Table of Contents
- Introduction
- About North Andaman: Why Choose a Luxury Package
- Top Cities and Places in North Andaman
- Signature Luxury Tourist Circuits
- Best Activities & Exclusive Experiences
- Best Time to Visit North Andaman
- How to Reach North Andaman
- Where to Stay: Luxury & Best-Available Options
- Estimated Costs for Luxury North Andaman Packages
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
- Suggested Luxury Itineraries
- Festivals & Seasonal Events
- Travel Tips by Traveler Type
- Essential Tips & Responsible Travel
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Luxury Packages for North Andaman Holidays: The Ultimate Guide
Remote, wild, and breathtakingly beautiful, North Andaman is where pristine beaches meet rainforests and deserted sandbars. Luxury here is not skyscraper hotels—it’s space, privacy, and curated experiences: private boats to Ross & Smith, a guided ascent of Saddle Peak, and candlelit dinners under a billion stars. This guide unpacks everything you need to design or choose a luxury North Andaman package—best places, exclusive activities, costs, stays, and ready-to-use itineraries.
About North Andaman: Why Choose a Luxury Package
North Andaman spans Rangat, Mayabunder, and Diglipur—home to mangrove creeks, turtle beaches, limestone cave gateways, and the archipelago’s highest peak. Distances are long and logistics complex; luxury packages solve this with private SUVs, skip-the-line permits, expert naturalists, and chartered boats—maximizing comfort and access while keeping your footprint light.
- Privacy-first: Fewer crowds than Havelock or Port Blair.
- Nature-forward: Sandbars, caves, reefs, and rainforest treks.
- Curated comfort: Best-available boutique stays, seamless transfers, handpicked meals.
Top Cities and Places in North Andaman
Diglipur
The northern hub and gateway to Ross & Smith Islands and Saddle Peak National Park. Expect quiet beaches (Kalipur, Ramnagar), rainforest trails, and fertile farms.
Mayabunder
Known for mangrove creeks, Karmatang beach (a turtle hotspot), and calm bays. Slower pace, great for kayaking and village walks.
Rangat
A convenient midway base with access to Dhani Nallah mangrove boardwalk, cutchery creeks, and onward routes to Baratang’s limestone caves (Middle Andaman, en route north).
Highlights & Nearby Natural Attractions
- Ross & Smith Islands: Twin islands linked by a photogenic sandbar; requires permits.
- Saddle Peak (732 m): Highest point in the Andamans; full-day guided trek.
- Kalipur & Ramnagar Beaches: Turtle nesting (seasonal), black sand in patches, snorkel spots.
- Alfred Caves: Limestone cave system near Ramnagar; seasonal access with guide only.
- Dhani Nallah Boardwalk (Rangat): Elevated mangrove walk to a secluded beach.
Signature Luxury Tourist Circuits
- Classic North Loop (Port Blair → Baratang → Rangat → Mayabunder → Diglipur)
- Diglipur Focus (3–4 nights base in Diglipur for Ross & Smith, Saddle Peak, Kalipur)
- Blue & Green Combo (Havelock luxury stay + North Andaman wilderness add-on)
Notes on access:
- Baratang limestone caves and mud volcano are in Middle Andaman, typically included en route north.
- Some islands (e.g., Avis Island near Mayabunder) may require permissions and may be seasonally closed; your operator will advise current status.
Best Activities & Exclusive Experiences
- Private boat day to Ross & Smith: Early entry, sandbar strolls, guided reef snorkel, picnic setups.
- Saddle Peak summit with naturalist: Birding, rainforest ecology, panoramic north-island views.
- Turtle watch (Nov–Feb): Ethical, permitted night patrols at Ramnagar/Karmatang with forest guides.
- Craggy Island snorkel: Clear shallows and coral gardens; visit by licensed boat with safety gear.
- Mangrove kayaking (Mayabunder/Rangat): Golden-hour paddles through creeks with a lead guide.
- Baratang excursion (en route): Limestone caves via mangrove boat ride; convoy timing applies.
- Angling or light game fishing charter (availability varies): Small-boat charters with local skippers.
- Village and farm experiences: Pineapple and spice farms, home-style meals by prior arrangement.
Best Time to Visit North Andaman
- October to May: Best overall—calmer seas, clearer water, reliable boat operations.
- November to February: Pleasant weather; peak for turtle nesting and treks.
- March to May: Warmer; good underwater visibility, fewer crowds.
- June to September (Monsoon): Rough seas and sporadic closures; not ideal for boat-led luxury plans.
How to Reach North Andaman
Step 1: Fly to Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport) from major Indian cities.
Step 2: Continue to North Andaman:
- By road (most reliable): Private SUV via Andaman Trunk Road (ATR) with regulated convoys across reserve stretches. Approximate drive times from Port Blair:
- Baratang: 2–3 hours
- Rangat: 5–6 hours
- Mayabunder: 7–8 hours
- Diglipur: 9–10 hours
- By ferry: Government ferries occasionally operate to Rangat/Mayabunder/Diglipur; schedules are limited and subject to change.
- By helicopter: Very limited seats primarily for residents and essential travel; not guaranteed for tourists.
Important: Convoy rules and timings change periodically; photography and halts are strictly prohibited within tribal reserve stretches. Reconfirm the latest guidelines before travel.
Where to Stay: Luxury & Best-Available Options
North Andaman’s luxury is boutique and nature-forward rather than full-scale five-star. Expect premium cottages, beachfront eco-lodges, and the best-available hotels curated for service and location.
- Diglipur/Kalipur: Beachside cottages and boutique eco-resorts; convenient for Ross & Smith and Saddle Peak.
- Mayabunder: Quiet sea-view stays and nature lodges; great for mangrove activities.
- Rangat: Comfortable transit hotels and government lodges; useful for one-night halts.
Luxury package inclusions typically cover: handpicked premium rooms, private SUV with experienced driver, priority permits, guided activities, and curated meals. Book 6–10 weeks in advance in peak season due to limited inventory.
Estimated Costs for Luxury North Andaman Packages
- Per day (couple, North Andaman segment): INR 12,000–25,000 for premium stays, private SUV transfers, breakfast, permits, and guiding.
- Private boat charters:
- Ross & Smith (half-day): Approximately INR 7,000–15,000 per boat depending on season and capacity.
- Snorkel add-ons and equipment: INR 1,000–2,500 per person.
- Trekking and special permits (Saddle Peak, turtle watch): INR 200–1,000 per person plus guide fees.
- Scuba (if arranged in-region or en route): INR 4,000–7,000 per dive (intro dives higher with photos/video).
- 6N/7D Andaman luxury with 3N North add-on: INR 1.5–3.0 lakhs per couple depending on boats, guides, and season.
Rates fluctuate by season, room category, and boat availability. Confirm live prices with your operator before finalizing.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
Food
- Fresh seafood: Crab masala, grilled reef fish, prawn curry, squid fry.
- Homestyle thalis: Bengali- and South Indian-influenced meals with local produce.
- Farm-fresh fruit: Pineapple and seasonal tropical fruits from local farms.
Shopping
- Locally made handicrafts: Coconut and shell craft (buy only certified, non-endangered items).
- Spices, areca nut, honey: Often sold through cooperatives or self-help groups.
- Best variety is in Port Blair; North Andaman offers small-town markets with limited stock.
Culture
- Settler communities from mainland India create a diverse culinary and linguistic tapestry.
- Respect for indigenous reserves is critical—no interactions, photography, or halts within protected areas.
Suggested Luxury Itineraries
4 Days: Luxury North Andaman Escape (Ex–Port Blair)
- Day 1: Private SUV to Rangat via Baratang limestone caves; sunset at Dhani Nallah. Overnight Rangat/Mayabunder.
- Day 2: Continue to Diglipur. Afternoon Kalipur beach and guided snorkel. Private dinner setup.
- Day 3: Ross & Smith by private boat—sandbar picnic, reef snorkel. Evening at leisure.
- Day 4: Optional Alfred Caves walk (seasonal) or village/farm visit; return by road to Port Blair.
7 Days: Andaman Luxury with North Highlights
- Day 1: Arrive Port Blair; heritage drive and premium sundowner.
- Day 2: Road to Mayabunder with Baratang stop; mangrove kayaking.
- Day 3: Diglipur transfer; Kalipur and Ramnagar beaches.
- Day 4: Ross & Smith private charter; golden-hour photography.
- Day 5: Saddle Peak guided trek (full day) or leisure spa day.
- Day 6: Return drive to Port Blair; evening cultural showcase.
- Day 7: Departure.
10 Days: Ultra-Luxe Andaman with Deep North
- Days 1–2: Port Blair premium stay, harbor cruise, museum and cellular jail heritage.
- Days 3–5: North Andaman base in Diglipur—Ross & Smith, Saddle Peak, turtle watch (seasonal), farm-to-table dinners.
- Day 6: Mayabunder—kayaking, mangrove photography.
- Day 7: Rangat—Dhani Nallah, creek explorations.
- Days 8–9: Optional Havelock luxury add-on (white-sand beaches and fine dining).
- Day 10: Return to Port Blair and depart.
Festivals & Seasonal Events
- Island Tourism Festival (January, dates vary): Cultural programs often extend to North Andaman districts.
- Beach and local fairs: Occasional tourism-led events in Diglipur/Mayabunder; schedules vary year to year.
- Turtle nesting season (Nov–Feb): Not a festival but a marquee seasonal experience with permits and ethical guidelines.
Travel Tips by Traveler Type
Families
- Opt for shorter boat rides (Ross & Smith) and easy boardwalks (Dhani Nallah).
- Carry snacks, sun protection, and motion-sickness bands for kids.
- Choose interspersed rest days; North Andaman distances are long.
Honeymooners
- Request private beach dinners and secluded cottage categories.
- Schedule sunrise/sunset shoots on Ross & Smith and Kalipur.
- Add a spa day or a lazy lagoon picnic to balance adventure with downtime.
Friends & Thrill-Seekers
- Combine Saddle Peak with snorkel or fishing charters for variety.
- Pick early convoy slots to maximize day light for activities.
- Travel light; quick-dry gear and reef-safe sunscreen are essential.
Essential Tips & Responsible Travel
- Permits: Required for Ross & Smith and Saddle Peak; your operator usually pre-arranges these.
- Tribal reserve etiquette: No photography, halts, or interactions within reserve stretches—strictly follow convoy rules.
- Weather & seas: Operations are weather-dependent; keep a buffer day for boat activities.
- Connectivity: Patchy data; BSNL often has widest reach, with sporadic Airtel/Jio in towns.
- Cash & ATMs: Carry adequate cash; ATMs can be limited or offline.
- Health & safety: Pack personal meds, insect repellent, and basic first aid; heed local swim advisories.
- Packing list: Quick-dry clothing, water shoes, light rain jacket, hat, polarized sunglasses, dry bags, reef-safe sunscreen.
- Environment: No coral/shell collection; avoid single-use plastics; take all litter back with you.
- Drones: Require prior permission; restrictions are strictly enforced.
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to plan a luxury North Andaman holiday?
A: October to May is ideal. November to February offers the best mix of pleasant weather and seasonal highlights like turtle nesting and clear-water snorkeling.
Q: Are there five-star resorts in North Andaman?
A: Classic five-star chains are limited. Luxury here focuses on boutique beachfront cottages, eco-lodges, and best-available premium rooms paired with private guides and boats.
Q: Do I need permits for Ross & Smith Islands or Saddle Peak?
A: Yes. Forest permits are required for both Ross & Smith and Saddle Peak. Reputable operators arrange these in advance; carry ID for verification.
Q: How long is the drive from Port Blair to Diglipur?
A: Approximately 9–10 hours by private SUV, including regulated convoy sections. Many travelers break the journey with a night in Rangat or Mayabunder.
Q: Is North Andaman suitable for children and older travelers?
A: Yes, with a relaxed pace. Choose shorter boat trips, avoid strenuous treks like Saddle Peak unless fit, and keep road segments manageable with breaks or split stays.
Conclusion
North Andaman delivers a rare kind of luxury—privacy, raw nature, and carefully orchestrated experiences. With smart planning—private transfers, expert-led activities, and boutique stays—you can explore sandbars, rainforests, and turtle beaches in comfort. Time your visit between October and May, secure permits early, and allow for the region’s remoteness. The reward is a serene, deeply memorable island journey.
