Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Top Cities and Places in North Andaman
- Sustainable Resorts: Shortlist and Eco Practices
- Tourist Circuits for North Andaman
- Activities and Nature Experiences
- Festivals and Seasonal Highlights
- Suggested Itineraries
- Budget Tips and Estimated Costs
- How to Reach North Andaman
- Accommodation Options and Booking Tips
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Wild, quietly beautiful, and far less crowded than the southern isles, North Andaman is where eco-conscious travelers come to slow down. From Diglipur’s Saddle Peak rainforest to the twin shores of Ross & Smith Island and the turtle-nesting beaches of Kalipur and Cutbert Bay, this region lends itself naturally to sustainable travel. This guide focuses on sustainable resorts in North Andaman—and wraps in the best places, routes, activities, and practical tips to help you tread lightly.
Top Cities and Places in North Andaman
North Andaman is often planned together with Middle Andaman. Key hubs and why they matter for eco-stays:
- Diglipur (North Andaman): Gateway to Ross & Smith Island, Kalipur (turtle nesting), and Saddle Peak National Park. Good base for eco-resorts and treks.
- Mayabunder (Middle Andaman): Quieter harbor town near Karmatang Beach and Avis Island. Cultural visits to nearby Karen settlements are possible through responsible operators.
- Rangat (Middle Andaman): Known for Dhani Nallah mangrove boardwalk, Amkunj Beach eco-park, and proximity to Cutbert Bay turtle nesting.
- Long Island (Middle Andaman): A low-impact, walkable island with no road traffic beyond the village. Base for Lalaji Bay day treks and dive/snorkel trips.
Sustainable Resorts: Shortlist and Eco Practices
Below are representative eco-friendly stays used by responsible travelers and operators. Always verify current certifications, availability, and seasonal closures.
Diglipur Area
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Pristine Beach Resort, Kalipur (Diglipur)
Why it’s sustainable: Local employment, low-impact construction, solar hot-water in select blocks, reef-safe activity partners, turtle-friendly lighting protocols near Kalipur Beach.
Who it suits: Couples, families, divers/snorkelers.
Approx. price: INR 3,500–7,000 per night (season-dependent). -
Tourism Department eco-cottages near Kalipur (“Turtle Resort”, name varies locally)
Why it’s sustainable: Simple government-run units close to nature; minimal footprint; supports local ranger presence and regulated beach access.
Who it suits: Budget travelers, turtle enthusiasts (strict guidelines).
Approx. price: INR 1,800–3,500 per night (basic facilities).
Rangat Area
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Hawksbill Nest, Rangat (Tourism Dept)
Why it’s sustainable: Government accommodation near Cutbert Bay; supports conservation-led tourism and regulated turtle-watching in season.
Who it suits: Families, wildlife lovers, budget-mid travelers.
Approx. price: INR 2,000–4,500 per night. -
Community Homestays (Rangat/Yerrata/Bakultala)
Why it’s sustainable: Direct local benefit-sharing, low energy use, traditional meals. Availability via local operators only.
Who it suits: Culture-curious travelers, photographers.
Approx. price: INR 1,500–3,000 per night with meals.
Mayabunder Area
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Local Homestays near Karmatang Beach/Mayabunder town
Why it’s sustainable: Supports host families, reduces resort-style footprint, encourages cultural exchange. Book via verified local networks.
Who it suits: Slow travelers, friends, budget-mid ranges.
Approx. price: INR 1,500–3,500 per night.
Long Island
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Blue Planet Andamans, Long Island
Why it’s sustainable: Eco-minded dive/stay operation; solar where feasible, dry waste segregation, refill-water stations, community engagement.
Who it suits: Divers, backpackers, nature lovers.
Approx. price: INR 2,500–5,500 per night (rooms vary).
Note: Availability, names, and management of government-run properties can change; verify the latest status via Andaman Tourism offices in Port Blair/Rangat/Diglipur or reliable local operators.
Tourist Circuits for North Andaman
- Diglipur Focus (3–4 days): Kalipur Beach and turtle interpretation walk (in season) → Ross & Smith Island day trip → Saddle Peak trek (permit required) → Local village walk and zero-waste picnic.
- Rangat–Mayabunder Nature Loop (3 days): Dhani Nallah mangrove boardwalk → Amkunj eco-park beach clean-up hour → Cutbert Bay turtle watch (seasonal) → Mayabunder harbor and Karmatang Beach sunset.
- Long Island Low-Impact Escape (2–3 days): Village stay → guided reef snorkel with reef-safe practices → day trek to Lalaji Bay (check trail and weather) → stargazing, no-amplified-music evenings.
Activities and Nature Experiences
- Turtle watching: Kalipur (Diglipur) and Cutbert Bay (Rangat) from Nov–Feb; always with forest guide, no flash/white light.
- Island-hopping: Ross & Smith Island sandbar walk; carry back all trash, avoid sunscreen right before entering water.
- Trekking: Saddle Peak National Park (Andamans’ highest point). Start early, carry permit, stay on trail.
- Mangrove walks: Dhani Nallah boardwalk near Rangat—excellent for birds and quiet photography.
- Snorkeling/diving: Long Island and Diglipur with licensed operators; insist on reef-safe briefings and no-touch policies.
- Culture & community: Responsible visits in Mayabunder region via vetted guides; support crafts/food experiences.
Festivals and Seasonal Highlights
- Turtle nesting season: Typically Nov–Feb with variations; peak sightings may vary each year.
- Island Tourism Festival (Port Blair): Usually in January; while held in the south, it affects bookings and transport across the islands.
- Monsoon greenery: May–September brings lush forests but rough seas; many boat trips reduce frequency.
Suggested Itineraries
5-Day Eco Itinerary (North & Middle Andaman)
- Day 1: Port Blair to Rangat by road; evening at Dhani Nallah boardwalk.
- Day 2: Cutbert Bay turtle watch (seasonal) → transfer to Mayabunder; low-impact harbor walk.
- Day 3: Mayabunder to Diglipur; Kalipur Beach sunset; stay at an eco-resort.
- Day 4: Ross & Smith Island day trip; reef-friendly swim; evening village dinner.
- Day 5: Saddle Peak trek (if fit) or local farm/estuary visit; return begins.
7-Day Slow & Sustainable
- Days 1–2: Rangat base; mangroves, community crafts, beach clean-up hour.
- Days 3–4: Mayabunder base; Karmatang Beach, Avis Island (as permitted), cultural food tasting.
- Days 5–7: Diglipur and Long Island split; Ross & Smith, snorkel with licensed operator, no-plastic pledge.
Budget Tips and Estimated Costs
- Stay: Budget INR 1,500–3,000; mid-range INR 3,000–7,000; eco-luxe (limited) INR 7,000–12,000 per night.
- Food: INR 300–800 per person per meal at homestays/local eateries; resorts may be higher.
- Transport: Shared govt buses are cheapest; private cabs costlier but time-saving; ferries vary by route.
- Permits & fees: Ross & Smith day-permit, park/trek fees, and camera fees where applicable; usually a few hundred INR.
- Activities: Guided snorkel INR 1,000–3,500; dive days higher; turtle walks typically nominal guiding fees.
How to Reach North Andaman
- By road (most common): Port Blair → Baratang → Rangat → Mayabunder → Diglipur via the Andaman Trunk Road. Expect a long day (10–12+ hours to Diglipur). Check current bridge/ferry status and convoy timings.
- By government ferry: Occasional services connect Port Blair with Rangat/Mayabunder/Diglipur. Schedules change; book at the DSS ticketing counters in Port Blair.
- By helicopter (seats limited): Inter-island helicopter services operate sporadically for residents and essential travel; tourists may access seats when available.
- Local movement: Buses, shared jeeps, and hired cabs. Long Island reached by ferry from Rangat/ Yeratta Jetty (check timings).
Accommodation Options and Booking Tips
- Types: Eco-resorts, government guesthouses (Hawksbill Nest, Turtle-area cottages), and vetted homestays.
- Seasonality: Peak Nov–March; book early, especially around holidays and turtle season.
- What to check: Water refill stations, waste segregation, energy use (solar/LED), local hiring, and wildlife-friendly policies (lights near beaches).
- Payment/Connectivity: Card machines may fail; carry adequate cash. Mobile data is patchy; download maps and confirmations offline.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Fresh seafood thalis, coconut-based curries, banana-flower cutlets, and seasonal fruit.
- Try Karen-influenced dishes around Mayabunder through responsible community experiences.
Shopping
- Ethical buys: bamboo/cane crafts, spices, coconut products, local honey (verify source).
- Avoid: coral, seashells, turtle products—illegal and ecologically harmful.
Culture
- Settler communities (Bengali, Tamil, Ranchi) and Karen heritage near Mayabunder. Engage via respectful, pre-arranged visits; no intrusive photography.
Traveler-Specific Tips
Families
- Choose resorts with open spaces and easy beach access (Kalipur, Amkunj).
- Carry reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles.
Honeymooners
- Pick quieter eco-stays in Diglipur or Long Island for privacy.
- Time a weekday visit to Ross & Smith; arrive early for fewer crowds.
Friends/Groups
- Book homestays or multi-room eco-lodges; plan shared cabs to cut costs.
- Volunteer a beach clean-up hour; ask your host to help dispose responsibly.
Packing & Safety
- Light long sleeves for sun, sturdy sandals, biodegradable toiletries, dry bags.
- Respect signage; some areas are sensitive or restricted. Swim only in advised zones.
FAQs
Q: When is the best time to visit North Andaman for sustainable stays?
A: November to March offers calmer seas, turtle season, and comfortable temperatures. April–May is hotter; June–September is monsoon with rougher seas and fewer boat trips.
Q: Do I need a permit to visit Ross & Smith Island?
A: Yes. Day permits are typically issued by the Forest Department at Aerial Bay Jetty (Diglipur). Carry ID, pay the fee, and follow timings and eco-rules. Policies can change—check locally.
Q: Are there ATMs and reliable mobile networks?
A: ATMs exist in main towns but can run out of cash. Mobile data is patchy; BSNL/Airtel/Jio coverage varies by pocket. Download essentials offline and carry cash.
Q: Can I see turtle nesting at Kalipur or Cutbert Bay?
A: In season (roughly Nov–Feb), guided visits may be possible. Always go with authorized guides, keep distance, and avoid flash or white light.
Q: Are there flights directly to Diglipur?
A: Civilian flights have been limited/seasonal historically. Most travelers go by road or ferry from Port Blair. Confirm the latest transport options before you plan.
Conclusion
North Andaman rewards those who travel gently: turtle beaches, mangrove boardwalks, quiet villages, and reefs that thrive when we respect them. Choose sustainable resorts that support local livelihoods, keep your footprint low, and plan slow circuits through Diglipur, Rangat, Mayabunder, and Long Island. The result is a calmer, richer journey—and habitats that stay healthy for the future.
