Things to Do in Diglipur in 2024

Diglipur is a quaint town located in the North Andaman region of the Andaman Islands. This place is no less than a heaven for the people who love beaches and tropical locations. Also, it has a perfect blend of culture, adventure and nature that makes it one of the best travel locations for people from across the globe. The beautiful Ross and Smith Islands located just off the coast are a major highlight.

Suggested Read: Game fishing in Andaman and How to reach Andaman

In Diglipur, 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 among the best locations all over the world f getting an experience of greenery and rich flora and fauna of an 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

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.

The park is also home to the only turtle nesting ground in the Andamans, located at Cuthbert Bay. Olive ridley turtles can be seen laying eggs on the beach between December and March. 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.

Explore Smith and Ross Islands

Off the coast of Diglipur lie the twin islands of Smith and Ross, connected by a beautiful sandbar and you should never forget to add it in your things to do in Diglipur pile. 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.

Visit Kalpong River and 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.

Explore Limestone Caves

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 near Makruzz are two other limestone caves worth visiting and it is a must have pointer in your things to do in Diglipur. 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.

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 best way to reach Diglipur is to fly from the mainland to Port Blair airport and then take a bus, shared taxi or ferry. 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: Digging in your teeth in the local dishes is the most important pointer in your things to do in Diglipur list. 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.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Diglipur?

The ideal time to visit Diglipur is from November to February when the weather is cool and dry. This allows you to enjoy the things to do in Diglipur in the outdoors like trekking, beach visits and water sports more comfortably than the hot and humid summer months between March to May. The monsoon season from June to September is least preferred due to heavy rainfall which can disrupt travel plans.

2. How to reach Diglipur from Port Blair?

To reach Diglipur, you need to first arrive at Port Blair which is well connected by air and sea from the Indian mainland. From Port Blair, there are direct ferries that cover the 350 km journey to Diglipur in 14 hours. Tickets can be booked in advance from the ferry ticket counter. There are also local buses and shared taxis that make the overland drive to Diglipur which takes around 12 hours. A more comfortable option is to break journey mid-way at Havelock or Neil Islands and then take onward transfer.

3. Is Diglipur good for family holiday?

Yes, Diglipur is an ideal place for a family holiday. The beach areas like Kalipur provide a laidback ambiance to relax. Many resorts have play areas and activity clubs for kids. Parents can enjoy snorkeling, jungle treks or boat rides while kids have fun building sandcastles at the beach. Places like national park, turtle nesting site and limestone caves make for engaging activities for children of all ages under proper supervision. Overall, Diglipur offers a mix of nature, adventure and relaxation suitable for families.

4. What is famous to buy in Diglipur?

Diglipur is famous for sea shell handicraft items. You can buy decorative pieces made from sea shells like photo frames, keychains, napkin holders etc. Locally produced coconut oil and coconut cookies are also popular purchases. The Tibetan Market is a good place to source handicrafts and souvenirs to take back home. Local spices like cinnamon and clove are also available in the market.

5. What is the best way to get around Diglipur?

Diglipur town can be easily explored on foot in a day or two. For going to farther areas, you can rent a scooter which is the most convenient option if you are comfortable riding one. Taxi services are also available but need to be booked in advance for day-long trips. Local share autos run between main town and Kalipur Beach at regular intervals for just Rs.10-20 per person. For visiting offshore islands or National Park, guided tours by jeep/boat are the best way to travel.

6. What kind of accommodation options are available in Diglipur for budget travellers?

Here are some good accommodation options in Diglipur for budget travellers:

Government guest houses and lodges like circuit house, forest rest house etc provide basic affordable rooms at around Rs.600-800.
Private lodges like Raj Lodge, Green Heaven Resort offer rooms with amenities starting Rs.1000-1500.
Local homestays provide a comfortable stay with meals at budget pricing of Rs.500-1000 per night.
Dorm beds in hostels like Ross & Smith Hostel are available for Rs.250-350 per night.
Low-cost OYO rooms also available closer to Rs.1000 range.
Budget hotels can be found near Kalipur Beach for around Rs.1500 a night.

So, you can find decent budget stays under Rs.1500 in and around Diglipur town. Advance booking advised in peak season.