Andaman & Nicobar Islands (9 National Parks)

Andaman & Nicobar Islands (9 National Parks)

  1. Campbell Bay National Park
  2. Galathea Bay National Park
  3. Mahatma Gandhi Marine (Wandoor) National Park
  4. Middle Button Island National Park
  5. Mount Harriet National Park
  6. North Button Island National Park
  7. Rani Jhansi Marine National Park
  8. Saddle Peak National Park
  9. South Button Island National Park

Route Plan for Exploring National Parks in Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Day 1: Arrival at Port Blair

  • Activities:
    • Arrive at Port Blair, the capital of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
    • Acclimatize and prepare for the journey.
    • Explore local attractions like Cellular Jail (optional).

Day 2: Mahatma Gandhi Marine (Wandoor) National Park

  • Distance from Port Blair: ~25 km (1-hour drive)
  • Activities:
    • Snorkeling, diving, and exploring the marine biodiversity.
    • Visit Jolly Buoy and Red Skin Islands (part of the park).

Day 3: Mount Harriet National Park

  • Distance from Port Blair: ~15 km (45-minute drive)
  • Activities:
    • Hike to Mount Harriet, the third-highest peak in the islands.
    • Enjoy panoramic views and the lush forest.

Day 4: Saddle Peak National Park

  • Travel to Diglipur: 300 km (~10-hour drive or ferry from Port Blair to Diglipur)
  • Activities:
    • Hike to Saddle Peak, the highest point in the Andaman Islands.
    • Explore the dense evergreen forest.

Day 5: North Button Island National Park

  • Access from Diglipur: ~3-4 hours by boat
  • Activities:
    • Observe marine life, including coral reefs and turtles.

Day 6: Middle Button Island National Park

  • Access from Diglipur: ~2-3 hours by boat
  • Activities:
    • Explore coral reefs and pristine beaches.
    • Wildlife spotting, including rare species.

Day 7: South Button Island National Park

  • Access from Diglipur: ~2-3 hours by boat
  • Activities:
    • Snorkeling and diving to explore underwater biodiversity.

Day 8: Rani Jhansi Marine National Park

  • Travel to Rani Jhansi Marine National Park: Reach via Havelock Island (~2 hours by ferry)
  • Activities:
    • Dive or snorkel to explore marine life.
    • Visit surrounding islands like Neil Island.

Day 9: Travel to Great Nicobar Island

  • Mode: Ferry or flight to Great Nicobar (Campbell Bay)
  • Duration: ~1-2 days (depending on availability)

Day 10: Campbell Bay National Park

  • Activities:
    • Explore the lush greenery and diverse flora and fauna.
    • Spot endemic species like the Nicobar megapode and crab-eating macaque.

Day 11: Galathea Bay National Park

  • Distance from Campbell Bay: ~6 km
  • Activities:
    • Relax on pristine beaches.
    • Spot rare marine species like dugongs and turtles.

Key Considerations

  1. Transportation:
    • Boats, ferries, and road transport are essential to navigate between islands.
    • Flights are available between Port Blair and Great Nicobar for distant locations.
  2. Permits:
    • Some parks (especially in Nicobar) require special permits due to restricted access.
    • Obtain permissions well in advance.
  3. Accommodation:
    • Port Blair, Havelock, and Diglipur offer a variety of hotels and resorts.
    • Limited options are available on Great Nicobar Island—plan accordingly.
  4. Season:
    • Best time to visit: November to May (dry season).