One of the many national parks in the Andaman Islands is the Mount Harriet National Park, which is considered as the main attraction and highest peak in the Archipelago of South Andaman. The main feature of Mount Harriet is its fauna and natural flora, which are up to now still unmatched. Just like a forest, Mount Harriet is covered with greenery and Port Blair can be seen from the top of the mount’s peak.
Mount Harriet was named after British soldier Robert Christopher Tytler’s wife Harriet. Aside from being a soldier, Tytler was a photographer and a nature lover hence he was able to capture the beauty of the area. From his pictures, you can see the islands around Mount Harriet with breathtaking beauty. Tytler was also served as the Superintendent of the Convict Settlement located in Port Blair from 1862 to 1864. It take 15 – 20 minutes by boat from Port Blair to Bamboo flat and another 15 – 20 minutes by road from Bamboo flat to Mount Harriet.
Mount Harriet is a great place to bond with your family. A day with the family members in a natural set-up and doing activities together is a priceless and memorable time. A few minutes away from Port Blair, this is one place you can consider going to. Aside from the wonderful activities lined up to do, you can enjoy fresh air and nature tripping. Mount Harriet is the highest point wherein the horizon is just a stone-throw’s away and this is appreciated by the visitors who are left in awe by its beauty.
What to Expect at Mount Harriet National Park
- Different kind of park – Mount Harriet is not just a national park but a reserved area which is protected and administered by the Forest Department of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This also requires visitors to secure a pass before entering the park. It is covered with lush evergreen forests, which makes its beauty outstanding. The curvy mountain ways are a perfect place for trekking.
Amazing view – If you are a nature-lover then this is the perfect place for you to visit and try to enjoy being in an environment with picturesque views. One of the views you can see is the North Bay Island’s Light House, which is also found at the back of the INR 20 bill which was taken from the top of Mount Harriet.
- Natural wealth – The park also boasts of having the richness in its fauna and flora. There are a lot of exotic bird species wherein 11 are endemic and being recognized by the government as an Important Birds Areas of the island. There are also reptiles and a number of amphibians with new species of frog just recently been added to the list. There are also a couple of green marine turtles, mammals and species of moths. Trees and plants are abundant in the park making the surroundings an ideal place for the birds and other animals.
- Nature at its best – Enjoy all the facilities and activities being offered in the park like the children’s park, watchtowers, tourist sheds and eco hut. For those who want to spend the night can rent the forest guesthouse for your convenience and relaxation. You can also enjoy the Madhuban Beach, which used to be a training camp for elephants. To go to Madhuban Beach, you need to trek from Mount Harriet.
If you are not into trekking or if you have small children who cannot walk for a long period, you can take your car and drive up the forest area up to the highest peak of Mount Harriet. Tourists are amazed on how marvelous the view is from the top of Mount Harriet. Be ready to catch it on your camera and have it posted on social media for other people to see. Maybe it is a good way to encourage people to visit the park and see for themselves the wonder of nature.
Innumerable trees cover most of the park to give the feel of being in a forest just like in the movies. There is a pathway, which guides the hikers on their way to the top so one need not worry of getting lost in the forest.
Find out about other trekking options with our things to do in Andaman list
Visitors are looking forward to the opening of the butterfly house and the Orchidarium as added attractions in the park. Those who have certain ailments welcome soothing experience in the park. Plus, getting at the top of Mount Harriet gives fresh air to breathe. People who want to experience calmness can go to Mount Harriet and find peace and serenity in the middle of the forest with the bird’s chirping and swaying of the leaves.
Activities to Do
•Trekking – A 16-kilometer nature trail is available for those people who are into long walks and savoring the feel of the forest.
•Photography – Better have a good pair of cameras as this is one opportunity to get good pictures of scenic views, animals and the sea.
•Picnic – A great way to bond with your family or friends. Just bring a mat and some food. The picnic can be enjoyed immensely with chirping of the birds in the background.
•Viewing – A magnificent view of nature right in front of you. You’ll be able to see clearly and upfront the beauty and wonder of nature.
•Bird Watching – Watch the beautiful birds in their natural habitat and be mesmerised by their divine beauty.
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