Offbeat Andaman: Diglipur, Long Island & Hidden Destinations
Go beyond Havelock and Neil. Discover Andaman's secret islands — from Diglipur's twin islands to Long Island's pristine Lalaji Bay and Baratang's limestone caves.
Plan Offbeat TripWhy Go Offbeat in Andaman?
While 90% of tourists only visit Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil Island, Andaman has 572 islands — most completely untouched. The offbeat destinations offer empty beaches, richer wildlife, turtle nesting sites, limestone caves, and an authentic island experience that the popular spots can no longer provide.
Top Offbeat Destinations
Diglipur & Ross-Smith Islands
North AndamanThe northernmost point of Andaman accessible to tourists. Home to the stunning twin islands of Ross and Smith connected by a natural sandbar, Saddle Peak (highest point in Andaman at 732m), and sea turtle nesting beaches at Kalipur.
Highlights
- • Walk across the sandbar between twin islands
- • Trek to Saddle Peak (732m)
- • Sea turtle nesting at Kalipur Beach (Dec-Mar)
- • Alfred Caves - massive natural limestone formations
- • Lamiya Bay Beach - completely deserted white sand
Practical Info
Long Island & Lalaji Bay
Middle AndamanA sleepy island with barely any tourist infrastructure, but home to what many call the most beautiful beach in Andaman — Lalaji Bay. Reach it by a 45-minute trek through dense tropical forest or a short boat ride.
Highlights
- • Lalaji Bay Beach - pristine & completely empty
- • Guitar Island - unique guitar-shaped island nearby
- • Dense tropical forest trekking
- • Merk Bay for turtle spotting
- • Authentic island life experience
Practical Info
Baratang Island
Middle AndamanA unique day trip from Port Blair featuring limestone caves formed over millennia, mud volcanoes (the only ones in India), and a speedboat ride through stunning mangrove creeks. The drive passes through the Jarawa tribal reserve.
Highlights
- • Limestone caves - stunning stalactite formations
- • Mangrove creek speedboat ride
- • Mud volcanoes - India's only active ones
- • Parrot Island - thousands of parrots at sunset
- • Jarawa Reserve transit (no stopping)
Practical Info
Rangat & Mayabunder
Middle AndamanTwo small towns in Middle Andaman offering an authentic, untouristed Andaman experience. Amkunj Beach in Rangat is a government eco-tourism site, while Mayabunder's Karmatang Beach is a turtle nesting ground.
Highlights
- • Amkunj Beach eco-tourism & nature trail
- • Karmatang Beach turtle nesting
- • Cuthbert Bay mangrove boardwalk
- • Yerrata mangrove nature camp
- • Local fishing village life
Practical Info
Little Andaman
South IslandsIndia's emerging surf destination, 120 km south of Port Blair. Little Andaman offers consistent waves (Nov-Mar), the beautiful Butler Bay Beach, White Surf Waterfall, and a rare sense of complete isolation.
Highlights
- • Butler Bay Beach - surfing waves Nov-Mar
- • White Surf Waterfall - jungle waterfall hike
- • Whisper Wave Waterfall
- • Nearly zero tourists
- • Beautiful elephant safari (seasonal)
Practical Info
Offbeat vs Mainstream Andaman
| Aspect | Mainstream (Havelock/Neil) | Offbeat (Diglipur/Long Island) |
|---|---|---|
| Crowds | Moderate to high | Almost empty |
| Beaches | Beautiful but known | Pristine & untouched |
| Accommodation | Budget to luxury | Basic guesthouses |
| Food | Many restaurants | Limited local eateries |
| Internet | Decent (4G) | Minimal to none |
| Activities | Diving, snorkeling, tours | Trekking, wildlife, isolation |
| Transport | Regular ferries, autos | Infrequent, plan ahead |
| Budget (per day) | ₹2,000-8,000 | ₹1,000-3,000 |
7-Day Offbeat Andaman Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Port Blair
Arrive and explore Port Blair. Cellular Jail, Light & Sound Show. Prepare for early morning departure.
Day 2: Baratang Day Trip
Early morning drive to Baratang. Limestone caves, mangrove creek, mud volcanoes. Return to Port Blair by evening.
Day 3: Port Blair → Rangat → Long Island
Morning bus/ferry to Rangat. Afternoon ferry to Long Island. Trek to Lalaji Bay or relax at the guest house.
Day 4: Long Island → Diglipur
Morning at Lalaji Bay. Afternoon journey to Diglipur. Evening at Kalipur Beach (check for turtle activity).
Day 5: Ross & Smith Islands + Saddle Peak
Morning boat to Ross & Smith twin islands. Walk the sandbar. Afternoon trek towards Saddle Peak or visit Alfred Caves.
Day 6: Diglipur → Havelock
Morning ferry to Havelock (if available) or bus to Rangat + ferry. Afternoon at Radhanagar Beach sunset.
Day 7: Havelock → Port Blair → Departure
Morning at Kalapathar Beach. Ferry to Port Blair. Shopping and departure.
Offbeat Travel Tips
Book Transport in Advance
Ferries and buses to offbeat destinations run less frequently. Book tickets 3-5 days ahead, especially during peak season.
Carry Cash
ATMs are rare or non-functional beyond Port Blair and Havelock. Carry sufficient cash (₹5,000-10,000 per person for offbeat legs).
Pack Light & Smart
Basic guesthouses may not have all amenities. Carry a torch, insect repellent, basic medicines, and a power bank.
Eat Local
Restaurant options are limited. Embrace local food — fresh fish, rice, and daal. Carry snacks for long journeys.
Allow Buffer Days
Transport schedules can change due to weather. Keep 1-2 buffer days so you don't miss your return flight.
Go Offline Ready
Internet is poor or absent in most offbeat spots. Download offline maps, entertainment, and share your itinerary with family before heading out.
Offbeat Andaman FAQs
Explore the Real Andaman
Our offbeat packages take you to places most tourists never see. Custom itineraries with local guides.