Chidiya Tapu - Andaman.
Sunset Point, Bird Paradise & Mangroves

About Chidiya Tapu of the Andaman Islands

Chidiya Tapu means Bird Island. The name is accurate. The area sits at the southern tip of South Andaman, bordered by dense forest on one side and the Bay of Bengal on the other. The forest here is part of the South Andaman Forest Division and falls under a protected zone, which is precisely why it has stayed this way.

Over 46 species of birds have been recorded here. Andaman woodpeckers, sea eagles, kingfishers, herons and the Andaman serpent eagle are all spotted regularly by birders who know where to look and when to arrive. Early morning is the window. After 10 AM the birds quieten and the heat sets in.

The beach at Chidiya Tapu, called Mundapahar or Munda Pahad, faces west. That detail matters more than it sounds. Almost every beach in the Andaman Islands faces east, which means sunrises but no sunset over the water. Chidiya Tapu is the exception. The sun goes down directly into the sea here, and on a clear evening it is genuinely difficult to look away.

Beyond the beach, the area has a short nature trail through the mangroves, tidal pools worth exploring at low tide and a viewpoint at Mundapahar that overlooks the entire southern coast. It is the kind of place that gets better the longer you stay.

The History of Chidiya Tapu
- What You Will Find and When

Chidiya Tapu, meaning "Bird Island," is one of the most picturesque destinations in the Andaman Islands. Located about 25 kilometers from Port Blair, this scenic coastal region is renowned for its rich biodiversity, dense mangrove forests, tropical woodlands, and spectacular sunset views. Over the years, Chidiya Tapu has evolved from a quiet forested area into one of the most popular nature and eco-tourism attractions in the Andaman Islands.

Historically, the region was covered by thick tropical forests and served as an important habitat for numerous species of birds, butterflies, and wildlife. The area's abundant bird population earned it the name Chidiya Tapu, making it a favorite destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Today, visitors can spot several endemic and migratory bird species, including the Andaman Woodpecker, Andaman Drongo, and Andaman Serpent Eagle.

The surrounding forests and mangrove ecosystems play a vital role in preserving the island's ecological balance. Chidiya Tapu is also home to the Chidiya Tapu Biological Park, which was established to conserve the unique flora and fauna of the Andaman Islands and provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about the region's natural heritage.

Chidiya Tapu
- From Forest Reserve to Nature Retreat

Chidiya Tapu is one of the most scenic destinations in the Andaman Islands, located around 25 kilometres from Port Blair. Famous for its breathtaking sunsets, rich mangrove forests, and diverse birdlife, this tranquil coastal spot offers a perfect escape into nature. The journey to Chidiya Tapu takes visitors through lush green landscapes and picturesque coastal roads, making it a memorable experience in itself.

Known as the "Bird Island" of Andaman, Chidiya Tapu is home to numerous native and migratory bird species, making it a favorite destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The beach, surrounded by dense forests and mangroves, offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal and serves as one of the best sunset points in the islands.

Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as Munda Pahad, a popular trekking trail that rewards hikers with spectacular coastal panoramas. Whether you are seeking photography opportunities, peaceful natural surroundings, or an unforgettable sunset experience, Chidiya Tapu is a must-visit attraction during your Andaman holiday.

Tips for Visiting Chidiya Tapu

• Come twice if you can. Once at dawn for birds, once in the late afternoon for the sunset. The place feels completely different at each time of day.
• Carry water and snacks. There are a handful of small tea stalls near the parking area but nothing reliable beyond that point.
• Wear closed shoes for the forest trail. The ground is uneven, there are roots and the tidal areas have slippery rock surfaces.
• Apply insect repellent before entering the forest path. The mangrove edge has mosquitoes, especially in the early morning and after 5 PM.
• Do not enter restricted forest zones beyond the marked trail. These areas require Forest Department permission and are not part of the general visitor route.
• If combining Chidiya Tapu with other Port Blair sightseeing, pair it with Wandoor Beach or Corbyn's Cove. Both are on the southern circuit and can be covered in a single day without rushing.

Include Chidiya Tapu in Your Andaman Itinerary

Most standard Port Blair itineraries skip Chidiya Tapu because it takes a half day and does not involve water sports or permits. We include it because travellers who visit consistently say it was one of the most memorable parts of their Andaman trip. The forest, the birds, the sunset and the sheer absence of crowds make it different from everything else on the island.

Share your travel dates with us and we will fit Chidiya Tapu into your Port Blair schedule properly, with the right timing for whichever experience you are most interested in.