Visitor Information
- Famous For: Zoology, Nature, Photography.
- Entry Fee: No fee is required barring transport and food.
- Visiting Time: 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. except on Sundays.
- Visiting Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Normally, when we speak of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands in India, the first image that strikes up in our vivid mindset is a stretch of sandy beach adorned with the lush green coconut and palm trees by the blue waters. This image is perhaps impressed upon our minds because of the commercial advertisements revolving around the beaches in Andaman. However, it must be brought into the notice of the tourists that the islands in Andaman also present a rare collection of flora and fauna that is perhaps found in this zone alone. Thus, to showcase these natural wonders, the Forest Museum at Mayabunder has put in a lot of effort. However, unfortunately, with Port Blair being the capital of this Union Territory and the Havelock Islands, the Niels Island and the Baratang Islands being some of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, people often miss out on the tiny decorative zones that adorn this wonderful place. Thus, it is recommended that the tourists must visit the Forest Museum at Mayabunder to get an insight into the true gems of the islands of Andaman.
Traveller Tips
- Do not litter the exquisite place.
- Visit the place with a guide if possible to understand the vast range of fauna present in this part of the world.
- Take a notebook and a pen if you are going there for an excursion as there are so many things that you can learn about after visiting this museum.
Things to Do There
- Explore and experience the magnificent beauty of the collection displayed at the museum.
- Gaze at the thousands of species that are displayed and take down notes if you are an educational person.
- Walk down the streets and try out some delicious local cuisine. Or, you can even satiate your thirst by sipping coconut water that the vendors sell in that region.
Availability of Guides
Professional guides and many local people are available by the Information Centre and also at Port Blair. You can hire them on a nominal fee.
Best Time to Visit
You must visit this place in between the months of January and April to enjoy your trip to the fullest.
How to Reach the Place
Mayabunder, also known as Maya Bandar, is situated at a distance of 241 km from Port Blair in the northern part of the Middle Andamans by road. Thus, this place can be reached by hiring a cab or boarding a bus to travel by road. Mayabunder, the second largest tehsil in that region, can also be reached through the waterways by travelling 136 km as Andaman is well-connected through ports and water vessels.
Interesting Facts About the Forest Museum
- The Forest Museum is a tiny but well-stocked museum. It has a splendid collection of flora and fauna that are exclusively found in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
- This museum is very popular among students and educationists.
Nearby Attractions
- Avis Island Beach
- Mangrove Creeks
- Karmatang Beach
- Rampur Beach
Nearby Restaurants
- Annu Bar & Restaurant
- Naveen Praveen Bar & Restaurant
- Rejoice Cool Cat Café
- The Green Table
- Rajesh Pan Shop
- Laxmi Bar & Restaurant
The region of Mayabunder often gets scratched off from the agenda of the tourists because of its distance from Port Blair. However, it has to be stated that since this place has not been commercialized to that extent, the beauty that is held in this region is truly unparalleled. Be it the sunrise and the sunset across the fading horizon or the volcanic soil reminding the tourists of the formation of this beautiful earth, Mayabunder has its own stories in store for the tourists. With an extensive variety of flora and fauna outlining the tiny architectural wonders, this place forces the visitors not to take the eyes off practically everything! To top it all, the exotic collection at the Forest Museum is an added glory. Thus, as Mayabunder itself, crowned by the magnificence of the Forest Museum, is a treasure trove, this place is a must visit for all.
