Things to Do in Diglipur

The best things to do in Diglipur are trekking Saddle Peak, the highest point in the Andamans at 732 metres; visiting the twin Ross and Smith Islands joined by a natural sandbar; watching turtles nest at Kalipur Beach between December and April; exploring the Alfred limestone caves; and boating the Kalpong River past mangroves and waterfalls. Diglipur sits in North Andaman, roughly 325 km and 9 to 12 hours by road from Port Blair, and two to three days is enough to cover its main sights. The beautiful Ross and Smith Islands located just off the coast are a major highlight.

Suggested Read: Things to do in Andaman and Snorkelling in Andaman

Diglipur Quick Facts

• Best time to visit: November to February (dry, cooler, calmer seas)
• From Port Blair: ~325 km by road (9-12 hrs) or government ferry (roughly 6-10 hrs, on select days)
• Days needed: 2 to 3
• Permits: Forest permit needed for Saddle Peak National Park and Ross and Smith Islands (apply at the Diglipur Forest Office, 6 am-2 pm except Sunday; Rs 50 Indian / Rs 500 foreign nationals)
• Budget: stays Rs 500-3,000 per night; meals Rs 200-400
• Known for: mainland turtle nesting, the Saddle Peak trek, the Ross and Smith sandbar, and limestone caves

Top Things to Do in Diglipur at a Glance

1. Trek Saddle Peak (732 m), the highest point in the Andaman Islands
2. Cross the natural sandbar between Ross and Smith Islands
3. Watch turtles nest at Kalipur Beach (December to April)
4. Boat the Kalpong River and swim below Kalpong Waterfall
5. Explore the Alfred limestone caves
6. Visit the active mud volcanoes at Shyam Nagar (Hathi Level)

Diglipur is one of the best places in the Andamans for experiencing dense greenery and the rich flora and fauna of a tropical island. The most fascinating things you will experience is the marine life that includes coral reeds great for snorkeling and scuba diving experience. Must-visit attractions include the Diglipur National Park, Saddle Peak, the Alfred Caves and the Kalpong River. Diglipur has a laidback vibe and is less crowded compared to Port Blair. Diglipur is one of the best places in the Andamans for experiencing dense greenery and the rich flora and fauna of a tropical island. The local tribes here give a glimpse into the indigenous cultures. Overall, Diglipur promises a rejuvenating holiday amidst nature for those looking to get away from the chaos of urban life.

You can also check our customized Andaman Tour Packages

Things to Do in Diglipur

Trek Saddle Peak in Diglipur National Park

Spread over 485 sq km, Diglipur National Park is the largest national park in the Andaman Islands. The park is home to a wide range of flora and fauna and offers some of the most exciting things to do in Diglipur.

Trekking through the lush tropical rainforests is an extremely popular activity here. There are multiple trails carved through the forests, which lead to breathtaking waterfalls and rivers. The most famous among them is the trek to Saddle Peak, the highest point in the Andamans at 732 meters. The 8 km uphill trek takes you through dense jungles filled with exotic birds and orchids. As you reach the peak, you are rewarded with spectacular views of the archipelago and the crystal blue ocean.

Another great way to explore the national park is to go on a boat safari through the marine creek. Gliding through the mangrove-lined Kalpong River, you can spot saltwater crocodiles basking in the sun and different species of birds like storks, parakeets, and kingfishers. If luck favors, you may even spot elephants swimming across from Ross Island.

Diglipur is also one of the few places in India where sea turtles nest on mainland beaches. Olive ridley, green, hawksbill and leatherback turtles come ashore at nearby Kalipur and Ram Nagar beaches between December and April, and the forest department runs a hatchery where hatchlings are released to the sea.

Make sure to visit the park during this time to witness the eggs hatching and baby turtles scrambling into the sea.

Some other interesting activities you can add in the things to do in Diglipur pule in the park include jungle camping, nature walks, and photography tours. Remember to carry binoculars as spotting wildlife like wild boar, deer, monkeys, and exotic birds is common throughout the trails. Entry permits need to be acquired in advance from the forest department to explore the national park.

With its breathtaking tropical landscapes and abundant wildlife, Diglipur National Park is nature lovers paradise and undoubtedly one of the top attractions in Diglipur.

Cross the Smith and Ross Sandbar

Ross and Smith are twin islands off Diglipur joined by a natural sandbar that surfaces at low tide and slips underwater at high tide, letting you walk from one island to the other. They are reached by a 20 to 25 minute boat ride from Aerial Bay Jetty, about 15 minutes from Diglipur town. A forest permit is required before you board (Rs 50 for Indians, Rs 500 for foreign nationals, issued at the Diglipur Forest Office, 6 am to 2 pm except Sunday). A private speed boat runs around Rs 5,500 for five seats and Rs 8,500 for eight, or you can share a boat for roughly Rs 1,200 to Rs 1,500 per person. Allow three to four hours for swimming, snorkelling and the sandbar walk. The two islands offer pristine beaches, historic ruins, and incredible underwater marine life perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Smith Island is the more popular of the two, known for its unspoiled beaches with powdery white sand and shallow turquoise waters. After taking a short boat ride from Diglipur, you can spend hours swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing across the island’s numerous beaches. Make sure to visit the striking Henderson Brooks Beach on the eastern side.

Towards the center of the island lie the old ruins of a British administrative building, church, and cemetery. Take a stroll here to soak in the old colonial charm. You can also trek to the highest point on the island to enjoy panoramic views. Don’t miss the picturesque sunset from the coast.

Ross Island used to be the headquarters of the British administration in the Andamans. Today, it stands as an abandoned island with crumbling ruins covered in moss and vines. Exploring the old bakery, stores, residences, hospital, and Ballroom Cemetery here is like stepping back in time. Watch out for deer and peacocks wandering freely as you take a self-guided walking tour.

The main highlight, however, is the underwater world around the islands. Swim or take a glass-bottom boat ride to spot colorful fish like wrasses, parrotfish, and angelfish amidst stunning corals and sponges. Hiring a private charter is the best way to dedicate a full day snorkeling and diving here. You can also overnight on Smith Island which offers basic cottage accommodation.

Boat the Kalpong River and Its Waterfalls

Meandering through Diglipur National Park, Kalpong River is an attractive natural site for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Taking a leisurely boat ride along the river allows you to immerse in the peaceful surroundings filled with mangrove forests and exotic birds. Watch out for saltwater crocodiles lazing on the river banks. You can also try fishing which is a popular local activity here.

After drifting down the river, head to see the Kalpong waterfall which cascades down from a height of 20 meters. There is a refreshing natural pool at the base where you can take a dip or enjoy a picnic by the gushing falls. Don’t forget to capture photos against the scenic waterfall backdrop.

There are a few more hidden waterfalls located inside the national park that you can reach via short hiking trails. The Aamkunj waterfall is one of the more popular ones, surrounded by dense forests. Make sure you wear proper shoes as the trails can get slippery and muddy after rain. Carrying a water bottle and some snacks is also recommended for these mini treks.

Getting drenched by thundering waterfalls and cruising along the serene Kalpong River makes for an rejuvenating experience and is amongst the top things to do in Diglipur for nature lovers.

Watch Turtle Nest at Kalipur Beach

Kalipur Beach sits about 8 km from Diglipur town, close to Aerial Bay Jetty, and it is the area’s best-known beach and its main turtle-nesting site. The sand here has an unusual black-and-white mix, rare for the Andamans. Between December and April, Kalipur is the top place in the islands to watch turtles come ashore to nest under forest-department supervision, with four species recorded here: olive ridley, green, hawksbill and leatherback. The department runs a nearby hatchery, and on select mornings and evenings visitors can watch hatchlings released into the sea. Craggy Island lies just offshore and is good for snorkelling at low tide.

See the Active Mud Volcanoes at Shyam Nagar (Hathi Level)

About 20 km from Diglipur town, near Hathi Level at Shyam Nagar, are some of the Andamans’ only active mud volcanoes: low grey cones that bubble cool mud and gas up from underground. A short 15-minute walk through semi-evergreen forest leads to a cluster of small craters, some dormant and some still oozing fresh mud. The site is maintained with seating and information boards, needs no permit, and takes 20 to 30 minutes to see. Most travellers combine it with a Ross and Smith or Saddle Peak day trip.

Explore Alfred Caves on Foot

One of the most fascinating geographical features around Diglipur are the massive limestone caves that give a glimpse into the natural history of the Andaman Islands.

The biggest attraction is the Alfred Caves located just 8 kms from Diglipur. As you enter the massive chambers here, look out for interesting rock formations, stalactites, stalagmites, and pillars formed over centuries. The caves are home to unique fauna like spiders, snakes, and bats. There are three caves here, of which Alfred Cave 1 and 2 are open to the public. The caves are connected by a narrow passage where you have to crawl and wade through knee-deep water making it quite an adventure. Make sure to wear appropriate non-slip footwear when exploring.

Parrot Cave and Durgapur Cave are two other limestone caves worth visiting. At Durgapur cave, you can see unique skeleton fossils of tortoises embedded within the walls. Local guides are available to assist you with cave exploration. However, make sure they use torches and not naked flames as this can damage the sensitive stalactite structures inside.

For the geologically inclined, the caves offer a fascinating glimpse into how these massive caverns formed within the hilly terrain over centuries. You can spot pencil stalactites, collerettes, cave pearls and other exquisite formations. Be prepared to get wet, dirty and squeeze yourself through tight spaces when caving here. It offers an offbeat adventure activity that kids and adults will both enjoy.

How Many Days Do You Need in Diglipur?

Two to three days is enough to cover Diglipur’s main sights. A typical plan is one day for Ross and Smith Islands and Kalipur Beach, one day for the Saddle Peak trek, and a half day for the Alfred Caves and the Shyam Nagar mud volcanoes. Because the road journey from Port Blair takes most of a day each way, most travellers give Diglipur at least two nights rather than trying to see it as a day trip.

Tips to make the best out of things to do in Diglipur

Here are some important tips to make the most of your Diglipur trip:

• Getting There: The government ferry from Port Blair takes roughly 6 to 10 hours depending on the vessel and sails only on select days, with tickets opening about two days before departure. By road it is about 325 km and 9 to 12 hours by bus or private cab. There are direct ferries from Port Blair to Diglipur that take around 14 hours but are quite comfortable. You can also opt to stop mid-way at Havelock or Neil Island and then continue onwards.
• Accommodation: Diglipur has limited stay options compared to other Andaman towns. The main pocket of hotels is in Kalipur Beach area. Mid-range hotels like Dilipur Inn are quite comfortable. Homestays are also available which offer a local touch. Book in advance during peak season between Oct-Feb. Jirkatang, near the national park, also has some forest department cottages.
• National Park Permits: Diglipur National Park requires visitors to acquire entry permits beforehand from the Forest Office near Sports Complex, Diglipur. You can apply with ID proof 1-2 days in advance. This allows regulated access to the park and protects the habitat. Guide services are also booked along with permits.
• Weather: Diglipur has a tropical climate with temperatures around 30°C during the day. November to February is the most ideal time to visit with lower humidity. Monsoon months between May-August can be avoided due to heavy rainfall.
• Places to Eat: Local food is a highlight of any Diglipur trip. There are small local eateries that serve fresh seafood like crab, fish and prawns cooked in Andamani style. Try coconut curries and fried fish at Anju Coco Restro and Green Heaven restaurant. Milan Tea Stall serves great chai and snacks. Carry water and munchies when trekking or visiting more remote parts.
• Cash Availability: There are only a couple of ATMs in Diglipur near the main market so it is best to carry sufficient cash for your entire trip, especially when heading to remote parts like national park where card machines are limited.
• Safety: Diglipur is generally quite safe but it is best not to venture into dense forests or secluded areas alone. Always move in a group with guides when trekking or caving. Do not enter prohibited areas in national parks. Beware of crocodiles while visiting Kalpong river or mangrove swamps.
• Travel Prep: Pack light cotton clothes, hats, sunglasses and comfortable shoes for outdoor activities. Carry mosquito repellent as evenings can get buggy. If visiting limestone caves, make sure to wear suitable non-slip shoes and carry flashlights or headlamps. Keep important medication and first aid for emergencies.