The short answer
Mount Harriet National Park (Mount Manipur): what visitors should know first
Worth half a day for the harbour views and cool forest air, especially in the dry season. Take the short ferry to Bambooflat rather than the long road round, hire a taxi on the other side, and confirm the current road and entry arrangements locally.
History and context
The story behind Mount Harriet National Park (Mount Manipur)
The park is named for Harriet C. Tytler, second wife of Robert Christopher Tytler, Superintendent of the Port Blair convict settlement in 1862 to 1864. During British rule the hill was used as a summer retreat for the chief commissioner.
It was converted from reserve forest to a national park, with sources giving 1979 (one gives 1969) and an area of around 46.6 sq km. Accounts of its summit height differ, from about 365 m to 383 m.
Useful facts
Mount Harriet National Park (Mount Manipur) facts at a glance
- Location
- Ferrargunj tehsil, across the harbour from Port Blair
- Experience type
- Viewpoint, forest drive and walking trails
- Known for
- North Bay lighthouse view once used on the Rs 20 note
- Area
- About 46.6 sq km
- Summit
- Roughly 365 to 383 m; sources differ
- Access
- Ferry to Bambooflat then road; fees not published
Why it matters
Why Mount Harriet National Park (Mount Manipur) is worth your time
The hill is named after Harriet Tytler, wife of Robert Christopher Tytler, who was Superintendent of the Port Blair convict settlement from 1862 to 1864. Under British rule the area served as a summer retreat for the chief commissioner, which explains the road and viewpoint.
Today it is one of the few forest areas near Port Blair that visitors can reach in a day, and a calm contrast to the Cellular Jail and the town. The park is officially known as Mount Manipur National Park in some references, so you may see both names.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The summit viewpoint
A wide view over the water to North Bay and its lighthouse, best in early morning light.
- 02
The harbour ferry
A short crossing that saves a long road journey and is a pleasant part of the outing.
- 03
Forest trails
A roughly 7 km route from Bambooflat climbs through evergreen forest for fit walkers.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
The quickest approach is by sea: a short ferry crosses the harbour from the Port Blair side to Bambooflat, which sources put at around 15 minutes from Chatham dock. Some accounts describe a ferry to Hope Town instead, so ask at the jetty which service is running. The road route round via Ferrargunj is far longer, around two hours in some accounts. From the landing, taxis take visitors up through the forest to the viewpoint.
The reward is the outlook: a sweep across the water towards North Bay and its lighthouse, the view that appeared on the old Rs 20 note. Early morning is clearest. A popular walking route runs for about 7 km from Bambooflat to the summit through evergreen forest with butterflies, birds and hanging vines. It is a proper walk and not a casual stroll.
The park shelters Andaman wild pig, saltwater crocodile on the coast and many butterflies, but you should not expect easy wildlife sightings. Carry water, wear covered shoes, and go back before dusk.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Ask at the jetty which ferry is running
- Hire a taxi for the climb and agree the return
- Start early for clear views
- Wear covered shoes and carry water
- Do not set off on long trails without forest guidance
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Across the harbour from Port Blair, Ferrargunj; about 20 km as the crow flies
- Time needed
- Half a day including the ferry and road leg
- Best time
- October to mid-May; mornings for views and cooler walking
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The summit viewpoint can be reached largely by vehicle, so seniors can see the view with little walking. Forest trails are uneven and humid, with insects and no benches to speak of; stay on the road section if stamina is low.
- Tickets and access
- Entry and vehicle charges are not published here and may change; confirm with the forest department or your taxi driver. Trekking routes may need forest guidance, so ask before setting out on foot.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Mount Harriet National Park (Mount Manipur)
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The summit viewpoint can be reached largely by vehicle, so seniors can see the view with little walking. Forest trails are uneven and humid, with insects and no benches to speak of; stay on the road section if stamina is low.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How do I get to Mount Harriet from Port Blair?
The usual route is a short ferry across the harbour to Bambooflat, then a taxi up the hill. The road route via Ferrargunj is much longer.
Is Mount Harriet the same as Mount Manipur?
Some references list the national park as Mount Manipur National Park; Mount Harriet is the name visitors and signs commonly use.
Can I trek there?
A walking route of around 7 km from Bambooflat to the summit is popular, but ask locally about current access and guides.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
