Just as the afternoon light begins to soften in Port Blair, a short drive takes you to a peaceful spot where nature feels close and real. This is Chidiya Tapu Beach, a place often called “Bird Island” or “Sunset Point”. Its name—Chidiya meaning “bird” and Tapu meaning “island”—hints at its charm: birds flit through the mangroves while the shoreline opens to calm, quiet beauty.

The beach sits at the southern edge of South Andaman, surrounded by green trees and peaceful water. It’s the kind of place where visitors slow down and watch the sky turn soft orange as the sun sinks into the sea.

For many travelers, Chidiya Tapu becomes more than just a stop; it becomes a quiet memory that stays long after the trip ends.

 

Location & Directions

Chidiya Tapu sits at the southern edge of South Andaman Island, easily reached via a paved road that winds through coastal and forested terrain. Chidiya Tapu is just 30Km drive away from Port Blair typically lasts about 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Travelers have several options:

• Taxi or private cab – A convenient choice that drops you near the beach entry; often priced between ₹1,200 and ₹1,500 for non-AC and AC rides, respectively.
  
  
• Government or private bus – Budget-friendly (~₹25–₹60), though slower due to frequent stops. Note that the final bus stop requires a short walk (~1.5 km) to reach the beach or adjacent trailhead.
  
  
• Scooter or bike rental – Popular among solo or duo riders; offers flexibility and an immersive road-trip feel. Rates are generally around ₹500 per day.
  
  

Several route signs make navigating simple for first-time visitors. Buses may not return after sunset, and private vehicles are more reliable for return trips.

Directions to Chidiya Tapu Beach: https://maps.app.goo.gl/UB2tL2qTL3ku1ejV8 

 

Timings & Biological Park Details

Visiting hours for the beach area typically range from early morning until near dusk, around 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, allowing ample opportunity to catch the shifting light or bird activity throughout the day.

The Chidiya Tapu Biological Park, adjacent to the shoreline, opens from around 9:00 or 10:00 AM to late afternoon, typically closing between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM, depending on the source. Here are key details:

• Entry Fee: A nominal charge applies, usually between ₹25 to ₹50 per person.
  
  
• Wildlife Encounters: Visitors may spot barking deer, spotted deer, Andaman wild pigs, saltwater crocodiles, and over 50 bird species.
  
  
• Trail Information: Informational signage along the paths helps visitors identify wildlife and learn about native plant life.
  
  

Planning Tips:

• Start with the park before it closes.
  
  
• Be prepared to walk paths that may be uneven or damp—especially in the late afternoon.
  
  
• There is no entry fee for the beach itself, making it accessible for all.
  
  
• Respect all signage and restricted zones; swimming is not advised due to reports of crocodile presence.
  
  

What Makes Chidiya Tapu Beach Unique (Famous For?)

Chidiya Tapu Beach is best known for several standout features that blend natural beauty, wildlife, and pleasant low-key experiences:

• Sunset Viewing: Often referred to as "Sunset Point," the beach offers stunning views as the sun dips below the Bay of Bengal, painting the sky in shades of orange, pink, and purple.
  
  
• Birdwatching Opportunities: The area attracts more than 40 to 50 distinct bird species—such as Andaman drongos, woodpeckers, scarlet minivets, parrots, eagles, and pigeons. Early mornings tend to be most rewarding for sightings.
  
  
• Trekking to Munda Pahad: A moderately challenging trail of about 1.5 km (roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour one way) through the forests leads to panoramic hilltop views and a vantage point for sunset gazing.
  
  
• Biological Park Experience: Set within dense tropical greenery and spanning over 40 acres, the park shelters rare flora like padauk and mahua, along with fauna including deer, wild pigs, and crocodiles.

Additional highlights include:

• Snorkeling & Marine Life Viewing: Nearby coral areas are visible from the shore, offering limited snorkeling where safe, guided charters are available—though swimming is generally discouraged.
  
  
• Shell Collecting (Temporarily): The beach is sprinkled with beautiful seashells. While you may enjoy picking them up during your visit, taking them home is restricted unless purchased from local vendors with valid receipts.

 

Distances from Other Well-Known Locations

Planning an efficient sightseeing route is simpler when you know how different attractions connect. Here are some useful landmarks near Chidiya Tapu:

• Cellular Jail
  The distance between Chidiya Tapu Beach and Cellular Jail is approximately 26 km, which takes around 45 minutes by road through scenic coastal and forest-lined stretches. This makes a seamless pairing for an afternoon that blends natural beauty with a historic landmark.
  
  
• North Bay Island
  North Bay Island lies about 42 km from Port Blair, which sets a baseline since all routes to Chidiya Tapu pass through Port Blair. While direct figures to Chidiya Tapu aren’t listed, most visitors estimate the total journey—via Port Blair—to be around 40–45 km, making both manageable in one day.
  
  
• Mount Harriet (Mount Manipur) National Park
  Mount Harriet is about 20 km from Port Blair. Combined with Chidiya Tapu (which lies roughly 30–37 km away by road), both destinations can be linked in a single, satisfying day trip—from landmark history atop Mount Harriet to serene sunset views at the water’s edge.
  
  

Knowing these distances helps travellers coordinate visits efficiently within typical Andaman and Nicobar Islands tour packages. For example:

• Start with a morning at Cellular Jail,
  
  
• Continue with a ferry trip to North Bay Island,
  
  
• Return to Port Blair and conclude the day with a sunset at Chidiya Tapu.

 

Nearby Points of Interest Around  

Chidiya Tapu offers easy access to several engaging spots that add variety and depth to any visit:

• Munda Pahar Beach & Trek
  A moderate one-way hike (about 2 km, taking 45–60 minutes) leads across forested terrain to Munda Pahar, revealing sweeping ocean panoramas—especially atmospheric near sundown.
  
  
• Chidiya Tapu Biological Park
  Covering around 40 hectares, the park shelters native trees like Mahua and Padauk and hosts wildlife including spotted deer, wild pigs, and even crocodiles.
  
  
• Crocodile Viewing Zone (Restricted)
  While swimming is discouraged, a safer viewing point exists along the vegetation-lined edge, allowing for wildlife observation from a respectful distance.
  
  

Adding the distance from Mount Harriet gives this section a deeper context—making Chidiya Tapu feel accessible and well-connected to inland trekking and wildlife destinations, as well as coastal serenity.

 

Stay & Tour Options

A comfortable hotel in Port Blair makes planning an outing to Chidiya Tapu both convenient and relaxing. Here are several lodging choices suited to different preferences:

• Sandhya Residency
  A budget-friendly homestay centrally located in Marine Hills, this well-rated property offers air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and airport transfers. It sits within walking distance of Cellular Jail and Corbyn’s Cove Beach and ensures a homely atmosphere with attentive staff and reliable service.
  
  
• Symphony Samudra Beachside Jungle Resort & Spa
  A premium five-star resort near Chidiya Tapu that includes spa services, an infinity pool, and the Sunset Lounge—perfect for guests who want panoramic views that echo the coastal, serene vibe.
  
  
• Adhvasaha Beach Spa Resort
  Offers private beach access closer to Port Blair, with spa amenities and ocean views—ideal for travelers seeking post-sunset relaxation in style.  
  
  
• Other Mid-Range Options
  Hotels like White Coral, Silver Sand Sea Princess Beach Resort, and Hotel Kangaroo offer cozy accommodations with extra facilities like pools and Wi-Fi, appealing to families or casual travellers.
  
  

Tour Integration
Chidiya Tapu works well as an evening addition in various Andaman and Nicobar Islands tour packages. Half-day sunset excursions from Port Blair frequently include hotel pick-up, sunset viewing, and sometimes a brief walk through mangroves. Extended itineraries spanning 5–6 days commonly feature Chidiya Tapu alongside attractions like Havelock Island, Ross Island, and the Cellular Jail for a rounded experience.

 

Travel Tips for Visitors

To make your visit smoother and more enjoyable, consider these practical suggestions:

• Bring snacks and water—there are limited stalls nearby, so better to be prepared.
  
  
• Wear sturdy shoes—the terrain on trails like Munda Pahar can be uneven, especially after rain.
  
  
• Avoid swimming in some spots—certain areas are not safe due to wildlife activity.
  
  
• Carry a camera—Chidiya Tapu is especially photogenic at sunset, with wildlife and dramatic coastal views offering memorable shots.
  
  

Conclusion

Chidiya Tapu Beach offers a serene contrast to the energetic pulse of Port Blair—its unhurried atmosphere, birdlife, and vibrant sunset skies create an experience that lingers long after the trip ends. Adding it to your itinerary is effortless, whether you're staying in town at a place like Sandhya Residency or extending your stay at a resort. Proximity and diverse experiences—from trekking to beach walks—make it a rewarding addition to Andaman and Nicobar tour packages. A visit to Chidiya Tapu promises ease, wildlife, and a sunset that stays with you.