Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is located near Wandoor in Port Blair on the Andaman Island. It gives a lot of information on Andaman’s marine life. The park was created 24 may 1983 under the ‘Wildlife Protection Act of 1972’ to protect the marine life such as corals and nesting sea turtles.The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is surrounded by sandy beaches and sea water with clear visibility.
This park is an archipelago of 15 small islands some islands is uninhabited.The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is home to some of the endangered marine species including the sea turtles.
To Get There
This park is situated 30km away from Port Blair, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach there.
You have to get a permit from the wildlife warden’s office near the Wandoor jetty to visit the Mahatma Gandhi National Marine Park.
Accommodation facilities provided in the forest guesthouse can be availed with a prior permission of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park authorities. It is advisable to stay at Port Blair, where many lodging options are available.
When To Visit
The park receives a heavy rainfall during the monsoon months (June-August) that it remained closed during the season. Experienced travellers recommend visiting the National Park during October-February.
Mahatma Gandhi National Marine Park provides an opportunity to experience the fascinating world of tropical forest and coral reefs. A unique feature of this island is the dense mangrove cover.
This park is rich in corals, varieties of colourful fishes, sea turtles etc. Snorkelling and scuba diving at the Jolly Buoy and Red Skin Islands allow tourists to explore the beautiful and colourful aquatic world.The biggest island in area Tarmugli and Twins, an important breeding ground for turtles are worth visiting on your trip to Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. The park is natural breeding ground and nesting place for the Leatherback, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley and Green turtles.
NOTE : Food options are limited in Wandoor. There are few small joints, which offer limited options for eating.