Saddle Peak

Saddle Peak National Park protects the highest point in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands at 732 meters elevation, encompassing pristine tropical rainforests on North Andaman Island. The park's 32 square kilometers contain some of the archipelago's most undisturbed forest ecosystems, characterized by towering evergreen trees, dense undergrowth, and extraordinary biodiversity. The park harbors numerous endemic species found nowhere else on Earth, including the Andaman imperial pigeon, Andaman woodpecker, and several endemic orchid species. The mountain's slopes support different forest types at varying elevations, from lowland dipterocarp forests to montane vegetation near the summit. Seasonal streams cascade down the mountainside, creating important water sources and supporting unique riparian ecosystems. The park's relative isolation and difficult terrain have helped preserve these forests from the logging and settlement that has affected other parts of the Andamans.

Saddle Peak National Park supports a diverse array of wildlife, including several endemic species. Notable mammals include the Andaman wild pig, Andaman macaque, and various species of bats. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, hosting endemic species like the Andaman woodpecker, Andaman cuckoo-dove, and Andaman drongo. Reptiles include the Andaman water monitor, various snake species, and the endemic Andaman day gecko. The park also harbors numerous butterfly species, many of which are unique to the Andaman Islands.

The park hosts a rich diversity of tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. The vegetation varies with altitude, transitioning from lowland rainforest to hill forest. Notable species include Dipterocarpus trees, Gurjan trees, and various endemic orchids. The park is home to several medicinal plants and rare species like Pterocarpus dalbergioides (Andaman Padauk) and Terminalia procera. Mangrove forests occur in the coastal areas, while the higher elevations feature unique montane vegetation adapted to the cooler, misty conditions.

The park's geology is characterized by sedimentary rocks formed during the Late Cretaceous period, primarily consisting of sandstone and limestone formations. The distinctive saddle-shaped peak was formed through tectonic activity and erosion over millions of years. The terrain is highly varied, featuring steep slopes, deep valleys, and exposed cliff faces. The soil is typically acidic and ranges from sandy to clay loam, supporting the diverse vegetation that covers the park. Several freshwater streams originate from the peak, creating a network of waterways throughout the protected area.

Saddle Peak National Park experiences a tropical monsoon climate typical of the Andaman Islands. The park receives heavy rainfall from May to December during the southwest and northeast monsoons, with annual precipitation averaging 3000mm. Temperatures remain fairly constant year-round, ranging from 23°C to 30°C. The best time to visit is between January and April when the weather is relatively dry and clear. Humidity levels stay high throughout the year, usually between 70-90%. Morning fog is common at higher elevations, especially around the peak.

Saddle Peak National Park was established in 1979 to protect the unique ecosystem of North Andaman Island. The park gets its name from the distinctive saddle-shaped double peak that forms the highest point in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago at 732 meters. Historically, the area was inhabited by indigenous Andamanese tribes, particularly the Andamanese people, who lived in the forests until the British colonial period. The park has since been a crucial conservation area, preserving both natural heritage and remnants of indigenous culture.

The Andaman Islands' indigenous peoples, including the Great Andamanese tribes, have inhabited these islands for thousands of years, though their populations were decimated following colonial contact. British colonization brought systematic forest surveys in the late 19th century, documenting the exceptional timber resources and unique wildlife. During World War II, the Japanese occupation left some infrastructure but generally avoided the densest forests around Saddle Peak. After Indian independence, the strategic importance of the Andamans led to increased settlement and development, raising concerns about forest conservation. The national park was established in 1987 to protect the island's highest peak and its surrounding forests from logging and encroachment. Protection has been challenging due to limited resources, difficult access, and ongoing development pressures in the surrounding landscape.

The park's most distinctive feature is the twin-peaked Saddle Peak, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the Bay of Bengal. Several trekking trails lead to the summit, ranging from moderate to challenging difficulty. The park contains numerous freshwater streams and waterfalls, particularly spectacular during the monsoon season. Unique geological formations, including natural caves and exposed rock faces, can be found throughout the park. The combination of high altitude and coastal ecosystems in such close proximity makes it a unique ecological site in the Andaman archipelago.

Reaching the park requires travel to North Andaman Island via a combination of ferry and road from Port Blair, a journey that can take 8-12 hours depending on connections. The nearest settlement is Diglipur, which serves as the base for park visits and offers basic accommodation in government guesthouses and small private lodges. The trek to Saddle Peak summit is the main visitor activity, following a moderately difficult trail that takes approximately 3-4 hours to ascend through changing forest types. Visitors must obtain entry permits from the Forest Department office in Diglipur and are usually required to hire authorized guides who know the trail and can provide safety assistance. The trek is best undertaken early in the morning to avoid afternoon heat and rain, with the summit offering views of the surrounding islands and ocean when weather permits. The monsoon season from May to September brings heavy rainfall that can make trails slippery and dangerous, while November through April offers more favorable conditions.

Forest conservation efforts focus on preventing illegal logging, which remains a persistent threat despite protection status, with patrols monitoring access routes and high-value timber areas. Endemic species protection programs target particularly threatened birds and orchids, with surveys documenting populations and identifying critical habitats. The park faces challenges from invasive plant and animal species introduced to the Andamans, requiring ongoing control efforts to prevent displacement of native species. Limited tourism helps minimize human impact while generating some economic benefits that support conservation, though infrastructure remains intentionally basic. Research programs study the park's endemic species, forest ecology, and the impacts of climate change on island ecosystems particularly vulnerable to environmental shifts. Community engagement with surrounding settlements aims to reduce forest resource extraction through alternative livelihood programs and environmental education initiatives.