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Mount Harriet National Park, the highest point in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands at 365 metres, is one of the closest wilderness places to Port Blair. The forest covering an area of 42.62 square kilometres is home to a wide variety of animals. For those who prefer reptiles to birds, the park is home to numerous species of snakes, including the King Cobra and the Andaman Cobra, as well as marine turtle breeding sites for Green Sea and Olive Ridley sea turtles. Evergreen and semi-evergreen forests cover the park’s rolling hills, which are adorned with the majestic magnificence of Mother Nature.
Mount Harriet, a short hike from Port Blair and a 55-kilometre drive or 15-kilometre ferry ride away, was the chief commissioner’s summer retreat during the British Raj. At 365 metres above sea level, this is the tallest peak in South Andaman. It gives a stunning view of the surrounding islands and the ocean. There are more than 40 different plant and animal species in the park, which is distributed over 42.62 square kilometres. The entire park is located on the eastern side of South Andaman among a cluster of hills encompassing a large land area.
Geography
Located in the Andaman district of Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Union Territory) of India, Mount Harriet National Park is a stunning location. In terms of square footage, the park has a total of 46.62 km2. Mount Harriet National Park is located approximately 30 kilometres from Port Blair in the Ferrargunj tehsil of the Andaman district.
In the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, Mount Harriet is the third-highest mountain after Saddle Peak in North Andaman and Mount Thuillier in Great Nicobar. Nearby, Mount Harriet National Park is one of the closest wild regions to Port Blair. Nature’s majesty is on full display in this national park, covered in a blanket of evergreen and semi-evergreen trees. Eastern Andaman Islands’ eastern hill ranges are dominated by the National Park. The tract’s elevation ranges from sea level to a maximum of 459 feet.
While the park’s mountains are oriented north-south, the ridges and spurs that branch out of them are oriented east-west. The beaches on the park’s eastern side, which include steep slopes and rocky outcroppings mixed with little sand sections, are particularly striking. Many streams originate in the hills and flow eastward to the sea, draining the park. The Park has a number of hill ranges that run north-south. There are other ridges and spurs that branch out to the east and west from these.
Things to do
Watch Birds
As a birdwatcher’s paradise, Mount Harriet National Park has around 90 distinct and uncommon bird species. You can spot Andaman serpent-eagle, Wood Pigeon, Hawk Owl, and Cuckoo-dove, among others in the park. Thanks to a series of boards that include photographs of the Mount Harriet national park animals, it’s easy to recognise the park’s resident birds.
Play with Butterflies
Besides being a “Butterfly Hotspot,” Mount Harriet is also a national park. You may find numerous flowering plants that draw butterflies to this area of the park’s landscape. Playfully follow a butterfly for the thrill of it. A lot of children will find this entertaining.
Have wonderful Sights
Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea and its idyllic islands from the top of Mount Harriet’s watchtower. Andaman and Nicobar’s most notable islands may be seen from this location, including Ross, North Bay, Havelock, and Neil.
Trek across the park
Unlike the mainland’s national parks, Mount Harriet National Park allows visitors to walk and trek across its forests. The park’s forest rest house complex and the Kalapathar vantage point are connected by a 2.5-kilometre nature walk. There is a 15-kilometre hike path from Mount Harriet to the Madhuban beach for adventure seekers. It’s a rare opportunity to see endemic birds, butterflies, and beautiful beaches while trekking through the park. Andaman wild pigs, who are at risk of extinction, may be seen if you’re lucky. Crabs, turtles, saltwater crocodiles, and stunning coral reefs are all found in abundance in the Andaman Sea.
Visit Orchidarium
When you visit this national park, a small Orchidarium is sure to draw your attention. It’s a modest but well-kept orchid botanical garden that shouldn’t be missed if you’re a fan of the flower. Take a moment to admire the beautiful orchids.
Take Photographs
Because Mount Harriet National Park provides stunning vistas of the Andaman Sea and lush greenery, it is a favourite location for photographers to capture their work. You’ll be able to get great images of the uncommon Andaman birds, vibrant butterflies, and picturesque scenery with a professional camera (such as an SLR or DSLR).
Conclusion
Andaman and Nicobar archipelago’s third-tallest peak, Mount Harriet (1,257 ft), lies at the heart of the 46.62-square-mile park. The thick evergreen forests take on a new dimension of enchantment against the serene backdrop of the Andaman Sea. There is a lot to discover at Mount Harriet National Park. On the eastern side, the hills are steeper. The beaches on the eastern coast are primarily stony, with a few sandy spots. Freshwater streams originate in the hills and flow into the sea on the east shore of the park.
