Trekking to Saddle Peak (Highest Point in Andaman): Trail Map, Timings & Entry Permits

Saddle Peak stands proudly as the highest mountain peak in the entire Andaman & Nicobar archipelago. Official management documentation for Saddle Peak National Park records its elevation at approximately 732 metres above sea level, encompassing a deeply undulating landscape defined by dense tropical rainforests, seasonal rivulets, and freshwater streams.

Reaching the summit of Saddle Peak is entirely different from visiting a conventional coastal beach or roadside viewpoint. Because the trail cuts deep into a protected national park environment, travellers must account for the substantial road journey required to reach North Andaman, adhere to mandatory entry permits, respect forest management guidelines, and evaluate their own physical readiness for a humid, rugged forest hike. Diglipur serves as the primary practical base area for exploring this northern wilderness.

Saddle Peak is located on North Andaman Island, enclosed entirely within the boundaries of Saddle Peak National Park. The park protects a diverse expanse of undisturbed tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forest.

Because the entire mountain environment falls under strict conservation rules managed by the Andaman & Nicobar Department of Environment & Forests, it cannot be treated as an open, unrestricted hiking ground. Access is channeled through designated entry points, typically near Lamiya Bay or Kalipur, where administrative formalities and permit verifications take place before stepping onto the path.

Rising to an elevation of approximately 732 metres, Saddle Peak commands the highest prominence across the entire Bay of Bengal island chain. Its distinctive saddle-shaped double peak was formed through millions of years of tectonic activity and surface erosion.

This height gives the summit a unique geographical advantage, offering rare panoramic perspectives that sweep across the dense green forest canopy on one side and the open expanse of the sea, Craggy Island, and nearby coastal stretches on the other.

Established to preserve the pristine ecological integrity of North Andaman, Saddle Peak National Park spans a protected ecosystem characterized by towering dipterocarp trees, thick undergrowth, and complex riverine networks. The park harbours rich biodiversity, including numerous endemic bird species such as the Andaman imperial pigeon and Andaman woodpecker, alongside unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth.

A network of seasonal and perennial streams cascades down the mountain slopes. While the forest is visually stunning, visitors must remember that they are entering a sensitive wildlife habitat, requiring strict adherence to park regulations and low-impact exploration principles.

The trekking route to the summit typically begins near the coastal foothills around Lamiya Bay or Kalipur, stretching roughly 7 to 8 kilometres each way. Rather than relying on unverified GPS files or unofficial internet maps, trekkers should follow the established, official trail designated by the Forest Department.

The path initially winds past coastal vegetation before diving into the dense rainforest canopy, utilizing natural staircases formed by the thick root systems of old trees. As you gain elevation, the trail crosses several freshwater streams and navigates steady inclines before arriving at viewing platforms near the summit. Always follow the route explicitly marked or supervised by park authorities.

Completing the round-trip trek to Saddle Peak is a full-day commitment. While walking durations vary based on individual physical fitness, weather, and trail conditions, a standard ascent and descent typically requires anywhere from 6 to 8 hours in total.

Trekkers must start early in the morning to ensure they have ample daylight for the climb and the return journey. Rushing the trail is discouraged due to the uneven footing and high tropical humidity, so travellers should plan to dedicate an entire day of their North Andaman itinerary exclusively to the hike.

The trek is generally classified as moderate to challenging, primarily due to the combination of distance, continuous elevation gain, and high humidity rather than sheer technical rock-climbing obstacles. The terrain features dirt paths, slippery mud sections during wet weather, exposed tree roots, and loose stones.

Hikers should possess a reasonable baseline of cardiovascular endurance and leg strength. Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, joint limitations, or low heat tolerance should evaluate their physical readiness very carefully before attempting the climb.

Because Saddle Peak is situated entirely within a protected national park, entering the area requires an official entry permit. Under the Andaman & Nicobar Wildlife (Protection) Rules, entry into sanctuaries and national parks is regulated to safeguard conservation efforts.

Permits are typically issued by the Forest Department office located near the trailhead or park entrance. Visitors must present valid identification proofs—such as an Aadhaar card or passport—and pay the nominal entry fee mandated for Indian or foreign nationals. Because administrative procedures can adjust, verifying the precise current documentation requirements with local authorities or your travel planner before heading to the trailhead is essential.

Navigating the dense rainforest interior safely makes utilizing an authorised local guide or forest department escort highly recommended, and local management rules may require guide accompaniment depending on current park policies.

A knowledgeable guide ensures you remain on the correct authorised path, helps you manage tricky terrain sections, shares insights regarding the park's endemic flora and fauna, and provides vital assistance in the event of fatigue or weather changes. Never attempt to venture off-trail or explore the national park independently without proper local clearance.

Saddle Peak National Park is generally open for day-trip visits from early morning until late afternoon, with entry typically permitted between sunrise (around 6:00 AM) and mid-afternoon (roughly 4:00 PM) to ensure all hikers exit before dark.

An early start—ideally by 6:00 AM or 7:00 AM—is strongly advised. Setting out early allows you to complete the majority of the ascent while temperatures are cooler, minimizing fatigue caused by midday tropical heat and ensuring a safe return well before evening.

While the national park can technically be visited throughout the year, the most favourable weather window spans from November through April, when rainfall is lower, humidity is more manageable, and trail conditions are considerably drier.

The southwest and northeast monsoon seasons bring heavy precipitation to North Andaman, making trails deeply muddy, slippery, and occasionally restricted for safety reasons. Always check local weather forecasts and park operating status prior to your planned trek date.

Packing efficiently for a rainforest trek ensures you remain comfortable and prepared for changing forest conditions. Because there are no commercial shops or food stalls inside the national park, you must carry all essential supplies yourself. Recommended items include:

• Sturdy trekking shoes with reliable rubber grip

• Lightweight, breathable, quick-dry clothing

• Compact rain protection or a waterproof jacket

• Ample drinking water (at least 3 to 4 litres per person)

• High-energy snacks, nuts, or energy bars

• A lightweight day backpack

• Basic first-aid supplies and personal medications

• Insect repellent to guard against forest bugs

• Sun protection (cap and sunglasses)

• A waterproof dry bag to protect electronics from sudden downpours

• Valid government photo identification and permit documents

Maintaining personal safety during a remote jungle hike requires strict adherence to outdoor protocols. Always remain on the designated, authorised trail and never take unofficial shortcuts. Stay close to your guide and trekking companions, maintaining a steady, sustainable pace rather than exhausting yourself early.

Watch your footing carefully around wet rocks and stream crossings, and turn back immediately if severe weather moves into the area. Comply fully with all instructions issued by Forest Department personnel.

Saddle Peak National Park is a sanctuary for fragile endemic wildlife and pristine plant communities. Visitors must practice strict environmental responsibility:

• No Littering: Carry out every piece of plastic, wrapper, or waste you generate.

• Do Not Disturb Wildlife: Observe animals quietly from a distance without making loud noises or attempting to feed them.

• Protect Vegetation: Do not carve into tree bark, break branches, or collect plants and rocks as souvenirs.

• Respect Natural Quiet: Keep audio devices stowed away to preserve the peaceful acoustic environment of the forest.

While the trek does not require advanced technical mountaineering skills, it is generally not recommended for absolute beginners with low physical fitness or a sedentary lifestyle. The combination of steep dirt inclines, high humidity, and a 6-to-8-hour duration demands solid cardiovascular stamina. Beginners who wish to attempt the trail should ensure they prepare physically well in advance and undertake the hike under the steady supervision of an experienced guide.

Diglipur functions as the main administrative and residential hub for travellers exploring North Andaman. To reach the Saddle Peak trailhead, visitors take a short local road transfer northward toward Kalipur or Lamiya Bay, which lies roughly 5 to 20 kilometres away from the town center depending on your specific lodging. Local taxis, auto-rickshaws, or pre-arranged resort vehicles provide reliable transport to the park entrance where forest permits are issued.

Trekking Saddle Peak is best integrated into a broader, unhurried North Andaman itinerary. Because reaching Diglipur requires a significant travel commitment from Sri Vijaya Puram, travellers typically spend multiple nights in the north.

You can pair your trekking day with relaxed visits to nearby regional highlights, such as the unique twin islands of Ross & Smith connected by a tidal sandbar, the volcanic-sand shores of Kalipur Beach, or the subterranean chambers of the Alfred Caves, subject to current local accessibility.

Coordinating complex multi-day itineraries that venture into remote northern regions—from comfortable Diglipur accommodations and local vehicle transfers to permit guidance and trekking coordination—becomes effortless when organized through experienced local specialists. Partnering with a dedicated travel planning partner like Andaman Bliss helps ensure your entire journey is executed efficiently from start to finish.

Whether you are looking to arrange comprehensive Andaman tour packages, family-focused getaways through verified Andaman family packages, or romantic getaways via our collection of Andaman honeymoon packages, our team ensures your journey flows smoothly. To explore broader regional planning insights, you can review our detailed destination guides via the best places to visit in Andaman and let Andaman Bliss help you design your ideal island getaway.