A Chidiya Tapu day trip from Port Blair is a wonderful way to explore the quieter, greener side of the Andaman Islands. No ferry is needed. You can drive south through tropical forests, look for birds in their natural surroundings and finish the day watching the sunset over the Andaman Sea. Port Blair, officially renamed Sri Vijaya Puram in 2024, is the starting point for this easy road trip. Chidiya Tapu is known for its coastal views, rich birdlife, forest trails and the nearby Munda Pahad viewpoint.
This guide covers how to reach Chidiya Tapu, the best places to explore, a simple one-day itinerary, travel costs, the best time to visit and essential safety tips for a relaxed outing.
Where Chidiya Tapu Is and Why People Visit
Chidiya Tapu lies at the southern end of South Andaman Island, approximately 28 km from Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), according to the South Andaman district administration. Depending on your starting point and road conditions, the drive usually takes around 45–60 minutes, making it an easy destination for a half-day or full-day outing.
The name Chidiya Tapu means “Bird Island” in Hindi, and the area is known for its rich birdlife, mangroves and tropical forests. Visitors may spot drongos, parakeets, emerald doves and white-bellied sea eagles, along with other resident and migratory birds. Sightings depend on the season, weather and time of day, but early mornings are generally a good time for birdwatching. Carry binoculars if you have them, keep noise low and observe birds from a respectful distance.
Chidiya Tapu is more than just a beach. The wider area has several attractions, allowing you to choose between a peaceful sunset visit and a longer nature-focused excursion.
- Chidiya Tapu Beach and sunset viewpoint: The main attraction for coastal scenery, photography and watching the sun set over the sea.
- Chidiya Tapu Biological Park: A place to learn about the region’s native wildlife and natural environment.
- Munda Pahad trail and beach: A popular area for forest walks, coastal views and nature photography, subject to current trail access.
- Forest roads and mangrove edges: Scenic stretches where you can appreciate the area’s greenery and look for birds in their natural habitat.
You can visit just one or two of these spots if you have limited time, or combine several for a fuller day trip. For the best experience, start early if birdwatching is your priority and save the sunset viewpoint for the end of the day.
How to Reach Chidiya Tapu from Port Blair
Chidiya Tapu is connected to Port Blair by road, so you do not need a ferry to reach it. The drive takes approximately 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic, your starting point and any stops along the way. You can choose a taxi, rent a two-wheeler or use local bus services.
By taxi: A private taxi is a convenient option for couples, families and groups. You can travel at your own pace, stop for photographs and spend enough time at the sunset viewpoint. Before leaving Port Blair, agree on the round-trip fare, waiting charges and return arrangements with the driver, especially if you plan to stay until sunset.
By rented scooter or bike: Renting a two-wheeler gives you more flexibility to explore the area. Carry a valid driving licence, check the brakes and fuel level, and wear a helmet. If you are unfamiliar with the route, avoid riding back late on forested roads, particularly in poor weather or low visibility.
By local bus: Local buses are another option for budget-conscious travellers. The district administration lists bus connectivity to Chidiya Tapu, but departure times and service frequency should be checked before travelling. Confirm the last return bus from the area so you do not get stranded after sunset.
Whichever option you choose, allow extra time for the scenic drive and possible photography stops. If you plan to visit several attractions, a taxi or rented vehicle will generally make the day easier to manage.
Things to Do on a Chidiya Tapu Day Trip from Port Blair
Watch the Sunset at Chidiya Tapu Beach
Sunset is one of the biggest reasons travellers visit Chidiya Tapu. As the afternoon draws to a close, the sky can turn shades of orange, pink and gold, creating a beautiful backdrop against the Andaman Sea. The surrounding trees and rugged shoreline add to the scenery, making this a popular spot for photography and a peaceful evening outdoors. During parts of the year, sunset occurs before 5:30 PM, but the exact time changes with the season. Check the sunset time for your travel date and arrive around an hour beforehand to find a comfortable viewing spot. Cloud cover can affect the colours and visibility, so a clear sunset is never guaranteed.
Stay within permitted viewing areas and follow warning signs along the shore. The rocks can be slippery, particularly after rain, and the changing light can make it harder to judge the terrain.
Walk the Munda Pahad Trail
Munda Pahad is a popular nature attraction near Chidiya Tapu, known for its forest trail and coastal viewpoints. The walk takes you through tropical greenery towards a scenic stretch of coastline, offering a different experience from simply sitting at the beach. The trail is often described as approximately 1.5 km one way, although the actual distance and walking time can depend on the route and current access arrangements. Allow sufficient time for the return walk, rest stops and photographs. Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip, carry drinking water and stay on the marked path. The trail may become slippery after rain, so avoid trekking during heavy showers or when conditions are unsafe. Starting early in the afternoon is preferable to beginning close to sunset, when daylight and access time may be limited.
If you are unfamiliar with the area, ask local authorities or an authorised guide about current trail conditions before setting out. Do not enter restricted forest areas or continue if the route is closed.
Go Birdwatching in the Forest
Chidiya Tapu’s forests and mangrove surroundings make it an appealing destination for birdwatchers. The area supports a variety of resident and migratory birds, and visitors may spot drongos, parakeets, emerald doves and white-bellied sea eagles. Early morning is generally the best time to look for birds because many species are more active during the cooler hours. Walk quietly, pause to observe movement in the trees and listen for bird calls. Binoculars can help you see birds without approaching them too closely.
Bird sightings vary with weather, season and location, so treat birdwatching as a chance to enjoy the natural surroundings rather than a guarantee of spotting particular species. Avoid disturbing nests, feeding wildlife or playing loud music in forested areas.
Visit Chidiya Tapu Biological Park
The Chidiya Tapu Biological Park is another attraction worth considering if you are interested in the wildlife and natural environment of the Andaman Islands. Established to support wildlife conservation and research, the park provides an opportunity to learn about the region’s native species and habitats. Many published listings give visiting hours of approximately 9 AM to 4 PM, while some sources report a Monday closure. These details may change, so confirm the current opening hours, weekly holidays and entry charges before your visit. It is best to visit the park earlier in the day rather than leaving it until the last minute. This allows enough time to explore without rushing and leaves the later afternoon free for Munda Pahad or the sunset viewpoint.
Follow the park’s rules, avoid feeding animals and respect any restrictions on photography.
Enjoy the Coast and Take Photographs
Beyond the main sunset viewpoint, Chidiya Tapu offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the coast at a relaxed pace. You can observe the meeting of forest and sea, photograph the dark rocks against the blue water, and appreciate the area’s natural surroundings. This is primarily a nature destination rather than a developed resort beach, so do not expect extensive shopping or beachside entertainment. Walk only along permitted sections of the shoreline, avoid climbing wet or unstable rocks, and follow local guidance about water conditions.
If you are visiting with children, supervise them carefully near the water and on uneven ground. Carry your rubbish back with you to help protect the coastal environment.
A simple one-day plan
Use this as a template for your Chidiya Tapu day trip from Port Blair. Adjust it for opening hours and sunset time.
- 7:00 to 9:00 AM: Leave Port Blair. Start with birdwatching.
- 9:00 to 11:30 AM: Visit the Biological Park if it is open.
- 12:00 to 1:30 PM: Lunch and a rest.
- 1:30 to 3:30 PM: Munda Pahad trail, if access is open and you can return safely.
- Before sunset: Settle at the beach viewpoint and enjoy the colours.
- After sunset: Drive back soon. The road is forest-lined and gets dark early.
Not everything may fit. The park and trail have their own closing times. If you are short on time, pick the sunset and one other stop.
Best time to visit Chidiya Tapu
October to May is the best window for a Chidiya Tapu day trip from Port Blair, and for the Andamans in general. Most travel guides also name October to May as the best period for this area.
- October to February: Cooler and clearer. Good for walks and sunsets.
- March to May: Hot at midday. Plan outdoor time for morning and late afternoon.
- June to September: Monsoon. Greener, but showers and slippery trails are likely. Skip the trek on wet days.
Cloud can hide a sunset on any day. If sunset matters most, give yourself more than one evening in Port Blair.
Can you swim at Chidiya Tapu?
Treat it as a scenic spot first. The district website says swimming is possible and safety boards are put up. Even so, the coast has rocks and currents. Some sites also mention saltwater crocodile sightings, with safety nets near parts of the shore.
So be careful:
- Read every warning sign.
- Ask local staff which areas are safe that day.
- Never swim near mangroves or in roped-off areas.
- If you are unsure, stay on shore.
Diving and snorkelling are also offered around Chidiya Tapu, per travel guides such as Lonely Planet. Book only with licensed operators.
What a Chidiya Tapu Day Trip from Port Blair Costs and What to Carry
A day trip to Chidiya Tapu can be planned on different budgets, depending on your transport, the attractions you visit and whether you hire a guide. The beach and sunset viewpoint are generally free to visit, so your main expenses will usually be transport, food and any applicable attraction entry fees.
Transport costs: Hiring a taxi is convenient if you want to explore several places and stay until sunset. Agree on the round-trip fare and waiting charges before departure. Renting a scooter or bike may be more economical for independent travellers, but remember to account for fuel and rental charges. Sharing a taxi with friends or family can reduce the cost per person.
Biological Park entry: The park may charge an entry fee, and additional charges may apply for certain facilities or cameras. Some online listings mention a ticket price of around ₹25, but this should not be treated as a confirmed current rate. Check the latest charges and opening hours before visiting.
Food and refreshments: Carry drinking water and light snacks, or plan a meal before or after exploring the area. Food options may be limited compared with those in Port Blair, so avoid relying on finding a restaurant immediately when you need one.
Local guide: A guide can be useful if you want to explore the Munda Pahad trail or learn more about the local birdlife. Confirm the guide’s availability, charges and whether any advance arrangement is needed.
Prices and entry fees can change, so verify the latest details before travelling. If you are planning a full-day outing, keep a little extra money available for unexpected expenses.
What to Carry for Your Chidiya Tapu Trip
Chidiya Tapu combines coastal scenery with forested surroundings, so it is worth packing for both sunshine and outdoor walking.
- Drinking water and light snacks: Useful during the drive and while exploring the area.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Choose footwear with a good grip if you plan to visit Munda Pahad or walk along uneven ground.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat: These help protect you from the sun, particularly during the afternoon.
- Mosquito repellent: Helpful when spending time near vegetation and forested areas.
- A charged phone or camera: Useful for photographs, navigation and contacting your driver.
- A lightweight rain jacket: Particularly useful during months when showers are more likely.
- A small rubbish bag: Carry your waste back with you and avoid leaving plastic or food wrappers behind.
If birdwatching is part of your plan, consider carrying binoculars. Keep your belongings light enough to walk comfortably, and bring any personal medicines you may need.
With sensible preparation, a flexible schedule and suitable transport, Chidiya Tapu makes an enjoyable day trip from Port Blair. You can spend the morning exploring its greenery, enjoy a relaxed afternoon by the coast and finish with one of the area’s most memorable experiences: watching the sunset over the Andaman Sea.
Is Chidiya Tapu worth it?
Yes, a Chidiya Tapu day trip from Port Blair is worth it if you like nature, birds, short forest walks and sunsets. It is calm and uncrowded. It is a good match for couples, families and photographers.
It is not the right pick if you want water sports, beach cafés or a full day of swimming. For that, head to Havelock or Neil.
Plan your Chidiya Tapu day trip from Port Blair around the rest of your stay:
- Start with our list of the best places to visit in Port Blair.
- Add history at the Cellular Jail.
- Try another easy boat day with our Ross Island and North Bay guide.
- Want beach time? See our Havelock Island guide.
Prefer someone else to handle transfers and timing? Browse our Andaman itineraries and we will fit Chidiya Tapu into your plan.
Quick answers
How far is Chidiya Tapu from Port Blair? About 25 to 28 km. The drive takes 45 to 60 minutes.
How long should I stay? A sunset-only visit takes three to four hours with the drive. Allow most of a day for birds, the park and the trail.
Is it good for children? Yes, with care. Watch kids near the shore and skip the trail if the path is wet.
Can I return the same day? Yes. It is a short road trip from Port Blair.
What is it best known for? Sunsets, birdlife, forest and the Munda Pahad trail. See the Incredible India page for the official overview.
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