Ross and Smith Islands
Ross and Smith’s islands are a 20-minute boat cruise from Diglipur and one of its most popular attractions. These two islands are a must-see on any journey, with crystal blue water, coral reefs, and a wealth of picturesque beauty. The two islands are joined by a thin route of a white sandbar that may be walked on, adding to your experience.
Visitors may go through dense tropical mangrove woods, explore extensive white sand beach lengths on both islands, and go snorkelling on occasion. The magnificent Ross and Smith Islands are free to visit, but you must get prior permission to take the boat ride from Diglipur’s Aerial Bay Jetty.
Saddle Peak National Park:
Saddle Point, at 732 meters, is the highest peak in the Andamans and is surrounded by the lush evergreen forests of Saddle Peak National Park, making it a popular tourist destination. To go through, you’ll need permission from the Forest Department, which will cost you INR 250. But the effort is well worth it once you reach the top, where you will meet with one of the most breathtaking sites you will ever see: a panoramic bird’s eye perspective over the North Andamans. The trip up there takes around 5-6 hours, and you’ll be greeted with the Kalpong River stream every now and then.
Alfred Caves:
Alfred Caverns, a cluster of 42 caves strewn over the village of Diglipur, provides one of the most challenging hiking experiences in the Andamans. The routes are steep, narrow, and frequently treacherous and are not recommended for beginners or the faint of heart. The caverns have no set opening hours or admission costs. However, it is best to visit during the day. Take your time exploring the caverns and learning about their history for a unique, adventurous, and exhilarating experience.
Ram Nagar Beach:
Ram Nagar Beach is popular because it is one of the Andaman Islands’ least congested beaches, with plenty of options for pure beach enjoyment. If you’re a beginner, though, it’s best to be careful since the eaves are perilous, and the coral reefs are noted for being jagged and deadly. If you have time, there are mangrove woods to explore beyond the shore. Otherwise, a day spent sunbathing and swimming on the sea’s edge at Ramnagar Beach is a fantastic way to spend a day. You could discover groups of Olive Ridley Turtles nesting and breeding on this beach if you’re fortunate.
Mud Volcanoes:
A network of mud volcanoes known locally as Jal Tikry is located at Hathilevel, some 20 kilometres from the centre of Diglipur. This collection of ancient and young, active and dormant mud volcanoes, nestled in the verdant woods of Shyamnagar, offers a unique chance to discover Mother Nature’s wonders. There are no entrance fees, and you may go hiking at any time of day. However, it is best done between dawn and sunset.
Kalipur Beach:
If you missed the turtles at Ramnagar Beach, Diglipur’s Kalipur Beach would more than make up for it. During the breeding season, this beach is a key nesting place for Olive Ridley turtles, and you can see the large and little turtles poking their heads out of their shells and gently creeping their way across the sand and into the clear water of the sea. With rich, warm white sand and green woods in the backdrop, the beach itself is a stunning sight.