Saddle Peak National Park is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers in Diglipur, Andaman. Established in 1987, this rainforest is home to several endangered and rare species of animals such as Andaman Hill Myna, Imperial Pigeon and Seychelles Tree Frog. You will also get to spot a diverse range of flora such as Albizia Procera, Horsfieldia Irya and Scolopia Pusilla.
Saddle Peak National Park is an ideal getaway for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in Andaman as it is uninhabited by humans. If you are an adventure seeker, you can try hiking to the Saddle Peak which is the highest peak in Andaman. For a more peaceful experience, you can enjoy bird watching, wildlife spotting or picnicking with your loved ones. You can also visit the stunning Saddle Peak Waterfall which is an ideal spot for relaxation amidst nature. Another popular attraction is the Kalpong River which flows through this national park and is the only river of Andaman.
Highlights
• Explore Saddle Peak National Park and spot wildlife like Andaman Hill Myna, monitor lizards, Imperial Pigeons and saltwater crocodiles.
• Hike to the highest point of Andaman, Saddle Peak, and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the open blue sea and surrounding islands.
• Take a break from your hike and enjoy a picnic near Kalpong River, the only river of Andaman.
• Jump in the cool and calm waters of the Saddle Peak Waterfall to refresh yourself after a tiring hike.
• End your day by relaxing and witnessing a breathtaking sunset at the beautiful Lamia Bay Beach.
How To Reach
By Road: Saddle Peak National Park is located at a distance of around 23 km from the centre of Diglipur. You can easily reach the park in approximately 45 minutes via the NH4 route. You can either take a local taxi or simply rent a scooter to reach the park.
Best Time To Visit
Saddle Peak National Park is a stunning attraction which can be visited year-round. The best season is between the winter months of November and January to experience pleasant weather conditions and spot exotic birds and wildlife. Meanwhile, the best day of the week can be any day of the week as per your itinerary. Also, the best time of the day is to visit the national park during the early hours so that you will have sufficient time to explore it in the daylight.
Other Essential Information
1. Obtain your necessary permit in advance to enter the national park.
2. Wear light clothes and sturdy shoes for a comfortable experience in the forest.
3. Pack lightweight only with essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, medical kit, walking stick, water bottle and energy bars.
4. Get a map of the park so that you can easily navigate and avoid getting lost.
5. Refrain from going too close or offering any food items to the wild animals.
6. Consider opting for a guided tour for a more convenient experience.
Hike to Saddle Peak
Perched at a height of 2,402 ft, Saddle Peak is the highest point of the Andaman Islands. This peak is the highlight of the national park which requires a challenging trek of around 8-10 km one way. During your hike, you will come across various kinds of plants, trees and wild animals. After a tiring hike of 4-6 hours, you will be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding islands.
Explore the Flora & Fauna
Saddle Peak National Park has a rich biodiversity, including a number of plants, trees, birds and animals. The dense forest is home to wild animals like Andaman Hill Myna, monitor lizards, saltwater crocodiles, hyenas and deer. It is also a popular spot for bird watching where you can spot birds like eagles, Andaman Drongo, woodpeckers, Andaman Scops Owls and Andaman Coucal. Additionally, you can spot flora like orchids, thorn pear and Cleistanthus.
Relax near the Kalpong River
Kalpong River is the only river of Andaman which flows through the Saddle Peak National Park. It is an ideal relaxation spot where you can enjoy a picnic, fishing or boating with your loved ones. The river also forms several small yet stunning waterfalls in the national park which are worth visiting. One of the most prominent is the Saddle Peak Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery, exotic birds, animals and giant mountains. The base of the waterfall is calm, making it ideal for a refreshing swim after a tiring hike.
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Relax at Lamia Bay Beach
The diversity of Saddle Peak National Park also includes the beautiful Lamia Bay Beach. It is a pristine and relatively lesser-known beach of Andaman, making it the perfect spot for relaxing and unwinding. For a soothing experience, you can enjoy walking along the shore, swimming, sunbathing and witnessing a beautiful sunset. However, to make your trip more enjoyable, you can go on try snorkelling to witness the fascinating underwater world. Additionally, you will also get to closely observe small turtles on the beach which is truly a memorable experience.
