Saddle Peak National Park, Andaman Overview

Saddle Peak National Park was established in 1987 in the Andaman district of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is entirely uninhabited by human beings, thus making it safe for preserving wildlife and the environment. The long trip to the park makes it worth it upon experiencing its beauty. The white sand shoreline and the tropical rainforests behind it make it a picturesque, serene image often found behind postcards. The park is famous for its endangered and rare species of animals and plants such as lush tropical forests and animals like the Andaman hill mynah. Again, the lack of human interference makes for a clean and safe environment for these species of living beings.

The park is a haven for trekkers and adventure-seekers due to its vast size, hiking and trekking opportunities, and long trails. Visitors must navigate by themselves as the island is uninhabited, they won't receive any help from locals. There is an 8 km long trail from the gate of the park to the peak which marks the starting of an adventure that is Saddle Peak National Peak. Tourists generally enjoy what the park has to offer since it contains so many rare species of plants and animals, as well as serene views; it makes the hike worth it. What truly makes the park a must-visit destination is its quietness and stillness that can only be achieved in a place without human interference.

History of Saddle Peak National Park

Saddle Peak National Park, established in 1987 with a total area of 33 km² was named after the highest point in the North Andaman Island which is the Saddle Peak. The park is located in the Andaman district of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

The Climate of Saddle Peak National Park

The climate of the island is humid and warm. It is a typical ocean-island climate. The humidity is accentuated due to the thick forests. The monsoon lasts from June to October. The recommended time for visitation is between November and March.

Flora and Fauna of Saddle Peak National Park

The park is famous for its rare, unique and endangered species of flora and fauna. The rainforests on each of the islands are filled with thick and lush tropical rainforests. The vegetation in this park is unique compared to other national parks due to its humid and tropical climate. There are different forest types in the island such as the Andaman Tropical Evergreen, the Andaman Moist Deciduous, the Andaman Semi-evergreen, Canebrake, Wet Bamboo and littoral. The primary forests are tropical that encompasses the island. Plant species such as scolopia pusilla, albizia procera, cleistanthus robustus (a wild plant), horsfieldia irya, lannea coromandelica, etc. are found here unlike anywhere in mainland India.

Animals such as water monitor lizard, saltwater crocodile, dolphins, wild pig, whales, Himalayan palm civet, Andaman horseshoe bat are found here. The main birds to spot are the Andaman hill mynah and the Imperial pigeon. Other birds seen here include Andaman wood-pigeon, brown coucal, grey teal, Andaman Teal, Andaman crane, Andaman cuckoo-dove, white-headed starling, etc.

How To Get There

Visitors can reach the park via air, road, rail or sea. There are facilities for all options. The nearest airport is Port Blair Airport. The nearest railway station is about 1370 km away which is in Chennai. One would have to take a ship to Port Blair from the railway station. The park is well connected by roads which will make for a smooth journey. Ship services are available from Port Blair from cities such as Vishakhapatnam, Kolkata and Chennai.

Other Attractions at Saddle Peak National Park

An artificial vantage point was created atop Saddle Peak for tourists to bask in the natural beauty of the island. Other places to visit during the trip to this island include the Ross and Smith Island, Ram Nagar Beach, Kalipur and Lamiya Bay beaches and mud volcanoes. It is highly recommended to visit Lamiya Bay as dolphins and whales can be spotted.

The highlight of this park is the fact that it is not inhabited by human beings entirely, which makes it safe for the conservation of wildlife - animals and plants alike. The emptiness and vastness of the national park make it a haven for trekkers and adventure seekers who enjoy a good trekking trail, but it also leaves the danger of being deprived of help from locals who may know the place best. Barring that, Saddle Peak National Park is a lovely place to visit with a big group of friends as treks are often enjoyed with the company of others.