Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park

Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a protected marine area in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, off the southern coast of South Andaman near Wandoor. It encompasses a group of small islands and surrounding coral reefs that are important for marine biodiversity.

Visitors commonly go for snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, shallow diving and intertidal exploration; the park includes beaches, coral patches and mangrove stands. Several islands within the park, including Jolly Buoy and Red Skin, are popular day-trip destinations from Port Blair.

The park was established to protect coral reef ecosystems, marine fauna and island habitats and is managed under Indian wildlife and marine protection rules. Access to the park and specific islands is regulated and subject to permit requirements to minimise environmental impact.

The park lies off the south coast of South Andaman, roughly 25 to 35 km by sea from Port Blair, and is reached from the Wandoor area by boat.

• Permits and regulations: Entry to the park and to certain islands typically requires permits and is regulated by local authorities to protect coral reefs and marine life.
• Best time to visit: Best underwater visibility and favourable conditions for snorkeling are usually found in the dry season months, outside the monsoon period.

What to See #

• Jolly Buoy Island: Jolly Buoy Island is one of the park's islands noted for clear water and coral reefs, commonly visited on day trips for snorkeling and glass-bottom boat trips.
• Red Skin Island: Red Skin Island is another park island close to the main mainland entry point and is frequently included in snorkeling and wildlife-spotting excursions.