Mayabandar, Andaman: A Hidden Gem in the Andaman Islands

Mayabunder is a small town in the Andaman Islands known for its scenic and unspoiled beauty. It is located in the northern part of Middle Andaman Island. Mayabunder is a lesser-known town compared to Port Blair or Havelock. But the place is a perfect set-up for those who want to spend time amidst nature away from the crowd. 

Mayabunder is a melting pot of picturesque serene beaches, mangrove belts, natural coconut plantations, hidden Islands and unspoilt wildlife. It is less crowded and offers enough to quench the thirst of tourists. The town has a mixed population of Hindi, Bengali and Tamil-speaking people. It also consists of a population of Burmese Karen tribes who were brought here by the British colonists as labourers.

Why Visit

Pristine Beaches: Mayabandar has some of the most serene and unspoiled beaches. Unlike the more popular tourist spots in Port Blair or Havelock, the beaches here are quieter, offering a tranquil escape where you can relax, enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore, or simply enjoy the breathtaking ocean views.

Lush Forests: The area is surrounded by dense tropical forests that are rich in biodiversity. These forests are perfect for nature lovers who enjoy exploring the wild beauty of the Andamans, with opportunities to spot unique flora and fauna in their natural habitat.

Scenic Landscapes: The landscape of Mayabandar is a mix of rolling hills, verdant valleys, and scenic coastlines, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate natural beauty and peaceful environments.

Rich Culture: The area has a unique history, with influences from various settlers, including British, Burmese, and Indian. This mix of cultures is reflected in the local customs, architecture, and cuisine, providing a rich cultural experience for visitors. There are local Nicobarese, there are people whose origin is in Bangladesh and there are people of Thai origin. People from the Indian mainland are also common here.

Attractions

Rampur Beach - The two words commonly used to describe Rampur Beach are tranquil and beautiful. Rampur Beach is a treat for nature lovers. It is extremely scenic and completely detached from any kind of hustle-bustle of urban city life. The surrounding mangrove forest makes it an ideal destination for the beach lovers. Rampur Beach is a small beach and it is half an hour's drive from the Mayabunder town.

Karmatang Beach -  Karmatang Beach is the most popular destination of Mayabunder. This sandy beach is the most attractive here in Mayabunder. The beach offers everything to a tourist, a majestic view, a serene environment and crystal-clear water. The beach is surrounded by mangrove forests and small creeks. The coconut plantation near the beach gives the landscape a different dimension. Karmatang Beach is a long beach and ideal for leisure walks. The long stretch is full of shades and eco huts and hammocks that provide ample opportunity to take a rest and enjoy the mesmerising view of the surroundings. This beach is a very popular picnic spot with good facilities like a play zone for children, tree houses and hygienic toilets. Karmatang Beach is also known as the Turtle paradise for Andaman. This beach is the nesting ground for different species of turtles, among them, the most famous is Olive Ridley Turtle. The nesting takes place between December to February.  Watching these turtles in the most natural environment could be a lifetime experience. People who wish to spend the evening on the beach are advised to carry mosquito repellant creams because the beach is full of flies and mosquitos in the evening. This beach is 12 km from the Mayabunder town.

Avis Island - This is a hidden paradise in Andaman. Avis Island is a supremely scenic island with a small pristine beach and huge coconut plantation. The placid water and serene environment make it an ideal place for nature lovers. The entire landscape of Avis Island is majestic. This is a nearly a half an hour boat ride from Mayabunder. To visit Avis Island tourists have to take permission from the forest department. It is advisable to visit the beach in the morning and return to Mayabunder before dusk.

Interview Island - Another paradise hidden in Andaman Island. This is a gem of a place but unfortunately lesser known among tourists. A three-hour boat ride through the eye-catching mangroves from Mayabunder takes the tourists to this beautiful island. The island is located on the western side of the Austen Strait cuts off the middle of Andaman from north of the Andaman island.

The island is famous for its wildlife sanctuary, mainly for several elephants who stay there under the watchful eyes of the guards. All these elephants were brought to this place by British companies for timber work. Since then the island became the natural home to them. It's a great experience for any traveller to watch them in the backdrop of this unspoilt wilderness. There is a natural cave exists on the western shore of the island. The island is one of the major sources of freshwater in the region. A day visit to this place should be a wonderful and unique experience.

German Jetty - A unique sight to behold. In the backdrop of a blue sea, there exist ruins of a jetty here in Mayabunder. This was built during the time of the Second World War by a German engineer.

Austin x Island - Voyagers who wish to be lost in nature must visit the scenic yet quiet beach of Austin x Island. It is just a 25-30-minute boat ride from Mayabunder. The refreshing sea breeze, palm trees, blue water and surrounding mangrove belt, are ample reasons for a tourist to set foot here.

Forest Museum - Located in the DFO office in the vicinity of Mayabunder jetty this is a place for those who feel interested in the coral life. The museum houses impressive collections of coral life, items of artefacts, and flora and fauna of the region.

Things to Do in Mayabandar

Beach Activities

Swimming: Enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Karmatang Beach, perfect for a refreshing swim. The gentle waves make it a safe spot for swimming, even for families with children.

Sunbathing: Bask in the tropical sun on the soft sands of Karmatang Beach. With fewer crowds, you can enjoy a peaceful and uninterrupted sunbathing experience.

Beachcombing: Stroll along the shoreline of Karmatang Beach, where you can discover a variety of seashells and other coastal treasures. The serene ambience makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing beach walk.

Wildlife and Bird Watching

Flora and Fauna Exploration: Mayabandar is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The surrounding forests are home to diverse plant species and wildlife, including some rare and endemic species. Guided tours can help you spot exotic birds, butterflies, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Bird Watching: The region is particularly known for its birdwatching opportunities. You can spot a variety of bird species, including the Andaman Woodpecker, Andaman Serpent Eagle, and many migratory birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

How to Reach Mayabandar

By Air
The closest airport to Mayabandar is Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This airport is the only major airport on the island. It is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata, with regular flights operated by various airlines.
The journey from Port Blair to Mayabandar by road typically takes around 6 to 7 hours.

By Road 
From Port Blair to Mayabandar can be travelled either by road or by Sea. By road, the travel time is about 10 hours. Vehicles depart from Port Blair in the morning and reach Mayabunder in the evening. On the way, you have to cross the Jarwa reserve area. Vehicles pass through the Jarwa area as part of the convoy at fixed times, so independent travel at your convenience is not possible. At Baratang, there is a creek which has to be crossed by ferry, which also increases the travel time. So although technically the distance from Port Blair to Mayabuder is 230 kilometres and travel time is 7 hours, in reality, it takes much longer.

Route and Scenic Highlights: The road trip from Port Blair to Mayabandar offers scenic views of the Andaman Islands' lush landscapes and coastline. The route typically follows the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR), passing through various towns and villages, including Rangat. Along the way, you can stop at interesting spots like the limestone caves and mud volcanoes near Baratang Island.

By Sea
Ferry Services: Regular ferry services operate between Port Blair and various parts of North and Middle Andaman, including Mayabandar. The ferry journey offers a scenic and relaxing way to reach Mayabandar, with the added experience of travelling through the calm waters of the Bay of Bengal.

Travel Time: The ferry ride from Port Blair to Mayabandar can take anywhere from 10 to 14 hours, depending on the specific route and weather conditions. It's advisable to check the ferry schedule in advance as the services may vary depending on the season and demand.

Mayabandar’s remoteness is part of its charm, and the journey itself can be an adventure, offering a chance to experience the diverse beauty of the Andaman Islands.

Best Time to Visit Mayabandar

Climate: Mayabandar, like the rest of the Andaman Islands, experiences a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The region has three main seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter.

Temperature: The average temperature in Mayabandar ranges between 23°C (73°F) to 30°C (86°F), with the warmest months being from March to May. Even during the cooler months, the weather remains pleasant, making it an attractive year-round destination.

Humidity: The humidity levels in Mayabandar are generally high due to its coastal location, but the sea breeze provides some relief, especially along the beaches.

Peak Tourist Season

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Mayabandar is between October and May. During these months, the weather is relatively dry and cool, offering perfect conditions for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and beach relaxation.

Winter (October to February): This period is considered the best for tourism in Mayabandar. The temperatures are cooler, ranging between 23°C to 29°C (73°F to 84°F), and the skies are mostly clear. It's an excellent time for beach activities, trekking, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Summer (March to May): The temperatures begin to rise, but the weather remains favourable for travel. The sea remains calm, making it a good time for water sports like scuba diving and snorkelling. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to explore to avoid the midday heat.

Off-Season

Monsoon Season (June to September): The monsoon season in Mayabandar brings heavy rainfall and strong winds. While the lush greenery of the region is at its most vibrant during this time, travel can be challenging due to frequent downpours, and some outdoor activities may be limited.

What to Expect: If you visit during the monsoon, be prepared for wet weather and possible disruptions in ferry services or road travel. However, the off-season can also mean fewer tourists, lower accommodation prices, and a more peaceful experience for those who enjoy rain-soaked landscapes and don't mind the occasional storm.

Monsoon Activities: While water sports and trekking may be restricted, you can still enjoy cultural experiences, local cuisine, and the tranquillity of the beaches. Indoor activities, like visiting local museums or learning about the indigenous culture, are also good options during the rainy season.

Essential Information

Currency: It's advisable to carry enough cash, as ATMs and card payment facilities may be limited in this remote area. Port Blair, the capital, is the best place to withdraw cash before heading to Mayabandar.

Language: Hindi and Bengali are widely spoken in Mayabandar, along with local dialects. English is also understood, especially in tourist areas, so communication should not be a significant issue for most travellers.

FAQs About Visiting Mayabandar

Q: What is the best way to get to Mayabandar from Port Blair?
A: The most common way to reach Mayabandar is by road from Port Blair, which takes about 10 to 12 hours. You can also opt for a ferry for a scenic journey, though it takes longer.

Q: Is Mayabandar suitable for family vacations?
A: Yes, Mayabandar is a great destination for families, offering a mix of beach activities, nature walks, and cultural experiences. The area is safe and peaceful, making it ideal for family getaways.

Q: Are there any ATMs or credit card facilities in Mayabandar?
A: ATMs are limited in Mayabandar, and credit card facilities may not be available everywhere. It’s advisable to carry enough cash with you, especially for smaller establishments and local markets.

Q: Can I visit nearby islands from Mayabandar?
A: Yes, Mayabandar is a gateway to several nearby islands. You can take boat tours to explore these islands, many of which offer secluded beaches and excellent snorkelling opportunities.