The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are renowned for their unspoiled natural beauty, making them a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Among the many attractions, the national parks in this archipelago stand out as unique and pristine areas where visitors can experience diverse ecosystems, exotic wildlife, and stunning landscapes. In this blog, we will explore some of the must-visit national parks in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with a special mention of De Foret Resort for a luxurious and comfortable stay.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering an abundance of lush forests, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse wildlife. One of the best places to stay while exploring these natural wonders is De Foret Resort, located on Havelock Island. Nestled amidst lush greenery and close to the beach, De Foret Resort provides a serene and luxurious retreat for travellers. Let's dive into the must-visit national parks in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Location: Wandoor, South Andaman, SH8, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Overview: Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, located near Wandoor in South Andaman, is a treasure trove of marine biodiversity. Established in 1983, this park covers an area of approximately 281.5 square kilometers and consists of 15 small islands. It was created to protect the marine life and coral reefs in the area, making it a popular destination for snorkelling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat rides.
Key Attractions:
Coral Reefs: The park is home to some of the most vibrant coral reefs in the region. These reefs support a diverse array of marine life, including colourful fish, sea anemones, and sea cucumbers.
Snorkelling and Scuba Diving: Visitors can explore the underwater world through snorkelling and scuba diving, experiencing the rich marine biodiversity up close.
Jolly Buoy and Red Skin Islands: These islands are part of the national park and are known for their clear waters and coral reefs. Jolly Buoy is particularly famous for its underwater corals and marine life.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is between November and April when the weather is pleasant, and the sea is calm.
Rani Jhansi Marine National Park
Location: Ritchie’s Archipelago, South Andaman
Overview: Rani Jhansi Marine National Park, located in Ritchie’s Archipelago, is another marine park that offers stunning underwater experiences. Covering an area of about 256.14 square kilometers, the park includes rich coral reefs, pristine beaches, and diverse marine life.
Key Attractions:
Coral Reefs: The park boasts extensive coral reefs, home to numerous species of fish, mollusks, and other marine creatures.
Diving and Snorkeling: The clear waters and rich marine biodiversity make it an excellent spot for diving and snorkelling. Visitors can witness the vibrant underwater world and the beauty of the coral reefs.
Bird Watching: The park is also a haven for bird watchers, with several species of birds inhabiting the islands and coastal areas.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Rani Jhansi Marine National Park is from November to April, ensuring calm seas and pleasant weather.
Campbell Bay National Park
Location: Great Nicobar Island, Nicobar Islands
Overview: Campbell Bay National Park, located on Great Nicobar Island, is a remote and lesser-known gem of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Established in 1992, the park covers an area of 426 square kilometers and is part of the larger Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve.
Key Attractions:
Flora and Fauna: The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including endemic species. Dense tropical rainforests, mangroves, and coastal ecosystems provide a habitat for many rare and endangered species.
Unique Wildlife: Visitors can spot species like the Nicobar pigeon, crab-eating macaque, giant robber crab, and the saltwater crocodile.
Hiking and Trekking: The park offers excellent opportunities for hiking and trekking, allowing visitors to explore its diverse landscapes.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Campbell Bay National Park is from November to February when the weather is cooler and more conducive to outdoor activities.
Mount Manipur National Park
Location: South Andaman
Overview: Mount Manipur National Park, located in South Andaman, is named after the highest peak in the Andaman Islands, Mount Manipur National Park Covering an area of approximately 46.62 square kilometers, the park is known for its dense forests, rich biodiversity, and panoramic views.
Key Attractions:
Flora and Fauna: The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including several endemic species. It is covered with dense evergreen and semi-evergreen forests.
Bird Watching: Mount Manipur National Park is a bird-watcher’s paradise, with many species of birds, including the Andaman woodpecker, Andaman drongo, and Andaman treepie.
Trekking: The park offers several trekking routes, with the trek to the peak of Mount Manipur National Park being the most popular. The peak provides stunning views of the surrounding islands and the sea.
Butterfly Watching: The park is also known for its vibrant butterfly population, making it a great spot for butterfly enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Mount Manipur National Park is between November and March when the weather is pleasant, and trekking is more enjoyable.
Saddle Peak National Park
Location: North Andaman
Overview: Saddle Peak National Park, located in North Andaman, is named after the highest peak in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Saddle Peak, which stands at 732 meters. Covering an area of about 33 square kilometers, the park is known for its dense tropical forests and rich biodiversity.
Key Attractions:
Flora and Fauna: The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including several endemic and rare species. Dense forests, mangroves, and coastal ecosystems add to the park’s biodiversity.
Trekking: The trek to Saddle Peak is a popular activity, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the sea. The trail passes through dense forests and provides opportunities to spot wildlife.
Bird Watching: The park is also a great place for bird watching, with several species of birds inhabiting the area.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Saddle Peak National Park is from November to March when the weather is cool and suitable for trekking and outdoor activities.
Galathea National Park
Location: Great Nicobar Island, Nicobar Islands
Overview: Galathea National Park, located on Great Nicobar Island, is part of the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve. Covering an area of about 110 square kilometers, the park is known for its pristine beaches, dense forests, and rich biodiversity.
Key Attractions:
Flora and Fauna: The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including several endemic and endangered species. Dense tropical rainforests, mangroves, and coastal ecosystems provide a habitat for many rare species.
Unique Wildlife: Visitors can spot species like the Nicobar megapode, saltwater crocodile, and various marine turtles.
Hiking and Beach Activities: The park offers opportunities for hiking through dense forests and exploring pristine beaches.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Galathea National Park is from November to February when the weather is cooler and more conducive to outdoor activities.
De Foret Resort: Your Perfect Retreat
After exploring the stunning national parks of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, retreat to the luxurious comfort of De Foret Resort on Havelock Island. Offering a perfect blend of nature and luxury, De Foret Resort ensures a memorable and relaxing stay.
Amenities:
Spacious Rooms: Modern, well-equipped rooms with stunning views.
Dining: Enjoy a variety of local and international cuisines at the resort’s restaurant.
Recreation: Swimming pool, spa services, and indoor games for relaxation.
Adventure Activities: The resort can arrange for various activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling , and island tours.
Conclusion
The national parks of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer a unique opportunity to experience the diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity of this tropical paradise. From vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine life to dense forests and endemic wildlife, these parks are a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. For a luxurious and comfortable stay, choose De Foret Resort on Havelock Island, which provides the perfect retreat amidst the natural beauty of the islands. Follow this guide to explore the must-visit national parks and make the most of your trip to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.