Top 6 Things to do in Diglipur, Andaman Islands

Beyond the touristy Port Blair, Havelock and Neil Islands, Andaman Islands has many hidden and underrated gems. One such gem is Diglipur, located in the Northern Andamans. The town and surrounding places have incredible points of interests that keep you engaged. Here you will only see tourists who are looking for offbeat adventure and sightseeing.

You have to travel 290 km by road and 180 km by sea to reach Diglipur from Port Blair. For road travel, hop in a cab and take the Andaman Trunk Road. Those who want to travel by sea have to take a government ferry and the journey via sea is 8 to 9 hours long.

Diglipur is famous for its beaches, turtle nesting, the twin island (Ross and Smith), Saddle peak and Alfred Caves. To learn more about these points of interests and things to do in Diglipur, read below:

List of Top 6 Things to do in Diglipur

Table of Contents:

• Trek to Saddle Peak
• Watch Turtle Nesting at Kalipur Beach
• Explore Alfred Caves
• Visit Mud Volcanoes
• Spend Time on Ross & Smith Islands
• Try Snorkelling at Cragey Islands

1. Trek to Saddle Peak

Saddle peak is the highest peak in all of Andaman and Nicobar Island. To climb this 732 metres tall peak, one has to trek through the profuse jungle all the way up. If you are trekking on a sunny day, carry a refillable water bottle, wear sunglasses, cap and SPF. The trek is moderately strenuous but becomes challenging as the daytime begins to rise. While crossing the jungle, you will come across the Kalpong river. Sit by the river side to get some relaxation before heading to the peak.

Travel Tip: You have to take permission from the Forest Department to visit this peak. The cost is INR 50 for Indian Nationals. Start your trek as early as possible in the morning and return before sunset.

2. Watch Turtle Nesting at Kalipur Beach

Kalipur beach has a volcanic grey coloured sand which is easily identifiable once you reach here. The presence of sandflies makes it difficult for sunbathing. However, you can always take a stroll on the cool sand or watch turtles nesting on this beach. For turtle nesting and hatching, plan your visit to Kalipur beach from between December and April. There are four species of turtles found on this beach who come here to lay and hatch their eggs. These turtle species are Olive Ridley, Leather Back, Hawksbill, and the Green Turtle. Kalipur beach is 8 km from the Aerial bay jetty and you can take a rickshaw to reach here.

3. Explore Alfred Caves

Visit the intriguing and mystical Alfred caves situated in Diglipur. The Alfred caves are a joint and separated cluster of 41 caves. They are made of limestone and feature a narrow opening. As you walk inside the caves, you may come across swiftlets and fruit eating bats. They are not harmful but you have to exercise caution and stay away from them. It is important to follow your guide’s command to explore the caves safely and soundly. The best time to visit Alfred caves is from October to March.

How to reach Alfred Caves?

To reach Aflred caves, you first need to get to Ramngar and from here continue your journey toward caves with a tour guide.

4. Visit Mud Volcanoes

Mud volcanoes are a unique geological phenomenon that you should visit if you get a chance to travel to Diglipur. After the Baratang mud volcanoes, Diglipur is the only place where you can find several mud volcanoes. Some of them are dried up while others still bubble. These mud volcanoes are found in the jungles of Shyam Nagar. To spot this natural wonder, you have to trek for about 15 minutes inside the jungle. It is best to do this activity in a group and with a tour guide who can help you reach the spot safely. Plan your trekking tour early in the morning when the weather is pleasant and less humid.

5. Spend Time on Ross and Smith Islands

If you are planning to visit the Andaman Islands (Diglipur), don’t leave without checking out the famous twin islands Ross and Smith. A thin white sand bar joins the two islands together to form the single group of islands. During the high tide this sand bar disappears and reappears during low tide. These islands are home to beautiful coral reefs and make for an ideal spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. The beaches are rarely crowded and give you ample space, time and privacy to relax and chill.

Note: You first have to take permission from the Forest Office at Diglipur to visit Ross island as it’s a protected area. The permit costs Rs 50 for Indian tourists and Rs 500 for foreign tourists. The Forest Office is open from Monday to Saturday between 6 AM to 2 PM.

6. Try Snorkelling at Craggy/Cragey Island

Craggy island has a beautiful and rocky shoreline, copious foliage, and crystal clear waters. There is abundant marine life and stunning coral reefs around the island. It’s a haven for snorkelers. Apart from snorkelling, trekking and kayaking are also some of the activities that you can do at Craggy Island. The best time to visit Craggy island is from October to March when the weather is cool and the turtle nesting season is in full swing.