Introduction

Rani Jhansi Marine National Park in Andaman & Nicobar Islands is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Ritchie’s Archipelago (South Andaman) district, Rani Jhansi Marine National Park protects uninhabited coral islands in Ritchie’s Archipelago near Havelock Island.

Quick Facts

Particular Details
StateAndaman & Nicobar Islands
DistrictsRitchie’s Archipelago (South Andaman)
Year of Notification1996
Total Area256.14 sq km
LandscapeFringing coral reefs, mangrove forests, beaches, and tropical evergreen woodland.
Major Rivers & WaterbodiesAndaman Sea waters wrapping around Outram, Henry Lawrence, and John Lawrence islands
Nearest AirportVeer Savarkar International Airport Port Blair (IXZ) – 40 km by sea
Nearest Railway StationNo rail connectivity
Best Time to VisitDecember to April

Location

The national park lies in the Ritchie’s Archipelago (South Andaman) region of Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Accessible via private/government boat charter from Havelock Island or Port Blair.

History

Notified in 1996 to conserve coral marine ecosystems and sea turtle breeding zones across Outram, Henry Lawrence, and John Lawrence islands.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

Covering an expansive area of 256.14 sq km, the park’s terrain features Fringing coral reefs, mangrove forests, beaches, and tropical evergreen woodland.

Flora

Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Fringing coral reefs, mangrove forests, beaches, and tropical evergreen woodland.

Fauna

Primary Mammals & Key Species: Coral Reefs, Dugong (Sea Cow), Fruit Bat, Saltwater Crocodile, Green Sea Turtle, and Crown-of-thorns Starfish.

Other Wild Animals & Wildlife

Avifauna & Bird Species: White-bellied Sea Eagle, Edible-nest Swiftlet, Andaman Imperial Pigeon, Tern, and Heron.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The lifeline of Rani Jhansi Marine National Park is sustained by: Andaman Sea waters wrapping around Outram, Henry Lawrence, and John Lawrence islands.

Other Attractions

Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep, 20 km), Radhanagar Beach, Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep).

Weather & Climate

Equatorial maritime (24°C to 32°C).

How to Reach

  • Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport Port Blair (IXZ) – 40 km by sea
  • Nearest Railway Station: No rail connectivity
  • Road Connectivity: Accessible via private/government boat charter from Havelock Island or Port Blair.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Rani Jhansi Marine National Park is from December to April.

Accommodation

Resorts on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep).. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.

Conservation Highlights

Protects crucial seagrass beds essential for the survival of the endangered Dugong (Sea Cow).

Visitor Tips

Permission from the Wildlife Division Port Blair is essential for boat access to these protected islands.

Did You Know?

  • Named in honor of India’s legendary freedom fighter Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi.
  • Spans three major uninhabited islands: Outram, Henry Lawrence, and John Lawrence.
  • Crucial feeding ground for the rare Dugong (Sea Cow).

Last Updated: August 2026