Nestled in the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have remained veiled in mystery for centuries, owing to their remote location. Comprising a total of 572 islands, some inhabited and others uninhabited, these islands boast awe-inspiring natural beauty. With their lush forests, exotic plant and animal species, and pristine white sandy beaches, they form a captivating paradise. These islands are scattered across an 800-kilometer-long chain in the southeastern part of the Bay of Bengal, which hints at the possibility of an ancient land connection between Cape Negris in Burma and Achin Head in Sumatra. However, the unique flora and fauna found here suggest that if such a connection ever existed, it predates the current life forms on these islands.
Andaman Birding Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Chennai/Kolkata and Flight to Port Blair Arrive in Chennai/Kolkata in the morning and catch the last flight to Port Blair departing at 10:05 am. Upon arrival in Port Blair, you will be met and assisted at the airport. Check into Bay Island and then proceed to explore Mount Harriet National Park, a tropical moist evergreen forest. During this excursion, keep an eye out for a variety of unique bird species, including the Andaman Woodpecker, Andaman Wood Pigeon, Andaman Cuckoo Dove, Andaman Crake, Fulvous-breasted Woodpecker, Dollarbird, Collared Kingfisher, Brown Coucal, Alexandrine Parakeet, Red-breasted Parakeet, Pintail Snipe, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Andaman Treepie, Black-naped Oriole, Andaman Drongo, Orange-headed Thrush, Olive-backed Sunbird, and White-headed Starling.
Day 2: Birding in Sippighat and Return to Mount Harriet Start your day with an early morning drive to Sippighat, situated to the south of Port Blair. This marshy wetland area is ideal for spotting water birds and waders. Look out for bird species such as the Andaman Scops Owl, Andaman Hawk Owl, Sunda Teal, Fulvous-breasted Woodpecker, Blue-eared Kingfisher, Stork-billed Kingfisher, Collared Kingfisher, White-throated Kingfisher, Chestnut-headed Bee-eater, Brown Coucal, Red-breasted Parakeet, Oriental Scops Owl, Brown Hawk Owl, Edible nest Swiftlet, Common Snipe, Black-naped Tern, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Black-naped Oriole, Andaman Drongo, Orange-headed Thrush, and Olive-backed Sunbird. After birding in Sippighat, return to Mount Harriet to spot any missed species and return by evening.
Day 3: Birding at Chidiya Tapu Embark on an early morning trip to Chidiya Tapu, a region with moist evergreen forest located to the south of Port Blair, renowned for its birding opportunities. The birding track starts 4 km before Chidiya Tapu and continues for 2 km along the seashore forest. Here, you may encounter the Andaman Woodpecker, Andaman Crake, Andaman Treepie, Andaman Serpent Eagle, Black-naped Oriole, Andaman Drongo, Olive-backed Sunbird, White-headed Starling, Fulvous-breasted Woodpecker, Stork-billed Kingfisher, White-throated Kingfisher, Collared Kingfisher, Chestnut-headed Bee-eater, Brown Coucal, Alexandrine Parakeet, and Red-breasted Parakeet.
Day 4: Final Birding and Departure In the morning, engage in birding to spot any endemics you may have missed during the earlier trips. Afterward, return to your respective departure destinations.
Includes:
Accommodation with meal plan as given in itinerary
Birding Guide at Port Blair & in South India
Non a/c vehicles at Port Blair
A/c vehicle for S India birding, driver’s allowances, inter-state passes
All entry fees, permits, passes
Bottled water throughout
Does not include:
Air fares.
Tips
Beverages
Personal expenses
Ryask Tourism is a renowned expert in organizing specialized birding tours, specializing in creating meticulously planned and customizable travel experiences throughout the breathtaking Andaman & Nicobar Islands. With over a decade of experience in orchestrating adventures in the remote corners of the Andaman archipelago, we are dedicated to curating seamless and unforgettable bird-watching vacations for enthusiasts.
Our birding expeditions have been thoughtfully researched and extensively tested, with a focus on carefully selected birding hotspots across the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Our primary goal is to ensure that you enjoy a hassle-free and deeply rewarding bird-watching experience. Drawing upon our twelve years of expertise and local knowledge, we are committed to transforming your dream Indian birding holiday into a reality.
Main Birding Destinations of Andaman
Havelock Island
Havelock Island, located 38 kilometers away from Port Blair by sea, stands as a premier destination in the Andaman Islands. It has garnered immense popularity owing to its enchanting beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and exceptional scuba diving opportunities. Havelock Island is renowned for its unspoiled shorelines, vibrant coral reefs, and its appeal as a serene vacation spot. Among its many treasures, Radhanagar Beach reigns supreme as the island’s crowning jewel. It earned the distinction of being hailed as the finest beach in Asia by Time magazine and was more recently recognized as India’s Best Beach by CNBC in 2011. This magnificent stretch of coastline boasts silky white sands bordered by lush forests that provide refreshing shade, all against the backdrop of mesmerizing turquoise waters.
Neil Island
Neil Island, situated just 36 kilometers away from Port Blair by sea, is a picturesque gem in the Andaman archipelago. Covered in lush green forests and surrounded by sandy beaches, it is often referred to as the “vegetable bowl of the Andamans.” This island is a haven for eco-friendly tourists, offering an ideal destination to unwind and connect with the serenity of village life. Neil Island boasts several captivating beaches, including Lakshmanpur, Bharatpur, and Sitapur. These sandy shores are perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxation.
Long Island
Located 82 kilometers away from Port Blair and accessible by boat four times a week from Phoenix Bay Jetty, Long Island beckons with its pristine sandy beach at Lalaji Bay, untouched natural surroundings, and lush evergreen forests. The waters surrounding the island are a popular route for dolphin gatherings. To reach Lalaji Bay, which is situated 6 kilometers from the boat jetty, you can either opt for a quick 15-minute dinghy ride or embark on a trek through the enchanting forest.
Baratang Island
Baratang Island, situated approximately 100 kilometers away from Port Blair, lies nestled between the South and Middle Andaman Islands. It is renowned for its stunning mangrove creeks, intriguing mud volcanoes, and captivating limestone caves. The Andaman Trunk Road, connecting Rangat and Mayabunder, traverses this picturesque island. Exploring the limestone caves is an option, provided you secure permission from the Forest Department (obtained from Baratang) and enlist the assistance of local guides. Accommodation options on this island are limited, as the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India has designated Baratang Island as a buffer zone. Therefore, it is advisable to carry packed food and drinking water when embarking on a visit to the limestone caves. For avid birdwatchers, Middle Strait, along the journey to Baratang Island, offers excellent opportunities for birding.
Rangat
Rangat, located 170 kilometers by road and 90 kilometers by sea from Port Blair, offers a tranquil village life experience and the serenity of untouched natural beauty in the heart of the Middle Andaman. It is a destination where visitors can immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance of rural life. Two stunning beaches, Amkunj Beach and Cuthbert Bay Beach, are situated near Rangat. Of special note, Cuthbert Bay Beach is a significant turtle-nesting ground. During the nesting season from December to February, travelers have the unique opportunity to witness the remarkable sight of turtles nesting on the shore.
Mayabunder
Mayabunder, located approximately 242 kilometers away from Port Blair by road, lies in the northern region of Middle Andaman Island. This picturesque destination boasts stunning natural beauty, intricate mangrove creeks, and exquisite beaches. The island offers captivating beaches, with Avis Island and Karmatang being particularly enchanting. To reach Mayabunder Island, you can utilize government ferries and road transportation. This island is situated beyond Rangat Island, and the journey from Rangat Island to Mayabunder Island typically takes a couple of hours.
Diglipur Island
Diglipur Island, located 375 kilometers by road from Port Blair, is a hidden gem in the North Andaman Islands, offering a unique and eco-friendly experience for travelers. Renowned for its delicious oranges, abundant rice fields, lush forests, and vibrant marine life, Diglipur is a destination like no other.The island is home to Saddle Peak, standing tall at 732 meters, making it the highest point in the entire Andaman archipelago. The picturesque Kalpong River, the only river in the Andaman Islands, originates from Diglipur. Notably, it hosts the first and only hydroelectric project in the entire region. Nature enthusiasts can embark on a captivating trek to Saddle Peak, winding through the pristine evergreen forests with the guidance of experienced local guides.
Little Andaman Island
Little Andaman Island, situated approximately 78 nautical miles or 120 kilometers by sea from Port Blair, boasts a range of enticing attractions for visitors. Nestled to the south of South Andaman Island, this tropical paradise beckons with its natural beauty. Among its highlights are two captivating waterfalls tucked within the heart of lush evergreen rainforests. The island also features the picturesque Butler Bay Beach, a cascading waterfall, and a flourishing oil palm plantation. Moreover, the island boasts numerous sandy beaches lining its pristine coastline, inviting beachgoers to relax and unwind. For a splendid view, tourists can head to the breakwater at Hut Bay, which offers breathtaking vistas of the surroundings.
Great Nicobar Island
Great Nicobar Island, situated at the southernmost point of India with Indira Point marking the country’s southernmost tip, is a captivating destination for tourists. This island is not only the southernmost but also a part of the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve, making it a protected National Park. The island boasts lush tropical evergreen forests adorned with graceful tree ferns and vibrant orchids, creating a breathtaking natural landscape. The Mangrove forests on the island contribute to its rich ecosystem, forming a unique habitat. Great Nicobar Island is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, offering a chance to witness a diverse avian population. You can visit one of the numerous watchtowers strategically placed across the island to admire the pristine beauty of the National Park while spotting various bird species. The wildlife on the island is equally remarkable, including the Crab-eating Macaque, Megapode, Giant Robber Crab, and Nicobar Pigeon. Additionally, Great Nicobar Island is home to Olive Ridley and Leatherback Turtles, Wild Boar, deer, and Civet cats.
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