Rising majestically to 732 meters (2,402 feet) above sea level, Saddle Peak is the highest point in the Bay of Bengal. Located within Saddle Peak National Park in North Andaman, this geological landmark owes its name to its unique double-peaked shape that resembles a riding saddle.

Wrapped in a dense, multi-layered tropical evergreen rainforest, the park is a critical biodiversity hotspot. It serves as a vital sanctuary for rare, endemic flora and fauna, making it the premier trekking and wilderness destination in the Andaman archipelago.

The Saddle Peak Trekking Trail

Trekking to the summit of Saddle Peak is a rigorous but rewarding full-day wilderness adventure. The trail introduces hikers to a distinct transition of coastal and dense jungle ecosystems.

Trail Progression & Key Landmarks

• The Trailhead (Lamiya Bay): The hike begins at the scenic Lamiya Bay beach. The entry is marked by a broad, shaded walkway flanked by massive tropical trees.

• The Intersections: Early in the trek, a prominent blue directional sign marks a trail split. The left path tracks closely along the rocky shoreline, offering dramatic ocean views of Kalipur Beach and Craggy Island. The straight path heads directly into the dense forest canopy.

• The Fresh-Water Stream: Roughly 15 minutes along the coastal stretch, a pristine, clear freshwater stream flows out of the jungle and cuts across the sand to meet the salt waters of the sea.

• The Nature Trail: Approximately 30 minutes into the trek, a green and red regulatory sign marks the official entrance to the core Nature Trail. From this point forward, the terrain becomes steeper, winding through thick root networks, rocky steps, and dense tropical foliage.

From Port Blair to Diglipur

• Board a scheduled government bus or hire a private private rental cab from the Port Blair bus terminal. The 300 km drive along the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR) takes 8 to 10 hours.

From Diglipur to the Trailhead

• From the main Diglipur market, the park lies 18 km away toward Kalipur.

• Travelers can catch the early 5:15 AM public bus heading toward Kalipur, which makes convenient stops near most local eco-resorts.

• From Kalipur, it is a brief 10-minute drive or auto-rickshaw ride to Lamiya Bay, which serves as the official starting point for the mountain climb.

Permitting and Fees

• Entry Permits: Mandatory forest permits must be obtained from the Department of Forest Office located right at the trailhead entrance across from Lamiya Bay.

• Forest Fee: A entry tariff of ₹25 per person is collected at the front desk before you are allowed into the national park wilderness.

Critical Field Regulations & Safety Tips

• Assess Physical Fitness: The trek to the summit and back is a demanding endurance test. Ensure you are in good physical condition, wear broken-in hiking shoes with aggressive tread, and dress in lightweight, breathable clothing.

• Pack Essential Supplies: There are zero facilities inside the national park. You must carry a personal first-aid kit, energy-dense food, and a minimum of 2 to 3 liters of water per person to prevent dehydration.

• Pack Waterproof Gear: Weather changes rapidly near the peak. Keep your electronic gear and mandatory forest permits protected inside a waterproof bag to shield them from sudden downpours.

• Respect the Wildlife Habitat: The national park is home to diverse insects, reptiles, and bird life. Maintain a safe distance from wild animals, do not attempt to feed them, and watch your step for forest insects and snakes on uneven terrain.

• Stick to the Marked Trail: Thick tropical evergreen forests border the path. Straying from the authorized trekking trails can easily cause you to become disoriented or lost. Follow all official directional markers closely.

• Follow Leave No Trace Principles: Pack out every piece of trash, wrappers, or plastic bottles you bring in. Littering or disturbing the native flora is strictly prohibited by forest law.