Things to Do at Mount Harriet National Park (Mount Manipur), Port Blair

Perched on South Andaman Island just across the strait from Port Blair, Mount Harriet National Park—also known as Mount Manipur National Park—is a lush, low-elevation evergreen sanctuary famed for panoramic sea views, endemic birdlife, and one of the Andamans’ most rewarding day treks. Whether you’re a birder, casual hiker, shutterbug, or family traveler, this park blends accessible adventure with serene nature.

Top Things to Do

1) Soak in the Summit Views (The “₹20 Note” Viewpoint)

Head to the main viewpoint near the summit (approx. 383 m) for sweeping vistas over the Bay of Bengal, North Bay’s lighthouse, and Port Blair’s harbor. This is the iconic perspective depicted on the back of the Indian ₹20 currency note.

• Best time: Early morning for softer light and clear skies; late afternoon for golden-hour glow.
• Family-friendly: The viewpoint is reachable by road with a short, gentle walk.
• Facilities: Basic seating and shaded areas are often available near the viewpoint; still, carry water.

2) Trek the Mount Harriet–Madhuban Trail

This classic forest trek descends from Mount Harriet to Madhuban through dense evergreen and deciduous patches. Expect rolling gradients, birdsong, and a rich understory alive with butterflies and ferns.

• Length & difficulty: Typically 10–16 km one-way depending on route; moderate fitness recommended.
• Logistics: Arrange a guide and transport pick-up at the trail end (Madhuban) or do a shorter out-and-back from the viewpoint.
• Trail etiquette: Stick to marked paths; avoid monsoon peak days due to slippery sections and leeches.

3) Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting

The park is a hotspot for Andaman endemics. Keep an eye out for the Andaman woodpecker, Andaman drongo, Andaman treepie, Andaman wood pigeon, and various bulbuls and sunbirds. Early mornings are most productive.

• Gear: 8–10x binoculars, light telephoto lens (300mm+), and neutral-colored clothing.
• Guides: Local naturalists significantly increase sightings and help with calls and fieldcraft.

4) Butterfly and Flora Walks

With rich leaf litter, clearings, and flowering shrubs, Mount Harriet supports a colorful diversity of butterflies. Look for fluttering activity along sunlit edges. You’ll also see epiphytes, ferns, and towering evergreen species that define Andaman’s unique flora.

5) Picnics and Slow Travel

Designated picnic spots near the viewpoint are perfect for unhurried nature time. Keep it low-impact: carry reusable containers, segregate waste, and pack out everything you bring in.

6) Heritage Touchpoints

Named after Harriet Tytler in the British era and officially recognized in contemporary times as Mount Manipur, the area carries layers of history. Look out for interpretive signboards that outline natural and cultural narratives of the park and the islands.

How to Plan Your Visit

Getting There from Port Blair

• Ferry + Road: Take a short vehicle/passenger ferry from Chatham Jetty (Port Blair) to Bambooflat (20–30 minutes). From Bambooflat, it’s roughly 10 km uphill by road to the park gate and viewpoint.
• Transport: Hire a taxi, self-drive two-wheeler, or join a local tour. Confirm last ferry timings for your return.

Timings and Entry

• Hours: Typically daylight hours (around 7:00 am–5:00 pm). Arrive early for birding and cooler conditions.
• Fees: A nominal park entry fee applies; camera fees may be charged. Carry small cash.

Best Time to Visit

• Peak season: November–April for drier weather and clearer views.
• Monsoon (May–September): Lush and beautiful but expect showers, slippery trails, and occasional restrictions.

Permits and Rules

• General access: Indian nationals usually don’t need special permits for Port Blair and this park. Foreign nationals should carry their passport and verify current entry regulations and any park-specific permissions.
• Guides: Strongly recommended for the Madhuban trek and serious birding.
• Prohibited: Littering, loud music, feeding wildlife, alcohol inside the park, and drone use without authorization.

What to Pack

• Water (reusable bottle), light snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), insect repellent
• Sturdy footwear with grip; rain jacket in monsoon
• Binoculars/camera; dry bag for electronics
• Basic first-aid and any personal medication

Suggested Itineraries

Half-Day (Family-Friendly)

• Early ferry to Bambooflat → Drive up to Mount Harriet viewpoint
• Leisurely walk, photos at the “₹20 note” frame, short nature trail
• Picnic brunch → Return to Port Blair by afternoon

Full Day (Active Travelers)

• Sunrise at the summit → Start the Mount Harriet–Madhuban trek with a guide
• Packed lunch on trail → Pickup from Madhuban or hike part-way and return
• Back to Port Blair by evening (check last ferry)

Photography Tips

• Framing the note view: Use a mid-telephoto to align North Bay and the lighthouse; early light cuts haze.
• Birds: Keep shutter speeds high (1/1000s+), use continuous AF, and shoot at edges of forest clearings.
• Butterflies: Late morning after sunshine warms them; a macro or short telephoto works well.

Combine with Nearby Attractions

• North Bay (Coral Island): Snorkeling and glass-bottom boat rides.
• Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island): Ruins, deer, and coastal scenery.
• Chatham Saw Mill & Museum: Asia’s oldest and a fascinating slice of island history.

Responsible Travel and Safety

• Wildlife first: Observe from a distance; never feed or approach animals.
• Stay on trails: Protects fragile flora and reduces encounters with reptiles/insects.
• Hydration & heat: Humidity is high; take regular water breaks.
• Weather-aware: In monsoon, expect leeches and slippery sections; use gaiters or leech socks if needed.
• Waste-free: Carry out all trash; avoid single-use plastics.

FAQs

How long do I need at Mount Harriet?

2–4 hours for the viewpoint and nature walk; a full day if you plan the Madhuban trek.

Is the trek suitable for kids or seniors?

The viewpoint area is suitable for most visitors. The full trek is moderate and may be challenging for young children or those with mobility issues.

Are crocodiles a concern?

Estuarine crocodiles inhabit Andaman creeks and mangroves. The summit and interior trails are generally away from crocodile habitats, but always heed local advisories near any water bodies.

Can I camp inside the park?

Overnight camping is typically not permitted. A forest rest house may be available near the summit with prior permission; check current availability with the Forest Department.

Are drones allowed?

Drones require prior authorization from relevant authorities. Recreational drone flying inside protected areas is usually prohibited.

Will I have mobile network?

Coverage can be patchy. Inform someone of your plans and timings, especially if trekking.

Quick Recap

Mount Harriet National Park delivers the Andamans in one frame: sea-meets-forest vistas, endemic wildlife, and a classic island trek—all an easy hop from Port Blair. Plan an early start, keep it eco-friendly, and let the green silence and sweeping views do the rest.