Travel · Sep 1, 2026
Chidiya Tapu Travel Guide: Golden Sunsets, Birdwatching & Hidden Trails
Known as the 'Bird Island' of South Andaman, Chidiya Tapu offers dramatic coastal sunsets, lush mangrove forests, rich avian diversity, and the scenic Munda Pahar trek.
Located roughly 25 km south of Port Blair, Chidiya Tapu (literally "Bird Island") is famous across the Andaman archipelago for two things: vibrant endemic birdlife and unforgettable, fiery-orange sunsets over the Bay of Bengal.
Why Visit Chidiya Tapu?
- Sunset Point: Widely regarded as the best sunset spot in South Andaman, where the sky turns deep shades of crimson and violet behind fallen driftwood and calm coastal waters.
- Birdwatcher's Paradise: Dense tropical rainforests and coastal mangroves house over 50 native bird species, including Andaman treepies, white-bellied sea eagles, and emerald doves.
- Munda Pahar Trek: A scenic 1.5 km cliffside forest trail leading to the southernmost tip of South Andaman Island.
Top Things to Do at Chidiya Tapu
- Trek to Munda Pahar (Black Mountain): Walk through dense forest cover to reach the cliff's edge, offering unobstructed 180-degree ocean views and cool sea breezes.
- Visit the Chidiya Tapu Biological Park: Spread over 40 hectares, this conservation reserve is home to indigenous fauna like saltwater crocodiles, wild boars, and native deer.
- Relax at the Beach & Driftwood Shore: Stroll along the shoreline dotted with weathered uprooted trees that create dramatic photo backdrops.
Recommended Half-Day Itinerary
- 02:30 PM: Depart Port Blair via cab or rented scooter along the scenic coastal road.
- 03:15 PM – 04:30 PM: Reach Chidiya Tapu and begin the 45-minute trek to the Munda Pahar viewpoint.
- 04:45 PM – 05:45 PM: Head down to Sunset Beach to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
- 06:00 PM: Head back to Port Blair before complete nightfall (forest roads have minimal lighting).
Essential Visitor Tips
- Crocodile Safety: Always heed warning signboards; swimming is strictly restricted in specific mangrove-adjacent zones due to saltwater crocodiles.
- Timing: Arrive by 3:00 PM to complete the Munda Pahar trail comfortably before sunset.
- Supplies: Carry drinking water and mosquito repellent, as facilities near the forest trail are limited.