How to Reach North Andaman (Diglipur), Andaman – A Complete Tourism Guide

Diglipur is the largest town in North Andaman and the gateway to pristine highlights like Ross & Smith Islands, Kalipur Beach, Saddle Peak National Park, and Alfred Caves. Reaching Diglipur takes planning because distances are long and transport options are limited compared to South Andaman. This guide explains every practical way to get there, how to book, typical travel times, and smart tips to keep your trip smooth.

Understand the Hub: Port Blair Is Your Starting Point

Almost all visitors first arrive at Port Blair (IXZ – Veer Savarkar International Airport). From Port Blair you can travel to Diglipur by road, by sea (government ferry), or by helicopter subject to availability. Private fast ferries generally do not operate to North Andaman.

Option 1: By Road via the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR)

Overview

Distance: ~325–340 km one way
Typical travel time: 10–12 hours (can be longer depending on checks, weather, and crossings)

The ATR is a scenic spine connecting South, Middle, and North Andaman through Baratang, Rangat, and Mayabunder to Diglipur. Parts of the route pass close to protected areas; expect speed checks, no-stop zones, and controlled timings. Road conditions and bridge/ferry status evolve; allow buffer time.

Ways to travel by road

• Government/Private Buses: Daily services run from Port Blair (STS Bus Terminus) to Rangat / Mayabunder / Diglipur. Buses are the most economical but take the longest and make frequent stops. Book early in high season.
• Shared Vans/Jeep Services: Quicker than buses and widely used by locals; depart early morning. Ask at Port Blair bus stand or travel desks.
• Private Taxi with Driver: Most comfortable and fastest door-to-door option. Ideal for families or if carrying luggage. You can request a split-trip with sightseeing halts (e.g., Baratang) or an overnight break in Rangat/Mayabunder. Self-drive rentals are uncommon.

Key checkpoints and conduct on the ATR

• No-stop zones: Sections near the Jarawa Reserve have strict rules—no stopping, no photography, no interaction. Follow all instructions at check posts.
• Timed passages: Certain stretches may have fixed transit windows or escorts. Check the latest timings the day before you travel.
• Creek crossings/bridges: Historically some creeks used vehicle ferries; bridges have been added over time. Even with improvements, plan for possible short waits.

Overnight break options on the way

• Rangat: Midway halt; convenient for travelers who prefer not to do the full run in one day.
• Mayabunder: Slightly further north; quieter and good for an early start to Diglipur next morning.

Indicative costs and tips

• Bus: Budget-friendly; book at the STS counter in Port Blair.
• Shared van/jeep: Moderately priced; faster than buses.
• Taxi: Higher cost; negotiate all-inclusive fare (fuel, driver allowance, waiting, night charges) before departure.
• Start before dawn to make the most of the day and catch any timed corridors comfortably.

Option 2: By Sea (Government Ferry)

Why choose the ferry

Government ferries operated by the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) connect Port Blair with Middle/North Andaman. They are weather-dependent and not as frequent as road options, but can be more comfortable than a long road journey.

Typical routes and duration

• Port Blair → Aerial Bay (Diglipur): Often via Mayabunder; about 8–10 hours depending on the vessel and routing. Aerial Bay Jetty is the closest jetty to Diglipur and Ross & Smith Islands.
• Port Blair → Mayabunder/Rangat: 5–8 hours. From there, continue by road to Diglipur (2–4 hours).

Note: Schedules change with seasons and maintenance. Sailings are not daily; plan flexibility.

How to book

• In person: DSS ticket counters in Port Blair (near Phoenix Bay/Foreshore areas). Carry a valid photo ID.
• Online: Check the official DSS/e-ticketing portal and Andaman Admin announcements for current schedules and booking windows.
• Through agents: Local travel desks can assist for a service fee.

Onboard expectations

• Seating varies by vessel; some have reclining seats and basic canteen services.
• Carry snacks, water, a light jacket, and motion-sickness medication if needed.
• In rough seas (especially monsoon), sailings can be rescheduled at short notice.

Option 3: By Helicopter (Limited Seats)

The Andaman & Nicobar Administration operates inter-island helicopter services (often with Pawan Hans) from Port Blair to select destinations including Diglipur, subject to schedules and weather.

• Pros: Fastest way (under an hour of flying), stunning aerial views.
• Cons: Very limited seats, strict baggage limits, higher fares, and priority to residents/medical/emergency. Tourist seats, when available, are released close to the travel date.

Booking

• Purchase at designated counters in Port Blair or as per the latest Administration guidelines.
• Arrive early with ID; reconfirm the day before. Weather can cause last-minute changes.

About fixed-wing flights

There is a defense airfield near Diglipur (INS Kohassa, Shibpur). As of now, no regular commercial fixed‑wing flights operate for tourists. Check only official announcements for any future civilian services.

Traveling from Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) or Neil (Shaheed Dweep) to Diglipur

There are no routine direct services to Diglipur. The usual routing is:

• Havelock/Neil → Port Blair (ferry) and then continue by road/ferry/helicopter to Diglipur.
• Occasional government ferries may connect Havelock/Neil to Rangat/Mayabunder; if available, you can continue by road from there.

Permits, IDs, and Responsible Travel

• Indian nationals: No entry permit needed for the Andaman Islands (carry valid ID).
• Foreign nationals: Ensure your visa is valid. A Restricted Area Permit (RAP) regime has seen periodic changes; most tourist zones in North Andaman, including Diglipur and Ross & Smith, are typically open. Check the latest rules with Immigration/Administration before travel.
• Jarawa Reserve rules: No stopping, no photography, no feeding/interacting. Fines and legal action apply for violations.

Last-Mile: Getting Around in Diglipur

Local transport

• Taxis and autos: Available in Diglipur town; arrange via your hotel or local stands.
• Two-wheeler rentals: Sometimes available through guesthouses; carry a license and ride cautiously.

Key spots and how to reach

• Kalipur Beach & Aerial Bay Jetty: Around 8–12 km from Diglipur town (depending on stay location). Autos/taxis can be hired. Aerial Bay is the launch point for Ross & Smith.
• Ross & Smith Islands: Take a permitted day boat from Aerial Bay. Boats usually operate in the morning/forenoon and are tide/weather dependent. Buy permits at the Forest/Jetty office; carry cash and ID.
• Saddle Peak National Park: Trail starts near Lamiya Bay/Forest Check Post. Obtain trekking permits locally; start early and carry water.
• Alfred Caves (Ram Nagar): Seasonal access with a local guide is recommended; avoid during rains.

Best Time to Travel

• October to April: Calmer seas, clearer skies—best for road and boat transfers.
• May to September (Monsoon): Heavier seas and occasional road disruptions; ferry schedules can change. Keep buffer days.

Sample Ways to Plan Your Journey

Fastest comfortable option

• Fly into Port Blair → Private taxi pre-dawn → Breakfast stop around Baratang/Rangat → Reach Diglipur by late afternoon/evening.

Scenic and relaxed

• Port Blair → Ferry to Mayabunder (or Rangat) → Overnight → Road to Diglipur next morning → Afternoon at Kalipur.

Budget-focused

• Port Blair → Government bus to Diglipur (early morning) → Local transport for sightseeing.

Booking Pointers and Practical Tips

• Reserve early: Buses, ferries, and helicopters fill up in peak season.
• Carry cash: ATMs exist but can be intermittent; small boats/permitting counters may prefer cash.
• Keep IDs handy: Required for tickets, checkpoints, and permits.
• Pack smart: Water, snacks, sunscreen, hat, rain cover (monsoon), motion-sickness meds, power bank.
• Stay informed: Check the latest DSS sailing schedule, road advisories, and weather a day prior. Your hotel or a local travel desk is invaluable for current updates.

Quick FAQ

• How long does it take by road? Typically 10–12 hours from Port Blair to Diglipur, depending on conditions.
• Is there a direct ferry to Diglipur? Yes, government ferries sometimes sail to Aerial Bay (near Diglipur), but not daily.
• Can tourists fly directly to Diglipur? No regular commercial flights. Limited helicopter seats may be available; book through official channels.
• Do foreigners need special permits? Most tourist areas are accessible, but rules can change. Check the latest RAP/notifications before travel.

Bottom line: For most travelers, the most reliable way to reach Diglipur is an early-morning road journey on the ATR, with ferries and helicopters as excellent alternatives when schedules align. Plan ahead, keep a flexible buffer, and you’ll be rewarded with North Andaman’s most unspoilt experiences.