Andaman Tourism Opens: The Andaman & Nicobar administration has announced that all tourist spots in the South Andaman district will be opened for tourism activities with immediate effect 8 Feb 2022.
The tourists are allowed to visit Baratang/North & Middle Andaman on production of double dose covid certificate/ All other passengers viz. unvaccinated and partially vaccinated passengers (those who have taken only 1S1 dose of COVID vaccine) shall have to produce RT-PCR negative test report
General Guidelines defined for traveling to Andaman Islands during COVID :
What are the guidelines for testing for tourists coming to Andaman after August 03 2021?
On arrival at Port Blair :
1. The tourists need to carry COVID-19 negative test report from mainland based 1CMR approved lab using Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RTPCR). However, the sample for RTPCR test should have been taken within 48 hours prior to starting the journey from the origin station. (For e.g. if the tourist takes a flight from Delhi at 0600 hrs. on 1st September, 2021, the sample for RTPCR test should have been taken not before 0600 hrs. on 30th August, 2021).
2. The tourists/visitors on arrival at Port Blair airport have to undergo mandatory Covid-19 screening with RTPCR test free of cost. Thereafter the tourists/visitors are allowed to move to their respective hotels. However, they will have to be under quarantine at Port Blair in their hotel rooms until the result of RTPCR tests are received. In case of RTPCR positive test results, the tourists/visitors shall remain in
institutional quarantine in hotels notified by the Hoteliers Association in consent with the A&N Administration, on rates as specified or to the designated hospital/ Covid-19 care centre on case-to-case basis.
3. Tourists may also have to undergo random Rapid Antigen Test conducted from time to time on payment basis as prescribed by A8N Administration.
What if the tourists test positive after arriving at the Andaman Islands?
If the tourists tests positive during their stay in the Islands, he/she will need to undergo institutional isolation as per existing health protocols. The
cost of such isolation for govt. facility will be paid by the tourists as fixed by the administration from time to time.
If the patient wants to stay at hotels, he/she can stay in the hotels if all the conditions below are met:
a) Patients are not symptomatic and not more than 60 years old.
b) Request/ undertaking is made by patient in writing.
c)lf allowed by doctors.
Hotels will make necessary arrangements to designate a part of their rooms for institutional isolation for this purpose.
The largest town in the North Andaman Islands, Diglipur Island is a fascinating town. Since it is distant from popular tourist attractions like Port Blair and Havelock Island, it often goes unnoticed. However, its remoteness is what makes it an exclusive and enthralling destination. There is a lot to explore in this town, for instance, rich flora and fauna, natural parks, and lively marine life. Diglipur Island is the one-stop destination for nature lovers as well as adrenaline junkies. Here, you can climb the highest peak in the Gulf of Bengal, explore a network of underground caves, observe an active mud volcano, and witness turtle nesting and hatching embraced by crystal clear azure waters.
You will be rewarded with mind-blowing natural attractions if you make your long journey far north in the Andaman Islands. If you are an adventure lover, then you should visit Diglipur Island with snorkeling gear, trekking shoes, and enough time in your hands.
By the looks of it, however, you may find it a tiny dusty town. The infrastructure is still not developed completely keeping in mind the tourists. That is why, it is a bit tricky place to stay in if you are one of those tourists who prefer luxury vacations. Autos and taxis are pricey and buses have fixed timings. Scooters are also not available easily and tough to get hold of. Therefore, Diglipur Island is definitely not a basic tourist destination but if you are daring enough to reach here, then be ready for an adventure of a lifetime that cannot be experienced anywhere else!
What to expect while visiting Diglipur Island?
The best time to visit Diglipur Island is from October to March. The temperature is comparatively cool during this time.
If you are a true nature lover and want the much-needed ‘me-time’ surrounded by nature out there, then there is a long list of things that you can do and see. Trust us, the list is more than just lazing around in the beaches, soaking in their natural beauty and appreciate the greenery. You can spend your day sunbathing, swimming, watching the superabundant mangroves and most importantly, see the diverse species of turtles nesting in its beach.
Some of the loveliest beaches in Andaman Island are located in Diglipur Island, and thus it becomes the must-visit destination while you are vacationing on this island. Its scenic beaches promise silky white sands and uninterrupted views of the clear blue skies. The landscape changes entirely as the sky becomes way too dramatic during monsoons.
Places to see in Diglipur
A quirky little town, Diglipur Island is situated on the northernmost tip of the island chain. It is off the tourist trail probably because of its remoteness from the rest of the Andaman Islands. You can reach this place via road (Andaman Trunk Road) or by a ten-hour voyage through ships. If you want to witness the ingenious version of the Andaman Islands which is a serene parallel world mostly unnoticed, then you have to visit Diglipur to fulfill your travel dream. It is a small town with lodges, vegetable and fish market, temple, bakeries, and a water stream swarmed with hyacinth. Travellers are an unusual sight here, which is a good thing if you don’t like crowds.
Andaman Island is so much more than only sea and sand. If you want to witness impressive natural attractions, then you should spend time in Diglipur. The surrounding sights are amazingly beautiful as well. Have a look at what you can explore in and around Diglipur.
Diglipur Island offers the most romantic experience to the couples. The beaches are popular for the most beautiful sunsets and sunrises in Andaman Islands. Imagine strolling on the beach with your partner amidst a glorious pink and red sunset in the background! Such a fantastic marvel of nature can be witnessed at its secluded beaches. The evenings offer the best natural views. You can catch the most beautiful sunrise of your life here with the sky painted in various lovely hues.
Ram Nagar Beach
This beach is a long stretch of palm trees fringed by mangrove forests on both sides. The bay doesn’t have the typical light blue turquoise colors because the grayish volcanic sand makes the sea look darker. The place is not good for snorkeling owing to the murky waters but is a perfect spot for swimming. It is considered to be the best around the town.
The beach is a nesting ground for Olive Ridley turtles. Therefore, the beach closes at 5 pm and no one is allowed to walk on the sand afterward. You can also see an artificial hatchery set up there. The turtle nesting season is between December and March, and you can see eggs being laid by sea turtles and released into the water. The beach is being developed into an eco-friendly picnic place for visitors by the forest department.
Alfred Caves
Diglipur Island is home to more than 41 unexplored caves. Alfred Caves were one of them, named after the scientist who discovered them. These are limestone caves and are completely secluded due to the dense jungle. These are unique and thus, difficult to reach. A trek to these caves is not meant for someone who is faint-hearted as one has to do strenuous trekking for about an hour through narrow jungle trails. October to April is the best time to visit the caves. Avoid the rainy season completely as the paths are slippery and extremely unsafe.
Lamiya Bay Beach
The gorgeous Lamiya Bay Beach is at the foothills of the highest peak in the Island- Saddle Peak. The beauty of the dazzling beach is further accentuated by the polished pebbles that are laid down on the shoreline. The beach is visited mostly by either honeymooners or nature lovers as it is a highly photographic beach with shrubs and trees displaying contrast. To savor the beauty of sun, sand and shade on a sunny and bright day, there are beautiful eco-friendly huts and watchtowers on the shoreline for the tourists.
Ross & Smith Islands
The majestic twin islands of Ross and Smith are the most stunning attraction in North Island. The islands are connected by a thin fifty-meter long sand bar. During high tide, this white silky sandy bar descends inside the sea, whereas it surfaces up again during low tide. On the one side, you can go swimming and on the other side, you can enjoy snorkeling. The warm water is crystal clear that offers good visibility. These untamed virgin beaches are the most picture-perfect ones in Andaman Island.
Jal Tikry
Shyamnagar village in Diglipur Island beholds something very rare. Trekking through its dense forests will make you witness a unique scientific phenomenon called the mud volcanoes, which are locally known as Jal Tikry. These are active for years and some of them have been dormant for quite some time. Considered as one of the rarest occurrences across the whole world, you should include this place in your travel bucket list for sure.
If you have got more time in hand, then you can also explore Kalipur Beach and Saddle Peak National Park. Both of them are perfect for nature lovers. The time spent here will surely leave you with such sweet memories to cherish for the rest of your life.
Enjoying a vacation in Diglipur Island requires early planning as it has limited availability for everything. This is not the place where anything can be arranged in a single click. So, if you want to have your beach holiday at this majestic place with breathtaking beauty, then start deciding on things from now. The peak seasons are extremely busy here and availability becomes a major concern. Thus, associate yourself with a reliable tour operator who would make arrangements for everything including stays, ferry transfers, water activities, and a lot more.
Reaching Diglipur Island
Diglipur Island is located far up in the North Andaman Island, and is nearly 290 kilometers by road and 180 kilometers by sea from the capital city, Port Blair. You can choose to reach there by road, sea or air.
1. By air- The fastest and the most exciting option for travel, helicopters are definitely the best choice. During the journey, you can have a look at the breathtaking aerial views of the emerald islands. This is totally worth the extra cost! But since the seats are limited that get full often, you should book at least one day in advance. You can check about the timings and fare at A&N Tourism Information Centre. There is also a baggage limitation.
2. By sea- This is the most common travel option. Direct ships are available three-four times every week from Phoenix Bay to Aerial Bay. From here, it is nearly nine kilometers to Diglipur Island and nine kilometers to Kalipur in the opposite direction. The complete journey tales nearly a total of ten hours and maybe longer sometimes but more comfortable overnight sails are also available. You can book your tickets at Phoenix Bay office or at the administration block by ‘the Dolphin roundabout’ in Diglipur Island.
3. By road- Crossing three creeks on the way and the Jarawa tribe area, you can travel up north also by Andaman Trunk Road. However, the journey is quite tiring as it can take up to twelve long hours. There are various early morning buses plying daily from Port Blair to Diglipur Island. You need to buy tickets at least one day prior to the journey date. You can also choose to commute via private AC buses that offer more comfort but are pricier.
Places to stay in Diglipur Island
There are four-five guesthouses in Diglipur Island nearby the main market and stadium. They have all the basic necessities only. Thus, you should not expect luxurious amenities here. If you are looking for high-end resorts, then you can stay in Kalipur, which is twenty kilometers away from Diglipur Island. Cheap bamboo huts are also offered by them. The properties get crowded during peak season. So you should make sure to get your stay pre-booked from a local tour operator. Andaman Island Travels is a reliable name when it comes to making all the bookings anywhere in Andamans. Its experienced operators will take care of all your reservations exactly as per your requirements.
Some of the best places to stay in Diglipur Island are as follows:
Restaurants in Diglipur Island
As the place is not a tourist hub, restaurants are not in abundance here. But bakeries are surplus here. Some of the best restaurants and food outlets in Diglipur Island are mentioned below:
Diglipur Island is like a cosmopolitan town where people from all over India live. It would be a strange feeling to have a conversation with locals from Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and even Bihar at the same time and at the same place. There is diversity in unity as well because of the underlying shared beliefs that unite all of them in harmony. Far from mainland India, Diglipur Island is a great place to experience nature at its best. Such an offbeat destination should be on every nature enthusiast’s travel bucket list because once you reach there, the rewards would be beyond your imagination.
Andaman Island Travels offers a diverse variety of holiday packages in Diglipur that are carefully designed to keep in mind the requirements of its esteemed clients. These packages can be customised also to suit individual preferences. The tour operating company has a reputation for planning an excellent vacation across the Andaman Island. Its experienced team of professionals makes sure that you have a magical time here. It understands that a vacation is among the most fun-filled days in one’s life and that’s why, the company ensures that all your wishes are fulfilled when it comes to a vacation in the Andamans. It makes sure that even the tiniest thing is taken care of.
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