Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do
- How to Reach from Port Blair
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Nearby Attractions
- Traveler Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Just across the shimmering harbor from Port Blair lies Mount Harriet National Park—an emerald pocket of evergreen forests, sweeping sea views, and quiet nature trails. Rising to roughly 365 meters, this protected area is famed for the very view once seen on the older Indian Rs. 20 currency note. Whether you’re here for a short half-day escape or an immersive trek through Andaman’s biodiversity, Mount Harriet (officially renamed Mount Manipur National Park) offers a serene, nature-rich contrast to the bustle of Port Blair.
History & Importance
Mount Harriet was named during the British era after Harriet Tytler, and it later became an important colonial vantage point overlooking the harbor. In 2021, it was officially renamed Mount Manipur to honor Manipuri freedom fighters who were exiled to the Andamans during the colonial period.
The park protects lowland evergreen and moist deciduous forests, with notable endemics such as the Andaman wood pigeon, Andaman serpent eagle, and butterflies like the Andaman tree nymph. Beyond ecology, its most photographed viewpoint echoes pop culture—the panorama that appeared on the older Rs. 20 note, framing the lighthouse at North Bay and the islands dotting the harbor.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak season (November–April): Pleasant, drier weather with clearer views and comfortable trekking conditions.
- Shoulder (October and early May): Warm and humid; manageable with early starts.
- Monsoon (June–September): Heavy rain, slippery trails, possible leeches, and occasional ferry disruptions. Not ideal for long treks.
Tip: Mornings offer softer light and better chances of clear views; afternoons can get hazy and hot.
Top Things to Do
1) Capture the “Rs. 20 note” Viewpoint
Walk to the signed viewpoint near the park’s rest house to frame the exact vista of North Bay lighthouse and island-studded waters. Arrive early for calmer winds and fewer crowds.
2) Trek from Mount Harriet to Madhuban
- Distance: Approximately 16 km one way through dense forest.
- Duration: 4–6 hours depending on pace and trail conditions.
- Difficulty: Moderate; requires good footwear, water, and a local guide/permission from forest authorities.
- Highlights: Fern-filled gullies, bird calls, and occasional glimpses of endemic wildlife.
3) Birdwatching and Butterfly Spotting
Look for the Andaman wood pigeon, white-headed starling, and Andaman serpent eagle. Butterflies are most active on warm, windless mornings—carry binoculars and move quietly.
4) Forest Picnics and Short Nature Walks
There are simple picnic spots and short signed trails near the viewpoint area. Keep all waste packed out.
5) Sunrise/Sunset Photography
Sunrise often delivers gentler light and clearer horizons. Check park timings; you’ll typically need to exit by late afternoon.
How to Reach from Port Blair
Location: Across the harbor on South Andaman Island, north of Bamboo Flat. Total travel time is usually 45–75 minutes each way, depending on ferry frequency and road conditions.
Option 1: Public Passenger Ferry + Local Taxi
- From Port Blair, take a passenger ferry from Chatham Jetty or Phoenix Bay Jetty to Bamboo Flat (about 10–20 minutes on water).
- Ferries typically run every 15–30 minutes during the day (service may reduce around lunch and evenings).
- Hire a local taxi/auto at Bamboo Flat for the park gate and viewpoint (roughly 10–12 km by road; 25–40 minutes).
Option 2: Private Cab from Port Blair
- Most cabs use the vehicle ferry to cross over to the Bamboo Flat side.
- Round-trip with waiting time usually takes 4–5 hours when including sightseeing stops.
Option 3: Self-Drive Two-Wheeler
- Rentals are common in Port Blair; carry license, helmets, and fuel up in town.
- Two-wheelers can use the vehicle ferry; roads are narrow and winding—ride cautiously.
Park Timings, Entry & Permissions
- Timings: Typically around 7:00 am to 5:00 pm; last entry often mid-afternoon. Verify locally as timings can change.
- Entry Fees: Indicative ranges—Indians INR 25–50; foreign nationals INR 250–500; separate camera/vehicle fees may apply.
- Permits: No special permit usually needed for Indian or foreign tourists to visit this park, but guided treks (e.g., Madhuban) may require forest permission. Carry valid ID.
Accommodation Options
Inside/near the Park
- Simple forest guest house/eco-hut style stays have existed near the viewpoint in some seasons. Availability is limited and often managed by the forest department. Check in Port Blair for current status and booking procedures.
Stay in Port Blair (Recommended)
- Best Areas: Aberdeen Bazaar, Junglighat, Middle Point, and areas near the Jetty for easy ferry access.
- Budget: INR 1,200–2,500 per night for guesthouses and basic hotels.
- Mid-range: INR 3,000–6,000 per night with AC rooms and in-house dining.
- Upper range: INR 7,000+ per night for boutique stays and sea-view properties.
Note: Prices vary by season and availability. Book early for peak months (Dec–Feb).
Estimated Costs
- Passenger ferry (Port Blair ↔ Bamboo Flat): ~INR 10–30 per person each way.
- Vehicle ferry: ~INR 100–250 for two-wheelers or cars (varies by vehicle class).
- Local taxi/auto (Bamboo Flat ↔ Park & wait): ~INR 800–1,800 depending on duration and negotiation.
- Private cab from Port Blair (round-trip with waiting): ~INR 2,000–3,500.
- Park entry + camera fees: ~INR 25–200 per person/device (indicative; verify on arrival).
- Guide for Madhuban trek: ~INR 1,000–2,000 per group (if required/arranged).
These are ballpark figures to help plan your budget; actuals vary by season, fuel costs, and local policies.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Carry snacks and water; options at the park are limited and may be seasonal.
- Small tea stalls and eateries can be found around Bamboo Flat; more variety awaits back in Port Blair—seafood curries, fish thalis, and South Indian staples.
Shopping
- No dedicated shops inside the park. For souvenirs, browse Port Blair’s government emporiums (e.g., shell craft, coconut handicrafts) and local markets around Aberdeen.
Culture & Etiquette
- Dress modestly and avoid loud music in forested areas.
- Do not photograph local residents without consent; respect privacy and local customs.
- Wildlife is protected—no feeding, touching, or disturbing animals and nests.
Nearby Attractions
- North Bay Island: Lighthouse views, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat rides.
- Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island): Ruins overrun by roots, deer, and peacocks; a quick heritage stop.
- Cellular Jail (Port Blair): National memorial with a moving light-and-sound show.
- Corbyn’s Cove Beach: Easy beachtime near the city.
- Chidiya Tapu: Sunset point and birdlife at the island’s southern end.
- Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (Wandoor): Coral islands and boat trips (subject to permissions and weather).
Traveler Tips
General Packing & Safety
- Wear breathable clothing, a hat, and sturdy walking shoes; carry at least 1–2 liters of water per person.
- Sun protection and insect repellent are essential; consider leech socks during monsoon.
- Mobile network can be patchy; download offline maps. ATMs are mainly in Port Blair.
- Leave no trace—carry back all litter, avoid plastics, and stick to marked trails.
For Families
- Opt for the viewpoint and short nature walks rather than the full Madhuban trek.
- Keep kids supervised near viewpoints and on narrow paths.
For Honeymooners/Couples
- Time your visit for early morning light and cooler temperatures.
- Combine with a sunset stop at Chidiya Tapu for a romantic day out.
For Friends/Backpackers
- Plan the Madhuban trek with a local guide; start early and arrange your return transport in advance.
- Budget travelers can mix public ferry + shared autos to keep costs low.
FAQs
Q: How much time do I need to visit Mount Harriet National Park from Port Blair?
A: A relaxed half-day (4–5 hours) covers ferry transfers, the viewpoint, and short walks. Add a full day if attempting the Madhuban trek.
Q: Do I need a special permit to visit?
A: Generally no special permit is required for Indian or foreign tourists for day visits. Guided treks may need forest department permission—check in Port Blair beforehand and carry ID.
Q: What are the park timings?
A: Typically around 7:00 am to 5:00 pm with last entry mid-afternoon. Timings can change seasonally; verify locally before you start.
Q: Is the Mount Harriet–Madhuban trek difficult?
A: It’s a moderate 16 km (one-way) forest trail. Expect humid conditions, uneven terrain, and possible leeches in monsoon. Good shoes, water, and a guide are recommended.
Q: Is it suitable for children and seniors?
A: The viewpoint and short trails are suitable with care. The full trek may be strenuous for young children or seniors.
Conclusion
Close to Port Blair yet worlds apart in mood, Mount Harriet National Park blends Andaman’s coastal panoramas with tranquil forest walks and rich biodiversity. Come for the iconic viewpoint, stay for birdsong, and, if you’re up for it, trek the historic trail to Madhuban. With simple planning around ferries, timings, and weather, this is one of South Andaman’s most rewarding day escapes.
