Complete Guide to Trekking in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

While everyone goes crazy over the beaches of Andamans. Obviously. Why wouldn’t they? Afterall they’re totally worth it. But do you know that the treks of Andamans have a totally different vibe but are so exciting! The Island has a variety of forests- dense tropical, evergreen, deciduous, rainforests and even grasslands. To explore these, trekking is a great way!

Many offbeat waterfalls, caves and beaches are accessible by trekking so we at Go2Andaman totally recommend you do a few treks and trails to see Andamans through a different perspective!

1. Chidiyatapu to Mundapahad Trek

Located approximately 30 kilometers from the capital city of Port Blair, Chidiyatapu, specifically Mundapahad is known for its stunning sunsets, diverse birdlife, and an elating trek. The trek begins at Chidiya Tapu Beach, near Chidiya Tapu Biological Park and extends all the way to the island’s southernmost tip where you see the sea on all three sides. 

Open from 10 am to 5 pm, the trek takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete. The best time to start the trek is early afternoon depending on how much time you want to spend there. Watching the sunset is the best part so you can do that and return by 5 pm. Swimming is not advised because crocodiles are frequently spotted here.

Distance: 2 km

Duration: 45 minutes

Difficulty Level: Easy

Attractions: Southernmost tip of the island, Sunset, Panoramic view of the sea

Best Time to Visit: 10 am to 5 pm, All year round

2. North Bay to Mount Harriet Trek

Spread over an area of 46.62 square kilometers, Mount Harriet National Park houses the 365m high Mount Harriet peak that’s the second highest peak in the Andaman Islands and the highest in Southern Andaman. You can get a view of Port Blair, Ross Island, North Bay lighthouse, Havelock from here. 

The trek begins at the entrance gate and is very easy. As you reach the top, you’ll see a government guest house. You can either spend the morning either listening to the chirping of the birds or spend a peaceful evening at Mount Harriet.

Distance:  1 km

Duration: 30 minutes

Difficulty Level: Easy

Attractions: View of nearby islands, Highest peak, Sunset, Base for other treks

Best Time to Visit: 7 am to 5 pm, with last entry at 4 pm. All year round except monsoons.

3. Havelock to Elephant Beach Trek

Elephant beach at Havelock is where all the water activities happen. You have the option of choosing a guided trek or exploring on your own, as the route is not too challenging. The trek typically starts around 8 AM when the temperature is moderate, allowing for a comfortable experience. After spending ample time at the beach, you can return by 1 PM. 

Before reaching the beach, you’ll traverse approximately 300 meters of marshland and mangrove forest. This is a sight to behold and the unique patch will surely imprint in your mind! A guide will assist you throughout this part of the journey, ensuring a smooth path.

Distance:  1.5 km

Duration: 30-45 min

Difficulty Level: Beginner

Attractions: Mangroves, Snorkeling, Seawalking, Banana Boat Riding, Sofa Boat Riding, Jet Skiing, Dolphin Submarine etc

Best Time to Visit: 6 am to 4 pm

4. Bamboo Flat to Wimberley Gunj Waterfall Trek

While many visitors flock to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for their stunning beaches, only a handful venture into the hidden treasures of the islands’ forests and freshwater bodies. Wimberly Gunj Waterfalls stands out as one such hidden gem amidst the natural beauty of the Andamans, offering an exhilarating experience for adventure seekers. 

Unlike crowded tourist spots, Wimberly Gunj Waterfalls remains relatively unknown, making it a must-visit destination when exploring Port Blair, the capital of the islands for it’s very nearby! The trek is interesting, quiet and not very difficult. Once you reach the waterfall, you can even take a dip and swim until afternoon.

Distance:  About 2 km

Duration: 45 minutes

Difficulty Level: Easy

Attractions: Waterfall, Freshwater swimming, Peaceful Trail

Best Time to Visit: Before sundown

5. Baratang to Limestone Cave Trek

The main tourist attractions in Baratang include the limestone cave formations at Nayadera and the extensive mangrove-covered creeks. The island is renowned for its limestone deposits, which can be found both above ground and underground, creating fascinating formations and layers. Visitors can easily catch a boat from the Nilambur jetty to reach the renowned caves. Along the way, they can enjoy the picturesque coastline lined with mangrove forests and navigate through canals covered with mangroves, adding an extra thrill to the journey.

The trek is 1.2 km long and the entire trail has labeled trees and the birds found in this region. The trek is easy and mostly flat. There are two routes- ne that goes through the jungle and one that paves way through the farms. 

Distance:  1.2 kilometers

Duration:  30 minutes

Difficulty Level: Easy

Attractions: Limestone caves, flora and fauna, mangroves, forests

Best Time to Visit: All year round

6. Kalapathar Beach to Secret Beach Trek

This serene trek starts at Kalapathar Beach, and ends at the Secret Beach. The trail follows the edge of the ocean hence you see some beautiful oceanic views on the way. Secret beach is a secluded cove on the south-eastern most point of Havelock. The terrain is mostly flat. This is a grainy beach so make sure to bring a mat or a bedsheet with you.

This beach used to be very exclusive but is not so offbeat anymore. Sadly, the shore gets a lot of garbage from the Thailand and Burma belts so it’s not as clean anymore. Nonetheless, the trek to this spot is great and totally worth it!

Distance:  2 + kilometers

Duration:  2 hour

Difficulty Level: Easy

Attractions: Tidepooling, Picnic, Birding, Reserved Forest, Secluded Beach

Best Time to Visit: Early Morning, Closes by 4 pm

7. Lamia Bay to Saddle Peak Trek

One of the best treks in Andaman, this trek takes you to the highest peak of the Andaman group of Islands called Saddle Peak, standing 732 meters high. Every traveller who visits the North Andaman makes sure to trek to the Saddle peak. As you embark on the trek and keep walking, you walk across beaches and creeks and various types of plants and animals and insects.

Staying here overnight is not permitted. Forest canopy prevents sunlight from entering and hence you’ve to be back to the base by 4:30. Hiring a guide is compulsory and is issued by the forest department as one may easily get lost. 

Distance:  10 km

Duration: 10 hours

Difficulty Level: Beginner-Intermediate

Attractions: View of nearby islands, Highest peak, Sunset, Base for other treks

Best Time to Visit: 7 am to 5 pm, with last entry at 4 pm. All year round except monsoons.

8. Herping Treks in Chidiyatapu and Havelock

This Reptile-oriented expedition is not an everyday ordinary experience. It’s unique, challenging and thrilling. While herping, you get to learn a lot about the nocturnal ecosystem, how reptiles live, basics on how to use snake hooks and so on. You’ll get to see snakes, krates, forest lizards, and frogs found on the Andaman islands. 

Distance:  Few kilometers

Duration: 2 hours

Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Attractions: Ophiology, Night trek, Nocturnal habitat exploration, Spot rare amphibians

Best Time to Visit: 8 pm to 1 am, All year round except Monsoons

9. Long Island to Lalaji Bay Trek

Trekking from Long Island to Lalaji Bay Beach is a wonderful experience. The trekking trail starts near the Blue Planet Eco huts. It usually takes at least 2 Hours to reach Lalaji Bay. Not only is this option adventurous but also quite economic. The trekking trail is marshy and hence this is not an easy trek. 

Distance:  Long Distance

Duration: 2 hours

Difficulty Level: Advanced

Attractions: Secluded Beach, Snorkeling, Swimming

Best Time to Visit: All year round

1. Obtain Necessary Permits: Some trekking trails in Andaman, particularly those in protected areas or around tribal reserves, may require permits for entry. Check with the forest department or Go2Andaman team to ensure you have the necessary permits before starting your trek.
2. Hire a Local Guide: Consider hiring a local guide to navigate the trails safely and learn about the region’s flora, fauna, and cultural heritage. Local guides are familiar with the terrain and can provide valuable insights into the area’s history and ecology.
3. Respect Local Customs and Environment: Avoid disturbing wildlife, picking plants, or leaving behind any litter. Practice responsible trekking by following Leave No Trace principles and minimizing your environmental impact. Also be vigilant of the daily lives of locals.
4. Check Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast before embarking on your trek and be prepared for any changes in weather such as rain forecasts. Avoid trekking during heavy rain, storms, or adverse weather conditions that could pose safety risks.
5. Be Prepared for Challenges: Trekking might get tricky sometimes so be aware of the uneven terrain, steep ascents and descents, dense vegetation, and potentially hot and humid weather conditions. Pace yourself, take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and listen to your body to avoid exhaustion or injury.

1. Hydration and Energy Foods : Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated in Andaman’s hot tropical climate while trekking. Pack energy-boosting snacks like nuts, energy bars, fruits, and trail mix for sustained stamina during the trek.
2. Sturdy Footwear: Wear footwear with good grip to navigate uneven terrain and forest trails to avoid injuries. Some treks require you to wear shoes compulsorily.
3. Lightweight Clothing: Dress in lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing suitable for trekking in humid conditions. Opt for long sleeves and full pants to protect against sunburn, insect bites, and scratches from vegetation
4. Rain Gear: Trekking in forests and around the beaches calls for carrying a waterproof jacket or poncho and a waterproof cover for your backpack to prepare for sudden rain showers that are common in Andamans.
5. First-Aid Kit: Pack a basic first-aid kit containing essentials such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, blister pads, and any personal medications you may require.
6. Navigation Tools: Bring a map, compass, or GPS device to help navigate the forest trails and ensure you stay on course. Do not depend on the internet as these thick jungles don’t have network access.
7. Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen with a high SPF rating, we recommend at least SPF 50++ and wear a wide-brimmed hat or cap, and use sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from harmful UV rays. Being near the equator, the sunrays here are stronger and it’s easy to get a tan and a sunburn.
8. Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET or other effective ingredients to ward off mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects commonly found in forested areas.
9. Trash Bag: Bring a small trash bag to collect any waste generated during the trek and ensure you leave no trace of your presence in the forest.
10. Picture Cards: Being a naturist, botanist or just an intrigued traveler, it’s a good idea to carry flora fauna picture cards to identify creatures that you may find on the way.