Chidiya Tapu - Port Blair - History, Timings & Entry Fee

Beach

Photo Credit: Flickr

Distance (From Port Blair Central Bus Stand): 25 Kms

Trip Duration (Including Travel): 4 Hours/Half Day

Place Location: South Andaman Island

Transportation Options: Cab

Travel Tips: None

At a distance of 25 km from Port Blair Central Bus Stand, Chidiya Tapu, also known as 'Bird Island', is the southernmost tip of South Andaman Island. This is one of the top places to visit in Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

Chidiya Tapu is a small village with lush green mangroves and tranquil islands. It is famous for bird watching, sunset view, panoramic scenic beauties, and many colours of oceanic view. The area is filled with around 46 species of birds namely, drongos, hanging parrot, scarlet minivet, emerald dove, long-tailed and red-breasted parakeets, white-bellied sea eagles and grey-fronted and imperial green pigeons to name a few.

Popularly known as Sunset Point, Chidiya Tapu is one of the best places to see the sunset in Port Blair, the main hub of the Andaman Islands. The main attractions here include the Chidiya Tapu Biological Park, Chidiya Tapu Beach, the Sylvan Sands and the Munda Pahad beaches. There is also a forest guest house at the top of the hillock that provides sunset views as well as views of the islands beyond Chidiya Tapu. The water in this region is alive with bright corals which makes it an excellent site for snorkeling. Swimming can be done here but beware of salt water crocodiles.

The Chidiya Tapu Biological Park came into existence in 2001 with an aim to conserve and study endemic and endangered species of animals found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Since then the park has been a center for biodiversity and conservation where one can catch a glimpse of the rich fauna of the islands. Sprawled over 40 hectares, the park is covered with a variety of plant, right from the majestic Mahuas to the exquisite Padauks. While walking through this jungle, one would be able to catch a glimpse of a variety of birds, wild pigs, barking deer and spotted deer.

Chidiya Tapu is well connected by road and one can easily reach by hiring a cab.
For adventure lovers Chidiya Tapu has a little more to offer. There is a trekking trail, which passes through forest and beautiful coast line to reach the Munda Pahad (Black Mountain). The 1.5 km trail starts at the shore of Chidiya Tapu Beach and passing through dense forest. It is advisable to take a guide or travel in groups to reach the Munda Pahad. Carry food and water before starting your trek to Munda Pahad.

Biological Park Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM

Biological Park Entry Fee: Rs. 25 per person.

Timings: 6 AM to 7 PM