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Plan your Andaman holiday with local experts based in Port Blair
Most visitors to Port Blair think of the Andaman Islands as a sea-level destination, beaches, reefs, island ferries and coastal walks. Mount Harriet National Park reminds you that the Andaman chain has another dimension entirely. Rising to 365 metres above sea level, Mount Harriet is the highest peak in South Andaman and the centrepiece of a protected national park that spans dense evergreen forest, colonial-era trails, endemic wildlife and some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the entire archipelago. On a clear day from the summit, you can see Port Blair harbour, Ross Island, Havelock Island and the open Andaman Sea, the very view that once graced the back of India's ₹20 currency note. It is one of those destinations that surprises every visitor who makes the effort to reach it.
Mount Harriet National Park is located in Hope Town on the eastern side of South Andaman Island, across the harbour from Port Blair. The park is accessible by two routes, a short ferry ride from Chatham Wharf to Bamboo Flat followed by a scenic uphill drive, or a longer road journey via the Andaman Trunk Road and Ferrargunj taking approximately 1.5 hours. The ferry route is the more popular choice, combining the charm of a short harbour crossing with a drive through increasingly dense forest as the road climbs towards the summit.
The park was declared a national park in 1969 and covers an area of dense tropical evergreen forest on the slopes and summit of Mount Harriet. It is also now officially known as Mount Manipur National Park, though it continues to be widely referred to by its historical name. During the British colonial period, the summit served as the summer headquarters of the Chief Commissioner of the Andaman Islands, and several well-preserved British-era structures, including the Chief Commissioner's residence, remain standing within the park as reminders of its colonial past. The park also carries the weight of India's freedom struggle history, having served as a detention site during the independence movement.
The national park is a biodiversity hotspot of significant importance, home to over 90 species of birds, more than 40 species of butterflies, endemic mammals including the Andaman Wild Pig, reptiles including the monitor lizard and saltwater crocodile in forest streams, and a rich botanical environment featuring rare orchids, towering tropical trees and dense forest undergrowth. For nature lovers, wildlife photographers and trekkers, Mount Harriet National Park offers an Andaman experience that is entirely distinct from anything available at the island's beaches or reef destinations.
Mount Harriet National Park is the kind of destination that delivers a completely different Andaman experience from anything else in the Port Blair region. The forest is dense, cool and alive with birdsong from the moment you enter the park boundary. The walking trails wind through towering trees, misty clearings and stretches of undergrowth where butterflies move in extraordinary numbers. The air is noticeably cooler than at sea level, the light filters through the canopy in long shafts, and the sense of being inside a genuinely wild and protected forest environment is immediate and immersive.
The summit viewpoint is the headline attraction and it more than justifies the ascent. On a clear day the panorama from 365 metres encompasses Port Blair harbour, the surrounding islands including Ross Island and North Bay, the blue expanse of the Andaman Sea and, on exceptionally clear days, the distant outline of Havelock Island on the horizon. This is the view that featured on the back of India's old ₹20 currency note and it is as dramatic in person as that recognition suggests. Sunrise and early morning visits produce the clearest views and the most rewarding light for photography.
The Mount Harriet to Madhuban trek is the park's most celebrated trail, a 16 kilometre route through dense forest that passes streams, butterfly habitats, endemic bird territory and, for the fortunate, sightings of monitor lizards and saltwater crocodiles in the forest waterways. The Kala Pahad Trail offers a shorter alternative, a 1.5 kilometre route to a rocky outcrop with panoramic island chain views. Both trails are well maintained and guided treks are available for those who prefer expert company on the longer routes.
The park also has a small deer enclosure where spotted deer can be observed at close range, an orchid cultivation facility showcasing the Andaman Islands' diverse orchid species, and the remains of British colonial buildings that add a compelling historical dimension to what is otherwise a purely natural experience. The combination of forest, wildlife, history, summit views and trekking options makes Mount Harriet National Park one of the most layered and rewarding half-day destinations in the entire Port Blair region.
Plan Your Mount Harriet National Park Visit with Our Local ExpertsMount Harriet National Park offers a rich and layered experience combining forest trekking, panoramic summit views, endemic birdwatching, butterfly spotting, colonial history and wildlife encounters, all within a half-day trip from Port Blair. Here is what to plan for during your visit.
The summit viewpoint at Mount Harriet, the highest point in South Andaman at 365 metres, offers one of the most extraordinary panoramic views available anywhere in the Andaman Islands. On a clear day the vista encompasses Port Blair harbour, Ross Island, North Bay Island, the surrounding sea and the distant silhouette of Havelock Island on the horizon. This is the view that appeared on the back of India's old ₹20 currency note, and seeing it in person confirms why it was chosen. Arrive early in the morning for the clearest visibility and the best photographic light, midday haze can reduce the view significantly.
The 16 kilometre Mount Harriet to Madhuban trek is the most celebrated trail in the park, a full forest experience through dense tropical evergreen canopy rich with butterflies, endemic birds, monitor lizards and, in the forest streams, the occasional saltwater crocodile. The route follows a colonial-era path once used by British officers, adding a layer of historical atmosphere to the natural experience. Guided treks are available and recommended for first-time visitors. For those with less time, the Kala Pahad Trail offers a rewarding 1.5 kilometre alternative leading to a dramatic rocky outcrop with panoramic island chain views.
Mount Harriet National Park is one of the finest birdwatching destinations in the Andaman Islands, with over 90 bird species recorded across its forest and coastal habitats. Endemic species including the Andaman Woodpecker, Andaman Wood Pigeon, Andaman Cuckoo Dove, Andaman Serpent Eagle and the rare Andaman Crake have all been spotted within the park. The forest is also home to over 40 species of butterflies including the spectacular Andaman Mormon and Blue Mormon. Early morning visits, particularly between 6 AM and 9 AM, offer the highest probability of wildlife sightings before the heat of the day reduces activity.
Mount Harriet's colonial history adds a compelling historical dimension to the natural experience. Well-preserved British-era buildings including the former Chief Commissioner's residence stand within the park grounds, offering an atmospheric glimpse into Andaman's colonial past. The park's orchid cultivation facility showcases the island's diverse orchid species in a guided setting, while a small deer enclosure allows close observation of spotted deer, particularly popular with families and children. Together these elements make Mount Harriet National Park one of the most genuinely varied and surprising half-day destinations in Port Blair.
| Location | Hope Town, South Andaman Island, accessible by ferry from Chatham Wharf to Bamboo Flat then drive, or by road via Ferrargunj (approx. 1.5 hours from Port Blair) |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Mount Manipur National Park, the official renamed designation; widely referred to as Mount Harriet National Park |
| Summit Elevation | 365 metres, the highest peak in South Andaman, with panoramic views of Port Blair, Ross Island, North Bay and Havelock Island on clear days |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March, cool temperatures, minimal rainfall, excellent visibility from the summit and best conditions for trekking and wildlife spotting |
| Ideal Visit Time | Early morning, arrive by 7 AM for the clearest summit views, coolest trekking conditions and highest wildlife activity before midday heat |
| Key Attractions | Summit viewpoint (₹20 note panorama), Madhuban trek (16 km), Kala Pahad Trail (1.5 km), endemic birdwatching, butterfly spotting, colonial heritage buildings, orchid facility, deer enclosure |
| Entry Fee | ₹50 for Indian nationals; ₹500 for foreign nationals. No permit required for Indian citizens; foreign visitors require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) |
| Wildlife | 90+ bird species, 40+ butterfly species, Andaman Wild Pig, monitor lizards, saltwater crocodiles (forest streams), spotted deer, endemic orchids and tropical flora |
| Facilities Available | Forest Department viewpoints, rest huts along trails, guided trek services, orchid facility, deer enclosure, parking. Carry food and water from Port Blair |
| Nearby Attractions | Ross Island, North Bay Island, Chatham Saw Mill, Cellular Jail Port Blair, Corbyn's Cove Beach, Wandoor Beach |
Start early, this is the single most important tip for Mount Harriet National Park. The summit views are at their clearest in the early morning before heat haze builds over the sea. Wildlife activity, birds, butterflies, reptiles, is highest between 6 AM and 9 AM. The forest temperature is coolest before midday, making the trek significantly more comfortable in the early hours. Aim to be at the park entrance by 7 AM and at the summit viewpoint before 8 AM for the best combination of clear views, cool air and active wildlife.
The ferry route from Chatham Wharf to Bamboo Flat is the most enjoyable way to reach Mount Harriet and is strongly recommended over the longer road route. The crossing takes around 20 minutes and offers pleasant views of Port Blair harbour before the drive up through the forest begins. Check ferry timings at Chatham Wharf before your visit as schedules vary by season, your hotel or tour operator can confirm the current timetable.
Mount Harriet National Park pairs naturally with a morning visit to Ross Island and North Bay Island as part of a harbour-side Port Blair day. The ferry from Chatham connects all three destinations efficiently, and the contrast between the marine and island history of Ross Island and the forest and summit experience of Mount Harriet makes for one of the most varied and satisfying full-day itineraries available in Port Blair. Our team at AndamanVacation.com regularly builds this combination into Port Blair schedules for visitors who want to make the most of their time on South Andaman.
Carry at least one litre of water per person, insect repellent, comfortable trekking footwear and binoculars if you have them, the birdwatching here rewards close observation significantly. The humidity inside the forest is high even on cooler days, so light breathable clothing is essential. Plastic is banned within the national park, carry all food and water in reusable containers. Stay on marked trails, observe wildlife from a distance and follow all Forest Department guidelines to protect this extraordinary ecosystem.
Mount Harriet National Park is the destination that gives Port Blair a vertical dimension, forest, altitude, panoramic views and endemic wildlife that exist nowhere else in the same combination within reach of the city. It is suitable for families, solo travellers, wildlife enthusiasts, history lovers and anyone who wants a morning of genuine natural immersion between their beach and island days. The summit view alone, across the harbour, the sea and the distant islands, justifies every minute of the journey to reach it.
Our team at Andaman Vacations India includes Mount Harriet National Park in Port Blair itineraries for travellers who want the full range of what South Andaman has to offer, history, coast, reef and forest all within a single well-planned stay. Tell us your travel dates and we will build a Port Blair itinerary that gives every landmark, including this extraordinary one, exactly the time it deserves.
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