Kept
in splendid isolation from Indian mainland are the emerald
isles of Andaman and Nicobar, a rare testimony to nature’s
brilliance. These huge cluster of small and large islands
crowning the Bay of Bengal boast of immense bio diversity
(both Terrestrial and Marine) that inspire Eco-tourism profusely.
One of the prime attractions of the area is the Mahatma
Gandhi Marine National Park with its world famous coral
reefs. The park is a combination of 15 lush green islands,
creeks and open sea space that spreads over 280-sq. km. of
sheer mangrove forests, tropical jungles, sandy beaches and
exotic marine life under crystal clear water.
 A view down into the water through glass-bottomed boat will leaves you with an entireworld of underwater kingdom vying against the colors of Rainbow. For the most enthusiasts there are facilities for snorkelling or even options of deep-water scuba diving to discover the brilliance of nature beneath the sea. The park is famous for its rich marine life that include variety of underwater coral reefs, colorful fishes, shells, starfish, sea anemones, salt-water crocodile, turtles, sharks and water snakes. Corals form the main attraction
of the marine park. These great microcosms of life and color
play a vital role in maintaining the health of the surrounding
eco-system. But today their own life is subjected to unprecedented
crisis owing to human intervention, extensive fishing and
global warming. Efforts are being implemented to keep them
intact in their pure natural surrounding unspoiled and untouched.
And ‘Mahatma
Gandhi Marine National Park’ is one of the few such
areas that protect this incredible underwater splendor. Some
important varieties of coral found in the park are pocillopora,
montipora, acropora, leptoseris, fungia, porites, gorgonians
and tubipora.
There are also a good number of terrestrial lives found in the park like mammals, wild boar, spotted deer, civet and the fruit bat. Among the reptiles of the area, the most commonly found are the krait, cobra, king cobra, vine snake and python. Beside the park is also a favorite hunt for bird watchers. Some of the common avian species around the area include the local serpent eagle, white bellied sea eagle, local teal, whistling teal, pigeon, dove, tern, kingfisher, wader, swift, reef heron and parakeet.
Jolly Buoy, Redskin and Cinque are the most frequented islands of the park. The park is located at Wandoor, just 30 km away from Port Blair Airport. October to May forms the ideal season for visitors. Accommodations are mostly in the form of forest rest houses, which are available only after taking special permission for overnight stay.
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