Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. It is a protected area that covers 281.5 square kilometers of land and sea, comprising of 15 islands, coral reefs, mangroves, and marine wildlife. It is a haven for snorkeling, scuba diving, island camping, and other activities that let you experience the beauty and diversity of nature.
In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide to Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, including its history, geography, biodiversity, activities, attractions, travel information, and tips.
History of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park was established in 1983 as a tribute to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. The park was created to protect the rich and fragile marine ecosystem of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which is home to many endangered and endemic species of plants and animals. The park was also intended to promote eco-tourism and environmental education among the visitors and the local communities. The park is managed by the Andaman and Nicobar Forest Department, under the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India.
Geography of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is located near Wandoor village, 29 km away from Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The park covers an area of 281.5 square kilometers, of which 17.5 square kilometers is land and 264 square kilometers is water.
The park consists of 15 islands, namely Alexandra, Bell, Boat, Chester, Grub, Hobday, Jolly Buoy, Malaya, Pluto, Red Skin, Riflemen, Snob, Tarmugli, Twins, and Wood. Each island has its own unique features, such as sandy beaches, uprooted trees, sheet rocks, mangroves, etc. The park also has a visitor center, a museum, a turtle breeding center, and a jetty at Wandoor.
Biodiversity of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, with a variety of ecosystems, such as coral reefs, mangroves, and tropical forests. The park boasts of more than 50 species of coral, 270 species of fish, 78 species of molluscs, 44 species of seaweeds, 12 species of mangroves, and 36 species of birds. Some of the notable species found in the park are:
Coral reefs: The park has some of the best coral reefs in the world, with a range of colors, shapes, and sizes. Some of the common types of coral are brain coral, staghorn coral, table coral, mushroom coral, etc. The coral reefs provide a habitat and a food source for many marine animals, such as fish, crabs, lobsters, sea cucumbers, sea stars, etc.
Marine wildlife: The park is home to a rich and diverse marine wildlife, such as dolphins, dugongs, sea turtles, sea snakes, etc. Some of the endangered and endemic species found in the park are leatherback turtle, hawksbill turtle, green turtle, olive ridley turtle, Andaman water monitor, Andaman krait, etc. The park also has a turtle breeding center on the Twin Islands, where the sea turtles come to nest and lay eggs during the breeding season.
Mangroves: The park has a thick mangrove vegetation that covers some of the islands, especially Tarmugli island, which is the largest and the most scenic island in the park. The mangroves are salt-tolerant plants that grow in the intertidal zones, where they help in stabilizing the shoreline, preventing erosion, and filtering the water. The mangroves also provide a habitat and a shelter for many birds and animals, such as kingfishers, herons, egrets, crocodiles, monitor lizards, etc.
Birds: The park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with more than 36 species of birds, both resident and migratory, recorded in the park. Some of the common and rare birds found in the park are white-bellied sea eagle, Andaman teal, Andaman wood pigeon, Andaman cuckoo dove, Andaman serpent eagle, Andaman scops owl, etc.
Activities and Attractions in Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park offers a range of activities and attractions for the visitors, such as:
Snorkeling:
Snorkeling is one of the most popular and enjoyable activities in the park, which allows you to observe the coral reefs and the marine life in the clear and shallow water. You can rent snorkeling equipment from the park authorities or the local operators, and choose from the different snorkeling spots, such as Jolly Buoy, Red Skin, Tarmugli, etc. Snorkeling is suitable for all ages and skill levels, and you can also hire a guide or an instructor if you need assistance.
Scuba diving:
Scuba diving is another thrilling and adventurous activity in the park, which lets you explore the underwater world in more depth and detail. You can book a scuba diving package from the park authorities or the authorized diving centers, and get trained by professional and certified instructors.
You can also choose from the different diving sites, such as Mahatma Gandhi Reef, Mac Point, Aquarium, Lighthouse, etc. Scuba diving is suitable for beginners and experts alike, and you can also get a certificate or a license if you complete a course.
Glass bottom boat ride:
Glass bottom boat ride is a fun and easy way to see the coral reefs and the marine life without getting wet. You can board a glass bottom boat from the jetty at Wandoor, and enjoy a 30-minute ride around the park. You can also listen to the commentary and the information provided by the boat operator, and take pictures and videos through the glass. Glass bottom boat ride is suitable for all ages and preferences, and you can also book a private boat if you want more privacy and comfort.
Island camping:
Island camping is a unique and memorable experience in the park, which allows you to stay overnight on one of the islands, such as Jolly Buoy or Red Skin. You can book an island camping package from the park authorities or the local operators, and get a tent, a sleeping bag, a mattress, and a pillow. You can also enjoy a bonfire, a barbecue, and a starry night on the island. Island camping is suitable for nature lovers and adventure seekers, and you can also opt for a guided tour or a group activity if you want more fun and safety.
Turtle breeding center:
Turtle breeding center is a conservation and education initiative in the park, which is located on the Twin Islands. You can visit the turtle breeding center and learn about the life cycle, the behavior, and the threats of the sea turtles. You can also witness the nesting and the hatching of the sea turtles during the breeding season, which is from December to March. Turtle breeding center is suitable for wildlife enthusiasts and students, and you can also volunteer or donate for the cause if you want to support the park.
Travel Information for Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Here are some of the travel information and tips that you need to know before visiting Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park:
How to reach:
The park is easily accessible from Port Blair, which is the nearest airport and the main city in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. You can take a bus, a taxi, or a private vehicle from Port Blair to Wandoor, which is 29 km away and takes about 45 minutes to reach. From Wandoor, you can take a ferry or a speed boat to the park, which is 15 km away and takes about 30 minutes to reach. You can also book a package or a tour from Port Blair or Wandoor, which includes the transport, the entry fee, the activities, and the food.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit the park is from November to March, which is the winter and the spring season in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The weather is pleasant and dry, with an average temperature of 25°C. The water is clear and calm, which is ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. The park is also open for visitors during this time, from 8 am to 5 pm, except on Mondays. The park is closed for visitors from April to October, which is the summer and the monsoon season in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The weather is hot and humid, with an average temperature of 30°C. The water is murky and rough, which is not suitable for snorkeling and scuba diving. The park is also closed for maintenance and conservation during this time.
Where to stay:
There are no accommodation facilities inside the park, except for the island camping option. However, there are many hotels and resorts near the park, especially in Wandoor and Port Blair, which cater to different budgets and tastes. Some of the best hotels and resorts near the park are:
Sea Princess Beach Resort: A luxury resort that offers spacious and comfortable rooms, cottages, and suites, with sea view, balcony, and modern amenities.
The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, a spa, a gym, and a conference hall. The resort is located in Wandoor, 9 km away from the park. The price range is from Rs. 6000 to Rs. 12000 per night. You can book the resort online or by phone.
Anugama Resort: A budget resort that offers cozy and clean rooms, huts, and cottages, with garden view, balcony, and basic amenities. The resort also has a restaurant, a garden, a library, and a travel desk. The resort is located in Wandoor, 7 km away from the park. The price range is from Rs. 2000 to Rs. 4000 per night. You can book the resort online or by phone.
Hotel De Marina: A mid-range hotel that offers modern and elegant rooms and suites, with city view, terrace, and contemporary amenities. The hotel also has a restaurant, a coffee shop, a rooftop lounge, and a business center. The hotel is located in Port Blair, 29 km away from the park. The price range is from Rs. 4000 to Rs. 8000 per night. You can book the hotel online or by phone.
Tips for visiting Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Here are some of the tips and advice that you need to know before visiting Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park:
1. Carry sunscreen, water, snacks, camera, and other essentials with you, as there are no shops or facilities inside the park.
2. Book your tickets, activities, and accommodation in advance, as the park has a limited capacity and a high demand, especially during the peak season.
3. Follow the rules and regulations of the park, such as not littering, not touching or harming the coral reefs or the marine life, not feeding the animals, etc.
4. Respect the nature and the culture of the park and the local communities, and avoid any disturbance or damage to the environment or the people.
5. Enjoy the park and its wonders, and have a memorable and unforgettable experience.
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and adventure. It is a place where you can witness the beauty and diversity of the coral reefs, the marine wildlife, the mangroves, and the islands.
It is also a place where you can enjoy the activities and attractions that the park offers, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, glass bottom boat ride, island camping, turtle breeding center, etc. It is also a place where you can learn about the history, the geography, the biodiversity, and the conservation of the park and its ecosystem. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a place that will leave you amazed and inspired.
If you are interested in visiting Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, you can contact us at Tripoto, and we will help you plan and book your trip. We are a travel website that offers customized holiday packages, travel guides, and blogs for various destinations in India and abroad.
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