Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park

Tucked away from the noise and busy city streets, the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a dream-like spot in the Andamans. Located in Wandoor village, around 29 kilometres away from Port Blair the capital city, this park homes 15 charming islands exhibiting the most exotic marine life. The park is spread across an area of 281 square kilometres encompassed peaceful beaches, coral reefs, lush mangrove covers, rainforests, and lagoons which brings in an aesthetic feel.

Most of the islands here are preserved and therefore cannot be accessed by the general public. So, take a dip into the pristine beach waters or enjoy the water activities in Andaman, there are plenty of ways to make your vacation worth it after a visit to this park. But, if a long weekend is around the corner and you yearn to soak yourself into this beauty of nature, here is all you need to know about this enchanting park in Andaman.

How to reach Mahatma Gandhi National Park

• From Port Blair: The park is approximately 18 kilometres away from the Port Blair city. This stretch can easily be covered within a span of half an hour. You can either opt for a taxi or avail the bus services till Wandur from 6:00 AM in the morning to 8:00 PM. However, if you wish to explore the beauty and panoramic spots of Port Blair it is better to go in for a car ride or take a taxi.

• From Havelock Island: The glamorous Havelock Island is 86 .4 kilometres from the Mahatma Gandhi Marine Park which roughly takes 4 hours via road. Moreover, the islands are also connected via ferries which can promise you a mesmerising ride. If you have never travelled through the waters, this is an amazing opportunity to set off on your first sea trip.

Things to do in Mahatma Gandhi Marine Park

With home to so many islands, the Mahatma Gandhi Marine Park greets its guests with a platter of exciting activities. Now, it’s up to you to choose if you wish to find a peaceful escape or have some unabashed fun in the waters because this park has something for everyone. Here are some of the activities that you can enjoy on your holiday to Mahatma Gandhi Marine park.

1. Island Camping
2. Trekking
3. Snorkelling
4. Sea walking
5. Scuba diving
6. Exploring beaches and its rich marine life
7. Walking through the dense tropical forests

Best time to visit Mahatma Gandhi National Park

The best time to visit the park is between November and February during the winter months as the days are chilled and pleasant. The park usually remains shut through the rainy season and cannot be explored due to heavy downpours.

The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is open on all days of the week apart from Mondays between 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. It takes close to 3 hours to explore the whole park.

Things to know before you go

• Entry fees: The entry chargeS for adults is INR 50 per person and INR 25 for children. Foreign nationals are required to pay INR 500. The photography fee comes to INR 25 per person.
• Mobile connectivity: The connectivity within the park is quite dicey and keeps fluctuating due to its deserted location.
• Medical facilities: There are no superior medical amenities in this region.
• Places to eat nearby: Kangaroo Hotel, Jungle Bite Restaurant and New Lighthouse Restaurant.

Amidst all the alluring beauty, the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is something definitely not to be missed on your trip to Andaman. Furthermore, you can also choose to take in a tour Package to Andaman & Nicobar Islands to explore the beauty around thoroughly.