|

Top 6 National Parks in Andaman to Get Closer to Nature

Andaman and Nicobar Islands are truly rich in biodiversity, wildlife and natural attractions as the archipelago of plenty of islands. The national parks listed here in Andaman are considered as one of the hottest favorite destinations for wildlife photographers, activists and conservationists thanks to its fascinating coral reefs, marine life, and exotic underwater world.

These national parks are scattered across the Indian Ocean in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. These national parks would definitely give you a magical experience on your trip. Read on and learn about these beautiful national parks to visit in Andaman.

1. Mount Harriet National Park

Mount Harriet National Park is well regarded as one of the most popular national parks in the archipelago and is considered as the most visited and exotic national parks. Stretched over 46 sq. km, Mount Harriet National Park is located around 383m and houses only few wildlife species like turtles, robber crabs and Andaman wild pigs. You can spend a great time in the wilderness and enjoy the world-class facilities in the wilderness.

Location – Hope Town, Port Blair

Timings – 7AM to 5PM, Everyday

Entry – Rs. 10 for child, Rs. 25 per person (Indian), and Rs. 250 per person (foreigners)

2. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park

Located in the proximity to Wandoor Beach, Port Blair, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a well known tourist attraction. You can get up close with lively coral reefs, vivid marine life and snorkeling attractions. This artificial national park has plenty of flora and fauna to explore. You can witness some of the rare species like wild boar, water lizard, and sea snakes. In addition, the national park is stretched over 15 islands having tropical rainforests and mangrove creeks.

Timings – Open 24×7 from Tuesday to Sunday, Closed on Monday

Location – SH8

3. Campbell Bay National Park

Campbell Bay National Park is over 190 km from Sumatra region and is sprawled over 426 km sq. This busy national park is rich in marine life and houses different wildlife species, such as Megapode, crab-eating macaque, Nicobar pigeon and robber crabs. If you want to explore nature at its best, cabin and camp facilities are also offered by park authorities to have a great day out.

Timings – 12 midnight to 12 Noon

Location – Island of Great Nicobar

4. North Button Island National Park

The North Button Island National Park is a famous attraction among several popular national parks in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Stretched around 114 sq. km, this island is a great crowd puller in Andaman Islands thanks to its rich biodiversity and fauna species. You can explore it from December to March at its best and spot several rare species like water monitors, dugong, and dolphins.

Location – North Button Island

5. Galathea National Park

Galathea National Park is strategically located under Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve on Great Nicobar Island. It was established in the year 1992. It houses diverse species of animals and birds. The forest buffer zone stretched over 12 km separates it from Campbell Bay National Park. The forest also has a provision for watch towers to serve animal lovers to view different species like pythons, giant leatherback turtles, and Malayan box turtles. The national park also offers a lot of activities like sea walks, snorkeling, boating and scuba diving.

Location – Island of Great Nicobar

Timings – 12AM to 12PM

6. Saddle Peak National Park

Stretched over 85 sq. km, Saddle Peak National Park is located on the north of Andaman. It houses rare flora and fauna species, such as Andaman hill myna, wild pig, imperial pigeon, saltwater crocodiles, and water monitor lizards. It is truly a retreat for trekking enthusiasts. It features a long 8-km trek towards the mountain peak from its entry.

Timings – 4AM to 5PM (Monday to Sunday)

Location – Saddle Peak, Middle and North Andaman

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Andaman have India’s smallest national park?

Yes, South Button Island National Park is the smallest national park in India. It is stretched over just 0.03 sq. km. At No.2 stands Mandla Plant Fossil National Park in Madhya Pradesh, which is stretched over 0.27 sq. km. It is the smallest national park in mainland and second smallest in India.

2. How many national parks Andaman Islands have?

Andaman and Nicobar Islands have total 9 national parks. Mount Harriet National Park is one of the most frequented and exotic national parks among other national parks.

3. What is the largest national park in India?

Hemis National Park is considered to be largest when it comes to area. It is stretched over 3350 sq. km and is well located in Leh District of J&K. But when it comes to popularity, Jim Corbett National Park stands as the most diverse destination in India.

4. What is the state bird of Andaman Island?

The Andaman Wood Pigeon is known as the state bird of the archipelago. It is found in Andaman Islands only. It is endemic to such islands owing to dense green jungles. The color of the bird is a blend of darkish slate hues in upper and light blue grey in their underbelly.

Bottom Line

Presenting the true beauty and magic of nature, Andaman and Nicobar Island has plenty of beautiful national parks to make your trip even more exciting. You can plan your holiday beforehand to have a stress-free experience and relax and chill on your vacation.

Top Things to Do in Red Skin Island – A Charming Seascape in Andaman

There are only a few places on the planet where you can explore the true beauty of nature unfolds in each step you take ahead. Andaman Nicobar Islands tourism is famous for uncovering the true charm of azure sea waters, stunning rain forests, vivid corals, unspoiled seascapes, and local culture.

The Red Skin Island is located 1000 km or so from the eastern peninsular mainland of India. It attracts a huge number of tourists to fulfill their wanderlust in the Bay of Bengal. This archipelago has a lot of stunning islands to visit but Red Skin Island is the most frequently visited in Andaman. The island is located in Wandoor village in Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park on Andaman Islands.

Best Time to Visit

As discussed, Red Skin Island is one of the 15 islands located in Mahatma Gandhi National Park. The park is located around 30 km from the capital of Port Blair to southwest of the archipelago. You need to have a permit from the forest department to travel to the island at least one day ahead of your visit. The tourists can access the island only from May to October and it is not available on Mondays. The island stays open on average for 6 months and night stays are prohibited here. It has a lot of activities for tourists and is a one day trip.

Things to Do

Red Skin Island is beautifully soaked in the glory of flora and fauna. It is definitely one of the best and charming parts of this island. It is known to have shallow waters to explore the beautiful marine life and to have an amazing experience. It welcomes the visitors with a great combination of pristine vibes when you reach the island with the feel of dream destination. Here are some of the amazing adventure activities you can enjoy in this mesmerizing island –

1. Glass Bottom Boat Ride

There is literally no one who doesn’t want to explore the depth of the sea. But not everyone can be a diver to do just that. Deep down we all have a dream to explore the underwater kingdom with our naked eyes. If you are visiting Andaman with that dream, it’s time to fulfill your wishes. You can visit the Red Skin Island and opt for Glass Bottom Boat Ride. This ride combines curiosity and thrill and has won a lot of awards.

This small boat has the capacity to hold only a few people. As the name suggests, it has a glass bottom to reveal the marine life under your feet. Fasten your seatbelts and get ready to embark on the lifetime journey without getting wet. View Package

2. Snorkeling

It is one of the best activities you can enjoy on Red Skin Island. It is definitely a center of attraction in Red Skin Island. There are artificial fish fins available to enjoy this activity and you can dive in and take a closer look at the brimming underwater world. You can swim with fishes and indulge in the marine ecosystem to have experience like never before. There is no need to have any prior swimming skills or training. Just wear the fins and embark on this visual journey. View Package

3. Scuba Diving

You can definitely enjoy this activity along with other adventures in Red Skin Island. You can have a lot of opportunities to explore the underwater world and explore the corals. It is something you cannot express in words. The island houses beautiful coral reefs with different species. It is really amazing for the travelers to explore vivid underwater life. You will be accompanied by a guide and you can definitely try this activity. View Package

4. Sunbathing

The island is literally a beautiful setting having emerald sea waters. The island literally makes an ideal avenue to relax and soak in serene views of exotic sea. It is an ideal venue to feel the melting sand on your feet. You can soak the sun and explore the captivating and serene ambience.

General Advice for Tourists

Be sure to carry your own water and food when visiting this island as it doesn’t have enough eating kiosks.
The island is available for tourists all days in a week except Mondays.
You need to take prior permission at Wandoor Beach where you can go to the administration department as access to this island is prohibited.
Don’t leave the plastic waste at the island as it is a plastic free zone.

Carry other vital supplies like clothes, sunscreen, mosquito repellent and others.
Ferries services are available at 9am. Be sure to stick to the timings and reach there before time.
Always carry water in Milton bottles because you cannot carry something like plastic to the island.
Don’t bring any corals or shells from the island if you find anything. You need to take permission if you want to bring back anything.
You have to come back by the evening as night stay is strictly prohibited.
Be sure to carry ID proof like Aadhar, Driving license, or passport for ferry tickets.

Getting There

It is always recommended to travel to Wandoor Beach by road which is the best way. The beach is located only 30 km from Port Blair. You need to board a ferry to get to the island. Ferry service starts from the beach at 9am on a regular basis. Return ferries are available from 2.30 PM onwards. You can explore the lush greens while accessing Wandoor from Port Blair.