The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a group of beautiful islands located in the Bay of Bengal, are among the most beautiful national parks in India. These national parks have received a lot of recognition due to their ecosystems, unique fauna and flora, and picturesque views. Let’s look at these gifts of nature in more detail.
National Parks in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Campbell Bay National Park
Campbell Bay National Park, situated on Great Nicobar Island, is another symbol of nature’s beauty for tourists. The park is a protected area under the large umbrella of the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve and is Characterized by evergreen tropical forests with diversified plant and animal species.
It is one of the beautiful examples of a national park located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands that conserves both the land and the aquatic components.
Tourists can sightsee the Nicobar pigeon, megapode, crab-eating macaque, and even the giant robber crab within the park. The fauna around the islands is also equally diverse; many people can also spot dolphins, sea turtles, and sizeable coral reefs. Trekking, bird watching, and snorkelling are some of the options that the visitors can engage in.
Galathea National Park
There is another small piece of paradise known as the Galathea National Park, situated on the Great Nicobar Island.
This park forms a part of the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve, and the prominent features of this park are its beaches, which are virtually unspoiled and forested. The park also has the natural beauty of the riverside; the Galathea River runs through it.
Galathea National Park is a major national park in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is a bird watchers’ paradise and a wildlife lover’s dream. The park consists of species such as Nicobar scrubfowl, edible-nest swiftlets, and saltwater crocodiles. Rich in biogenetic resources, the site is best suited for a quiet, tranquil holiday, and nature lovers would definitely consider the place inevitable.
Also Read: Best Places to Explore in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
North Button Island National Park
North Button Island National Park is among the little stretches of the parks situated within the Andaman Islands.
It is synonymous with marine life and colourful coral reefs, especially around this region. The tropical beaches also provide snorkelling and scuba diving for the tourists, where they can look at the underwater life.
North Button Island National Park is also a habitat for several bird species and reptiles. It is one of the secluded national parks in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, making it one of the unique places to visit on the island.
Mount Harriet National Park
Mount Harriet National Park is situated in South Andaman Island and is known for its prolific biodiversity and eye-catching sights. It is named after Mount Harriet, the third highest peak of Andaman and Nicobar Island.
Rich in natural beauty, the place boasts forests on one side and beautiful landscapes from the peak on the other side. It is predominantly used for trekking and hiking.
It is a national park located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where many species of wildlife, such as the Andaman wild pig, saltwater crocodile, and members of the avian and lepidopteran families, are found.
Another major aspect linked to this park is history; this is because the park was a favorite spot for the British officers to take their picnics during colonial times.
Also Read: Most Instagrammable Places in Andamans
South Button Island NP
South Button Island National Park is a relatively small park in the Andaman Islands. It is famous for its crystal clear water and beautiful coral gardens, which make it a Mecca for snorkeling and scuba diving. Some animals found in the park are fish, turtles, and other aquatic animals.
Hence, being a less visited national park situated in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, South Button Island National Park is a perfect destination for those nature lovers who want to take a breath and discover the wonders of the Andaman Sea. Being a natural park, nature lovers will find spending time here fitting.
Saddle Peak National Park
Saddle Peak National Park, situated in North Andaman Island, is noted for its flora and fauna. The park got its name from Saddle Peak, the highest point of the Andaman and Nicobar Island territory, which provides views of the area.
This park also covers a large number of plants and animals, like the Andaman hill myna, imperial pigeon, and Andaman wild pig. Flora is also diverse, and there are many types of endemic plants in the park.
Sightseeing and hiking are some of the exciting things tourists can do when they get to the mountain, as well as trespassing on the forest roads accessible.
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Wan Door is on South Andaman Island, and Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is famous for its marine life and reefs. The park is located on 15 islands, each with its own peculiarities, including flora and fauna.
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is one of the famous national parks in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where a large number of sea turtles, dolphins, and varieties of fish live.
The park provides fabulous places to snorkel, scuba dive, or take a glass-bottom boat trip to observe the colorful underwater life.
Exploring the Beauty of National Parks
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have not only Wildlife/ Marine wildlife Parks but also offer the opportunity to have a glance at Island Resorts and peace. They are also suitable for those who have a fanatic interest in nature and other related activities.
Also Read: Exploring The Best National Parks in Andaman
Activities to Enjoy
1. Trekking: Most parks, including Mount Harriet National Park and Saddle Peak National Park, are great for trekking. The trails let you hike through the woods and up to mountaintops, and there is a possibility to spot various plants and animals.
2. Bird Watching: The major birding destinations are the National Parks of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which have many bird species. Endemism is rich, and bird watchers can see Andaman teal, Andaman wood pigeon, and Nicobar pigeons.
3. Snorkellng and Scuba Diving: One can look forward to snorkelling or diving in places like Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park and South Button Island National Park. Through snorkelling and scuba diving, one can interact with nature with clear water and beautiful coral fishing.
4. Wildlife Viewing: Wildlife species such as mammals, reptiles, and birds are found in the parks. Tourism activities, for example, can be done in natural environments where animals are found.
5. Beach Activities: Most of the national parks on the Andaman and Nicobar islands have rocky terrains and beaches with serine water, where tourists can swim or just relax on the shore.
Conservation Efforts
The protected area of the two national parks situated in Andaman and Nicobar Islands is responsible for preserving the area’s biological diversity. Such parks conserve the threatened species and biodiverse ecosystems and ensure that they are not exploited by humans but allowed to be exploited for tourism purposes.
Conservation programmes and initiatives sustain the balance of ecology and ensure that these potentials are passed on to future generations.
Visitor Guidelines
To ensure the protection of the national parks in Andaman and Nicobar Islands and their ecosystems, visitors are encouraged to follow certain guidelines: To ensure the protection of the national parks in Andaman and Nicobar Islands and their ecosystems, visitors are encouraged to follow certain guidelines:
1. Respect Wildlife: Touching the animals or giving them anything to eat is prohibited. Just keep your eye on them from a distance and discreetly watch what they are doing.
2. Follow Trails: Do not stray off the paths or the tracks, as this may interfere with the natural settings.
3. Avoid Littering: Do not litter in the parks by properly disposing of the waste. Always ensure you have deposited all your litter in the right places.
4. Obtain Permits: Some parks may require passes or special permission before one can enter the park or engage in some particular activity. Before you go there, make sure there is an allowance for you to be there.
5. Eco-friendly Practices: Products to be bought should be eco-friendly, and products that are disposed of in single-use plastic materials should be discouraged. Support sustainable tourism practices.
Conclusion
Many areas of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are protected, and most importantly, they are home to some of the most picturesque national parks.
Beginning with the tropical woods of Mount Harriet National Park and moving to the colourful corals of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, we find real beauty at both these destinations.
When we go trekking to these parks, it is fun not only to see the sights but also to assist in the preservation of these valuable environments. Therefore, go and pack your bags, follow the guidelines, and take a glimpse of the beautiful national parks in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Also Read: Exploring the Andaman Islands with Family
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Frequently Asked Questions
What various activities are done in the national parks?
Hiking, bird watching, swimming, sea diving, and wildlife safaris
Is it necessary for me to get a permit to access these national parks?
Yes, this is true. Sometimes, parks have restrictions on things like barbecues and may need permits. Always consult with the specific park to know their policies.
Which of the parks is the most suitable for snorkelling and diving?
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park and South Button Island National Park are best for sea, snorkelling and diving.
Is there anything I can meet besides people in these parks?
Yes, you can see birds like the Nicobar pigeon, animals like the Andaman wild pig, and many more, as well as water creatures.
Can one get a guided tour of the parks?
Yes, organized tours are possible in many parks to ensure travelers move around without getting lost and learn more about the different species.