Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov. 10: The Department of Tourism, Andaman & Nicobar Administration, in collaboration with the Department of Environment & Forests, MY Bharat, will be organizing the Island Trekking Festival on Nov. 15 from 6.30 AM to 9 AM at Mt. Manipur, one of the most scenic and historically significant trekking routes in South Andaman. The event aims to promote eco-adventure tourism, encourage local youth participation, and foster a deeper appreciation of the Islands’ natural beauty and historical heritage. It also seeks to inspire local youth to take up eco-guiding and adventure guiding as means of self-employment, in line with the Administration’s vision for sustainable tourism development. Participation will be limited to 50 persons (first batch), including local youth, trekking enthusiasts, tour operators, and tourists. The first 50 registered participants will be selected for the trek and participation certificate will be issued by the Department of Tourism to all selected participants.
All participants have been requested to assemble near Hope Town Jetty at 6.30 AM, where the flag-off will take place. Officials from the Department of Environment & Forests will guide participants along the trail, sharing insights into the area’s biodiversity and ecological significance. Comprehensive safety and first aid arrangements will be made in coordination with the allied Departments like Health Department, Transport, A&N Police & PRIs from Gram Panchayat Hopetown to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
Interested individuals may register with the Department of Tourism by Nov. 14 by sending email at andamantourismgh@gmail.com, or can contact Shri Emlus Lakra, Receptionist at 9474200066, Shri Chander Rao, HK Assistant Manager at 9434282324. For further queries with regard to routes & plan, one may contact Smt. Rabia Mustafa, Manager, Tourism Department at 9933255364 or Smt. Sandhya Prasad, Ranger, Mt. Manipur at 9474298474.