Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Essential Packing Checklist for North Andaman
- Season-wise Packing Guide
- Luggage, Baggage Rules, and Laundry
- What Not to Pack and Island Etiquette
- North Andaman at a Glance: Top Places and Tourist Circuits
- Activities and What to Pack for Them
- Festivals and Local Culture
- Sample Itineraries and Day-wise Packing
- Budgeting and Cost Estimates
- How to Reach North Andaman
- Accommodation Options
- Food, Shopping, and Responsible Travel
- Tips for Different Traveler Types
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
North Andaman is the wild, quietly spectacular end of the Andaman archipelago—home to Diglipur, the twin islands of Ross and Smith, the 732 m Saddle Peak, turtle-nesting beaches, and limestone cave systems. It’s more remote than the popular south, so packing smartly matters. Use this checklist-driven guide to prepare for sun, salt, rainforest treks, boat rides, and monsoon surprises—plus practical info on how to reach, where to stay, and estimated costs.
Essential Packing Checklist for North Andaman
Documents and Money
- Government-issued ID (passport for foreigners; Aadhaar/Passport for Indians)
- Permits and copies: Restricted/Protected Area Permit (as applicable), forest/park permits for Saddle Peak and Ross & Smith
- Printed reservations and two photocopies of IDs
- Cash in small denominations; ATMs and card acceptance are limited outside Port Blair
- UPI apps (may work intermittently); backup cash is essential
Clothing
- Lightweight, quick-dry shirts and shorts
- 2 long-sleeve UPF tops for sun protection
- Swimwear and a modest cover-up/sarong
- Light rain jacket or poncho (especially May–Sep)
- Breathable trekking pants for Saddle Peak and cave visits
- Light shawl/fleece for AC buses or cool evenings
Footwear
- Amphibious sandals or reef-safe water shoes
- Sturdy trekking shoes with grip (Saddle Peak, Alfred Caves)
- Flip-flops for the beach
Sun, Sea, and Snorkel Essentials
- Wide-brim hat or cap; polarized sunglasses with strap
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+), zinc for face
- Rash guard for snorkeling and sun protection
- Snorkel mask/fins if you prefer your own fit (rentals are limited in Diglipur)
- Dry bag (5–10 L) and waterproof phone pouch
Health and Safety
- Personal medicines and prescriptions for the full trip
- Compact first-aid: band-aids, antiseptic, crepe bandage, pain relief
- ORS/electrolyte sachets; anti-nausea pills (for boat rides)
- Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin), anti-itch cream
- Hand sanitizer, wet wipes, reusable face mask
Hydration and Sustainability
- Reusable water bottle (750 ml–1 L) or filter bottle
- Travel cutlery and collapsible lunch box for day trips
- Cloth tote; zip-locks for wet gear
Electronics
- Power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh); electricity can be patchy
- Surge-protected universal adaptor (India: 230V, types C/D/M)
- Camera with spare batteries and dry sack
- Headlamp for early treks or caves
Optional Adventure Add-ons
- Trekking poles (Saddle Peak)
- Lightweight microfibre towel
- Compact binoculars for birding (edible-nest swiftlets, sea eagles)
- Diving certification card and logbook (if planning to dive)
Season-wise Packing Guide
Best Weather (November–April)
- Focus on sun protection: UPF wear, reef-safe sunscreen, rash guard
- Extra hydration: electrolytes and 1–2 L water capacity per person
- Snorkel set if you prefer personal equipment
Monsoon and Shoulder (May–October)
- Light rain jacket/poncho; quick-dry clothes
- Leech socks for dense forest trails; anti-fungal powder
- Dry bags for electronics; back-up footwear
- Flexible plans: some boat trips may be suspended in rough seas
Luggage, Baggage Rules, and Laundry
- Use a 45–60 L backpack/duffel with rain cover; 20–30 L daypack for hikes
- Pack 1–2 dry bags for boat rides and sudden showers
- Domestic flights to Port Blair typically allow 15–20 kg check-in and 7 kg cabin (verify your airline)
- Laundry: Most stays can arrange bucket or basic laundry; quick-dry fabrics are best
What Not to Pack and Island Etiquette
- Single-use plastics (restricted in many areas); bring reusables instead
- Coral, shells, or driftwood collection tools—removal is illegal
- Drones without prior permits (DGCA and local police permissions required)
- Loud speakers; keep beaches quiet, especially during turtle nesting season
- Camouflage clothing for civilians is discouraged in many parts of India
North Andaman at a Glance: Top Places and Tourist Circuits
Top Places
- Diglipur Town: Gateway hub; access to permits and logistics
- Ross and Smith Islands: Twin isles linked by a sandbar; crystal-clear shallows
- Saddle Peak National Park: Highest peak in Andamans (732 m); full-day trek
- Kalipur and Ramnagar Beaches: Known for turtle nesting (seasonal; visit respectfully)
- Lamiya Bay: Northern trailhead of Saddle Peak
- Alfred Caves: Limestone formations; best with a local guide in dry season
Suggested Circuits
- 2–3 days: Diglipur base → Ross & Smith → Kalipur sunset
- 3–4 days: Add Saddle Peak trek (early start), Lamiya Bay, and Ramnagar
- 4–5 days: Include Alfred Caves with a guide and extra snorkel time
Activities and What to Pack for Them
Beach and Snorkeling
- Rash guard, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, dry bag, mask/snorkel
- Small first-aid and drinking water; respect currents and posted advisories
Trekking (Saddle Peak)
- Permit, early start, sturdy shoes, trekking poles (optional)
- 2–3 L water, electrolytes, snacks, headlamp, light rain layer
- Leech protection in monsoon; pack out all trash
Caves and Forest Walks
- Guide, headlamp, gloves (optional), breathable long pants
- Insect repellent and closed shoes with grip
Boating to Ross & Smith
- Permit, entry tickets, waterproof pouch, hat, sunglasses
- Light snacks, drinking water; follow boatman’s timing strictly
Festivals and Local Culture
- Subhash Mela (Diglipur, around late January): Cultural fair and local performances
- Island Tourism Festival (primarily Port Blair; dates vary): Island-wide spirit often reaches the north
- Dress modestly away from beaches; seek permission before photographing locals
Sample Itineraries and Day-wise Packing
3-Day Snapshot
- Day 1: Arrive Diglipur; Kalipur sunset. Pack light layers, sandals, insect repellent.
- Day 2: Ross & Smith. Pack snorkel set, dry bag, hat, sunscreen, 1–2 L water.
- Day 3: Saddle Peak or Ramnagar. Pack trekking shoes, 2–3 L water, snacks, first-aid, headlamp.
5-Day Extended
- Days 1–2 as above
- Day 3: Saddle Peak trek
- Day 4: Alfred Caves with guide; pack headlamp, gloves (optional)
- Day 5: Spare weather day/snorkeling; pack rain layer in monsoon
Budgeting and Cost Estimates
Indicative costs only; subject to change by season and availability.
- Port Blair → Diglipur road bus: INR 800–1,200 per person (10–12+ hours)
- Private SUV/jeep transfer: INR 18,000–25,000 one-way (vehicle, not per person)
- Ross & Smith boat hire (Aerial Bay): INR 2,500–3,500 per boat (capacity varies) + entry fees
- Saddle Peak permit and camera fees: approx. INR 50–500 (citizenship/fees vary)
- Guide (Alfred Caves/treks): INR 500–1,500 depending on time and group
- Bike/scooter rental (limited): INR 800–1,200 per day
- Meals: INR 250–500 per person per meal at local eateries; more in resorts
- Snorkel gear rental: Limited; if available INR 200–400 per day; better to carry your own
- Accommodation: Budget INR 1,200–2,500; Mid-range INR 3,000–6,000; Boutique INR 6,000–10,000+
How to Reach North Andaman
- Fly to Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport)
- Overland to Diglipur via Andaman Trunk Road (ATR): 10–12+ hours by bus or private vehicle, often with bridge/jetty crossings; start early
- Inter-island ferries to Diglipur are limited and schedule-dependent; confirm locally
- No regular commercial flights to Diglipur; rely on road/sea
Accommodation Options
- Diglipur Town: Budget guesthouses, homestays; convenient for permits and supplies
- Kalipur/Ramnagar area: Beachside stays for turtle season and quieter ambience
- Facilities can be basic; expect intermittent power and limited Wi-Fi
- Book in advance in peak months (Dec–Mar)
Food, Shopping, and Responsible Travel
- Food: Simple seafood thalis, vegetarian curries, fresh coconuts; carry snacks for long travel days
- Shopping: Small local markets for essentials; limited specialized gear—bring your own
- Responsible Travel: Avoid plastics, don’t step on coral, keep distance from nesting turtles, take all trash back
Tips for Different Traveler Types
Families
- Pack floaties for kids, sun-safe clothing, kid-friendly snacks
- Choose shorter outings and beaches with gentle shallows (Ross & Smith on calm days)
Honeymooners/Couples
- Lightweight picnic blanket, dry bag, and a mini first-aid kit
- Sunset strolls at Kalipur; plan one adventure day (Saddle Peak or caves) and one relax day
Friends/Backpackers
- Bring snorkel sets, headlamps, power bank, and cash for shared transfers
- Consider scooter rental (where available) and early starts for treks
Trek/Dive Enthusiasts
- Trek poles, hydration bladder, leech socks in monsoon
- Dive certification card, personal mouthpiece for snorkels if preferred
FAQs
Q: What is the best month to visit North Andaman?
A: November to April offers the calmest seas and most reliable boat operations. Monsoon months (May–October) bring rain and rougher waters, affecting schedules.
Q: Do I need permits for Ross and Smith Islands and Saddle Peak?
A: Yes. Forest/park permits are required and are usually issued locally (Aerial Bay for Ross & Smith; trailhead/forest office for Saddle Peak). Carry ID and cash for fees.
Q: Are ATMs and card payments reliable in Diglipur?
A: Limited and sometimes offline. Carry sufficient cash; UPI may work but depends on connectivity.
Q: Can I rent snorkeling gear in North Andaman?
A: Rentals are limited compared to Havelock/Neil. It’s best to bring your own mask and snorkel; fins availability varies.
Q: Is North Andaman safe for solo travelers?
A: Generally yes, with standard precautions. Inform your stay about trek plans, start early, and avoid isolated areas at dusk. Weather and sea conditions change quickly—follow local advice.
Conclusion
North Andaman rewards travelers who pack thoughtfully: sun protection for serene lagoons, sturdy gear for rainforest trails, and cash for a region where connectivity is patchy. With permits in order and a flexible plan for weather, you’ll be set for Ross and Smith’s sandbar, Saddle Peak’s panoramic views, and quiet beaches where nature still leads.
