The short answer
Saddle Peak National Park: what visitors should know first
Go only if you are a fit walker. The trek is long and steep for a short island hill, and a permit is needed. Start early from the trailhead near Lamiya Bay, carry water, and turn back if time or energy runs short.
History and context
The story behind Saddle Peak National Park
Saddle Peak National Park was established in 1979 on North Andaman Island and covers about 32.54 square kilometres. It surrounds Saddle Peak, also called Saddle Hills, and protects moist tropical forest. Two plant species, Scolopia pusilla and Cleistanthus robustus, are found on these islands but not on the Indian mainland.
Useful facts
Saddle Peak National Park facts at a glance
- Location
- North Andaman Island, near Kalipur
- Experience type
- Forest trek
- Known for
- The highest point in the Andaman archipelago, about 731 m
- Established
- 1979, area about 32.54 sq km
- Time or schedule
- Permit office open mornings; start early
Why it matters
Why Saddle Peak National Park is worth your time
Saddle Peak, at about 731 m, is the highest point in the Andaman archipelago, and the national park around it protects one of the best-preserved stretches of forest in the north. For a traveller used to the islands' beaches, a day inside this forest changes the picture.
The park is small, only about 32.5 square kilometres, but it holds Andaman wild pig, the Andaman hill myna and imperial pigeons, along with two plant species that do not occur on the Indian mainland. It also marks how thin the line is between the park and the coast: from the summit, the sea is visible on both sides.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The forest
Moist tropical forest with hill myna, imperial pigeons and wild pig.
- 02
The trail
A marked path from the shore through the forest, with stream crossings.
- 03
The summit
A view across the island and out to sea for those who reach it.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Reach the trailhead near Lamiya Bay early, since the permit office is open only during the morning on the accounts we read. The trail begins along the shore and then climbs into forest; it is marked with painted bands, and a local guide is optional but useful. Go in good shoes, with plenty of water, and plan to be down before the light fades.
The climb is about 8 km according to one guide and is hotter than the hill's height suggests, because the forest is damp and still. Fit walkers can reach the summit, where the trees open to a view. Others can walk the first section, enjoy the birds and forest sounds, and turn back.
Carry insect repellent, because leeches and mosquitoes are common in wet weather, and do not go in or just after heavy rain.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Collect the permit at the trailhead office, which closes early afternoon
- Start at dawn and be down before dusk
- Carry water, repellent and a packed lunch
- Skip the hike in or after heavy rain
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- North Andaman, trailhead near Lamiya Bay and Kalipur
- Time needed
- Most of a day for the summit; a few hours for part of the trail
- Best time
- Early morning, November to April
- Walking level
- Demanding
- Senior comfort
- Not suitable for most older travellers beyond the first stretch. The trail is steep and humid, with roots and streams to cross, and no seats or facilities. A short walk at the start is enough to enjoy the forest.
- Tickets and access
- A forest department permit is needed, sold at the office at the trailhead during morning hours. Check current fees, hours and rules for guides locally.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Saddle Peak National Park
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Not suitable for most older travellers beyond the first stretch. The trail is steep and humid, with roots and streams to cross, and no seats or facilities. A short walk at the start is enough to enjoy the forest.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How high is Saddle Peak?
About 731 m, the highest point in the Andaman archipelago.
Do I need a guide?
The trail is marked, but a local guide is optional and many visitors find one helpful; check at the trailhead.
Is it suitable for seniors?
Mostly not beyond the first stretch; the trail is long and steep.
Sources and further reading
- Wikipedia: Saddle Peak National Park
- Wikipedia: North Andaman Island
- Go2Andaman: Diglipur things to do
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
