Mount Harriet National Park

Mount Harriet National Park

Mount Harriet National Park, located on the eastern side of South Andaman Island and just 20 km away from Port Blair is a stunning combination of picturesque hilltops, rugged forest trails, panoramic ocean view, and rich biodiversity. The park covers 46.62 square kilometers. Mount Harriet is the third-highest peak in the Andaman Nicobar Islands at 383 metres. You can see the islands surrounding it, including North Bay which is featured on the backside of the Rs20 Indian currency.

This lush region was declared a national reserve in 1987. It is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, hikers and wildlife photographers. The evergreen and semievergreen forests of the park support a diverse range of flora, fauna and rare endemics such as Andaman Wood Pigeons, Andaman Wild Pigs and robber Crabs. Its lush environment, tribal history, and close proximity to Port Blair makes it an ideal eco-tourism destination.

History & Culture Significance of Mount Harriet National Park

Mount Harriet National Park, a treasure of natural beauty and cultural significance is a must-see. The park was named after Harriet C. Tytler. She is the wife of Robert Christopher Tytler who was a British naturalist and soldier. Tytler was the Superintendent of the Convict Settlement at Port Blair from 1862 to 1864. He was a passionate nature and photographer, often visiting this area, later known as Mount Harriet.

Mount Harriet was the summer headquarters for the Chief Commissioner during the British colonial period. Mount Harriet, which was the summer headquarters of the Chief Commissioner during British colonial times, still stands today. It offers panoramic views of Port Blair and Havelock Island.

The iconic image of Mount Harriet’s forested slopes, overlooking North Bay, was selected as the background on the Rs20 Indian currency bill, further cementing the cultural symbolism within Indian heritage.

Due to its proximity to tribal reserve and the presence of endemic species and endangered species, conservation efforts are made a priority in this park.

Geography of Mount Harriet National Park: 

The park covers 46.62 square kilometers. The national park covers 46.62 sq. Include the surrounding areas and peaks. The park is located between 10deg and 14deg N longitude and 92deg - 94deg east latitude. It is an important part of the eastern hills of South Andaman.

The park's elevation ranges from sea level to 459 metres, with a mixture of steep cliffs and rolling hills. This protected area contains several important peaks:

• Mount Koyob (459 m) is the highest point in the park.
   
• Mount Harriet - 422 m
   
• Mount Hext (425 m)
   
• Mount Carpenter - 346 m
   
• Mount Goodridge (376 m)

The dense evergreens and semi-evergreens of the region are not only beautiful but also vital habitats for a variety of species.

Flora and Fauna of Mount Harriet National Park

Mount Harriet National Park has a rich biodiversity and is home to an amazing range of plants and animals:

Fauna Highlights:

• 90 bird species, including 11 endemics
   
• There are 27 species of amphibians and reptiles, including 12 endemic species
   
• There are 12 different mammal species including the Andaman wild pig, bats and shrews.
   
• Discover 120 moth species, including new varieties
   
• The presence of the king cobra and Andaman cobra as well as nesting turtles, Green Sea Turtle and Olive Ridley.
   
• There are occasional sightings such as crocodiles in saltwater, crabs that robber, and elephants trained for log transport.
   

Flora Highlights:

• More than 393 plant species, including 74 endemic species and 51 introduced species
   
• The forest types that are represented include:
  
  
  • Evergreen Forests
     
  • Andaman Moist Deciduous Forests
     
  • Semi-Evergreen forests
     
  • Littoral Forests
     
• Recent discoveries include Drypetes ellis and Ceropygie ellis, two rare plants.
   
• This park was the site of a discovery: Thrixspermum mergeuense. It is a new record orchid for the Andamans.

The park is one of the Andaman Islands' most important natural reserves because of its rich biodiversity.

Tourist Attractions in Mount Harriet National Park

Mount Harriet is more than a natural wonder. It's a hub for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

• The route to Madhuban, a popular nature trek, is full of birds, butterflies and wild animals. This trail offers a unique jungle experience for eco-tourists, wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
   
• Scenic Vantage points: The summit provides stunning views of Port Blair and Havelock Island. It is an ideal place for relaxation and photography.
   
• Birdwatching: The park has a large number of endemic species, making it a haven for birdwatchers and ornithologists alike.
   
• Ferry ride from Chatham Wharf (the wharf) to Bamboo Flat. A fun way to get to the park and enjoy the charm of the coast.

How to Reach Mount Harriet National Park: 

Mount Harriet can be easily reached from Port Blair by road and ferry.

Option 1: Ferry and road (most scenic)

• Take a ferry from Port Blair's Chatham Jetty to Bambooflat Jetty (15-20 min).
   
• Hire a taxi or an auto from Bambooflat to Mount Harriet (10 km on the road).
   

Option 2: Direct By Road

• The longer route via Andaman Trunk Road and Ferrargunj is about 1.5 hours long, but it offers a comfortable and convenient drive for those who prefer to travel by road over ferry.
   

Practical Tips

• Hours: 7 AM to 5 PM every day
   
• Entry fee: Rs. 50 for Indians and Rs. 500 for foreign nationals
   
• Still Camera Fee: Rs25 | Video Camera Fee: Rs100
   
• Permit: Indian citizens do not need a permit; foreigners must have their RAP ( Restricted area Permit).
   

Port Blair Tours and Activities

Things to do in Mount Harriet National Park: 

1. Trekking Trails

Mount Harriet has a variety of trails that are well maintained and offer varying degrees of difficulty. The most popular hike is the 16 km trek from Madhuban up to Mount Harriet, which passes through dense forests and scenic views.

• Madhuban trail: See butterflies, exotic bird species, and, if you're lucky, a saltwater crocodile in forest streams.
   
• Kala Pahad Trail : This 1.5 km trail leads to a rocky outcrop that offers panoramic views of the islands chain.
   

2. Bird Watching

Over 120 species of birds can be found in the park, including

• Andaman wood pigeon (State bird)
   
• Andaman drongo
   
• White-headed Starling

Best time: Early mornings or just before sunset

3. Photography

Mount Harriet, in Andaman, is one of the most Instagrammable spots.

• Rs20 Note Viewpoint
   
• Sunrise and sunset panoramas
   
• Canopies of misty forest
   

4. Wildlife Spotting

Watch out for:

• Andaman wild pig
   
• Saltwater Crocodiles in Mangroves Near Madhuban
   
• Hermit crabs and butterflies, as well as monitor lizards
   

5. Picnic & Day Camp

The area is designated for eco-camps, family picnics, and seating areas with shade and garbage disposal units.

Discover trekking adventures in Andaman

When is the Best Time to Visit Mount Harriet National Park?

It is best to visit between October and February when the forest is lush and dry, but not muddy.

Facilities in Mount Harriet National Park: 

• Entry Gate & Information Centre
   
• Designated Parking Area
   
• Basic Toilets and Clean Toilets
   
• Signposted nature trails
   
• Watch Towers & Viewpoints
   
• Forest Rest House (reservation required in advance)
   
• Basic food stalls at the entrance (seasonal).
   
• First Aid & Ranger Assistance
   
• Eco-Huts Day Use

It is important to note that there are no restaurants in the park. Therefore, it is best to bring your own food and drink.

Visitor Tips:

Do's:

• Hiring a local guide to spot wildlife and birds
   
• Always carry insect repellents and sunscreen
   
• Wear closed-toe shoes and carry a stick to help you navigate uneven terrain
   
• Pack light clothes that are breathable and a rainponcho for the summer or after the monsoon.
   

Don'ts:

• Avoid visiting restricted tribal reserves
   
• Keep the forest clean by not littering
   
• Do not feed or disturb wild animals
   
• No drones or loud music allowed
   

What to carry to Mount Harriet National Park:

• Valid ID and RAP for foreign nationals
   
• Power bank with camera
   
• Reusable water bottles
   
• Light snacks
   
• First-aid kit
   
• Rain Jacket (during June to October)

Get more Andaman travel tips

Nearby Attractions of Mount Harriet National Park:

Mount Harriet is easily combined with other places of interest in Port Blair.

1. North Bay Island

This island is visible from the park. It offers scuba diving and seawalking.

North Bay Island Activities to Book

2. Cellular Jail

Historic colonial jail where freedom fighters have been imprisoned. Do not miss the light show.

Cellular Jail

3. Chidiya Tapu

This beach and mangrove area, famous for its sunset point is only 45 minutes away from Port Blair.

4. Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island)

Only 10 minutes away by boat are colonial ruins, and there are deer roaming free.

Havelock & Ross Island Tour

Discover Andaman Holidays Pvt. Ltd.

Phone: 7063955900 / 8001123888
Email: [email protected]

Let Discover Andaman Holidays Pvt Ltd take care of your travel, tours, transfers, and hotel bookings so you can focus on making unforgettable memories.