Home | INFORMATION | Tiger Reserves | Other National Parks | Wildlife Sanctuaries | Bird Sanctuaries | Elephant Reserves | Endangered Species
Introduction
Saddle Peak National Park in Andaman & Nicobar Islands is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the North Andaman (Diglipur) district, Saddle Peak National Park surrounds Saddle Peak (732 m), the highest mountain peak in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Andaman & Nicobar Islands |
| Districts | North Andaman (Diglipur) |
| Year of Notification | 1979 |
| Total Area | 32.54 sq km |
| Landscape | Sub-montane stunted evergreen forest, tropical moist deciduous forest, and crystal-clear mountain streams. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Kalpong River (Andaman’s only hydro-electric river) and mountain streams |
| Nearest Airport | Veer Savarkar International Airport Port Blair (IXZ) – 300 km (accessible via Andaman Trunk Road / boat) |
| Nearest Railway Station | No rail connectivity |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April |
Location
The national park lies in the North Andaman (Diglipur) region of Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Drive from Diglipur to Lamia Bay, then 8 km trekking trail to Saddle Peak.
History
Declared a National Park in 1979 to protect uninhabited mountain rainforests and the headwaters of the Kalpong River.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 32.54 sq km, the park’s terrain features Sub-montane stunted evergreen forest, tropical moist deciduous forest, and crystal-clear mountain streams.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Sub-montane stunted evergreen forest, tropical moist deciduous forest, and crystal-clear mountain streams.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Andaman Wild Boar, Water Monitor Lizard, Saltwater Crocodile, Andaman Water Monitor, and Flying Fox.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Andaman Hill Myna, Andaman Imperial Pigeon, Andaman Wood Pigeon, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Andaman Serpent Eagle, and Emerald Dove.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Saddle Peak National Park is sustained by: Kalpong River (Andaman’s only hydro-electric river) and mountain streams.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Saddle Peak Trek (732 m highest peak in Andamans), Kalipur Beach Turtle Nesting Site (8 km), Ross & Smith Twin Islands (15 km).
Weather & Climate
Tropical hill climate (20°C to 30°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport Port Blair (IXZ) – 300 km (accessible via Andaman Trunk Road / boat)
- Nearest Railway Station: No rail connectivity
- Road Connectivity: Drive from Diglipur to Lamia Bay, then 8 km trekking trail to Saddle Peak.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Saddle Peak National Park is from November to April.
Accommodation
Forest Department Rest House at Lamia Bay & Diglipur.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Protects the sole origin catchment of the Kalpong River, the only perennial river in the Andaman Islands.
Visitor Tips
Start the 8 km mountain trek at dawn from Lamia Bay checkpost to return before evening dusk.
Did You Know?
- Saddle Peak (732 meters) is the highest elevation point in the entire Andaman & Nicobar island chain.
- Protects the headwaters of Kalpong River, the only perennial freshwater river in the Andamans.
- Home to stunted high-altitude evergreen cloud forests unique to island peaks.
Last Updated: August 2026