Flag Point, Andaman.
South Andaman's Best Sunset Viewpoint

About Flag Point of the Andaman Islands

Flag Point is located at the tip of the Chidiya Tapu headland on the southwestern coast of South Andaman Island, approximately 30 kilometers from Port Blair by road. The drive takes about an hour and passes through the main Chidiya Tapu village before the road enters the Biological Park and continues to the point.

The headland faces west over the Andaman Sea. There are no islands or landmass between Flag Point and the open ocean in that direction, which is what makes the sunset here consistently good, the sun drops directly into the water with nothing blocking the horizon. The lighthouse at the point is an active navigational structure and has been operational for decades, marking this headland for vessels moving through the southern Andaman waters.

The forest between the Biological Park entrance and the point is where most of the birdwatching activity happens. The tree cover is dense, the undergrowth is relatively undisturbed, and the combination of forest interior and coastal edge creates habitat for both forest birds and sea birds. Over 46 species have been recorded in this general area, including several that are endemic to the Andaman Islands.

The History of Flag Point
- A Coastal Landmark with a Story

Chidiya Tapu means "Bird Island" in Hindi, chidiya is bird, tapu is island. The name reflects the area's long-established identity as a place where bird life is concentrated, and the name predates the formal establishment of the Biological Park. Local fishermen and sailors used Chidiya Tapu as a navigational reference well before the area became a tourist destination.

Flag Point takes its name from the flag and lighthouse that mark the headland. The lighthouse here is one of several that the Indian government operates across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to guide maritime traffic through what are genuinely complex and hazardous waters, the southern Andaman Sea has strong currents, shallow reef systems, and irregular weather, particularly during the monsoon months. The flag flown at the lighthouse gave the point its name among the fishing community, and it stuck.

The Chidiya Tapu Biological Park was established to protect the forest and coastal ecosystem at this end of South Andaman. The park boundary covers the forest approaching the headland and limits the kind of development that has occurred closer to Port Blair. This is the main reason Flag Point has stayed quiet compared to other Port Blair day-trip destinations, the park classification keeps commercial activity out.

Today the point is visited by a mix of sunset-seekers, birdwatchers, and travelers combining it with a morning at Chidiya Tapu beach. It is one of the longer drives from Port Blair for a day trip, but the combination of forest, lighthouse, and open sea view makes it a worthwhile one.

The Flag Point Experience
- Scenic Views, History, and Coastal Beauty

Flag Point is one of the most scenic coastal viewpoints, known for its stunning ocean views, rocky shoreline, and lush green surroundings. Beyond its natural beauty, the spot also carries historical significance as a strategic coastal vantage point once used for observation and signalling along the coastline.

Visitors often describe Flag Point as a peaceful escape where history and nature come together. The lighthouse views, sea breeze, and sunset colours create a memorable experience that reflects both its past importance and present-day charm as a tourist spot.

The best time to visit Flag Point is during the late afternoon to sunset hours, when the sky transforms into vibrant shades over the sea. Carry a camera, as the location offers excellent photography opportunities throughout the visit.

Tips for Visiting Flag Point

• Arrive by 4:30 PM for the sunset. The light changes quickly and the best part of the sunset at Flag Point lasts about 20 minutes. Late arrivals miss the main event.
• Combine with a morning at Chidiya Tapu beach to make the drive worthwhile. Flag Point alone is a 2 to 3 hour visit including travel, pairing it with the beach fills a full day properly.
• For birdwatching, go in the morning rather than the afternoon. The forest is active before 8 AM. The same trail walked at 4 PM for the sunset will have very different bird activity than at 6 AM.
• Carry water and snacks. The nearest food options are back at Chidiya Tapu village, about 2 km from the point. There is nothing at Flag Point itself.
• Wear covered shoes for the forest trail. The path is uneven in places and sandals are not practical for the longer sections between the park entrance and the headland.
• Leave before dark. The road back to Port Blair has unlit stretches and the drive at night, especially on a scooter, is more difficult than it looks on a map. Plan to be in your vehicle by 6:00 PM.

Include Flag Point in Your Andaman Itinerary

Flag Point is the best sunset viewpoint within reach of Port Blair on a day trip. The drive is an hour each way, but the combination of the Chidiya Tapu forest, the lighthouse headland, and the open sea view to the west makes it a more complete experience than the closer but more crowded sunset spots in the Port Blair area.

Our team can help you build a Port Blair day itinerary that combines Flag Point with Chidiya Tapu beach, Wandoor, or other nearby attractions based on your schedule and interests.