If you're visiting Port Blair, Mount Harriet National Park is a must-visit destination that offers an enchanting blend of lush greenery, serene ambiance, and breathtaking views. Conveniently accessible by frequent ferries, it is an enjoyable 8-kilometer ride or drive from the city center, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts and travelers seeking tranquility.
Entry and Permits
Before entering, you'll pass through a Forest Department gate where you need to provide your details and present a valid ID proof. The entry fee is nominal—just ₹50 for visitors and ₹20 for two-wheelers. The staff issues a permit with a specified exit time, ensuring the preservation of the park’s pristine environment while regulating visitor activity.
The Experience
Once inside, you'll be greeted by a well-maintained park surrounded by dense tropical forests that are rich in biodiversity. Mount Harriet is part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands' heritage, offering not just a slice of natural beauty but also historical significance—it once served as a summer retreat for British officials.
Attractions
The park offers several attractions:
Scenic Views: The panoramic vistas of the surrounding islands and the turquoise waters of the Bay of Bengal are mesmerizing. It’s a photographer's paradise and a peaceful spot for nature lovers.
Swings and Relaxation: Though not the adrenaline-pumping cliff swings you may imagine, the swings in the park provide a uniquely serene experience. As you sway gently, you feel immersed in the tranquility of nature, listening to birds chirping and the rustle of leaves in the breeze.
Trekking Trails: For the adventurous, the park has trails leading to Kala Patthar and Madhuban, offering opportunities to explore the lush flora and fauna.
Historical Significance: Don’t miss the view depicted on the ₹20 Indian currency note, which captures the natural beauty of this park.
Additional Information
The park's eco-friendly approach and the strict management of visitor activity enhance its charm. Be sure to respect the guidelines, keep the park clean, and enjoy the calm, refreshing atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Mount Harriet National Park is not just a location; it’s an experience that rejuvenates your soul. The combination of natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and the sheer peace it offers makes it one of the most memorable spots in the Andaman Islands. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or just someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle, Mount Harriet National Park promises a...
Read moreThe highest peak in South Andaman is Mount Harriet. It is a popular tourist destination and a must-visit place for tourists in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
To reach the island, you mentioned taking a jetty. This indicates that you likely traveled by ferry or boat to reach the South Andaman Island.
The road to the top of Mount Harriet is known for its scenic and soothing beauty. Along the way, you can find a beautiful viewpoint that resembles the one depicted on the Indian 20 rupees note. The view from this viewpoint is mesmerizing and offers a stunning panoramic vista.
There is an entry fee to access Mount Harriet. The fee is 50 rupees per person, and if you are traveling on a scooter, the fee is 20 rupees.
Once inside the park, you'll find multiple view points to explore. According to your experience, the view point at the end provided a panoramic view, and the tranquility in the absence of other visitors was truly remarkable. It seems that Mount Harriet is an underrated destination, often overlooked by tourists.
On your way back, if you have the time and a scooter, you can consider exploring the road route back to Port Blair. Along this route, you may even have the opportunity to visit Wandoor.
Bambooflat, located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is described as one of the most beautiful places you have seen. From there, you can enjoy picturesque views of the Bay of Bengal, and the sight of the iconic lighthouse on North Bay Island, which is depicted on the Indian 20 rupees currency note, is truly mind-blowing.
Overall, your experience in South Andaman, specifically at Mount Harriet and Bambooflat, showcases the natural beauty and captivating scenery of the Andaman and...
Read moreWith Rain playing #Spoiler the options to roam around an Island decrease drastically! That’s when Dad suggested #MountHarriet #NationalPark at Bamboo Flat for a short tour. And it was a brilliant idea, I had been here around 10yrs back and it would be a good refresh. Reaching Mount Harriet is easy from Portblair, there are 2 ways: Take the road on NH-4 (wonderful road and drive amidst lush green views) up to Ferrargunj and then get off towards Wimberlygunj entering Bambooflat. The ride should take you around 1hr to reach Mount Harriet. The last 2km stretch of is literally amidst the forest and refreshing. Take the public transport from Portblair to Chatham and a 10min ferry ride from Chatham to Bambooflat followed by the final stretch of 5km to Mount Harriet.
At Mount Harriet you need to pay the entry fee and your vehicles take you around 200m from the view points. The place has multiple view points, and the forest rest house if you plan to stay(needs advance booking). There are 2 trails - one is 80m to the Gun Shot View point (picture no.6 and 7) and 2.5km to the Kala Patthar beach which we didn’t go for a reason. At Mount Harriet be rest-assured that if you plan to trek, you bring home LEECHES fro sure! We did the 80m trek and 3 of us had leeches on our feet and hence it is advised to be cautious for the beach trail for sure (that was the reason we didn’t do this trail as we had 2 senior citizens with us) The view points are wonderful, the air is brilliant and the 20rs Indian currency note also has a view of the light house visible from here! Tips: - Go on a Non-rainy day carry snacks...
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