Mount Harriet (Mount Manipur National Park)

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As a tribute to the freedom fighters of Manipur, the Union government has decided to rename Mount Harriet, an island peak in Andaman and Nicobar islands. It will now be known as Mount Manipur, officials said.
Mount Harriet is the highest peak in South Andaman Island and the second-highest peak in the whole of the Andaman Islands. Mount Harriet is situated in Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman Islands. Mount Harriet Forest National Park was initially a reserve forest which was later converted into a national park in 1979. This famous peak is named after Harriet Tytler, wife of Mr. Robert Christopher Tytler who was a British army officer and a photographer in the early 1860s.

The attraction for which this place is famous is the view of the Light House that is located in North Bay, the picture of a lighthouse on the back of a Twenty Rupees Indian Currency Note is the picture taken from this viewpoint of Mount Harriet. So the point from where this view is seen is commonly known as the “20 Rupees viewpoint” by the locals and most of the visitors.

It goes without saying that being one of a renowned national park, Mount Harriet is blessed abundantly with a wide variety of nature’s flora and fauna. What makes the park particularly alluring is the fact that the place houses some species which are deemed to be extinct by many.

The forest area of Mount Harriet National Park is spread over an area of around 47 sq km and is known for its dense forests and beautiful landscapes. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare orchids, Andaman wild pigs, saltwater crocodiles, Nicobar tree shrew, and many more.

One of the popular activities that tourists enjoy in Mount Harriet National Park is trekking. There are several trekking trails in the park that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and landscapes. The trek to Madhuban is one of the most popular ones which is around 16 km and takes around 6 hours to complete. The trek passes through dense forests, streams, and hills and is a great experience for adventure lovers.
The park also has a small museum and a souvenir shop where visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Andaman Islands and purchase souvenirs and handicrafts made by local artisans.

In conclusion, the renaming of Mount Harriet to Mount Manipur is a tribute to the freedom fighters of Manipur and adds to the significance of the place. The park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers visiting the Andaman Islands.

HISTORY MOUNT MANIPUR NATIONAL PARK

Mount Harriet has a rich history and cultural significance. The peak was named after Harriet Tytler, the wife of British army officer and photographer Robert Christopher Tytler, who explored the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the 19th century. In 1942, the Japanese captured the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and used Mount Harriet as a lookout point. The peak was recaptured by the British in 1945, and a plaque commemorating the event was installed on the summit.

During the British Raj, Mount Harriet served as a summer retreat for the Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The peak was also used as a meteorological observatory and a radio transmitter. In 1979, Mount Harriet Forest Reserve was declared a national park to protect its rich biodiversity, including rare and endemic species.

In 2021, the Union government of India decided to rename Mount Harriet as Mount Manipur in honor of the freedom fighters of Manipur. This decision was taken to acknowledge the contribution of Manipur to India’s struggle for independence and to honor the sacrifices made by the people of Manipur. The renaming ceremony was held on 4th January 2022 and was attended by the Chief Minister of Manipur, N. Biren Singh, and other dignitaries.

BEST TIME TO VISIT MOUNT HARRIET NATIONAL PARK

The best time to visit Mount Harriet National Park is during the months of October to April, which is the winter season in the Andaman Islands. The weather during this time is pleasant, with moderate temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking and hiking. The monsoon season from May to September can bring heavy rains and strong winds, making it difficult to explore the park.

HOW TO REACH MOUNT HARRIET NATIONAL PARK FROM PORT BLAIR?

To reach Mount Harriet National Park from Bambooflat Jetty, one can take a ferry to Chatham Island and then a bus or taxi to reach the park. From Bambooflat Jetty, there are frequent ferry services available to Chatham Island. Once you reach Chatham Island, you can hire a taxi or Auto to reach Mount Harriet National Park. The journey from Chatham Island to the park takes around 20-25 minutes by road.

BY TREKKING: Another option to reach Mount Harriet National Park from Bambooflat Jetty is to take a trekking trail. There are several trekking trails available from Bambooflat Jetty to Mount Harriet National Park, which offer breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding forests. The trekking trail from Bambooflat Jetty to Mount Harriet National Park takes around 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level. It is advisable to take a guide along with you on the trek as the trails can be confusing and difficult to navigate for first-time visitors.

TRAVEL TIPS FOR MOUNT HARRIET NATIONAL PARK

Here are some travel tips for visiting Mount Harriet National Park:

• Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes as the terrain can be rocky and uneven.
• Carry sufficient water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized throughout the trek.
• Pack insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquito and other insect bites.
• Carry sunscreen lotion and sunglasses to protect yourself from the harsh sun.
• Wear light and comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement.
• Respect the flora and fauna of the park and do not litter or damage the environment.
• It is advisable to hire a local guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
• Check weather conditions before starting the trek and plan accordingly.
• It is recommended to carry a first aid kit for emergencies.
• Keep your camera and binoculars handy to capture the breathtaking views and wildlife sightings.