Mount Harriet National Park is located in the South Andaman district of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and trekkers visiting the islands. This guide helps you understand the best ways to reach Mount Harriet National Park from Port Blair, the capital city of the Andamans.

You will learn about the main transport options including ferries, buses, and private vehicles, along with practical travel tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free. Whether you are a first-time visitor or returning traveler, this guide provides detailed steps to plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Port Blair to Mount Harriet National Park – Main Options

Ferry and Boat

Ferry and boat rides are common for reaching Mount Harriet as it is located on South Andaman Island, accessible from Port Blair by road and water. This mode suits travelers who want a scenic approach combined with local transport.

• The ferry from Port Blair Jetty to nearby coastal points takes about 30 to 45 minutes, with fares ranging from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on the service and season.

• Boat services operate mainly in the morning and early afternoon; frequency reduces in monsoon months from June to September due to rough seas.

• Comfort levels vary; some boats are basic with limited seating, so carrying water and snacks is advisable for longer waits or delays.

• Tickets can be bought at the Port Blair Jetty or booked through local travel agents; avoid last-minute bookings during holiday weekends to secure a seat.

• Boat rides offer beautiful views of the coastline and are less crowded on weekdays; weekends may see packed boats requiring early arrival at the jetty.

Bus

State-run and private buses connect Port Blair to areas near Mount Harriet National Park. This is a budget-friendly option for travelers comfortable with local transport and flexible schedules.

• Buses depart from the Phoenix Bay Bus Terminus in Port Blair and take about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach the park entrance area, covering roughly 20 km.

• Fares range between ₹20 and ₹50, making it an economical choice for solo travelers and small groups.

• Buses run frequently during the day but may be less frequent early morning or late evening; check timings in advance to avoid long waits.

• During the monsoon, road conditions can slow down buses, so plan extra travel time for rainy days.

• Local buses can be crowded, especially during festivals or weekends, so keep your belongings secure and be prepared for standing room travel.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Port Blair to Mount Harriet National Park is convenient and offers flexibility to explore at your own pace. This mode is popular among families and groups.

• The drive covers about 20 km via NH4 and local roads, taking approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic.

• Car rentals and self-drive options are available in Port Blair, with daily rates typically between ₹1500 and ₹3000 depending on vehicle type.

• The route is well-maintained but includes some narrow stretches; driving carefully is important, especially during monsoon when roads can be slippery.

• Toll plazas are not common on this route, but watch for local traffic and occasional livestock crossings.

• Parking is available near the park entrance, but it can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays; arriving early helps secure a spot.

Flight

There are no direct flights to Mount Harriet National Park. The nearest airport is Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, which serves as the main entry point to the Andaman Islands.

• Flights to Port Blair operate from major Indian cities like Chennai, Kolkata, and Delhi, with durations ranging from 2 to 4 hours.

• From Port Blair airport, you must use road transport such as taxi, bus, or rental car to reach Mount Harriet National Park.

• Pre-booking taxis at the airport is recommended to avoid high fares and waiting times, especially during peak tourist season.

• Flight prices vary seasonally; booking tickets 2 to 3 months in advance can secure better rates.

• Weather conditions like heavy rain or fog can occasionally delay flights to Port Blair, so keep flexible travel plans.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers to Mount Harriet National Park, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Step 1: Book your flight to Port Blair well in advance using IRCTC Air or airline websites to get the best fares and confirm your arrival time.

• Step 2: Upon arrival at Veer Savarkar International Airport, arrange a prepaid taxi or use app-based cabs like Ola or Uber for a safe and fixed fare ride to your accommodation or directly to the park.

• Step 3: If using public transport, reach Phoenix Bay Bus Terminus early to catch a bus to the park; check bus schedules the day before to avoid missing the last bus.

• Step 4: For boat travel, buy tickets at Port Blair Jetty in the morning and carry light luggage; confirm the return boat timings to avoid being stranded.

• Step 5: Pack essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear depending on the season; carry ID proof as park entry may require it.

• Step 6: On reaching Mount Harriet National Park, purchase entry tickets at the gate and inquire about guided trekking options if interested in exploring the trails safely.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety: Always use prepaid taxis or trusted app-based cabs in Port Blair to avoid overcharging and ensure driver reliability.

• Food and Water: Carry bottled water and light snacks, as food options near the park are limited and may close early in the evening.

• Booking Strategy: Reserve flights and accommodation during the dry season (October to May) to avoid cancellations and higher prices.

• Local Transport: Use local buses for budget travel but be prepared for crowded conditions; private taxis offer comfort but cost more.

• Luggage: Travel light, especially if using boats or buses, as space is limited and carrying heavy bags can be difficult on uneven terrain.

• Seasonal Warnings: Avoid traveling during the monsoon months (June to September) due to heavy rains, slippery roads, and rough seas affecting boat services.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Mount Harriet National Park is during the dry months from October to May. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and transport services operate smoothly.

Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, which can disrupt travel plans with roadblocks and canceled boat rides. Planning your trip outside the monsoon ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience.

• Avoid peak festival times like Durga Puja and Christmas when transport and accommodation are crowded and prices rise sharply.

• Summer months (April to June) can be hot and humid; early morning departures help avoid midday heat during treks.

• Monsoon rains cause slippery trails and occasional landslides; travel only if you have experience and proper gear.

• Early morning departures from Port Blair help you avoid traffic and secure better seats on buses and boats.

Arrival at Mount Harriet National Park & What to Expect

When you arrive at Mount Harriet National Park, you will find the main entrance near the village area with basic facilities like ticket counters and restrooms. The park is well-marked with trails leading to viewpoints and picnic spots.

Local transport options within the park are limited, so be prepared to walk or hire local guides for trekking. Accommodation options are available in nearby Port Blair or small guesthouses close to the park entrance. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available at Port Blair for your return journey.

Conclusion

Traveling from Port Blair to Mount Harriet National Park is straightforward with several transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. The most efficient way is to hire a private car or taxi for flexibility and comfort, especially if you are traveling with family or in a group.

Planning ahead by booking flights, transport, and accommodation during the dry season will help you avoid common travel hassles. With this guide, you can confidently prepare for a memorable visit to Mount Harriet National Park and enjoy the natural beauty of the Andaman Islands.