Table of Contents
Overview
Introduction to North Andamans
How to Reach North Andaman from Port Blair
Attractions of North Andamans
Diglipur
- Ross & Smith Island
- Saddle Peak National Park
Alfred Caves (Limestone Caves)
Mud Volcanoes
Dhani Nala Beach
Kalipur Beach
Introduction to North Andamans
North Andaman is known for its raw, rugged and natural beauty with Diglipur serving as its main base town. While South Andamans (Port Blair, Havelock, & Neil Island) are known for their tourist-friendly amenities, in the North, one has to navigate their way through jungles and far-off beaches.
All in all, North Andaman is ideal for those who seek a different and unique kind of adventure in the Andaman Islands. You will get to walk on a sliver of sandbar that shows up during the low tide. Trek through the lush jungles and climb up to the highest peak in the Andaman to get panoramic coastal views and views of nearby islands including Ross & Smith Islands and Craggy Island.
How to Reach North Andaman from Port Blair
The best way to visit North Andaman is via private AC cab or bus from Port Blair. The distance from Port Blair to Diglipur is about 300 kms. One can reach North Andaman by crossing the Grand Andaman Trunk Road, only with an escorted police convoy (which has fixed timings).
Note: The Grand Andaman Trunk Road cuts through lush jungles and Jarawa Tribal Reserve. On your way you will see people from the Jarawa tribe waiting to cross the road. Do not take their photos, offer them gifts or foods or interact with them. Doing so can bring you fine, imprisonment or both.
Tourist Attractions of North Andamans
There are many wonderful attractions of North Andaman to add to your travel itinerary. Check them out:
1. Diglipur
Diglipur is the primary town of North Andaman and gives you an offbeat and rustic travel experience. Do not expect fancy resorts, sophisticated cafes, and readily-available tourist facilities. One has to manage with modest accommodations and basic amenities.
2. Ross & Smith Island
Located near Diglipur, Ross & Smith Islands (Twin Islands) are known for the 50 meters sliver of white sand bar that shows up during low tide. This unique phenomenon creates a shallow lagoon. The islands are a beautiful site for snorkelling and watching Olive Ridley turtles. One can spend hours lazily on this tranquil island and its beaches.
3. Saddle Peak National Park
One of the most iconic attractions of North Andaman, Saddle Peak covers an area of 32.54 km. The entire national park is covered with moist tropical vegetation as well as deciduous evergreen forest. Most people visit this national park for trekking to reach its summit. Here one can find indigenous birds and animals like Andaman hill Mayna, Andaman imperial pigeon, and animals like Andaman wild pig, dolphins, and saltwater crocodiles.
4. Alfred Caves (Limestone Caves)
The Alfred caves is a group of 41 caves located near Ramnagar Beach. The caves are around 35 kilometers from the main Diglipur town and require a whole day to visit. One is guided by a forest personnel inside the cave. Crossing through the narrow openings of the cave one gets to see multiple crevices and entrances of the cave.
5. Mud Volcanoes
For some they are a unique phenomenon of nature and for others, just a peculiar sight, but mud volcanoes in North Andaman attract many visitors. Located in Shyam Nagar, these mud volcanoes are a result of geological phenomenon, where carters on land release bubbles, mud slurry, methane and carbon dioxide gas.
6. Dhani Nala Beach
The Dhani Nala Beach is amongst the best hidden spots of Andaman Islands. The turquoise waters, pristine sand, and mangrove forest where nature lovers can seek seclusion. The beach is ideal for those who simply want to take a stroll or meditate in the tranquillity of the serene surroundings.
7. Kalipur Beach
Located 8 kms away from Aerial Bay Jetty, Kalipur Beach is a famous Turtle Nesting Site in North Andamans. On this beach, you will find four different species of turtles (all of which are highly protected) Olive Ridley, Leather Back, Hawksbill and Green Turtles. The beach’s name Kali (black) comes from the dark volcanic grey coloured sand. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, the beach is also surrounded by jelly fish.
Swimming is usually not recommended around the beach due to strong ocean currents and rare sightings of crocodiles.
Travel Tips for North Andaman
- Do not use plastic as they are prohibited in many areas of North Andaman.
- Do not litter and keep your trash with you to dispose of at a designated area.
- The path to North Andamans goes through jungle and the rest is completed on a boat. Pack some snacks and water for the way.
- Carry general medicines as it will be difficult to find a pharmacy or get readily-available medical attention.
- Pack sunscreen, mosquito repellant, hat, sunglasses, and UV gloves for heat protection.
Learn more about North Andaman or plan a trip to the remotest part of Andaman Island with travel partner https://www.andamantourism.org/
