Chidiya Tapu Beach is the place to go for sunsets in Port Blair. Known as the “Bird Island”, this quiet spot at the southern tip of South Andaman has forested hills, mangrove creeks, a calm shoreline and a long, open view of the sea. It is far from the city’s traffic and noise, and it gives you the feeling of being at the edge of the islands. Whether you come for the sunset, the birds or just a peaceful drive, Chidiya Tapu is one of the most relaxing half-day trips from Port Blair.
Chidiya Tapu lies a short drive south of Port Blair, and the road itself is part of the pleasure, with forest on both sides. This guide covers what to see, the best time to go, how to reach it, how long to allow and how to combine it with other attractions. If you would rather have your sightseeing and transfers arranged for you, explore our Andaman tour packages, planned by Andaman Emerald Travels, a travel team based in Port Blair.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Southern tip of South Andaman, a short drive from Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) |
| Nickname | Bird Island |
| Known for | Sunsets, birdwatching, mangroves, forest drive, quiet beaches |
| Suggested time | 2 to 3 hours (more if you add a walk or the Biological Park) |
| Best time of day | Late afternoon, to reach the beach before sunset |
| Best season | October to May |
| Best for | Couples, birdwatchers, photographers, families, nature lovers |
The name Chidiya Tapu means “bird island” in Hindi, and the area lives up to it. Dense forest and mangroves attract a wide range of birds, from small forest species to large sea birds. The main beach is a long, quiet stretch of sand with calm water, and the hills behind it make a green backdrop. There are no crowds, no shops lined up along the sand and no loud music, just space and quiet.
The area is also where many people pause to watch the sun go down. Because it faces west and has an open horizon, the sunset here is one of the best in the islands. It is a popular evening trip for couples, families and photographers. To compare it with other beaches near the city, see our guide to the best beaches in Andaman and Nicobar.
The sunset is the main reason people come. The sky turns orange, pink and gold over the water, and the forest becomes a dark silhouette. Find a spot on the sand, or on the rocks near the shore, well before sunset, as the light changes quickly. In winter the sun sets early, so plan to arrive with plenty of time to spare.
The forests and mangroves around Chidiya Tapu are among the best places near Port Blair for birds. Early morning and late afternoon are the most active times. Bring binoculars if you have them, walk quietly and keep a respectful distance. A local guide can help you identify species and find the best spots.
A forest trail leads from the beach area towards a rocky outcrop known as Munda Pahad, where you can see the coastline from above. The walk passes through shady trees and is a good way to see the landscape up close. The path can be uneven or muddy, so wear sturdy shoes and carry water. Go with a guide or at least in a group, and check that the trail is open before you set out.
Close to the beach is a small biological park that shows some of the island’s wildlife and plants in a forest setting. It is a gentle visit and good for families. Days and timings can change, so confirm before you go.
Mangrove creeks run along the coast near Chidiya Tapu, and a quiet boat ride or a walk along the edge is a lovely way to see them. Conditions depend on tides and weather, and some boat trips may offer a chance for snorkelling near the reefs when the water is clear. Ask us what is available during your visit.
The road from Port Blair runs through green forest and small villages, with sea views along parts of the route. Take your time, stop at viewpoints and enjoy the change from city to countryside.
| Highlight | What It Is | Approx. Time Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Sunset viewpoint | Open sea view over the water | 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Birdwatching | Forest and mangrove birdlife | 1 to 2 hours |
| Munda Pahad forest walk | A short trek to a rocky outcrop and coast views | 1 to 2 hours |
| Biological Park | A small wildlife and plant park | 45 minutes to 1 hour |
| Mangrove walk or boat ride | Quiet creeks and roots | 1 to 2 hours |
| Scenic drive | Forest road from Port Blair | 45 minutes to 1 hour each way |
Timings are approximate and vary with crowds, tides and season.
For the sunset, the late afternoon is the best time of day. For birds and cooler temperatures, early morning is better. The best season is October to May, when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clearer. Monsoon months bring heavy rain, rough seas and muddy trails.
| Months | Season | What to Expect | Our Guides |
|---|---|---|---|
| October to November | Post-monsoon | Green forest, fewer crowds, clouds can affect sunsets | October, November |
| December to February | Peak season | Clearest skies and best sunsets; arrive early | December, January, February |
| March to May | Summer | Warm and humid; visit late in the day | March, April, May |
| June to September | Monsoon | Heavy rain, rough seas, muddy trails | June, July, August, September |
Chidiya Tapu is a short drive south of central Port Blair, and the journey takes less than an hour in most conditions. The easiest way to go is by private cab. Autos are possible but less comfortable for the distance. Public transport is limited, so many visitors prefer to hire a car for the evening. If you are on one of our packages, your private cab will take you there, wait while you watch the sunset and bring you back safely.
| Option | Best For | Things to Note |
|---|---|---|
| Private cab | Most visitors; flexible and comfortable | Ask the driver to wait; plan to return after dark |
| Auto or taxi | Short, budget-minded trips | Agree the fare and waiting time in advance |
| Public transport | Flexible travellers on a tight budget | Limited timings; plan the return carefully |
The road back after sunset is dark and winding, so travel with a reliable driver. Avoid riding scooters back at night.
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| Early afternoon | Leave Port Blair after lunch and enjoy the forest drive |
| Mid-afternoon | Visit the Biological Park or take the Munda Pahad walk |
| Late afternoon | Settle at the beach for birdwatching and golden-hour photographs |
| Sunset | Watch the sun go down over the water |
| Evening | Drive back to Port Blair and have dinner in the city |
Looking for a ready-made plan that includes Chidiya Tapu? See our 3 nights 4 days and 4 nights 5 days Andaman packages.
Because Chidiya Tapu is a half-day trip, it works best paired with nearby sights in the same area or an easy city stop on the way back. Good pairings include Wandoor Beach on another day, a relaxed afternoon at Corbyn’s Cove Beach or a visit to Mount Harriet National Park for more forest views. You can also browse all Andaman destinations on our site.
Port Blair sightseeing, including a sunset trip to Chidiya Tapu, can be included in many of our packages. Every traveller has different needs, so we offer a package for each:
| Traveller Type | Package | What It Offers |
|---|---|---|
| Couples | Andaman honeymoon packages | Romantic stays, sunset trips and private transfers |
| Families | Andaman family packages | Comfortable, child-friendly plans |
| Friends and colleagues | Andaman group packages | Shared planning for large parties |
| Value-focused travellers | Andaman budget packages | Affordable trips that cover the highlights |
| Government employees | Andaman LTC packages | Plans designed for LTC travel |
| Thrill seekers | Andaman adventure packages | Water sports and active excursions |
Not sure which suits you? Reach out through our contact page for a customised itinerary.
See what travellers say about us on Andaman Emerald Travels on Google, then call +91 9933245630 or send an enquiry for a free quote on your Andaman tour packages.
The name means “bird island” in Hindi. The forests and mangroves around it are home to many bird species, which makes it a popular place for birdwatchers.
It is a short drive south of the city, usually less than an hour by road depending on traffic and stops.
The late afternoon is best for the sunset. October to May is the best season for clear skies and pleasant weather.
Plan on 2 to 3 hours at the site, plus travel time. Allow more if you want to walk the forest trail or visit the Biological Park.
The water can be calm, but there are rarely lifeguards and conditions can change. Swim only when it is safe and stay close to the shore. Many visitors prefer to enjoy the beach for the view and sunset instead.
It is generally quiet and safe, but the road back is dark. Travel with a reliable driver and plan your return before sunset.
Yes. The beach and drive are easy, and the forest walk is optional. Choose gentle activities for young children and seniors.
Our Port Blair sightseeing can include a sunset trip on request. Couples often choose a honeymoon package, families a family package and budget travellers a budget package. Our team can customise any plan.
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