Andaman Islands - South India and Kerala - page 888

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
MAYABUNDER & AROUND
In 'upper' Middle Andaman, Mayabunder is most famous for its villages inhabited by Karen, members of a
Burmese hill tribe who were relocated here during the British colonial period. Sea'n'Sand ( 03192-273454,
fax [phone]; [e-mail] ; r from ?200; ) is easily the best place to stay with com-
fortable rooms, and attractive bamboo restaurant and bar. It's run by Titus and Elizabeth (and their extended Kar-
en family), who are a good source for everything Mayabunder. It's a low-key destination and will appeal to trav-
ellers looking for an experience away from the crowds.
You can go on a range of day tours, with the highlight being jungle trekking at creepy Interview Island (boat
?4000 fits eight people), inhabited by a population of 42 wild elephants, released after a logging company closed
for business in the 1950s. You'll feel very off the beaten track here. Armed guards accompany you in case of ele-
phant encounters. A permit (?500) is required, which is best organised by faxing your details to Titus at
Sea'n'Sand. Other trips include Forty One Caves , where hawabills make their highly prized edible nests, and
snorkelling off Avis Island .
Mayabunder, 71km north of Rangat, is linked by daily buses from Port Blair (?180, 10 hours) and by thrice-
weekly ferries. There's an unreliable ATM here.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Diglipur & Around
Those who make it this far north are well rewarded with some impressive attractions in
the area. It's a giant outdoor adventure playground designed for nature lovers: home to
Andaman's highest peak, a network of caves, a famous turtle nesting site and crocodile
sanctuaries, to go with white-sandy beaches and the best snorkelling in the Andamans.
However, don't expect anything of Diglipur, the northernmost major town in the An-
damans, which is a sprawling, gritty bazaar town with an ATM and slow internet connec-
tion (per hour ?40). You should instead head straight for the tranquil coastal village of
Kalipur .
Ferries arrive at Aerial Bay Jetty, from where it's 11km to Diglipur, and 8km to Kalipur
in the other direction.
Sights & Activities
Diglipur has huge tourist potential, and those who hang around will have plenty to discov-
er. Get in touch with Pristine Beach Resort, who are involved with the Darted grassroots
tourist initiative to promote Alfred Caves, mud volcanoes and crocodile habitats. It's also
possible to visit elephant work camps.