Mount Harriet National Park, officially renamed Mount Manipur National Park, is the best place near Port Blair to enjoy forest, hills and a wide view of the islands in one outing. Rising to about 365 metres, it is the highest peak in South Andaman, and on a clear day the view from the top stretches over the harbour, Ross Island, North Bay and out to the sea. For nature lovers, trekkers and anyone who wants a break from beaches and museums, it is a rewarding half-day or full-day trip.
The park lies across the water from Port Blair and is reached by a short ferry ride and a drive, or by a longer road journey. This guide covers what to see, the walking trails, the permit basics, how to get there, the best time to visit and how to plan your day. If you would rather have the ferry, permits and transfers arranged for you, explore our Andaman tour packages, planned by Andaman Emerald Travels, a travel team based in Port Blair.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Official name | Mount Manipur National Park (still widely called Mount Harriet) |
| Location | Across the harbour from Port Blair, in South Andaman |
| Height | About 365 metres, the highest peak in South Andaman |
| Known for | Forest walks, panoramic views, Kalapathar viewpoint, wildlife and butterflies |
| Reached by | Ferry from Chatham to Bamboo Flat plus a road drive, or a longer road journey |
| Suggested time | Half to full day, including travel |
| Best season | October to May |
| Best for | Nature lovers, trekkers, photographers, families with older children |
Mount Harriet was once the summer headquarters of the Chief Commissioner during British rule, chosen for its cooler air and wide views. Today it is a national park covering a stretch of evergreen forest, hilltop tropical forest and coastal forest, with streams that run down to the sea. The park is home to a range of birds, butterflies and other wildlife, and its quiet trails are a good way to experience the islands’ green interior.
The park was renamed Mount Manipur National Park in recognition of the role of Manipur in resisting British rule. Most visitors and many signs still use the old name, and you will see both. For more on the islands’ colonial past, read our guide to the history of the Andaman Islands.
The main reward is the view. From the top, you can look out over Ross Island, North Bay Island and the waters of the harbour, and on a very clear day even towards Havelock Island. Mornings usually give the clearest air. Haze and cloud can hide the distance, so check the weather before you go.
A forest trail leads from the main area to a viewpoint known as Kalapathar, about 2.5 to 3 km away, passing through tall trees and shaded stretches. The walk is gentle and is the most popular activity in the park. Kalapathar also has a dark history, as it was linked to harsh punishments during the colonial period, which gives the viewpoint a sombre weight. Wear sturdy shoes, carry water and go with a guide if you are not familiar with the trail.
For experienced walkers, a long forest trail leads from the park to Madhuban Beach, a coastal spot that was once used as an elephant training camp. The route is much longer and tougher than the Kalapathar walk, and it needs careful planning, a guide and an early start. Do not attempt it without local advice and the proper permissions.
The park is popular for birdwatching and butterfly spotting, especially in the early morning. Walk quietly, stay on the trails and keep your distance from wildlife. Binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens are useful.
The ferry crossing from Chatham to Bamboo Flat is part of the adventure. It is short and gives you a fresh view of the harbour and the shoreline. The vehicle ferry is used by locals every day, so it also offers a glimpse of ordinary island life.
| Highlight | What It Is | Approx. Time Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Summit viewpoint | Wide views of the harbour and islands | 30 to 45 minutes |
| Kalapathar nature walk | A 2.5 to 3 km forest trail to a viewpoint | 1.5 to 2.5 hours |
| Birdwatching | Forest birds and butterflies | 1 to 2 hours |
| Madhuban trek | Long, demanding trail to a remote beach | Most of a day (guide needed) |
| Ferry crossing | Chatham to Bamboo Flat by boat | Around 15 to 20 minutes |
Timings are approximate and vary with weather, fitness and ferry schedules.
As a national park, Mount Harriet requires an entry permit, and a valid photo ID is usually needed. Rules, fees and opening times are set by the forest department and can change, and some trails may be closed during or after heavy rain. Our team arranges the permit for guests on our packages and checks the current rules before your trip.
The best time to visit is October to May, when the weather is dry and the views are clearest. Mornings are best, with cooler air and good visibility. The park can be visited in the monsoon, but the trails are slippery, leeches are common and views are often hidden by cloud, so it is a harder trip.
| Months | Season | What to Expect | Our Guides |
|---|---|---|---|
| October to November | Post-monsoon | Fresh green forest, some muddy trails | October, November |
| December to February | Peak season | Clear skies and pleasant walking weather | December, January, February |
| March to May | Summer | Warm and humid; start very early | March, April, May |
| June to September | Monsoon | Rain, slippery trails, leeches and poor views | June, July, August, September |
There are two main ways to reach the park. The faster and more popular route is by ferry. You drive to the Chatham jetty, near the Chatham Saw Mill, cross by vehicle ferry to Bamboo Flat and then continue by road to the park. The alternative is to drive all the way round by road, which is much longer. If you are on one of our packages, your private cab takes care of the whole journey.
| Route | Best For | Things to Note |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry from Chatham to Bamboo Flat, then road | Most visitors; the quickest route | Ferry schedules can change, and there can be gaps in the day; plan the return carefully |
| Full road journey | Travellers who prefer not to use the ferry | A long drive, roughly 55 km by road |
| Trek in from the coast | Experienced trekkers with a guide | Long, demanding and needs special arrangements |
Ferry timings and schedules are subject to change, especially in bad weather, so always confirm before you travel. Note that the ferry may not run continuously through the day, so plan your return in advance.
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| Early morning | Drive to the Chatham jetty and cross by ferry to Bamboo Flat |
| Morning | Drive to the park, enjoy the summit view and begin the Kalapathar walk |
| Midday | Picnic lunch, rest and some birdwatching |
| Afternoon | Return drive and ferry back to Port Blair |
| Evening | Relax in the city or watch the Light and Sound Show at the Cellular Jail |
Looking for a ready-made plan that includes Mount Harriet? See our 3 nights 4 days and 4 nights 5 days Andaman packages. You can also browse all Andaman destinations on our site.
There is no accommodation close to the park, so most visitors stay in Port Blair and make the trip as a day excursion. Staying in the main city also gives you easy access to restaurants and the other attractions.
Port Blair sightseeing, including excursions like Mount Harriet, can be included in many of our packages. Every traveller has different needs, so we offer a package for each:
| Traveller Type | Package | What It Offers |
|---|---|---|
| Couples | Andaman honeymoon packages | Romantic stays, private transfers and relaxed sightseeing |
| Families | Andaman family packages | Comfortable, child-friendly plans |
| Friends and colleagues | Andaman group packages | Shared planning for large parties |
| Value-focused travellers | Andaman budget packages | Affordable trips that cover the highlights |
| Government employees | Andaman LTC packages | Plans designed for LTC travel |
| Thrill seekers | Andaman adventure packages | Trekking, water sports and active excursions |
Not sure which suits you? Reach out through our contact page for a customised itinerary.
See what travellers say about us on Andaman Emerald Travels on Google, then call +91 9933245630 or send an enquiry for a free quote on your Andaman tour packages.
Yes. Mount Harriet National Park was officially renamed Mount Manipur National Park, though many visitors and signs still use the old name.
It is about 365 metres high, making it the highest peak in South Andaman.
The quickest way is the ferry from Chatham to Bamboo Flat, followed by a road drive. The alternative is a much longer road journey.
Plan for a half to full day, depending on ferry timings and how long you spend on the trails.
No. It is a gentle forest trail of roughly 2.5 to 3 km, suitable for most fit visitors. Wear good shoes and carry water.
Yes, but it is a long, demanding trek that needs a guide, early start and proper permissions. Ask our team before planning it.
Yes. It is a national park, and entry needs a permit with valid photo ID. Our team arranges it for guests on our packages.
Port Blair excursions can include it on request. Couples often choose a honeymoon package, families a family package and adventure lovers an adventure package. Our team can customise any plan.
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