Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
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7 Days in Mayabunder for a Slow-Paced Island Getaway
Mayabunder is one of those hidden gems in the Andamans where life moves at its own pace. I spent a week here just soaking in the quiet beaches, meeting the friendly locals, and eating fresh seafood by the water. If you want to escape the crowds and really unwind, this is the place. The views of the mangrove creeks at sunset still stick with me.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Mayabunder
Start your Andaman adventure with Mayabunder's most popular spots, from serene beaches to cultural gems, and savor the local flavors.
Activities
Morning at Karmatang Beach
Kick off your day with a peaceful stroll along Karmatang Beach, known for its soft sands and nesting sea turtles. The calm waters make it perfect for a quick dip. Keep an eye out for dolphins if you're lucky!
- Carry water and sunscreen—shade is limited.
- Visit between December and April for turtle nesting sightings.
Explore the German Jetty
This historic jetty, built during World War II by the Germans, offers a quiet spot with mangrove-lined waters. It’s great for photography or just soaking in the history. The walk along the jetty is short but scenic.
- Wear comfortable shoes—the jetty can be uneven.
- Visit during high tide for the best views.
Lunch at a Local Dhaba
Head to a no-frills local dhaba for authentic Bengali-Andaman dishes. Try the fresh seafood, like grilled fish or prawn curry, paired with steamed rice. The flavors are simple but packed with local charm.
- Ask for the day’s catch—it’s always the freshest.
- Don’t miss the tangy tamarind chutney served with meals.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
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Day 2
Day 2 in Mayabunder
A mix of nature, history, and local flavors, today’s itinerary takes you deeper into Mayabunder’s charm with its serene beaches and cultural spots.
Activities
Visit the Avis Island
A short boat ride from Mayabunder, Avis Island is a tiny, uninhabited paradise with pristine beaches and clear waters. Perfect for a quiet morning of beachcombing or just soaking in the views. The island is also known for its rich marine life, so keep an eye out for colorful fish near the shore.
- Carry snacks and water as there are no facilities on the island
- Wear sturdy sandals for walking on the rocky parts
Explore the Interview Island Wildlife Sanctuary
This lesser-known sanctuary is home to wild elephants, spotted deer, and a variety of bird species. The dense forests and tranquil surroundings make it a great spot for nature lovers. The sanctuary is accessible by a short ferry ride, and the journey itself offers stunning views of the coastline.
- Wear light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching
Lunch at a Local Seafood Shack
After a morning of exploration, head to a small, family-run seafood shack near the jetty. Fresh catch of the day is cooked with simple, local spices—think grilled fish, prawn curry, and crab masala. The no-frills setting lets the food shine.
- Ask for the day’s special—it’s usually the freshest
- Try the coconut-based curries for a true local flavor
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Day 3 in Mayabunder
A slower-paced day diving into Mayabunder's lesser-known spots and local culture, with a mix of nature and village life.
Activities
Morning at Rampur Village
Head to Rampur, a quiet Karen settlement known for its Burmese-influenced culture. Walk through the village, chat with locals, and see their traditional wooden houses. The village feels like a step back in time, with a peaceful vibe and lush greenery all around.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes—village paths can be uneven.
- Ask before taking photos of locals; many are shy but friendly.
Picnic at Dhaninallah Mangrove Walkway
A hidden gem few tourists visit, this 300-meter wooden walkway winds through dense mangroves. Bring a simple packed lunch (or grab fresh parathas from town) and enjoy the quiet sounds of birds and water. Look for crabs and small fish in the shallow channels below.
- Carry mosquito repellent—mangroves mean bugs.
- Time your visit with low tide for better wildlife spotting.
Evening at the Burmese Buddhist Temple
Visit Mayabunder’s serene Burmese temple, where golden Buddha statues sit under towering trees. If you’re lucky, you might catch monks chanting in the late afternoon. The temple’s quiet courtyard is perfect for sitting and unwinding after a day of exploring.
- Dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees.
- Remove shoes before entering the temple hall.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 4
Day 4 in Mayabunder
A laid-back day exploring lesser-known spots and soaking in the local culture, with a mix of nature and village life.
Activities
Morning at the Webi Village
Head to Webi Village, a quiet settlement known for its friendly Karen community. Walk around the village, chat with locals, and see their traditional wooden houses. The village is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a peaceful spot to start the day.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on village paths
- Ask before taking photos of locals or their homes
Lunch at a Karen Home
Enjoy a simple, home-cooked meal with a Karen family in Webi Village. The food is fresh and flavorful, often featuring locally grown vegetables, rice, and sometimes fish or chicken. It’s a great way to experience authentic Karen hospitality.
- Let them know in advance if you have dietary restrictions
- Try their homemade rice wine if offered
Evening at the Austin Creek
Spend the late afternoon by Austin Creek, a serene spot perfect for relaxing. The shallow waters are great for wading, and the surrounding trees provide shade. Bring a book or just enjoy the sounds of nature.
- Carry water and snacks as there are no shops nearby
- Avoid swimming if the water looks deep or fast-moving
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 5
Day 5 in Mayabunder
A laid-back day exploring lesser-known spots and enjoying the slow pace of island life, with a mix of nature and local culture.
Activities
Morning at the Kadiya Lime Caves
Start your day with a visit to the fascinating Kadiya Lime Caves, a hidden gem tucked away in the forests near Mayabunder. These natural limestone formations are a quiet spot with a bit of local lore—some say they were used by the British during WWII. The walk to the caves is shaded and peaceful, with occasional glimpses of birds and butterflies. Bring a flashlight to explore the darker corners, but watch your step as the ground can be uneven.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the walk
- Carry water and snacks—there are no shops nearby
Lunch at a Local Karen Home
Head back to town for a home-cooked meal with a Karen family, one of the indigenous communities in the area. The Karen people, originally from Myanmar, have a unique cuisine blending Burmese and local flavors. Expect dishes like steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves, bamboo shoot curry, and sticky rice. It’s a great way to learn about their culture while enjoying a hearty meal.
- Ask your host about their family history—many have interesting migration stories
- Try the homemade rice wine if offered
Evening at the Mayabunder Jetty Sunset
Wrap up the day with a leisurely stroll along the Mayabunder Jetty, where locals gather to watch the sunset. The view over the water is serene, with fishing boats bobbing in the distance. If you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins playing near the shore. Grab a fresh coconut from a nearby vendor and just soak in the slow island vibe.
- Arrive a bit early to snag a good spot on the jetty
- Chat with the fishermen—they often have great stories
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 6
Day 6 in Mayabunder
A laid-back day exploring lesser-known spots and soaking in the local culture, with a mix of nature and village life.
Activities
Morning at the Ray Hills
Head to the serene Ray Hills, a quiet spot with lush greenery and a peaceful vibe. It's perfect for a short hike or just sitting back to enjoy the views. The hills offer a nice breeze and a chance to spot some local birds. Pack some snacks and water, as there aren't any shops nearby.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the hike
- Carry insect repellent
Visit to the Karen Tribal Settlement
Spend the afternoon with the Karen tribe, one of the oldest communities in the Andamans. They’re known for their woodcraft and weaving. You can watch them work, learn about their traditions, and maybe even try your hand at weaving. It’s a great way to connect with the local culture.
- Ask before taking photos
- Respect their customs and space
Evening at the Mayabunder Market
Wrap up the day with a stroll through the bustling Mayabunder Market. It’s a great place to pick up fresh fruits, local spices, and handmade souvenirs. The market is lively in the evening, with locals shopping and chatting. Grab a cup of chai from a street vendor and soak in the atmosphere.
- Bargain politely for better prices
- Try the fresh coconut water
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 7
Day 7 in Mayabunder
A laid-back final day soaking in the local culture and natural beauty of Mayabunder, with a mix of relaxation and light exploration.
Activities
Morning at the Mayabunder Fish Market
Start your day with a visit to the bustling Mayabunder Fish Market, where local fishermen bring in their fresh catch. It’s a vibrant spot to see the daily life of the community and maybe even pick up some seafood for later. The market is lively and colorful, with everything from crabs to lobsters on display.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the market can be wet and slippery.
- Try bargaining if you plan to buy seafood—it’s part of the experience!
Leisurely Walk Along the Mayabunder Beach
After the market, head to the quieter side of Mayabunder Beach for a peaceful stroll. Unlike the more popular Karmatang Beach, this spot is less crowded and perfect for some quiet time. The soft sand and gentle waves make it ideal for relaxing or just sitting with a book.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen—the sun can be strong even in the morning.
- Look for seashells along the shore; it’s a great spot for collecting.
Lunch at a Local Karen Home
Wrap up your trip with a heartfelt meal at a Karen tribal home. This isn’t just about the food—it’s about the warmth and stories shared over a homemade meal. Expect dishes like steamed fish with local herbs, bamboo shoot curry, and sticky rice, all cooked with traditional methods.
- Ask your host about the ingredients and cooking techniques—they love sharing their knowledge.
- It’s polite to bring a small gift, like fruits or sweets, as a token of appreciation.