Saddle Peak National Park is the highest point in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India, located near Diglipur, in the northern part of Andaman. The park holds the title of being one of the few rainforests in the world which host an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. It was set aside as a national park in 1987, establishing itself as an ecological haven and a beacon for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts.
The history of tourism in Andaman, especially around the Saddle Peak National Park, is quite recent. Owing to its remote location and the sensitive nature of the ecosystem, the area was not immediately open to tourists. After the establishment of the park, it slowly started to gain traction among travelers looking for untouched natural beauty and serenity.
The Government of India and the local administration have been careful in promoting tourism in this ecological hotspot to ensure that tourism development does not disrupt the ecological balance. Over the years, there have been initiatives to develop sustainable tourism practices that include guided treks, eco-friendly accommodations, and creating awareness about the local biodiversity.
In the recent years, there has been an emphasis on ecotourism and sustainable travel. Visitors to Saddle Peak National Park are often interested in the rich biodiversity and the scenic trek to the peak, which offers a panoramic view of the archipelago.
Another growing trend is the promotion of cultural tourism, which includes interactions with the indigenous tribes, albeit in a highly regulated and respectful manner to safeguard the tribal communities. The local cuisine, traditional crafts, and cultural festivities of these tribes add a new dimension to the travel experience.
Adventure tourism is also on the rise, with more tourists seeking out activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and island hopping around the park’s surrounding islands.
In keeping up with the latest global tourism trends, various measures for digital accessibility are being incorporated to ease the process of permits, bookings, and information dissemination, to make travel planning more efficient for the visitors.
Tourists planning to visit Saddle Peak National Park need to obtain permits, and are encouraged to stick to the designated trails and guidelines to minimize their impact on the environment. The park usually remains open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between November and April, when the weather is conducive for outdoor activities.
