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The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is one place that should not be missed when visiting the Andamans. Also known by the name of Wandoor Marine National Park, it consists of 17 islands, including famous ones like Tarmugli Island, Labyrinth Island, and Twin Islands. The park has a variety of flora and fauna which includes Angelfish, Butterflyfish, parakeets, doves, cobras, pit vipers, and about 270 species of birds. Get ready to explore the sparkling clear water and water sports like scuba diving, island camping, snorkelling, etc. and indulge them in your next trip to the park.
Location
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is located at State Highway 8, Wandoor, Andaman – 744301, India. It is around 29 km from Port Blair, along the South Western coast of South Andaman, in the Bay of Bengal.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Andaman In December
How To Reach
Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons
This park is well connected with major cities. Many private and government vehicles operate from Port Blair to this park and take around 40 minutes. A one-way ticket for a local bus is ₹10 and runs between 6 am to 8 pm. There are 2-3 minibuses as well that cost ₹90 for the round trip to this park.
Things To Do In Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
1. Snorkelling
Photo: Sirsendu Gayen / Wikimedia Commons
Snorkelling is one of the best Mahatma Gandi Marine National Park activities that tourists indulge in. Jolly Buoy Island and Red Skin Island are perfect places for this activity and a haven for tourists. They can explore the hidden underwater treasures of splendid corals and diverse marine life. Divers can witness a variety of molluscs, shellfish and local fishes which can be vividly seen while snorkelling.
Location: Jolly Buoy and Red Skin Islands
Cost/Person: ₹600 for 10-15 minutes
Best Time To Visit: 9 AM – 3 PM
Suggested Read: Snorkelling In Andaman
2. Scuba Diving
Photo: AshwiniShinde / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park also lets tourists explore the majestic underwater world preserved here while scuba diving. Due to the absence of predatory fishes near the beaches and corals, it is a very safe place and a great destination for scuba divers. It is famous for being home to a colourful school of fish and exquisite coral reefs. Divers here have been spotting colourful fish species and coral formations like Fungia, Acropora, etc., and aquatic species like Clownfish, Whitetip Shark, Butterfly Fish, and Angel Fish, etc.
Location: Jolly Buoy Island
Cost/Person: ₹3500 for a 30-minute dive
Best Time To Visit: 9 AM – 3 PM
Boat Rides
Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tourists who do not wish to get wet can choose to take a boat ride in Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. The banana-shaped boats can accommodate 6 people in one and are tied behind a speed boat. This boat ride takes the tourists through dense mangrove forests allowing them to see the marine wildlife through the crystal clear waters. People can also click on the best photos while cruising on these boats.
Location: Wandoor Jetty
Cost/Person: ₹300
Best Time To Visit: 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Suggested Read: Scuba Diving In Andaman Islands
Bird Watching
Photo: Birdman1 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is also home to some exotic migratory birds and other local birds. Tourists can witness and see these alluring birds at bird-watching spots on Jolly Buoy Island. Its mangrove and wetland ecosystem attracts a lot of wetland and shorebird species like egrets, kingfishers, herons, black-capped kingfishers, falcons, waders, and many more. Wildlife enthusiasts can capture these birds with their camera lenses; one can also carry binoculars to spot these beautiful birds from a distance.
Location: Jolly Buoy Island
Best Time To Visit: 9 AM – 3 PM
Visiting Turtle Breeding Center
Photo: Indika Dissanayake / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park has a record number of sea turtles nesting. Turtles are critically endangered species and this park is doing everything possible to preserve them. The sea turtles come to nest and lay eggs here during the breeding season. Tourists gather on the beaches to watch the turtle hatchlings entering the water. It is a must-visit place in the park as it provides insights into conservation efforts put in by the park to protect this species.
Location: Twin Islands
Cost: ₹50 for an Adult and ₹25 for a Child
Best Time To Visit: December and January
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Places To Visit In Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
1. Jolly Buoy Island
Photo: Siddharth1977 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This island is amongst the most visited islands in Andamans. Its captivating marine life and rare coral reefs make Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, the most visited island in this national park. Tourists take glass-bottom boat rides here to experience the beauty of this island which is crystal-clear water. It is a paradise for people who want to indulge in scuba diving and snorkelling. To visit this island a permit is to be purchased from the Port Blair Tourism office one day prior.
Best Time To Visit: November to April
Timings: 9 AM – 3 PM
2. Red Skin Island
Photo: Singhabhinav7 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This island is another gem of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park and is the second most visited island here. The island with crystal-clear turquoise water is home to some of the world’s most beautiful endangered species as well. Visitors here can witness breathtaking coral formations and spot colourful fish species in the water. It also has fantastic snorkelling and swimming opportunities for people who want to indulge in water adventures.
Best Time To Visit: March to October
Timings: 9 AM – 3 PM
Entry Fee: Free
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3. Cinque Island
Photo: Sahil / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The island is geologically divided into North Cinque Island and South Cinque Island which are connected by a sand bar. It is home to rich and exotic species of marine life, including coral reefs, turtles, starfishes, water snakes, turtles, seaweeds, sea anemones, and other fishes. Tourists here can also indulge in scuba diving, sea walking, and snorkelling on this island. But know that the island is accessible through boat tours only. To visit this island a permit is required for the chartered boats.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Timings: 9 AM – 3 PM
4. Tarmugli Island
Photo: tatonomusic / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
This is the largest island in the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. It has beautiful sandy beaches that are covered with thick mangrove forests and uprooted trees. It also has unspoiled beaches and lush green landscapes. Tourists who love nature and want to soak in its calmness must visit this island.
Best Time To Visit: October to April
Timings: 9 AM – 3 PM
Entry Fee: Free
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5. Ross and Smith Islands
Photo: Singhabhinav7 / Wikimedia Commons
These are the two islands that are separated by a sandbar. During high tide, the sand bar disappears leaving just a trail of water between the two islands. It has virgin beaches, natural trails, and tropical forests with gorgeous landscapes. The picturesque setting and crystal clear gem green colour attract the tourists. People can also spot animals here like Water Monitor, Imperial Pigeon, and Andaman Wild Pig. To visit this island a permit is required from the Forest Office at Diglipur.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Timings: 9 AM – 3 PM
Where To Stay
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There are not many options available for a night stay in this park. There is a Forest Rest House with limited facilities and a private lodge at Wandoor. It is advised that the tourists look for accommodation in Port Blair and plan a day trip to this park.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Neil Island
Where To Eat
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There are no restaurants or food joints available inside this national park. Visitors can take their own packed meals or snacks, and water while touring here. If you have time, you can visit Wandoor Beach and Wandoor Jetty to look out for some food options.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Ritu Kulshrestha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The best season to visit this national park is from November to February. This weather is ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and spotting marine life, and other water sports. Park’s time is from 9 am to 3 pm with Mondays closed.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Andaman And Nicobar At Night
Other Factors To Consider
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Here are some of the things to keep in handy before planning a vacation to Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average cost to visit this national park is minimal. The entry fee is ₹50 for a person. Tourists who want to indulge in water sports on the islands have to pay extra, depending on the activity they are doing – scuba diving, snorkelling, glass-bottom boat riding, etc.
Tips For Travellers
- Do not carry plastic bottles inside as it is not allowed due to environmental concerns
- Apply sunscreen and carry a hat or an umbrella to avoid the sun’s harsh rays
- Wear comfortable, loose clothes and sturdy shoes
- Check the availability of water sports in advance
- Hire a guide to get insights into this diverse national park
Visitors willing to explore the Andaman and Nicobar Islands must visit the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. With access to marine life, especially the nesting sea birds, turtles, and coral reefs, it is a must-visit. The park is a one-stop destination for water enthusiasts, wildlife, and marine lovers. If you are one too, then don’t wait, plan a trip with TripXL, and enjoy the beauties of nature.
Cover Photo: Ritu Kulshrestha / Wikimedia Commons
