Saddle Peak National Park: Your Ultimate Guide To Andamans

One of the best national parks in the Andaman Islands is the Saddle Peak National Park. This park is uninhabited by humans so the wilderness is protected and preserved. It has luxuriant, thick, and lush green tropical rainforests. It is also home to rare species of flora and fauna like Andaman hill myna, imperial pigeons, water monitor lizards, saltwater crocodiles, and many more. The park also has a freshwater pool, around 10 perennials, and 32 seasonal streams. Get ready to discover this one-stop destination and include this in your next trip.

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Saddle Peak National Park Location

Saddle Peak National Park is the highest point in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

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Saddle Peak National Park lies in the northern part of the Andamans. It is 22 km away from Diglipur by road. This park is around 300 km from Port Blair by road and 180 km away by the sea.

How To Reach Saddle Peak National Park

Sail through the waters of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to reach your destination.

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By Road: It is a 10-minute journey by bus from Kalipur Beach and a 300 km journey from Port Blair. From Port Blair, tourists can either take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Diglipur.

By Sea: Boats and ferries also run from the Port Blair route but are lesser in frequency.

Things To Do In Saddle Peak National Park

Here is a list of exciting the things to do and experiences to have in Saddle Peak National park for an unforgettable experience:

1. Trekking

Trek through the forests of Saddle Peak National Park and witness the diverse flora.

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Tourists here can trek to the 732-meter-high Saddle Peak and witness the aerial view of the Andamans. They can experience the varied flora and fauna while climbing up the natural steps. The trek usually begins early in the morning as the sun sets around 5:30 pm and the trekkers need to reach back at the base by 4:30 pm.

Timings: 4:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Suggested Read: Trekking In Andaman

2. Wildlife Spotting

View of a fox in the lush meadows of Saddle peak National park

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Wildlife encounters at Saddle Peak National Park in North Andaman are a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts. The park is home to diverse fauna, including the Andaman wild pig, water monitor lizards, and saltwater crocodiles. Birdwatchers can delight in sightings of the Andaman hill myna, imperial pigeon, and white-bellied sea eagle. The park’s dense tropical forests and freshwater streams provide a rich habitat for these species.

3. Picnics

Planning a picnic in this park makes for a perfect day out with your family

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Planning a picnic at Saddle Peak National Park is a peaceful escape into untouched nature. Nestled in the lush forests of North Andaman, the park offers scenic picnic spots along forest trails and near freshwater streams. Surrounded by towering trees and the sounds of exotic birds, it’s the perfect setting to relax and enjoy a packed meal. The tranquil environment, cool breeze, and rich greenery make it ideal for families.

Suggested Read: Best Things To Do In Andaman On Your Next Trip

4. Photography

Click pictures of the diverse wildlife spotted at the Saddle Peak National Park

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Photography at Saddle Peak National Park is a treat for landscape and wildlife photographers alike. With its dense rainforests, mist-covered trails, and the highest peak in the Andaman Islands, the park offers breathtaking backdrops. Capture rare bird species, wild flora, and dramatic forest light filtering through the canopy. The view from the summit offers panoramic shots of the island and coastline, especially at sunrise.

Places To Visit Around Saddle Peak National Park

These are some of the best attractions to explore near the Saddle Peak National Park, adding onto your island adventure:

1. Ramnagar Beach

Enjoy watching turtles and nature’s different perspectives on Ramnagar Beach, Andamans.

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This beach is just 40 minutes away from this national park and is accessible by road and water from Port Blair and Diglipur. It is also known as turtle nesting ground for Olive Ridley. Surrounded by palm and coconut trees, it also has an artificial hatchery set up here for tourists to watch. There are some open tree houses, benches, and eco-huts for the visitors to sit and watch the sea.

Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM

2. Kalipur Beach

Dive deep into the water adventures of Kalipur Beach, Saddle Peak National Park.

Photo: Skasish / Wikimedia Commons

This beach is a popular picnic spot for tourists, as people come here to enjoy its calmness and also to indulge in water adventures like snorkelling, scuba diving, swimming, etc. It is located at a distance of just 18 km from Diglipur via bus or cab. Jellyfish, mangrove plants, and dead corals are often found on the shores. This beach is famous for turtle nesting and is home to some rare turtle species like Leather Back, Olive Ridley, Hawk Bill, and Green Turtles.

Timings: 24*7

3. Lamiya Bay Beach

Lamiya Bay Beach, is one of the calmest beaches in Diglipur, Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

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Lamiya Bay Beach is very unique in Andamans as it has rolling hills and dense rainforest cover, near the shore. This beach is uninhabited and tourists who visit find small turtles in shallow water and on beach sands. It is a very clean and quiet beach, hence a great getaway for tourists who are looking for calmness. Tourists here also indulge in swimming, trekking, and snorkelling too.

Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM

4. Ross And Smith Island

Ross and Smith islands are one of the best places to visit near Saddle Peak National Park

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Ross and Smith Islands, connected by a natural sandbar, offer a stunning escape in North Andaman. The turquoise waters, soft white sands, and surrounding coral reefs make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The islands are part of a marine sanctuary, so expect rich marine life and vibrant coral views. With one island inhabited and the other pristine, visitors can enjoy a mix of quiet nature and basic facilities.

Timings: 9 AM – 3 PM

5. Alfred Caves

Serene view of a water body nearby, from the caves

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Alfred Caves, located near Diglipur in North Andaman, are a fascinating network of limestone caves waiting to be explored. Comprising over 40 caves, this natural wonder is a paradise for adventurers and geology enthusiasts. The caves are known for their narrow passages, stalactite formations, and a unique ecosystem that houses swiftlets and bats. Accessible by a forest trek, the journey itself adds to the thrill.

Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM

Where To Stay

Experience a good time in the cosy stays of Dilglipur, Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

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There are no accommodations inside the national park, but there are some good properties nearby Diglipur, to have a comfortable stay – Turtle Resort, Titlee Guest House, Saddle Peak View Resort, Pristine Beach Resort, and APWD Guest House.

Where To Eat

Enjoy the best seafood at Saddle Peak National Park, Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

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There are no eating joints inside the national park, but tourists can get decent options in Diglipur especially a lot of bakeries. Some of the good restaurants and food outlets here are – Hira Restaurant, Anu Bar and Restaurant, Foodies, The Hangout Restro, and Dolphin Restaurant.

Suggested Read: Street Food In Andaman

Best Time To Visit Saddle Peak National Park

Experience the solitude of the beauty of Kalipur Beach, Saddle Peak National Park.

Photo: Skasish / Wikimedia Commons

Saddle Peak National Park timings are from 5 AM to 4 PM, on all days of the week. The ideal time to visit this serene park is between November and April, as the weather is pleasantly cool and suitable for all kinds of outdoor activities.

Other Factors To Consider

Pack your bags for the most awaited trip to the beaches of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

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Average Cost Of The Trip

Saddle Peak National Park ticket price is ₹25 per adult and is the only cost that will be incurred. Apart from travel to the park, there is no other expenditure.

Tips For Travellers

Wear comfortable clothing and trekking shoes
Apply sunscreen and insect repellent
Carry water and light snacks for the trek
Carry a hat, and sunglasses to stay comfortable under the sun
Keep a day if trekking to Saddle Peak – the highest peak in Andamans

Suggested Read: Andaman Travel Guide

Located near Diglipur, Saddle Peak National Park is the highest point of the archipelago of the Bay of Bengal. This 85 square km park in Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a haven for a variety of flora and fauna. If you are looking for a stress-free vacation amidst nature and wildlife this is the destination for you. Plan a trip with TripXL and have the best experience.

Cover Photo: Sonaal Bangera / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Saddle Peak National Park: Your Complete Guide For Next Vacation In Andamans

Saddle Peak National Park Location

How To Reach Saddle Peak National Park