On the southernmost tip of the Andaman Islands, a secluded beach and viewpoint offer the best of both worlds – mountains and beaches. The pristine beach and viewpoint are known as Munda Pahar and are just 25 km away from Port Blair, near Chidiyatapu. While visiting the Munda Pahar beach and hiking to the Munda Pahar viewpoint must be on your must-do lists, you can also ride through the serene snake roads along the coast.
Our escapade wasn’t merely enjoyable and gave us a sense of fulfillment. As always, we will share details such as timings, entry fees, how to reach, where to stay, where to eat, and more. Let’s dive right into it.
Complete Guide to Munda Pahar Beach & Viewpoint
Table of Contents
How to Reach Munda Pahar Beach and Viewpoint?
You have 2 options to reach Munda Pahar Beach and Viewpoint from the Port Blair city center. The first option is to hop onto a bus from the bus station and reach Chidiya Tapu. From here, you must walk 2 Km to reach your destination. However, the buses are not as frequent and run on a fixed schedule every day. So if your plans don’t match the timings, you can simply go for option 2, which is renting a two-wheeler and going on a scenic ride to Munda Pahar Beach.
Bus Schedule
| GoGo Electric Bus Number | Timings | From | To |
| EB 26 | 14:30 | Bus Terminus | Chidiyatapu |
| EB 26 | 16:50 | Chidiyatapu | Corbyn’s Cove Beach |
| EB 40 | 15:05 | Bus Terminus | Chidiyatapu |
| EB 40 | 17:35 | Chidiyatapu | Corbyn’s Cove Beach |
You can learn more about the GoGo Buses from the transportation guide.
The schedule of the normal buses that run from the bus station to Chidiya Tapu is as follows – 5 AM, 6 AM, 6:20 AM, 6:30 AM, 7 AM, 8:15 AM, 8:50 AM, 10:30 AM, 12 PM, 12:45 PM, 1:50 PM, 2:40 PM, 3 PM, 4 PM, 5 PM, 6:45 PM, and 8:10 PM
Timings
You can access the Munda Pahar Beach and viewpoint between 10 AM and 3 PM on all days, and entry is restricted at other times. In fact, a forest officer is at the entrance at all times, likely prohibiting visitors from coming at odd hours.
Entry Fee
Although present in the restricted area, there is no entry fee to enter the Munda Pahar Beach and Viewpoint. You have to provide your details, including name, contact, and the place you’re from at the entrance, and that’s it.
Parking & Restroom Facilities
Ample parking is available near Munda Pahad Beach. Two-wheelers and four-wheelers can be parked for free. Restroom facilities are also close to the parking.
Network Connectivity
Only BSNL works in the area. Airtel and Jio don’t have reception. The signal fades as you get closer to the destination. Download offline maps to navigate, or ask for directions to people residing in this region.
Languages Spoken
Hindi is widely spoken in the region. Very few locals converse in English.
Where to Eat?
A few vendors sell coconuts, water, chaat, and some fruits at the entrance. Beyond that there are no other shops or restaurants in the region. If you are hiking to the Munda Pahar viewpoint, buy water and some snacks, especially if you have kids. You won’t find any water source, snack shops, or eatery once you start the hike.
Where to Stay?
Since a trip to Munda Pahar Beach and Viewpoint takes only half a day, you can stay at Port Blair. If you do want to be closer to the site you can stay at Whistling Woods in Chidiya Tapu. The property has several intriguing amenities, such as telescopes, and gives you a chance to stargaze too. If bustling city life is not your thing and you need something to get away from it, Whistling Woods is just right for you. Also, if you’re into astrography then this place is going to be a treat.
Port Blair has limited power fluctuations. There are very few hostels in the city, and most accommodations are either homestays or hotels catering to different budgets and other requirements. We stayed at Ocean Terrace. Here are a few other recommendations.
- SeaScape Port Blair ($)
- Island Cliff ($)
- BayLeaf Inn ($$)
- Hotel Idhaya ($$)
- Symphony Samudra Beachside Jungle Resort and Spa ($$$)
- Welcomehotels by ITC Hotels, Bay Island, Port Blair ($$$)
Munda Pahar Beach
The tranquil turquoise-blue water of Munda Pahar Beach is breathtaking. With mountains on either side and a jungle behind you, the beach stretches as far as the eyes can see. You can relax under the shade of tall trees and absorb the nature around you. If peace is what you seek, you shall find it at the Munda Pahar Beach. However, it’s important to note that swimming and water activities are prohibited at this venue due to the recent spotting of crocodiles.
Munda Pahar Viewpoint
The hike to this picturesque viewpoint is easy and beginner-friendly stretching for about 1.5 Km. Most of the trail is flat, and the highest elevation during the hike is only 80m. Simply follow the directions marks along with the trail, and you’ll reach the Munda Pahar Viewpoint quickly.
The trail is peppered with viewpoints that are easy on the eyes and offer panoramic views of nearby islands. Also, tall trees will accompany you, so shade is guaranteed.
You will also see a black and white lighthouse closer to the viewpoint. Once you reach the summit, you’ll find a shelter built for visitors where you can spend some time.
Return via the same route once done. Overall, the hike relaxes you more than tiring you out, it soothes and rejuvenates your senses. It is important that you stay away from the edges as most of them fall steeply to the water. Do not cross the fences at the summit, as it might be dangerous.
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