North Button Island National Park

North Button Island National Park is a protected area in India.

North Button Island National Park at a Glance

Location
Andaman & Nicobar Islands, India, South Asia
Coordinates
12.317294, 93.068260
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
October to March (cooler, dry months) for tiger safaris and wildlife.

Getting to North Button Island National Park

Nearest airport: Naval Air Station, 83 km away.

Nearest international airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), 84 km away.

Weather & Climate in North Button Island National Park

The warmest temperatures in North Button Island National Park occur in May, averaging 28.8°C (up to 29.8°C). The coolest conditions are in February at 26.7°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in January with average rainfall of 19.8mm. Average humidity: 74.3%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 26.8°C (rainfall: 19.8mm)
  • February: 26.7°C (rainfall: 24.9mm)
  • March: 27.5°C (rainfall: 27.5mm)
  • April: 28.6°C (rainfall: 30.5mm)
  • May: 28.8°C (rainfall: 214.0mm)
  • June: 27.9°C (rainfall: 273.7mm)
  • July: 27.6°C (rainfall: 284.7mm)
  • August: 27.6°C (rainfall: 223.5mm)
  • September: 27.3°C (rainfall: 303.5mm)
  • October: 27.2°C (rainfall: 268.9mm)
  • November: 27.9°C (rainfall: 151.1mm)
  • December: 27.6°C (rainfall: 95.5mm)

Best Time to Visit North Button Island National Park

The best months to visit North Button Island National Park are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 26.78°C, rainfall 19.8mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 74.3%
  • February: Great, temperature 26.69°C, rainfall 24.9mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 76.1%
  • March: Great, temperature 27.47°C, rainfall 27.5mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 77.8%
  • April: Great, temperature 28.58°C, rainfall 30.5mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 76.8%
  • May: Good, temperature 28.78°C, rainfall 214mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 79.3%
  • June: Good, temperature 27.95°C, rainfall 273.7mm, sunshine 8.2 hrs, humidity 81.6%
  • July: Good, temperature 27.64°C, rainfall 284.7mm, sunshine 7.5 hrs, humidity 82.6%
  • August: Good, temperature 27.61°C, rainfall 223.5mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 82.1%
  • September: Good, temperature 27.28°C, rainfall 303.5mm, sunshine 7.8 hrs, humidity 82.8%
  • October: Good, temperature 27.19°C, rainfall 268.9mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 81.8%
  • November: Good, temperature 27.9°C, rainfall 151.1mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 76.8%
  • December: Great, temperature 27.62°C, rainfall 95.5mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 74%

Wildlife in North Button Island National Park

Home to 44 recorded species including 20 waterbirds, 12 iconic birds, 7 birds of prey, 5 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for North Button Island National Park

Based on average temperature of 27.6°C, typical conditions, humidity 79%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 28°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in North Button Island National Park

2 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for India

Travel advisory for India

North Button Island National Park FAQs

When is the ideal time to visit North Button Island National Park for wildlife viewing and pleasant weather?

The best time to visit North Button Island National Park is typically from October to March, when the weather is cooler and drier, and the seas are calmer. This period offers optimal conditions for boat safaris and wildlife spotting, particularly for marine life and migratory birds around the island.

What unique activities or experiences can visitors expect at North Button Island National Park, given its island location?

Visitors to North Button Island National Park can primarily expect boat-based exploration around the island, as land access is restricted to preserve its delicate ecosystem. You can anticipate guided boat safaris to observe marine life, such as dugongs and various fish species, and potentially some unique island birdlife. Snorkeling or diving might be available in designated zones, offering glimpses into vibrant coral reefs.

What are the typical entry fees and activity costs for visiting North Button Island National Park?

Entry fees for North Button Island National Park are generally modest for Indian nationals and slightly higher for foreign visitors, typically ranging from INR 500-1500 per person. Additional costs will apply for boat safaris, which are the main mode of exploration, and any specialized activities like snorkeling permits, so budget accordingly for these guided excursions.

Besides the moderate malaria risk, what other specific safety precautions should I take when visiting North Button Island National Park?

Beyond the moderate malaria risk, visitors should be mindful of marine safety, ensuring they follow all instructions during boat safaris and water activities. Given its remote island location, it's advisable to carry sufficient water, sun protection, and any personal medications, as medical facilities are limited. Always stay with your guide and respect the park's regulations to protect yourself and the fragile environment.

What specific wildlife can I hope to see at North Button Island National Park, particularly unique species to its island ecosystem?

North Button Island National Park is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, offering chances to spot species like the endangered dugong, various sea turtles (Green, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley), and vibrant coral reef fish. On the island itself, you might encounter unique island birds and small reptiles, though the primary focus for visitors is often the spectacular underwater world and coastal birdlife.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.