The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a picturesque group of islands located in the Bay of Bengal. These islands are known for their crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and lush green forests. One of the most beautiful trekking spots in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is Saddle Peak. The trek to Saddle Peak is an exciting adventure that takes you through dense forests, hills, and streams, offering stunning views of the island’s natural beauty. In this article, we will provide detailed information about the Saddle Peak Trek in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Location and Accessibility: Saddle Peak is located on the northernmost tip of North Andaman Island, and it is the highest peak in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, standing at a height of 732 meters. The trekking trail starts from the village of Diglipur, which is about 300 kilometers from the capital city of Port Blair. The journey to Diglipur takes about 10 hours by road, and it is advisable to stay in Diglipur for at least one night before starting the trek.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Saddle Peak is between October and May when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. During the monsoon season, the trekking trail becomes slippery and difficult to navigate, and the visibility is also poor due to the heavy rains.
Trekking Itinerary: The trek to Saddle Peak is an exciting journey that takes you through dense forests, hills, and streams. Here is a detailed itinerary of the trek:
Day 1: Arrival in Diglipur On day one, you will arrive in Diglipur and check into your hotel. You can spend the day exploring the town and visiting attractions such as the Kalipur Beach, Ram Nagar Beach, and the Ross and Smith Islands.
Day 2: Trek to Saddle Peak On day two, you will start your trek to Saddle Peak. The trek starts from the base of the peak and takes about five to six hours to complete, depending on your fitness level. The first part of the trail is relatively easy and takes you through dense forests of tall trees, shrubs, and vines. You will come across small streams and waterfalls on the way.
As you move higher, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging, with rocks and boulders on the path. However, the effort is well worth it, as you will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding hills and the sea. At the summit, you will find a watchtower that offers panoramic views of the island.
After spending some time at the summit, you will retrace your steps and descend back to the base of the peak.
Day 3: Departure from Diglipur On day three, you will depart from Diglipur and return to your respective destinations.
Things to Carry: Here are some essential items that you must carry for the Saddle Peak Trek:
- Comfortable and sturdy trekking shoes
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen lotion
- Hat/cap
- Sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Light snacks
- First aid kit
- Camera
Tour Packages: Various tour operators offer Saddle Peak Trek packages that include transportation, accommodation, meals, and a guide. The cost of the tour packages depends on the duration of the tour, the number of participants, and the inclusions.
Conclusion: The Saddle Peak Trek is a must-do activity for adventure enthusiasts visiting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The trek offers stunning views of the island and its natural beauty and is a great way to experience the island’s flora and fauna up close. The trek is moderately challenging and can be done by people of all ages with reasonable fitness levels.
Book Your Flights : Here 30% OFF on Booking
Book Your Hotels : Here 20% OFF on Booking
0 Comment