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Introduction
Galathea Bay National Park in Andaman & Nicobar Islands is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Great Nicobar Island district, Galathea Bay National Park protects one of the world’s most vital nesting beaches for the Giant Leatherback Sea Turtle on Great Nicobar Island.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Andaman & Nicobar Islands |
| Districts | Great Nicobar Island |
| Year of Notification | 1992 |
| Total Area | 110 sq km |
| Landscape | Coastal mangrove swamps, sandy nesting beaches, estuarine river mouth, and dense tropical rainforest. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Galathea River estuary and Galathea Bay coastal waters |
| Nearest Airport | Veer Savarkar International Airport Port Blair (IXZ) – 540 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | No rail connectivity |
| Best Time to Visit | December to April |
Location
The national park lies in the Great Nicobar Island region of Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Ferry/Helicopter to Campbell Bay, then via South-South road.
History
Declared a National Park in 1992 alongside Campbell Bay NP to establish an eco-corridor spanning the southern half of Great Nicobar Island.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 110 sq km, the park’s terrain features Coastal mangrove swamps, sandy nesting beaches, estuarine river mouth, and dense tropical rainforest.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Coastal mangrove swamps, sandy nesting beaches, estuarine river mouth, and dense tropical rainforest.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: World-famous nesting ground for Giant Leatherback Sea Turtles, Olive Ridley Turtle, Green Turtle, Saltwater Crocodile, Nicobar Macaque, and Coconut Crab.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Nicobar Megapode, Nicobar Pigeon, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Osprey, Beach Thick-knee, and Pacific Golden Plover.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Galathea Bay National Park is sustained by: Galathea River estuary and Galathea Bay coastal waters.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Indira Point (30 km), Campbell Bay NP (20 km), Galathea River bridge.
Weather & Climate
Equatorial climate (23°C to 31°C) with heavy rains.
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport Port Blair (IXZ) – 540 km
- Nearest Railway Station: No rail connectivity
- Road Connectivity: Ferry/Helicopter to Campbell Bay, then via South-South road.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Galathea Bay National Park is from December to April.
Accommodation
Forest Rest House Campbell Bay.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Global nesting site monitor for Giant Leatherback Sea Turtles managed by the Andaman & Nicobar Forest Department.
Visitor Tips
Nesting night visits require special wildlife department authorization and red-light torches only.
Did You Know?
- One of the world’s top nesting grounds for the Giant Leatherback Turtle, the largest sea turtle on Earth.
- Located near Indira Point, the southernmost geographical tip of India.
- Sustains the unique Coconut Crab, capable of opening coconuts with its powerful claws.
Last Updated: August 2026