Table of Contents
- Introduction to North Andaman for Families
- Top Cities and Places in North Andaman
- Tourist Circuits and Routes
- Activities for Families and All Ages
- Festivals and Events
- Best Time to Visit North Andaman
- How to Reach North Andaman
- Accommodation: Where to Stay
- Estimated Trip Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, and Culture
- Suggested Family Itineraries
- Budget Tips for North Andaman
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction to North Andaman for Families
North Andaman is the quieter, wilder side of the Andaman Islands, stretching from Rangat and Mayabunder up to Diglipur at the archipelago’s northern tip. Think powder-soft beaches, turtle nesting sites, mangrove boardwalks, and the stunning twin islands of Ross and Smith. With low-rise stays, calm lagoons, and forest-led adventures, it’s ideal for families seeking nature, space, and unhurried days.
This guide covers what to see, when to go, how to get there, family-friendly activities, sample itineraries, costs, and practical safety tips.
Top Cities and Places in North Andaman
Diglipur
- Ross & Smith Islands: Two emerald islets joined by a sandbar; shallow, clear water excellent for kids under supervision. Permits at Aerial Bay Jetty.
- Saddle Peak National Park: Andamans’ highest point (732 m). A full-day trek for fit teens and adults.
- Kalipur & Ramnagar Beaches: Known for turtle nesting (seasonal). Calm mornings, strong currents at times; heed signage.
- Alfred Caves: Seasonal limestone caves near Ramnagar; entry with local guide during dry months.
Mayabunder
- Karmatang Beach: Long, quiet beach; turtle conservation zone with forest camps.
- Avis Island (by boat): A small, photogenic islet with tranquil water; permissions/boats arranged locally.
Rangat (Middle Andaman on the northbound route)
- Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway: A scenic boardwalk ending at a wide beach; stroller-friendly with care.
- Cutbert Bay: Turtle nesting watch (with forest department) Dec–Mar.
- Long Island & Lalaji Bay (via ferry from Rangat): Great for a day/overnight if you want an off-grid beach escape.
Baratang (en route on the Andaman Trunk Road)
- Limestone Caves & Mangrove Boat Ride: A family favorite; combine with mud volcano visit.
- Parrot Island (sunset): Seasonal flocks returning at dusk; boat arranged locally.
Tourist Circuits and Routes
- Classic Northbound Circuit (5–7 days): Port Blair → Baratang → Rangat → Mayabunder → Diglipur (Ross & Smith) → return.
- Islands & Beaches Focus: Port Blair → Rangat (Dhani Nallah) → Long Island (Lalaji Bay) → Mayabunder (Karmatang) → Diglipur (Ross & Smith, Kalipur).
- Nature & Wildlife: Baratang caves/mangroves → Cutbert Bay turtle watch → Karmatang turtle camp → Saddle Peak trek → Alfred Caves (seasonal).
Tip: Distances are long; plan 2–3-night bases (e.g., Mayabunder, Diglipur) instead of packing daily.
Activities for Families and All Ages
- Beach days: Sheltered morning swims at Ross & Smith; sand play at Karmatang and Kalipur (check local safety notices).
- Snorkeling: Gentle reefs near Ross & Smith; carry well-fitting masks and life vests for kids.
- Mangrove experiences: Boardwalk at Dhani Nallah; boat rides in Baratang’s creeks.
- Turtle nesting watch: With forest guides at Cutbert Bay, Karmatang, Kalipur (Dec–Mar). No flash photography; maintain silence.
- Trekking & nature walks: Saddle Peak (advanced), Alfred Caves (seasonal), short coastal walks around Ramnagar.
- Boating & island picnics: Day permits and boats to Avis Island and Ross & Smith; pack reusable bottles and snacks.
Festivals and Events
- Island Tourism Festival (Jan): Cultural shows, food, and handicrafts across the islands.
- Subhash Mela (around Jan 23): Local fair and performances; observed in multiple islands, including Diglipur.
- Community celebrations: Durga Puja, Diwali, and Christmas are widely observed by islanders.
Note: Protected Tribal Reserves are strictly off-limits. Do not attempt “tribal tours.”
Best Time to Visit North Andaman
- November to April: Calmer seas, clearer water, best for families; peak Dec–Feb.
- December to March: Turtle nesting season at select beaches with regulated viewing.
- May to September (monsoon): Heavy rain and choppy seas; some boat trips may be canceled.
How to Reach North Andaman
By Air
- Fly to Port Blair (IXZ) from major Indian cities. There are currently no regular commercial flights to Diglipur.
By Road (Family-friendly option with a private vehicle)
- Andaman Trunk Road (ATR): Port Blair → Baratang → Rangat → Mayabunder → Diglipur.
- Travel time: Port Blair to Diglipur ~9–11 hours (approx. 320–325 km), with short vehicle-ferry crossings and breaks. Break the journey with 1–2 nights in Rangat/Mayabunder for kids’ comfort.
- Rules: Parts of the ATR pass near tribal reserve areas; no stopping/photography where prohibited.
By Ferry (limited, schedule-dependent)
- Government ferries operate between Port Blair and Rangat/Mayabunder/Diglipur (Aerial Bay) on limited schedules. Check the Directorate of Shipping Services locally a day or two in advance.
Local Transport
- Private cabs with drivers: Most convenient for families.
- Government buses/shared jeeps: Economical but time-consuming and less flexible.
Accommodation: Where to Stay
Diglipur
- Kalipur/Aerial Bay area: Simple beachside resorts and homestays; easy access to Ross & Smith boats.
- Family notes: Prefer AC rooms, backup power, and on-site dining; confirm hot water and early breakfasts.
Mayabunder
- Guesthouses and small resorts near town or Karmatang Beach; good mid-way base when traveling with kids.
Rangat
- Lodges/guesthouses around Rangat and near Dhani Nallah; convenient for Long Island ferries.
Government/Forest Stays
- Eco-huts and rest houses (e.g., near Karmatang/Cutbert Bay) sometimes available; book through local tourism/forest offices in advance.
Indicative Nightly Rates (per room)
- Budget: INR 1,500–3,000
- Mid-range: INR 3,000–7,000
- Upper mid: INR 7,000–12,000 (limited inventory in North Andaman)
Estimated Trip Costs
- Flights (round-trip to Port Blair): INR 8,000–22,000 per adult from Indian metros, season-dependent.
- Private cab with driver (northbound circuit): INR 2,500–6,000 per day depending on distance and vehicle type.
- Ferry/boat permits & tickets: Government ferries INR 150–800 per leg; Ross & Smith permits/boats additional (check local rates).
- Activities: Guided turtle watch/treks/boats typically INR 500–3,000 per person.
- Meals: INR 300–800 per person per meal at local eateries/resort restaurants.
Family of four (6–7 days, mid-range): Approx. INR 95,000–1,60,000 including flights, stays, transport, and activities. Excludes high-season surcharges.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, and Culture
Food
- Seafood thalis: Fresh fish fry, crab curry, prawn masala; simple, tasty, kid-friendly options available.
- Coconut and banana leaf cooking: Mild flavors suit younger palates; ask for less spice.
- Burmese–Karen influences: Around Mayabunder/Rangat; try bamboo shoot dishes and local greens when available.
Shopping
- Small markets sell spices, local honey, and handicrafts. For certified souvenirs, use government emporia in Port Blair.
- Avoid: Coral, turtle shell, and seashell products (illegal/harmful).
Culture & Etiquette
- Islanders are warm and multilingual (Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Nicobarese communities, Karen settlers). Greet, ask before photos.
- Respect protected areas and all signage; no drones without permission.
Suggested Family Itineraries
5 Days: Northbound Highlights
- Day 1: Arrive Port Blair; overnight.
- Day 2: Port Blair → Rangat via Baratang (Limestone Caves). Evening at Dhani Nallah.
- Day 3: Rangat → Diglipur; sunset at Kalipur.
- Day 4: Ross & Smith Islands (full day). Return to Diglipur.
- Day 5: Early drive back to Port Blair; depart or add an extra night.
7 Days: Turtles, Mangroves, and Peaks
- Day 1: Port Blair arrive; local sights or rest.
- Day 2: Port Blair → Baratang (caves, mangrove boat) → Rangat.
- Day 3: Ferry to Long Island; Lalaji Bay beach time; overnight Long Island or return to Rangat.
- Day 4: Rangat → Mayabunder; Karmatang Beach; optional turtle watch (seasonal, with guides).
- Day 5: Mayabunder → Diglipur; evening at Ramnagar/Kalipur.
- Day 6: Ross & Smith Islands; optional glass-bottom/snorkel.
- Day 7: Optional Saddle Peak trek (fit families) or Alfred Caves (seasonal). Return towards Port Blair.
Adjust driving segments for kids’ nap times and include snack/loo breaks at ferry points.
Budget Tips for North Andaman
- Use government ferries and buses for long legs; reserve seats early when possible.
- Share taxis for Baratang and Rangat day trips if comfortable.
- Stay in government eco-huts/guesthouses or family rooms at homestays.
- Eat at local messes and dhabas; order fresh catch of the day.
- Travel in shoulder months (Nov, Mar–Apr) for better rates and still-reliable seas.
Traveler-Specific Tips
For Families with Kids
- Carry reef-safe sunscreen, rash guards, and floatation vests.
- Pack dry snacks, ORS, motion-sickness meds for long road/ferry days.
- Choose beaches with gentle morning tides; avoid swimming when tides/currents are strong.
For Honeymooners
- Visit Ross & Smith early morning for fewer crowds and calm water.
- Consider a private boat charter (where permitted) for flexible timings.
- Pick stays with sea-facing rooms and on-site dining for relaxed evenings.
For Friends and Adventure Seekers
- Trek Saddle Peak (permits, early start, carry water/permit IDs).
- Combine Alfred Caves + Ramnagar for a nature day (seasonal access).
- Expect limited nightlife; plan board games, stargazing, and beach bonfires only where explicitly allowed.
Packing & Safety Essentials
- Safety first: Heed crocodile warning signs at certain beaches (e.g., Kalipur/Ramnagar). Swim only in permitted zones.
- Cash & connectivity: ATMs are limited; UPI may be intermittent. Carry sufficient cash. Mobile data can be slow.
- Gear: Quick-dry clothes, sun hats, insect repellent, dry bags, basic first-aid, torch.
- Permits & rules: Carry government ID; obtain Ross & Smith permits at Aerial Bay. Foreign nationals must follow current Restricted/Protected Area rules; check latest advisories on arrival.
- Environment: No littering; avoid single-use plastic. Do not touch corals or marine life.
FAQs
Q: Is North Andaman suitable for young children?
A: Yes. Choose calm-morning beaches like Ross & Smith, plan shorter driving days, and book family-friendly stays with on-site dining and backup power.
Q: Do I need a permit to visit Ross & Smith Islands?
A: Yes. Day permits are issued at Aerial Bay Jetty near Diglipur. Boats operate during fair weather and set hours; plastic restrictions apply.
Q: What is the best month for turtle sightings?
A: Typically December to March at beaches like Cutbert Bay, Karmatang, and Kalipur, with guided, regulated viewing by the forest department.
Q: How long does it take to reach Diglipur by road from Port Blair?
A: Approximately 9–11 hours including vehicle-ferry crossings and rest stops. Many families break the journey with a night in Rangat or Mayabunder.
Q: Are there scuba dive centers in North Andaman?
A: Options are limited compared to Havelock/Neil. Families usually prefer snorkeling, beach days, mangrove walks, and boat picnics here.
Conclusion
North Andaman rewards families with quiet beaches, wildlife encounters, and island time that’s truly unhurried. Spread your bases between Rangat/Mayabunder and Diglipur, plan boat days to Ross & Smith, and add a turtle watch or mangrove walk for variety. With sensible safety, light packing, and flexible days, it becomes a memorable, nature-forward family holiday.
