Located at the southernmost tip of South Andaman Island, Chidiya Tapu (meaning "Bird Island") is a pristine haven of lush mangrove forests, towering evergreen trees, and rugged coastal cliffs. It is famous among nature enthusiasts as one of the premier birdwatching destinations in the Andamans, hosting numerous endemic bird species. However, its ultimate draw is the spectacular sunset view, where the sun melts directly into the sea behind a dramatic frame of massive, uprooted driftwood trees scattered along the shoreline.
What makes this visit highly rewarding is the quiet, undeveloped natural beauty of the area. Visitors can explore the adjacent Chidiya Tapu Biological Park to view local fauna, walk along the rocky beach, and photograph the hauntingly beautiful shapes of fallen trees dotting the coast. It offers a peaceful, deeply relaxing escape from the busier commercial districts of downtown Port Blair.
One fun fact people love:
The beach features a dramatic graveyard of giant trees uprooted by the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which have since weathered into natural, sculptural sea monuments.
Where in Port Blair is it?
Located at the southern tip of the island, approximately 25 kilometers south of central Port Blair.
How to reach:
Easily accessible by renting a scooter, hiring a private taxi, or taking a local bus along a scenic, winding forest road.
Best time to visit:
October to May when the weather is dry, skies are clear for sunsets, and migratory birds are highly active.
Best time of day:
Late afternoon around 3:30 PM to explore the biological park and spot birds before securing a spot on the beach for the 5:00 PM sunset.
Entry fee:
Free entry to the sunset viewpoint; a nominal entry fee of roughly 25 INR applies to enter the biological park.
Commute difficulty:
Easy; the coastal road is well-paved, requiring minimal walking once you arrive at the beach parking area.
Things nobody tells you about this place:
- There are no major restaurants or shops at Chidiya Tapu, only local vendors selling fresh coconuts and snacks, so carry your own food and water.
- Swimming is strictly discouraged here due to occasional warnings regarding saltwater crocodile activity in the deep mangrove creeks nearby.
- Sandflies can be active on the beach in the evening, so applying insect repellent before arrival is highly recommended.
