Best Time to Visit Mount Harriet National Park, Port Blair

Mount Harriet National Park (also referred to as Mount Manipur National Park) sits just across the harbor from Port Blair on South Andaman Island. With lush evergreen forests, butterfly-rich trails, and sweeping viewpoints over the islands, it’s a rewarding half-day or full-day escape. Because the Andamans have a tropical monsoon climate, timing your trip makes a big difference to visibility, trail conditions, and ferry reliability.

Quick Answer

• Overall best time: November to April (clearer skies, pleasant temperatures, reliable ferries).
• Peak prime window: December to February (coolest, minimal rain, best views).
• Great shoulder months: October–November and March–April (lush post-monsoon greenery or warm but manageable heat, fewer crowds than peak).
• Challenging period: May to September (monsoon showers, slippery trails, rough seas, possible ferry/road disruptions).

Season-by-Season Guide

November–February: Cool, Clear, and Scenic

This is the sweet spot for most travelers.

• Weather: ~23–29°C, lower humidity, light breezes, mostly sunny.
• Views & photos: Crisp visibility from viewpoints; golden light at sunrise and late afternoon.
• Trails: Firm underfoot; the popular Mount Harriet–Madhuban trail is most enjoyable now.
• Crowds & costs: Peak holiday traffic late December to mid-January; book ferries, cabs, and stays early.

March–April: Warm, Still Good

Comfort tips matter more, but it remains a solid time to visit.

• Weather: ~26–32°C, humid afternoons; short pre-monsoon showers may begin by April.
• Wildlife: Forests remain active; butterflies and birds are common in the mornings.
• Strategy: Start early (gate opening) to beat heat; carry extra water and sun protection.

May–September: Wet, Windy, and Often Disrupted

The monsoon brings frequent rain and choppy seas. Visit only if you’re flexible.

• Weather: ~25–30°C with heavy showers; humidity is high.
• Access: Ferries may be delayed or canceled; some trails become muddy and slippery.
• Safety: Watch for leeches on forest trails, slippery rocks, and occasional fallen branches.
• Upside: The forest is lush and dramatic between downpours, with moody photo opportunities.

October: Lush Post-Monsoon Shoulder

A transitional month that can be rewarding with a bit of luck.

• Weather: Showers tapering off; greenery is at its freshest.
• Photos & wildlife: Excellent foliage color and butterfly activity in sunny breaks.
• Note: Intermittent rain still possible; carry a light rain jacket and dry bags.

Monthly Snapshot

• Oct: Green and occasionally wet; good if you want fewer crowds.
• Nov: Settling into dry season; pleasant temps; increasingly reliable ferries.
• Dec: Prime conditions; book ahead for holidays.
• Jan: Peak clarity and comfort; excellent trekking and photography.
• Feb: Similar to January with slightly warmer afternoons.
• Mar: Warm but manageable; go early in the day.
• Apr: Warmer and more humid; occasional showers; still feasible.
• May–Sep: Monsoon phase; expect rain, rough seas, and possible access issues.

Best Time by Interest

For Viewpoints and Photography

• Best: December–February for clear horizons and soft light.
• Also good: November and March–April, especially early mornings.
• Tip: Aim for sunrise or late afternoon; haze is lowest in winter mornings.

For Trekking (Mount Harriet–Madhuban and short forest walks)

• Best: November–February (firm trails, comfortable temps).
• Avoid: Peak monsoon (June–September) due to slippery conditions and leeches.
• Start early: Gates typically open around morning hours; confirm locally and begin at first light.

For Birding and Butterflies

• Birding: November–March is excellent; mornings are most active.
• Butterflies: Post-monsoon through early winter (October–December) sees vibrant activity in sunny spells.

For Families and Casual Visitors

• Best: December–February for comfortable walking and dependable ferries.
• Tip: Choose a clear morning for panoramic viewpoints; keep the visit to a relaxed half-day.

Weather, Light, and Timing Essentials

• Temperature range: Typically 23–32°C year-round; coolest in Dec–Feb.
• Humidity: Moderate in winter; high in summer/monsoon—plan for sweat management.
• Sunrise/Sunset (approx.): Sunrise 5:00–5:30 AM; sunset 5:00–5:45 PM. Early starts are especially rewarding in the Andamans.
• UV index: Strong even on hazy days; sun protection is essential.

Crowds, Prices, and Holidays

• Peak crowds: Christmas–New Year, long weekends, and school holidays (late Dec to mid-Jan).
• Shoulder relief: November and February–March (outside holiday weeks) offer better availability.
• Monsoon: Fewer visitors and some discounts, but access is less predictable.

Access and Logistics: When Conditions Matter Most

Ferries and Road Access

• Common route: Short ferry from Port Blair (e.g., Chatham/Phoenix Bay) to Bamboo Flat, then a road drive uphill to the park.
• Frequency: Multiple ferries on typical dry-season days; reduced or delayed during rough weather.
• Monsoon caution: Crossings can be choppy with occasional cancellations—build buffer time.

Park Hours and Permits

• Hours: Usually daylight hours (roughly morning to late afternoon). Confirm current timings locally.
• Entry: Tickets at the gate; carry cash and a photo ID.

Packing Checklist by Season

November–February

• Light breathable clothing; a light windproof layer for viewpoint breezes
• Hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen
• Comfortable walking shoes or trail shoes
• Water bottle and snacks

March–April

• Extra water and electrolytes
• Cooling towel, quick-dry clothing
• Sun umbrella or compact shade option

May–September

• Light rain jacket/poncho and dry bags
• Anti-leech socks or repellent if trekking
• Grippy footwear suitable for mud

Safety and Responsible Travel

• Trail safety: Stay on marked paths; avoid edges at viewpoints, especially after rain.
• Wildlife: Observe endemic birds and butterflies quietly; do not feed animals.
• Hydration: The tropical climate dehydrates quickly—carry sufficient water.
• Waste: Pack out all litter; the park is ecologically sensitive.

Sample Itineraries Timed to the Season

Dry-Season Half-Day (Nov–Apr)

• Early ferry to Bamboo Flat; drive up to the park gate for opening.
• Short forest walk plus main viewpoint for panoramic photos.
• Optional: Begin the Mount Harriet–Madhuban trek; arrange pickup at the finish.
• Return to Port Blair by early afternoon before heat builds.

Monsoon Window (Jun–Sep) if You Must Go

• Pick a day with favorable forecast; go for short, safe walks only.
• Carry rain gear, check ferry status before leaving, and avoid steep/eroded paths.
• Focus on misty forest photography and butterfly spotting between showers.

Quick Recap

If your goal is the best combination of clear views, comfortable walks, and reliable access, plan your Mount Harriet National Park visit for December to February. For fewer crowds but still good conditions, aim for November or March–April. Only attempt the monsoon months if you’re flexible, prepared for rain, and willing to adapt your plans on short notice.