When most travelers picture the Andaman Islands, they imagine turquoise waves crashing against powder-white shores, vibrant coral reefs, and tranquil beach stays. While places like Swaraj Dweep (Havelock) and Shaheed Dweep (Neil) are stunning, North Andaman hides a raw, primordial secret far off the beaten path.
Tucked deep inside the evergreen forests of Diglipur lies Jal Tikry (often spelled Jol Tikrey)—a fascinating geological phenomenon featuring active mud volcanoes.
What is Jal Tikry?
In the local dialect, "Jal Tikry" roughly translates to a hill or mound of water and mud.
Unlike conventional thermal volcanoes that spew red-hot lava, mud volcanoes release natural gases (mostly methane), subterranean water, and fine sediments from deep within the earth’s crust. As pressure builds below, slurry is forced upward through fault lines, creating small bubbling cones and domes of cool gray mud.
While Baratang Island is famous for its tourist-frequented mud volcano, many seasoned travelers and locals agree that the mud volcanoes at Jal Tikry in Shyamnagar, Diglipur are far more authentic, atmospheric, and undisturbed.
The Journey: Trekking into the Jungle
Reaching Jal Tikry is an adventure in itself. Located near Shyamnagar village (close to Hathi Level), about 25 km from the main Diglipur market, getting here takes you off the concrete roads and into nature.
Diglipur Market ➔ Shyamnagar Village (25 km) ➔ Forest Trek (15–20 mins) ➔ Jal Tikry
The trail winds through lush tropical rainforests canopying overhead. As you walk, the earth beneath your feet gradually gives way to moist soil, and the soft sound of jungle fauna is joined by something unexpected: a faint, low gurgling sound.
Upon clearing the tree line, you step into a clearing dotted with multiple mud mounds—some active and bubbling softly, others quiet and dormant. Watching the gray mud pulse with subterranean energy offers a stark reminder of the living geological forces under the Andaman archipelago.
Quick Facts & Visitor Guide
| Details | Information |
| Location | Shyamnagar Village, Diglipur, North Andaman |
| Distance from Diglipur | ~25 km towards Laxmipur / Hathi Level |
| Trek Duration | 15–20 minutes through dense forest |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
| Best Time to Visit | October to April (Avoid heavy monsoon months) |
| Ideal For | Nature lovers, trekking enthusiasts, photography buffs |
Essential Tips for Visiting Jal Tikry
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Hire a Local Guide: The trek passes through dense foliage, and trails can easily be missed. A local guide ensures you stay on track and shares regional lore along the way.
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Wear Sturdy Footwear: The forest floor can be damp, and the area surrounding the mud cones gets slick. Choose footwear with decent grip.
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Bring Eco-Friendly Gear: Carry reusable water bottles and snacks, but leave no trace behind. Keep North Andaman clean and plastic-free.
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Combine Your Trip: Diglipur is home to other spectacular spots. Pair your visit to Jal Tikry with a trip to the Kalipur Beach (famous for turtle nesting), Ross & Smith Islands, or a hike up Saddle Peak—the highest point in the Andamans.
Experience North Andaman with Pristine Andaman
While most generic itineraries stick to standard tourist circuits, Pristine Andaman specializes in crafting authentic island experiences that uncover the true, untouched beauty of the archipelago. Whether you need custom North Andaman tour packages, seamless cab transfers, or guided excursions to hidden gems like Jal Tikry, our local experts are here to make your journey effortless.
