Table of Contents
- Introduction
- 4 Nights 5 Days Mayabunder Itinerary
- Must-Visit Places in Mayabunder
- Local Culture and Food
- Nearby Getaways
- How to Reach Mayabunder
- Where to Stay (Accommodation Options)
- Estimated Trip Costs
- Local Experiences and Shopping
- Travel Tips (Families, Honeymooners, Friends)
- Practical Packing and Safety
- FAQs about Mayabunder
- Conclusion
Introduction
Mayabunder, tucked into the North and Middle Andaman district, is the laid-back gateway to North Andaman’s mangrove creeks, quiet beaches, and community-led eco experiences. Far from the classic Havelock crowds, this is where turtle-nesting shores meet village life, where boat rides skim over glassy creeks, and where day trips reach wild islands and sandbars. If you’re planning a 4 nights 5 days Mayabunder itinerary, here’s a complete guide to help you see the best—smoothly and sustainably.
4 Nights 5 Days Mayabunder Itinerary
Overview
- Base: Mayabunder Town (all 4 nights)
- Pace: Easy to moderate, with one long day trip
- Focus: Beaches, mangroves, soft adventure, culture, and turtles (seasonal)
Day 1: Port Blair to Mayabunder via ATR + Sunset at Rampur/Karmatang
- Morning: Arrive Port Blair. Drive to Mayabunder via Andaman Trunk Road (approx. 8–10 hours; 240–260 km). Shared/state buses and private cabs are available.
- En route (optional, time-permitting): Short halt at Baratang for tea and a viewpoint; longer detours to Limestone Caves are possible but extend travel.
- Evening: Check-in. Head to Rampur Beach or Karmatang Beach for a relaxed sunset stroll.
- Dinner: Simple seafood thali at a local dhaba in Mayabunder town.
Day 2: Avis Island Picnic + Snorkel (permits) and Karmatang Beach
- Morning: Secure boat and necessary permission for Avis Island from Mayabunder Jetty (local boatmen assist; permissions are weather and department-dependent).
- Late Morning/Afternoon: Boat to Avis Island. Beach time, light snorkeling in clear shallows (carry your own mask/snorkel; avoid standing on coral; no facilities on the island).
- Approx boat charter: INR 3,500–6,000 per boat depending on season and negotiation (indicative).
- Evening: Return and unwind at Karmatang Beach. In season (Dec–Mar), ask locally about turtle conservation briefings/night patrols managed by authorities.
Day 3: Ray Hill Eco Zone, Mangrove Boat Ride, and Village Flavors
- Morning: Visit Ray Hill area for light nature trails, birdwatching, viewpoints, and eco-interpretation (activities are seasonally operational).
- Midday: Mangrove/creek boat ride near Mayabunder (organized locally; 1–2 hours). Great for photography and spotting birdlife.
- Afternoon: Village walk to learn about local communities (including Karen heritage) and daily life. Try fresh coconuts and simple home-style meals if available through community initiatives.
- Evening: Sunset at Rampur Beach; quiet dinner in town.
Day 4: Day Trip Option A – Diglipur & Ross–Smith Islands | Option B – Interview Island (permits)
- Option A (Popular): Early start to Diglipur (approx. 2.5–3.5 hours by road). From Aerial Bay Jetty, take a permitted boat to Ross & Smith Islands (timed slots; calm, clear water, sandbar walk).
- Option B (Wild & Remote): Interview Island Wildlife Sanctuary by chartered boat (strict forest permissions; weather-dependent; absolutely no disturbance to wildlife). Note that access is limited and subject to authority approval.
- Return to Mayabunder for your final night.
Day 5: Mayabunder to Port Blair with Rangat Stop
- Morning: Drive back to Port Blair.
- Optional stop: Dhaninallah Mangrove Walkway and/or Cutbert Bay Turtle Hatchery (both near Rangat; seasonal sightings).
- Evening: Reach Port Blair for onward travel.
Must-Visit Places in Mayabunder
Karmatang Beach
Expansive, clean, and often empty. Known for turtle nesting between roughly December and March. Follow all conservation guidelines; avoid flash photography and bright lights at night.
Avis Island
A postcard-perfect islet near Mayabunder with clear water for light snorkel and swimming. Requires permission and a hired local boat. No shops or shade structures—go prepared.
Ray Hill Eco Zone
Eco-interpretation area with nature trails and viewpoints. Birding is rewarding in the early morning. Activity availability is seasonal; check locally.
Rampur Beach
Quiet, easy to access, and ideal for sunsets after a long day of travel.
Interview Island (Advanced/Permit)
A protected sanctuary known for wilderness and limited access. Strict forest permissions, experienced boatmen, and favorable weather are mandatory. Purely for responsible, low-impact visitors.
Local Culture and Food
Culture
- Diverse communities including settlers with Karen heritage from Myanmar, Bengali and South Indian influences.
- Economy rooted in fishing, plantations, and small-scale agriculture.
- Respect local customs; always ask before photographing people or private property.
Food
- Seafood thalis with fish curry, fried fish, prawn and crab (subject to fresh catch).
- Coconut, tamarind, and mustard flavors show up in simple, hearty meals.
- Limited restaurants; expect homely dhabas and small eateries. Carry snacks for island/picnic days.
Nearby Getaways
- Diglipur (approx. 80–100 km): Ross & Smith Islands (sandbar), Kalipur Beach, Lamiya Bay, and the trailhead for Saddle Peak National Park (trekking for the fit).
- Rangat (en route): Dhaninallah Mangrove Walkway and Cutbert Bay Turtle Hatchery (seasonal night patrols by authorities).
- Baratang (between Port Blair and Rangat): Limestone Caves and Mud Volcano (detours add time; best planned as separate day trips when transiting).
How to Reach Mayabunder
By Road (most common)
- Port Blair to Mayabunder via Andaman Trunk Road: 8–10 hours depending on road and weather.
- Transport: Government/state buses, shared coaches, and private AC cabs.
- Note: Check latest timings/road advisories; sections may have regulated movement or checks.
By Ferry (limited schedules)
- Government ferries occasionally run Port Blair–Rangat–Mayabunder sectors.
- Timings change seasonally; verify with Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) counters in Port Blair.
By Helicopter (very limited)
- Administrative helicopter services may operate with priority for locals and emergencies; tourist seats are limited and not guaranteed.
Permits
- Indian nationals: No special permit to visit Mayabunder town.
- Foreign nationals: Most areas in North Andaman are accessible without Restricted Area Permit under current norms; carry passport and verify latest rules on arrival.
- Specific sites (e.g., Avis Island, Interview Island) require local/forest permissions and weather clearance.
Where to Stay (Accommodation Options)
- Budget guesthouses in Mayabunder town: Simple rooms, basic amenities (approx. INR 1,000–2,000 per night).
- Mid-range stays and eco-lodges: Larger rooms, on-site dining when available (approx. INR 2,500–5,000 per night).
- Government/forest rest houses: Limited rooms, advance permission often needed (check locally).
- Beachside options near Karmatang: Limited and seasonal; confirm availability ahead of time.
Note: Options are fewer than Port Blair/Havelock. Book early in peak months (Nov–Mar).
Estimated Trip Costs
Per person estimates for 4N/5D (excluding flights to Port Blair)
- Budget: INR 16,000–28,000
- Stay: 4,000–8,000
- Surface transport (shared bus + occasional cab): 4,000–7,000
- Boats/permits (Avis, mangrove ride): 3,500–6,000
- Food: 3,500–6,000
- Mid-range: INR 28,000–48,000
- Stay: 10,000–20,000
- Private transport: 10,000–16,000 (split among group lowers cost)
- Boats/permits/activities: 5,000–8,000
- Food: 4,000–6,000
- Premium: INR 55,000–85,000
- Stay in top local properties (where available): 25,000–40,000
- Dedicated private vehicle + guided activities: 18,000–30,000
- Special charters/permits: 8,000–12,000
- Food and incidentals: 6,000–8,000
All figures are indicative and vary by season, group size, and weather/permit conditions.
Local Experiences and Shopping
- Village walks: Meet local communities, see plantations, and boat-building yards (ask before entering private areas).
- Creek and mangrove safaris: Great for birdwatching and quiet photography.
- Seafood tasting: Try simple fish thalis; pre-order crab/prawn when possible.
- Shopping: Small markets for daily needs; ethically avoid buying corals, shells, or wildlife products (illegal).
Travel Tips (Families, Honeymooners, Friends)
For Families
- Plan breaks on the long Port Blair–Mayabunder drive; carry snacks and water.
- Choose beaches with gentle slopes (Karmatang) and watch currents with kids.
- Check turtle walks only with authorized guides; keep children close at night.
For Honeymooners
- Pick quieter stays near Karmatang for privacy and sunsets.
- Schedule Avis Island for a late morning picnic and photos in soft light.
- Expect limited nightlife and patchy networks—lean into the digital detox.
For Friends/Groups
- Charter boats and cabs become cheaper when split; plan permits early.
- Consider the Diglipur day trip for a full adventure day (start early).
- Carry snorkel sets and dry bags to make the most of beaches and creeks.
Practical Packing and Safety
- Essentials: Light cottons, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, polarized sunglasses, insect repellent, personal meds, rehydration salts.
- Beach kit: Quick-dry towel, aqua shoes, mask/snorkel, dry bag, waterproof phone pouch.
- Monsoon note (May–Sep): Rains and rough seas can disrupt boats; carry a rain jacket and buffer day.
- Connectivity: BSNL and Airtel work in pockets; data can be slow. Carry cash; ATMs are limited and may run out.
- Responsible travel: No littering, no plastic on islands, no touching corals, and keep distance from wildlife.
FAQs about Mayabunder
Q: Is Mayabunder worth visiting for 4–5 days?
A: Yes—if you prefer quieter beaches, mangroves, and offbeat experiences over resort crowds. It’s also a convenient base for day trips to Ross–Smith (Diglipur) and seasonal turtle viewing.
Q: Do I need a permit for Avis Island or Interview Island?
A: Avis Island typically needs local permission and a hired boat; Interview Island requires strict Forest Department permits and favorable weather. Always check current rules in Mayabunder.
Q: What’s the best time to visit Mayabunder?
A: November to March offers calmer seas and clearer skies. Turtle nesting is roughly December–March. The monsoon (May–September) is lush but can disrupt boats and road travel.
Q: Can I rent a scooter in Mayabunder?
A: Limited scooter rentals are usually available; expect around INR 500–800 per day plus fuel. Carry a valid driving license and ride cautiously on rural roads.
Q: Is snorkeling good around Mayabunder?
A: Light, beginner-friendly snorkeling is possible at Avis Island on calm days. For more vibrant reefs, plan a day trip to Ross & Smith Islands or join guided snorkel excursions when available.
Conclusion
Mayabunder rewards travelers who trade speed for stillness. In five unrushed days, you can picnic on an uninhabited islet, drift through mangroves, watch sunsets on quiet sands, and—if you’re lucky—witness turtles return to nest. With thoughtful planning around permits, boats, and long drives, this 4 nights 5 days itinerary delivers the best of North Andaman’s offbeat charm in a compact, memorable loop.
