Everything You Need to Know About Diglipur

Diglipur is a picturesque town located on the northern part of the Andaman Islands in India. It is the largest town in the North Andaman Island group and is home to around 50,000 people. Diglipur is known for its stunning beaches, lush green forests, and rich marine life, making it a popular tourist destination.

Geography and Climate

Diglipur is located approximately 290 km from Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The town is situated on the northern side of the Andaman Islands and is surrounded by lush green forests, hills, and the sea. The highest peak in the Andaman Islands, Saddle Peak, is located near Diglipur.

Myths & Beliefs

The origin of the name Diglipur is believed to have come from the Bengali language. In Bengali, the words "Digha" mean 'island' and "Pur" means 'city' or 'town.' The combination of these two words is believed to have given rise to the name Diglipur, which means 'town of the islands' or 'island city.'

History

Diglipur was once a small village that was largely dependent on agriculture and fishing for its livelihood. However, with the growth of tourism in the Andaman Islands, Diglipur has emerged as a popular tourist destination. The town was named by a British administrator named Sir Daniel Ross, who discovered the area during his explorations of the Andaman Islands in the 19th century.

Climate

The climate in Diglipur is tropical and humid, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 32°C. The best time to visit Diglipur is between November and May, when the weather is dry and the skies are clear.

Tourist Attractions

Diglipur is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning coral reefs, making it an ideal destination for water sports and adventure activities. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Diglipur:

Ross and Smith Islands

Ross and Smith Islands are two small islands connected by a narrow sandbar. The sandbar disappears during high tide, creating two separate islands. The beaches on these islands are pristine and offer a stunning view of the surrounding blue waters.

Saddle Peak

Saddle Peak is the highest point in the Andaman Islands and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding forests and the sea. The trek to the peak is challenging, but the view from the top is worth the effort.

Kalipur Beach

Kalipur Beach is a secluded beach located near Diglipur, and is known for its black sand and beautiful sunsets. The beach is also a nesting ground for turtles, and visitors can watch the turtles hatch and make their way to the sea during the nesting season.

Ramnagar Beach

Ramnagar Beach is a popular destination for water sports and adventure activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and sea-walking. The beach is also known for its clear waters and beautiful coral reefs.

Mud Volcano

The Mud Volcano is a natural wonder located near Diglipur, and is known for its bubbling mud pools and hot springs. The mud in the volcano is believed to have medicinal properties and is used by locals for skin treatments.

Alfred Caves

The Alfred Caves are a group of limestone caves located near Diglipur. The caves are home to a variety of bats, and visitors can explore the underground world and admire the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.

Apart from these tourist attractions, Diglipur is also home to several beautiful waterfalls, such as the Limestone Caves Waterfall and the Kala Pathar Waterfall.

Culture and Lifestyle

The people of Diglipur are predominantly Bengali and Tamil, and the culture of the town is a mix of Bengali, Tamil, and Andamanese. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the town has a laid-back and relaxed vibe.

The main occupation of the people in Diglipur is fishing, and the town is known for its fresh seafood. The cuisine in Diglipur is a mix of Bengali and Tamil food, with a focus on seafood.

Transportation and Accommodation

Diglipur is well-connected to Port Blair and other parts of the Andaman Islands by road and sea. Regular bus services and private taxis are available from Port Blair to Diglipur, and the journey takes approximately 10 hours.