Nestled between the Middle and North Andaman Islands, Diglipur is the largest town in the northern reaches of the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago. Offering a serene escape from more bustling tourist destinations, Diglipur stands out for its unspoiled landscapes and natural wonders. The island is accessible through the Andaman Grand Trunk Road, combining both road and sea travel for a unique journey. 

The highlight of Diglipur is Saddle Peak, the highest point in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, providing trekking enthusiasts with breathtaking panoramic views. Kalipur Beach, distinguished by its black sand, is not only a tranquil retreat but also a vital nesting site for turtles during the nesting season. Nearby limestone caves showcase mesmerizing stalactite and stalagmite formations, adding a touch of geological wonder to the island.

Ram Nagar Beach, known for its serenity, offers a peaceful haven away from the crowds. Ross and Smith Islands, connected by a natural sandbar, create a picturesque setting, especially during low tide. Cinque Island, located off Diglipur's coast, is a snorkeler's paradise with vibrant coral reefs.

Diglipur is renowned as a nesting site for turtles, allowing visitors to witness this fascinating process during specific seasons. Beyond its natural beauty, Diglipur plays a significant role in the region's agriculture, cultivating a variety of crops and fruits. Vast red oil palm plantations contribute to the island's lush greenery, and nearby Alfred Caves beckon spelunking enthusiasts to explore their subterranean wonders.

In essence, Diglipur offers an unparalleled blend of untouched beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor adventures, making it a hidden gem within the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago.

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What To Expect at Diglipur Island?

As residents of this island, we make annual visits to all its corners to stay well-informed and ensure that our travelers can envision the destination through our eyes. This ensures that they are clear about their expectations before setting foot on the island.

For those seeking a tranquil, soulful, and unique vacation experience, away from the hustle and bustle of city life and commercial activities, Diglipur is the perfect choice. This destination has captivated travel and adventure enthusiasts worldwide who have embraced its serenity, earning it the reputation of an offbeat destination or an out-of-the-box experience. However, it's essential to gather the right information and plan meticulously before venturing to Diglipur.

Diglipur, akin to a well-maintained village, boasts proper blacktop roads, and the Andaman Trunk Road establishes the connection to other islands. Although not easily accessible and situated 12 hours away from the main town, Diglipur offers a civilized and organized environment. Telecom connectivity is limited, with Airtel and BSNL being the only service providers. Internet services, provided through broadband, offer speeds of 2G or lower.

Our team experts strongly recommend a pre-planned and well-designed itinerary to maximize your time and experience the best of Diglipur. Detailed Diglipur tour packages are available to provide a comprehensive understanding of the island's itinerary.

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How to reach Diglipur Island?

Government-operated Buses

To reach Diglipur, government-operated buses depart from Port Blair at different timings, with a preferred departure around 4:30 AM. The journey takes approximately 10 hours through the Andaman Grand Trunk Road. Tickets for these non-air-conditioned buses can be purchased at the government bus depot in Port Blair, offering an economical travel option. The buses have multiple pickup points on the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR), with the Aberdeen Bus Depot being the primary boarding location.

For those arriving in Diglipur by government buses, return tickets must be booked from Diglipur Bus terminus.

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Buses run by Private Sector

Similar to government buses, private buses also depart from Port Blair at different timings, around 4:30 AM being a suggested slot. The duration of the journey is approximately 12 hours, with options available in both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned segments. While AC buses are costlier, they offer comfort during the long road journey. Tickets for these buses can be obtained from respective reservation offices in Port Blair, and online bookings are not available. The boarding point is typically near the Aberdeen Bus Depot.

If you arrive in Diglipur by private buses, return tickets can be booked either from Port Blair or Diglipur Bus terminus.

 

Reaching Diglipur in a Cab From Port Blair

The most organized way to reach Diglipur is by hiring a private vehicle from Port Blair. With the driver accompanying you from the start, there's no need for additional public transport. This option reduces travel time by avoiding pit stops for other passengers. The cab remains at your disposal from the moment you start until you return to Port Blair. This mode offers the advantage of having a local driver who can provide suggestions and ensure a smooth travel experience.

Private cab options are highly recommended for travelers with fixed schedules and a limited number of days to explore the Andamans. Online booking provides convenience and eliminates stress, with the cab ready for pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation.

 

Reaching Diglipur By Government Ferry

Another option is to take a government ferry directly from Port Blair to Diglipur, with a journey duration of 8-9 hours. The ferry route includes stops at Rangat and Diglipur. However, ferry services are not available daily, and ticket bookings open only 1-2 days before departure. Tickets are issued from STAR ticket counters in Port Blair, and return tickets must be booked from Diglipur.

This option is suitable for travelers on an extended vacation who can consider the government ferry to reach Diglipur. However, it may not be ideal for those planning shorter trips.

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How to reach Diglipur from Havelock Island & Neil Island?

As of 2023, direct transportation options from Havelock or Neil Island to Diglipur are limited. Travelers planning to reach Diglipur from Havelock or Neil Island should schedule a buffer day in Port Blair before proceeding to Diglipur on the following day.

An alternative is to take a government ferry from Havelock or Neil to Rangat and then hire private vehicles or buses to reach Diglipur. However, travelers must arrange for transportation upon reaching Rangat as it is an offbeat destination where the driver serves as a guide, as mentioned in the "Private cab option to reach Diglipur" segment.

If choosing to move directly from Havelock or Neil to Rangat and then take a road transfer to Diglipur, travelers must arrange for vehicles upon reaching Rangat. For additional details on reaching Rangat from Havelock & Neil, refer to the segment "How to reach Rangat from Havelock and Neil" under the details of the island "Rangat."

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Food in Diglipur Island

Seafood takes center stage in the culinary scene of the entire Andaman Islands, making it a must-explore for non-vegetarians. While pure vegetarian restaurants are yet to be discovered, Pristine Beach Resort's restaurant – The Pride, stands out for its delicious vegetarian offerings. The catch is that orders need to be placed a few hours in advance, preferably during breakfast, as the food is prepared based on occupancy, and not all supplies are readily available.

Other dining options follow concepts like Dhaba, canteen, or homely eateries, maintaining hygiene standards and offering a limited but satisfying menu to curb your hunger.

During a recent visit, a new addition to the dining scene, The New Hira Family Restaurant in Shubhashgram, caught our attention. Despite not being a luxurious establishment, it serves delectable and affordable food, catering to the hospitality expectations of its guests. Another noteworthy mention is the newly opened Grand Foodiees near Arial Bay jetty, offering an opportunity to pack lunch for the visit to Ross and Smith Island. Consider giving these options a try during your visit.

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Things to do in Diglipur Island?

Diglipur is rapidly becoming a favored destination, attracting travelers with a plethora of activities to engage in. For nature enthusiasts, this locale is a paradise boasting crystal-clear gem-green waters, perfect for swimming (pending beach guidelines). The rich reefs harbor highly exotic corals and marine life, offering an ideal environment for snorkelers. If you bring your snorkeling gear, you can spend extra hours exploring the underwater beauty.

 

1) Scuba Diving: Certified divers can indulge in scuba diving, although beginners or non-swimmers' dives are currently not conducted due to permission constraints.

2) Trekking: Trekking and trail hiking through the tropical forest surrounding the island are popular activities. You can also unwind by the beaches, capturing the beauty through your lens or simply soaking in the serene ambiance.

3) Turtle Watching: Diglipur is home to thousands of turtles of various species. Witnessing sea turtle nesting, especially between December to February, is a fascinating experience. You might be lucky enough to spot an Olive Ridley, one of the most distinct species.

4) Ross and Smith - The Twin Island: A must-visit destination, Ross and Smith, the Twin Island, offers unique natural beauty.

5) Aerial Bay Jetty: Explore Aerial Bay Jetty, which will be covered during your visit to Ross and Smith Island.

6) Ramnagar Beach: A vast open beach, Ramnagar, is another spot for turtle nesting.

7) Kalipur Beach: This beach enhances your chances of spotting a turtle, particularly during the night when they lay eggs.

8) Saddle Peak Trek: Conquer the highest peak of South Andaman with a challenging 6-7 hour trek to Saddle Peak.

9) Alfred Caves: Embark on a caving adventure to Alfred Caves, a cluster of 41 amazing caves near Ramnagar Beach, offering a unique experience in Andaman.

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