Diglipur, located in the serene North Andaman region, is a hidden gem that offers a unique and adventurous experience for travellers. If you’re seeking a break from the bustling tourist attractions of Havelock and Port Blair, Diglipur is the perfect destination. With its rich flora and fauna, natural parks, and lively marine life, Diglipur promises an unforgettable journey filled with exploration and tranquillity.
The main town in the North Andaman Islands, Diglipur, is frequently disregarded because of its isolation from other well-liked tourist destinations. However, this very distance is what makes Diglipur so enchanting and offbeat. Here, you can immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of nature, from climbing the highest Saddle Peak National Park in the Bay of Bengal to discovering the breathtaking twin islands of Ross and Smith. You can also witness an active mud volcano or observe turtles nesting and hatching on Kalipur Beach. Diglipur truly offers a wonderland of adventures for all.
Diglipur is an offbeat destination, and only a few adventurous tourists venture here. It may be accessed by boat from Port Blair, which takes between 12 and 16 hours, or by car, which takes around 12Â hours. If you have a love for adventure and seek unique experiences like visiting Ross and Smith Island, climbing Saddle Peak, and witnessing turtle nesting, then Diglipur is the perfect destination for you. Most people prefer to stay in Kalipur, which is the nearby area that offers comfortable accommodations and serves as the hub for adventure activities.
About 290 kilometres (km) by road and 180 kilometres (km) by water separate Port Blair from Diglipur, a rural area in North Andaman.There are multiple options to travel to Diglipur:
By Sea: To visit Diglipur you can take a ship from Port Blair. Government ship services operate 3-4 times per week, and the journey takes around 14 to 16 hours. Overnight sailings are only available right now. You can book tickets online on the government website. Make sure to check the ship schedules in advance to plan your trip accordingly.
By Road: Another option is to travel by road on the Andaman Trunk Road, which involves crossing three creeks and passing through the Jarawa tribe area. Although the trip might be tedious and last up to 12 hours, it can provide beautiful scenery. Buses and private AC cars are available for this route, with buses departing from the Port Blair Central Bus Stop in Aberdeen Bazaar. It is advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially for private AC cars, which provide more comfort and allow you to make stops at attractions like Baratang, Rangat, and Mayabunder.
By Air: While the Andaman Tourism Website mentions seaplanes and helicopter facilities between Diglipur and Port Blair, seaplanes no longer operate, and helicopters are mainly reserved for medical emergencies. If extra seats are available, tourists can book them, but these seats are limited and come at a higher cost.
Diglipur offers a range of exciting activities and attractions for travellers. Here are some top things to do in Diglipur:
Saddle Peak Trek: Embark on a thrilling trek to Saddle Peak National Park, the highest peak in the Bay of Bengal. This trek takes you through lush forests, streams, and picturesque landscapes, offering breathtaking views along the way. The trail is moderately challenging and is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in nature.
Swim at Ross and Smith Islands: Visit the mesmerizing twin islands of Ross and Smith, connected by a narrow sandbar. Enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters and sunbathing on the pristine beaches. The unique feature of these islands makes them a must-visit destination in Diglipur.
Explore the Mud Volcanoes: Discover the natural wonders of the Mud Volcanoes at Shyam Nagar in Diglipur. These tiny muddy craters are the result of mud being forced upward by natural gases. It’s an intriguing sight to witness, especially in the early morning when the weather is cooler. Remember to follow the trail into the jungle from the parking lot to reach the Mud Volcanoes.
Visit Alfred Caves: Nestled near the picturesque Ramnagar Beach, these 41 captivating caves offer an awe-inspiring adventure like no other. Considered the parent version of the Baratang caves, the Alfred Caves boast a similar mystique and grandeur, captivating visitors with their intricate labyrinth of passages and chambers.
Kalpong Hydroelectric Power Plant (with permission): The Kalpong Hydroelectric Power Plant is another place to explore, but please note that it requires special permits for entry. Make sure to check the latest information regarding entry requirements and availability before planning your visit. Situated amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Kalighat, Diglipur, in North Andaman, the Kalpong hydroelectricity project stands as a testament to the island’s commitment to sustainable energy production. The Kalpong River, the largest river in the Andaman Islands, originates from the slopes of the Saddle Peak Natural Park. It gracefully meanders for approximately 35 kilometres, eventually merging with the Aerial Bay Creek on the east coast.
Kalipur Beach: With its pristine shores and captivating beauty, Kalipur Beach is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Every year, from October to March, numerous species of turtles grace the shores of Kalipur Beach to lay their precious eggs. It is very amazing to see these gorgeous creatures in their natural environment.
Ramnagar Beach: Within 35 km of Diglipur Island, in the southeasterly corner of the Northern Andamans, is a hidden gem. One of the highlights of Ramnagar Beach is its role as a nesting ground for Olive Ridley turtles. From December to March, these magnificent creatures choose this beach to lay their eggs. To protect the nesting process, the beach is closed during the evening, and visitors are prohibited from walking on the beach after five o’clock.
 Lamiya Bay Beach: Lamiya Bay Beach is situated at the foothill of the majestic Saddle Peak, offering breathtaking vistas and a sense of solitude rarely found elsewhere. As you set foot on this enchanting shoreline, you’ll be captivated by the rolling hills, dense rainforest cover, and picturesque pebbled beach that stretches along the crystal-clear waters.Â
To fully experience the attractions and activities in Diglipur, it is recommended to stay for at least 2 to 3 days. This duration allows you to explore the main highlights, such as the Kalipur turtle nesting, Saddle Peak trek, Ross and Smith Islands, and other emerging attractions like Alfred Caves.
The ideal time to visit Diglipur is from October to April when the weather is pleasant for long journeys and outdoor explorations. During this time, you can also witness turtle nesting and hatching, which is a unique natural phenomenon.
Getting around Diglipur can be time-consuming and challenging, especially if you’re on a budget. Local buses are available but may have limited schedules. Shared public jeeps offer a faster option but can be relatively more expensive. For a more comfortable and convenient experience, consider renting a scooter or hiring a car with a driver. Scooters can be rented from the Diglipur market, while car rentals are available at negotiated prices.
In Diglipur, there are several hotels and resorts where you can stay during your visit. Here are a few options:
Pristine Beach Resort: Located near Kalipur Beach, Pristine Beach Resort offers comfortable accommodations with sea-facing rooms and modern amenities. The resort also has a restaurant serving a variety of cuisines.
The Turtle Nesting Resort and APWD Guest Houses, which provide air-conditioned rooms for 2000 INR and non-AC rooms for 600 INR, are some examples of government-run lodgings. However, many government guest residences have limited availability without advanced reservations.
Aerial Bay View Resort: Nestled amidst lush greenery, Aerial Bay View Resort provides a peaceful retreat in Diglipur. The resort features cosy cottages, a restaurant, and a garden. It is known for its serene atmosphere and warm hospitality.
There are quite a few other small tourist lodgings, however, they might not be very dependable.
Diglipur may not have a wide variety of restaurants, but you can still enjoy local flavours and seafood delicacies. Most of the local eateries serve authentic South Indian and Bengali thalis, which are worth trying. If you enjoy seafood, don’t miss the opportunity to taste the fresh catches of the day. However, for more continental cuisine options, you may need to travel to Kalipur. The Pristine Beach Resort in Kalipur offers a range of North Indian dishes and a small selection of Chinese and Italian dishes, albeit at higher prices. Another option is the New Hira Family Restaurant, located in Shubhashgram, which offers delicious and affordable food with good hospitality. In the main market, Foodies Family Restaurant is also a great option. Hygienic and good taste food is available there.
Here are a few essential pieces of information to keep in mind when visiting Diglipur:
Currency: Diglipur has ATMs that dispense Indian currency. However, it’s advisable to carry enough cash. It’s recommended to sort out any currency-related needs in Port Blair before heading to Diglipur.
Communication and Internet: BSNL connections tend to work best in Diglipur, while Vodafone and Airtel connections may have weaker connectivity. Keep in mind that internet connections in resorts may not be reliable.
Supermarkets/Bazaars: Diglipur is a bustling town with several local markets. While most of these markets cater to the local population, you can find a few shops selling local handicrafts and other products.
With its untouched beauty, serene atmosphere, and exciting attractions, Diglipur in the Andaman Islands offers a perfect itinerary for travellers seeking a unique and offbeat destination. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, nature lover, or simply looking for a tranquil escape, Diglipur has something to offer everyone. Plan your trip, immerse yourself in the wonders of Diglipur, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
These are other trips.
Prem Nagar, Near Kali Mandir, Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair), Andaman Island.
