journeys, and opt for community-led guides. With thoughtful timing and respectful travel practices, your eco-adventure here remains as gentle on the islands as the islands are generous to you.
