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Introduction
Mount Manipur (Mount Harriet) National Park in Andaman & Nicobar Islands is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the South Andaman district, Mount Manipur National Park (formerly Mount Harriet) is the third highest peak in the Andamans, famed as the scenic landscape depicted on the Indian 20-rupee note.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Andaman & Nicobar Islands |
| Districts | South Andaman |
| Year of Notification | 1969 (Renamed Mount Manipur in 2021) |
| Total Area | 46.62 sq km |
| Landscape | High hill ridges, tropical evergreen forest, hill streams, and panoramic oceanic vistas. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Kalatang stream and marine coastal bays |
| Nearest Airport | Veer Savarkar International Airport Port Blair (IXZ) – 55 km by road / 15 km via Chatham ferry |
| Nearest Railway Station | No rail connectivity |
| Best Time to Visit | November to May |
Location
The national park lies in the South Andaman region of Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Ferry from Chatham jetty Port Blair to Bamboo Flat, then 10 km uphill road.
History
Originally established as a Reserve Forest during British rule and notified as a National Park in 1969. Renamed Mount Manipur in October 2021 to honor Manipuri freedom fighters imprisoned here after the 1891 Anglo-Manipur War.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 46.62 sq km, the park’s terrain features High hill ridges, tropical evergreen forest, hill streams, and panoramic oceanic vistas.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: High hill ridges, tropical evergreen forest, hill streams, and panoramic oceanic vistas.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Andaman Wild Boar, Andaman Shrew, Masked Palm Civet, Water Monitor Lizard, Saltwater Crocodile, and 28 species of butterflies.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Andaman Wood Pigeon (State Bird), Andaman Crake, Andaman Woodpecker, Andaman Treepie, Andaman Scops Owl, and Vernal Hanging Parrot.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Mount Manipur (Mount Harriet) National Park is sustained by: Kalatang stream and marine coastal bays.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Mount Manipur Peak Viewpoint (20-Rupee Currency Note view, 0 km), Chatham Saw Mill (15 km), Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Dweep).
Weather & Climate
Tropical climate (22°C to 32°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport Port Blair (IXZ) – 55 km by road / 15 km via Chatham ferry
- Nearest Railway Station: No rail connectivity
- Road Connectivity: Ferry from Chatham jetty Port Blair to Bamboo Flat, then 10 km uphill road.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Mount Manipur (Mount Harriet) National Park is from November to May.
Accommodation
Forest Department Inspection Bungalow at Mount Manipur peak.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Important Bird Area (IBA) safeguarding endemic avian species of the Andaman archipelago.
Visitor Tips
Visit early morning for clear views of Ross Island and Port Blair harbor from the summit viewpoint.
Did You Know?
- The view from Mount Manipur summit featured on the back of the Indian red 20-rupee currency note.
- Renamed Mount Manipur in 2021 to commemorate King Kulachandra and Manipuri freedom fighters.
- Harbors 28 endemic butterfly species found nowhere else.
Last Updated: August 2026