Mt. Harriet in Andaman and Nicobar Islands: A Treasure Trove of Natural Beauty
Located in the majestic Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Mt. Harriet is a stunning national park that offers a glimpse into the region's rich biodiversity and natural splendor. As the highest peak in the South Andaman district, Mt. Harriet stands tall at an elevation of 1,196 feet (365 meters) above sea level, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
History and Significance
Mt. Harriet was named after Harriet Tytler, the wife of Robert Christopher Tytler, a British Army officer who was part of the British colonial administration in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands during the 19th century. The peak was a popular spot for the British colonizers, who would often trek to the summit to enjoy the panoramic views.
Flora and Fauna
The national park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including tropical forests, mangrove swamps, and a variety of wildlife. The park's forests are dominated by species such as Andaman padauk, canarium, and marble wood, while the mangrove swamps provide a habitat for a range of marine life, including saltwater crocodiles and turtles.
Wildlife
Mt. Harriet is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with a range of species calling the park home. Some of the notable inhabitants include:
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Andaman wild boar
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Andaman water monitor
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Saltwater crocodile
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Turtles
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Dugongs
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Dolphins
Trekking and Hiking
One of the most popular activities in Mt. Harriet is trekking and hiking. The park offers several trails of varying difficulty, ranging from easy to challenging. The most popular trail is the 16-kilometer trek from the park entrance to the summit, which takes around 4-5 hours to complete.
Mt. Harriet, the highest peak in the South Andaman district of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, was renamed to Mt. Manipur in 2018. The renaming ceremony took place on December 30, 2018, in a solemn event attended by the then Lt. Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Admiral DK Joshi, and other dignitaries.
The Reason Behind the Renaming
The renaming of Mt. Harriet to Mt. Manipur was a tribute to the bravehearts of the Indian National Army (INA), who fought against the British colonial powers during World War II. The peak was renamed to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the hoisting of the Tricolor by the INA on December 30, 1943, at Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Historical Significance
During World War II, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands were occupied by Japanese forces, who had allied with the British. The INA, led by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, launched a series of attacks against the Japanese and British forces in the islands. On December 30, 1943, the INA successfully captured the islands and hoisted the Indian flag at Port Blair, marking a significant victory in the fight for Indian independence.
Mt. Manipur: A Symbol of Bravery and Sacrifice
The renaming of Mt. Harriet to Mt. Manipur serves as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of the INA soldiers who fought for India's freedom. The peak now stands as a symbol of the country's rich history and its struggle for independence.
