Mount Harriet National Park, Hope Town, Port Blair, is situated at 365m high and is the second-highest peak on the Andamans. A former headquarters to the chief commissioner during the days of the British, Mount Manipur National Park was the site’s former designation – so be cautioned not to mix it up; it is at the same site.It is a highly sought-after place to visit in Port Blair during tourist seasons in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and, currently, the south’s highest summit, standing at a height of 365 meters. There are several things to do in Andamans, including an easy morning walk in the shady tracks of Mount Harriet.
Other places to visit in Andaman are the Cellular Jail, the white sand of Radhanagar Beach, and the busy Aberdeen Bazaar for local shopping. Mount Harriet National Park is a great place for a day trip from Port Blair. Book our Andaman Tour Packages with Mount Harriet on your list! We’ll cover everything about Mount Harriet National Park here, including the best times to visit, things to do, and how to get there.
About Mount Harriet National Park
Mount Harriet National Park is located on South Andaman Island and is dedicated to the name of Harriet Tytler, the wife of a British officer. The park is the highest peak within the South Andaman range, rising 365 meters above sea level. Its various ecosystems-rainforests, mangrove cover-are home to flora and fauna of every category. The atmosphere in the park is so peaceful that it has become a place for both adventure and relaxation. It is the right place if you are interested in trekking or observing the wildlife.It is a haven for several endemic flora and fauna species; therefore, it is an extremely unique site. This park is very popular as a renowned destination for eco-tourism activities. Tourists can even pass through clean woods while becoming informed about this richness in biodiversity.
Mount Harriet National Park is a great destination for birding and wildlife photography. This has made the site popular for those who like nature. The varied ecosystem, coupled with the dense woods of the park, provides a home for the avifauna: both residents and migrants. There are various viewpoints spread across the park. Visitors can halt there to soak in the landscape and admire the vast number of different species of birds.
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How to Reach Mount Harriet National Park
Mount Harriet National Park is a beautiful destination in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for rich wildlife and stunning views. How to reach Mount Harriet National Park from Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman Islands, is going to be a very simple travel guide here.1. From Port Blair to Chatham Wharf
Start from Port Blair. The nearest place to head to is the Chatham Wharf, which lies about 5 kilometers from the city center. Taxis as well as autos are available on hire. On average it takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
2. Ferry from Chatham Wharf to Bambooflat
Ferries, which can be taken to get to Bambooflat from Chatham Wharf, exist. These ferries are vehicular ferries because they carry people and vehicles such as cars and bikes. It takes about 15 to 20 minutes to make the ferry crossing. Ferries operate at standard intervals, although it is better to check on the schedule so that you can plan your trip conveniently.
3. From Bambooflat to Mount Harriet
Once you arrive at Bambooflat, you have a couple of options to reach Mount Harriet National Park:
- By Road: You can hire a local vehicle, such as a jeep or a car, to take you directly to the park. The drive is approximately 30 kilometers and takes about 45 minutes to an hour. This is a convenient option if you prefer a direct route.
- By Trekking: For adventure lovers, there is a trekking route from Bambooflat to Mount Harriet. The trekking distance is approximately 4 to 5 kilometers and takes 2 to 3 hours. This route is a chance to see the beauty of nature in the region closely.
Trekking in Mount Harriet National Park
Trekking in Mount Harriet National Park is one of the prime attractions lies in trekking. Several marked trek trails have been carved for travelers to explore close up the beautiful nature of this park. There is a growing number of adventures going for Mount Harriet National Park as it offers beautiful treks along the island islands and coastline. It has one very famous trek going from Mount Harriet to Madhuban. The trek stretches for 16 kilometers and is considered to be one of the most beautiful treks of the Andaman Islands.The trek from Mount Harriet to Madhuban offers forest trails, mangrove swamps, and coastline views. This route is apt for all nature walk lovers and those seeking the diverse flora and fauna that are present here. During this trek, they would pass through dense tropical forests with monkeys, wild boars, and various species of birds. The treks are considered moderately easy so anyone can use this route be it a first-time trekker or an old seasoned trekker.
Adventure to Mount Harriet National Park. Climbing through this place is as much about enjoying nature as the thrill of an adventure. All one can get are green sights and sounds around one’s ear of the forest. The rejuvenation in the air, be you a seasoned trekker or the only one who feels that walking among nature is always so rejuvenating.
Fauna and Flora in Mount Harriet National Park
Mount Harriet National Park has extensive biodiversity in different types of flora and fauna. The Mount Harriet National Park is the heart of diverse Andaman Island flora and fauna species. You are likely to notice many endemic tree, and plant species, as well as wildlife at Mount Harriet. You will perhaps see salt-water crocodiles, wild hogs, or the endemic primate, Andaman macaque. Birds like the Nicobar pigeon and other species of kingfishers can be seen during the trek through the trails of the park. The dense forests also harbor unique plant species, including medicinal plants and tall trees.
In general, the Andaman Islands have vast wildlife; however, Mount Harriet National Park has a special reason for being on this list in terms of ecology. Most species found here are endemic to the Andaman Islands, which makes them very few in nature reserves. As you walk around the park, you will come to see the interaction of various ecosystems and their sustainability, increasing your appreciation of the need for the preservation of the natural environment.
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Things to Do at Mount Harriet National Park
There are plenty of things to do at Mount Harriet National Park, making it a versatile destination for various types of travelers. Some of the best activities include:1. Trekking: Topping the list of things to do at Mount Harriet National Park is trekking. With great trails and greenery, the scenery combined with being fit is enjoyed. One of the most popular treks from Mount Harriet is to Madhuban, taking about 4-5 hours to complete.
2. Wildlife Observation: Mount Harriet is a wildlife sanctuary. There are different species of animals that one can observe here ranging from reptiles and birds to mammals. It is particularly a haven for birdwatchers. The unique ecosystems and dense forests of the park create the perfect ambiance where such rare and exotic wildlife can be seen. Many species that exist nowhere else can be seen exclusively in the Andaman Islands; therefore, Mount Harriet offers such an experience.
3. Photography: The diverse landscapes and types of wildlife that find refuge in it make it an ideal photography destination. Whether you capture the excellence of the trails or spot the wildlife, this is a place that offers many photo shoot opportunities. Different types of trails and viewpoints bring amazing views of the islands around, which make for good additions to your photographic collection.
4. Picnicking: The park is indeed a very lovely place for one to have a picnic. Visitors can find their way to several parts of the site where they would be able to sit and savor a meal in nature. Many people relish the respite from walking and sit themselves down by the beach or among the trees with a peaceful lunch to take in the shade. A picnic perfectly relaxes in the beauty surrounding nature.5. Boating: Visitors can also have a boat ride along the shore of the park. This is a wonderful way to get the scenery around one’s self and catch sight of marine life. Boating also provides an opportunity for viewing the coastline from a different angle, where dolphin watching and other marine creatures’ spotting would be easy.
6. Birdwatching: As if Mount Harriet National Park, with its immense biodiversity, would not attract some birdwatchers. Many endemic species, like the Nicobar pigeon, are seen here besides kingfishers and many different species of parakeets. Birdwatching is perhaps the most soothing as well as gratifying thing that can be done in the park. The ambiance is peaceful enough, and with so many birds, it does make for an experience one is sure to never forget.
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Best Time to Visit Mount Harriet National Park
The best time to visit Mount Harriet National Park is during the dry season, from November to April. To make the most of your visit, it’s essential to choose the right time of year.Optimal Visiting Months
The best times to visit Mount Harriet National Park range from October up to April because the weather then is pleasant with scarce rainfall, ensuring that the visitors can enjoy themselves trekking, bird-watching, or nature walks freely.
Weather Considerations
- Dry Season (October to April): This season gives clear skies and comfortable temperatures. It, therefore, improves the overall experience of natural attractions in the park.
- Monsoon Season (May to September): Avoid visiting during the monsoon season because heavy falls will make the trekking trails slippery and difficult, thereby hampering the enjoyment of the park.
Seasonal Highlights: A visit between November and March will enjoy favorable weather besides viewing the variety of flora and fauna in action. Bird lovers will find it a rewarding experience since most of the species will be more observable and audible.
Accommodation Options in Mount Harriet
There are no accommodation options in Mount Harriet National Park; however, plenty of options can be found in Port Blair, which is around 55 kilometers away. There are budget hotels to luxury resorts in Port Blair. Some of the best accommodation options in Mount Harriet are as follows:1. Taj Exotica Resort & Spa: This Port Blair luxury resort offers wonderful views private beaches and fine amenities, making it suitable for a client seeking comfort. The place is convenient when returning, after a day of visiting Mount Harriet, as it gives one a relaxing atmosphere coupled with beautiful landscape views.
2. SeaShell Port Blair: The mid-range hotel offers outstanding views, and modern amenities, and thus is a good source of comfort and convenience for any traveler. It is relatively near the main attractions within Port Blair and has pretty well-decorated rooms, making it a nice location to start seeing more of the Andaman Islands.
3. Budget Guesthouses: Port Blair has a lot of budget guesthouses and lodges, where basic facilities can be availed at very reasonable rates for budget-conscious travelers. The guesthouses and homestays in Port Blair here are ideal for those who wish to have simple and inexpensive accommodations while exploring Mount Harriet National Park and other attractions in the area.
Staying in Port Blair, you would be close to Mount Harriet National Park where all the activities offered by the park can be undertaken. There is a wide range of accommodations in Port Blair ranging from luxury to budget-friendly.
It’s a lovely, lovely place with adventure, nature, and wildlife in itself. The beauty of it is that, for a tourist, you can enjoy trekking routes, fauna, flora, and beautiful landscapes- heaven for all nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. And enough could be done about sightseeing on Mount Harriet National Park, such as trekking, watching wild animals, or just standing in the beauty.To make the most out of your visit, plan your visit during the dry season and not miss the park’s many attractions. With easy accessibility from Port Blair and accommodation ranging from budget-friendly lodges to pricey resorts, it is going to be one of the most exciting experiences of Mount Harriet for you. Pack your bags, and let us discover the beauty of Mount Harriet National Park in the Andaman Islands together!
