Introduction

South Button Island National Park in Andaman & Nicobar Islands is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the South Andaman district, South Button Island National Park is the smallest National Park in India (just 5 hectares), world-renowned for spectacular scuba diving reefs.

Quick Facts

Particular Details
StateAndaman & Nicobar Islands
DistrictsSouth Andaman
Year of Notification1977
Total Area0.05 sq km (5 hectares – India’s smallest National Park!)
LandscapeSmall rocky oceanic islet surrounded by vertical coral reef drop-off walls.
Major Rivers & WaterbodiesOpen ocean coral waters
Nearest AirportPort Blair Airport (IXZ) – 75 km by sea / Havelock Island – 25 km
Nearest Railway StationNo rail connectivity
Best Time to VisitDecember to April

Location

The national park lies in the South Andaman region of Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Boat charter from Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep).

History

Notified in 1977 under the Wildlife Protection Act to conserve its exceptional marine wall diving reef.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

Covering an expansive area of 0.05 sq km (5 hectares – India’s smallest National Park!), the park’s terrain features Small rocky oceanic islet surrounded by vertical coral reef drop-off walls.

Flora

Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Small rocky oceanic islet surrounded by vertical coral reef drop-off walls.

Fauna

Primary Mammals & Key Species: World-famous scuba diving spot; Snappers, Manta Ray, Sea Turtle, Dugong, Barracuda, and Brain Coral.

Other Wild Animals & Wildlife

Avifauna & Bird Species: White-bellied Sea Eagle, Tern, Swiftlet, and Frigatebird.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The lifeline of South Button Island National Park is sustained by: Open ocean coral waters.

Other Attractions

Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Havelock Scuba Diving Sites (25 km), Barren Island Volcano (80 km).

Weather & Climate

Tropical (24°C to 32°C).

How to Reach

  • Nearest Airport: Port Blair Airport (IXZ) – 75 km by sea / Havelock Island – 25 km
  • Nearest Railway Station: No rail connectivity
  • Road Connectivity: Boat charter from Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep).

Best Time to Visit

The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in South Button Island National Park is from December to April.

Accommodation

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

Conservation Highlights

World-class marine protected site monitored for reef health and sea turtle protection.

Visitor Tips

Must-visit site for certified scuba divers exploring Havelock and Neil islands.

Did You Know?

  • India’s smallest National Park with a land area of only 5 hectares (0.05 sq km).
  • World-famous for its underwater vertical coral reef drop-off wall.
  • Frequent sightings of Manta Rays, Barracudas, and Sea Turtles.

Last Updated: August 2026