Sightseeing Spots in Port Blair

Enormous store rooms with wooden planks piled up on one side and a massive workshop with century-old machines on the other, that's Andaman and Nicobar archipelago's Chatham Saw Mill, the oldest and also one among the most important in Asia. Situated 3 kilometers north of Port Blair, the mill has got its name from the entire island occupying it. The massive wooden front gate at the doorway proudly announces its contribution to the history of the island. The mill was primarily built in 1883 during British colonial rule to meet the need of timber for construction works within the island. The British also used the sawmill to convert vast quantities of wood for catering to the requirements back in their own country.

Getting There

The Chatham sawmill is within the Chatham Islands, which is at a distance of 11 kilometers from Port Blair. The best way to reach the mill is by hiring a private cab or an auto-rickshaw for your convenience. The sawmill and therefore the forest museum is open on all days except on Sundays and public holidays.

{show_package package-id="50,14,16,30" title="Our Package"}

Be There do that

In 1942, during the planet War II, British heavily bombed Andaman island to take control back from Japanese occupation which destroyed multiple parts of the mill. A half hemispherical shaped bomb pit by this bombing remains there. A canopy walk is formed over the bomb pit for the tourists to take a closer look. As one nears the mill, one can see large wooden logs piled across the region. The mill also features a museum that exhibits wooden crafts made by skilful artisans. There are displays of some flora and fauna inside the museum too. While visiting here, tourists can witness the varied manufacturing processes that want to convert massive logs into small and complex chunks of wood. The Department of Environment & Forests established a contemporary Museum in September 2006 within the Mill Complex. The museum exhibits beautiful photographs of historical importance also as about the overall working of the Department of Environment & Forests.

While You're There

• Note that the visiting hours are from 8.30 AM to 2.30 PM.
• Remember to purchase an entrance ticket to enter the sawmill.
• Know that the Entry Fee for the mill is Rs. 10 per Person & Rs. 50 for a guided excursion.
• Look right outside the main workshop in Chatham where stands a massive storeroom with old metal tracks to carry the logs and wooden planks. This storeroom was built by 200 Indian freedom fighters who were exiled by the then British government.
• Do not litter the place; eliminate waste at a correct position.

Closing Statement

The Chatham Sawmill is of great historical significance because it has witnessed tons of ancient events and maybe a great place for people to love history. If you're a history buff, then you want to pay a visit to the Chatham mill. Whether you're an individual who loves history or not, this mill is worth a visit because it isn't just a traditional destination, it's something different and unique.

Cellular Jail is a national memorial of great historical significance for India and touts to be the most prominent tourist spot in Andamans. Built by the Britishers during their colonial rule in India, especially to exile political prisoners, Cellular jail was where the inmates were subject to punishments and atrocities at the hands of the British soldiers. The construction of the present structure of the cellular jail went on from 1896 to 1906. Nevertheless, the British officers had been using the prison as an exile for prisoners from the late 1950s. Once known as Kala Pani, the jail was used by the British for deporting political prisoners from India.

Getting There

The cellular jail lies within the town of Port Blair, located at a famous landmark known as Atlanta Point that lies about 7.8 km from the centre of Port Blair via RGT Road. An ideal way to reach the jail complex is by hiring a private cab or an auto-rickshaw for your convenience. Tourists can also hire Two-wheelers and cycles from multiple rental shops in port Blair.

{show_package package-id="50,14,16,30" title="Our Package"}

Be There Do That

The architectural style of this jail is cellular. Upon visiting, you will notice that the stories and struggles of the freedom and political fighters of our country displayed proudly on the walls of the prison. You will chance upon a gallery dedicated to the memorabilia of the movement of the freedom fighters, and the anecdotes of the adversities faced by the brave soldiers who were unfortunate enough to bear the torment of the Britishers. Each parapet of the seven-winged structure stands a proud witness proclaiming the glory of the illustrious dissidents such as Yogendra Shukla, Veer Savarkar, Batukeshwar Dutt, and many others. From the corners of the brick structure, one can also view the legendary Ross Island lying just across in front, and the North Bay Island towards the left.

While You’re There

• Remember that the Cellular Jail stays open from 09:00 AM to 12:30 PM, 01:30 PM to 04:45 PM on all days, except national holidays.
• Note that the entry fee is INR 30 and charges for a still camera are INR 200 and for a video camera INR 1000.
• Keep a lookout for the light and sound show organized in the memory of the brave martyrs by the Cellular Jail authorities on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The show timings are 6:00 PM and 7:15 PM for the Hindi Audio show, whereas there is just one show in English at 7:15 PM and the price of the show is INR 50 per head.

Closing Statement

The jail offers a reckoning insight into the horrible past of India. The state of the country under colonialism and the unwavering love of the freedom fighters for their nation. The prison is a standing testimony to what our heroes had to go through to achieve the freedom that we have today. With its historical value and architectural prowess, the Kalapani or Andaman Cellular Jail remains a remarkable place for the tourists who visit Andaman from all over the world.

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island, formerly known as the Ross Island, used to be the residential headquarters for the British administration in the Andaman Islands. The British brought with them all modern amenities and endowed the island with beautiful buildings and government institutions, giving it the nickname of ‘Paris of the East’. The island clad with coconut and palm trees all across the island resides in the Archipelago of Andaman. However, it is now mostly deserted with some parts of the island retaining the colonial architecture. Incidentally, it was also the capital of the Archipelago for close to a century, between 1858 to 1941. The island has been named after ‘Sir Daniel Ross,’ a marine surveyor and has attracted a vast number of visitors from across the globe.

Getting There

Ross Island is 3 km away from Port Blair.

By Water: One of the best mediums to reach Ross Island is by taking a ferry. You can choose between private ferries or a boat departing from Phoenix Bay.

By Road: Several buses connect Port Blair to Aberdeen Jetty, which is near to Ross island. From there, take a ferry to reach your destination.

Be There Do That

The island contains several brick walkways crisscrossing the settlement. There are several small shops with water and food supplies, and ferries run every hour or so from Port Blair. As it is a navy controlled territory, visitors have to sign-in upon entry and exit. Tourists can also explore the historical ruins that are on the island – Troop Barracks, Chief Commissioner’s House, etc. The island is closed to tourists at night. For wildlife enthusiasts, the island has a variety of endangered species of birds and deers and hence makes for an exceptional sight itself. The swimming pool and the tennis court on the island are a perfect leisure spot for the visitors. A journey to Ross Island would be incomplete without attending its marvellous Light and Sound Show.

{show_package package-id="50,14,16,30" title="Our Package"}

While You’re There

• Ross island is open to visitors from 8 Am to 5 Pm.
• Remember to pre-book a guide for the Ross island at port Blair itself.
• It takes roughly 2 to 3 hours to explore the island.
• Do not litter the island.
• Do not forget to carry essential items and refreshments.
• Do not forget to carry a camera.
• Walking is the only way to explore the island. Do not forget to wear comfortable footwear and clothing.
• The Japanese constructed bunkers and countless tunnels during world war two, which can be witnessed by the tourists.
• It is advisable to carry Sunglasses, umbrella and caps, especially during the summers.

Closing Statement

Once the seat of British power, Ross Island now boasts of breathtaking ruins and an exciting journey to the past. It’s the nostalgia that surrounds the Ross island accounting for its beauty and charm. Ross Island has a rich history and cultural heritage, offering a lifetime experience. The island promises of a perfect, airbrushed start into what could quite probably be the most ingrained, indulgent holiday of your lives.

One of the most famous and well-maintained museums of Andaman, Anthropological Museum sheds light on the profound and informative portrait of the island's area people of tribes. These tribes are considered together of the oldest within the world. The museum displays various articles like handicrafts, tools, arts and crafts, implements, photographs, and clothing dating back to the era of the prominence of these native tribes. It also showcases models of clay and hay to inform of the houses, utensils, ornaments, and equipment used by these tribes. The museum works towards the aim of preserving the heritage and tribal culture of the islands.

Getting There

The Anthropological Museum resides at a distance of around 7.3 kilometres from Port Blair which will ideally consume 13 to 15 minutes. The most convenient mode to reach the Anthropological Museum is to travel via MG road. The museum remains open between 09:00 AM to 01.00 PM and 01.30 PM to 04.30 PM. Make sure you plan your visit following the timings of the museum.

{show_package package-id="50,14,16,30" title="Our Package"}

Be There Do That

The museum throws light on the four Negrito Tribes of the Andaman, i.e. Jarawas, Sentinelese, Great Andamanese, and therefore the Onges and two Mongoloid Tribes of the Nicobar viz. the Nicobarese and the Shompens. The collection of the museum includes portraits, models, and photographs of tribal communities in Andaman Islands. Since these tribes maintain little or no contact with the surface world, the museum may be an excellent opportunity to know their culture and lifestyle. The significant exhibits one can find are shamanic sculptures and the Jarawa chest guard.

While You're There

• Watch the varied exhibits, which include shamanic sculptures, Jarawa chest guard, to name a few.
• Know that the museum remains closed on Mondays and holidays.
• Learn about the life of Paleolithic Islanders.
• Ascertain other items on display such as handicrafts, arts and crafts, tools, photographs, weapons, and clothing dating back to the older times.
• Get conversant in the living sort of the tribals through the models made out of hay and clay which provides one an image of the type of kit and utensils they used, ornaments they wore, and therefore the houses they lived.
• Know that an hour or two is enough to take a complete tour of the museum.
• Visit the souvenir shop that's adjoining the museum and find informative and exciting journals, books, and more such items here.
• Remember that special permission is required for visitors to access some of the tribal areas.

Closing Statement

The Anthropological Museum gives insights about the life of the tribe that once called this island their home. Andamans houses six native tribes that are isolated from the rest of the world. The museum further enables you to gain insights into the tribal life of these people. What this museum lacks in design, it makes up for in enthusiasm. Not the exact state-of-the-art kind of gallery compiles the information beautifully, so full marks for that. If you are a history buff, make sure to include this landmark in your itinerary.

Is Port Blair worth visiting? If yes, then how many days should you spend there?

Travellers often think about these questions when they decide to travel to the Andaman Islands. We know that the best beaches are in Havelock Island, but Port Blair is known for its rich history. So, most of the people think should they skip it and head directly towards Havelock Island or spend some time there as well. We would recommend you to make up your mind to stay in the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for two days at least. Ultimately, apart from knowing about the historical events that this place has witnessed, you will also see a fair share of nature and beauty in Port Blair. Most importantly, you can witness an interesting phenomenon that occurs in an unusual place. You should definitely add it to your itinerary, but let us tell you in advance that it requires more time and money. But you should not miss it at any cost. It definitely deserves a place in your travel bucket list. So, what it is? Find out yourself…   

{show_package package-id="50,14,16,30" title="Our Package"}

Where to stay?

When in Port Blair, you would want to stay near a beach far away from the hustle-bustle of the city. Is that correct? The best part of staying in beachfront accommodations is that they are just a few minutes’ walk away from the beach that is surrounded by coconut trees. But let us tell you that such hotels are located in seclusion and also there is no market nearby in some cases.  

What to see?

Cellular Jail

Port Blair is famous for the historic Cellular Jail that was built by the Britishers in ten years. It was constructed as solitary confinement for Indian political prisoners. This was the most dreaded and grueling colonial jail, which was also referred to as Kala Pani. It has witnessed the most atrocious punishments imposed on innumerable freedom fighters of India. Open to the public as a national memorial, you can see the whole place soaking in the misery and pain of the revolutionaries. You can climb the stairs, walk through the corridors, get inside the cells, and see the gallows where execution was done by hanging. You will get a glimpse of India’s struggle for freedom.

Timings and fees for Cellular Jail and Jail Museum (Open all days except national holidays)

09:00 am to 12:30 pm

01:30 pm to 04:45 pm 

Entry Fee: Rs. 30, Camera: Rs. 200, Video Camera: Rs. 1000, Film shooting per day with prior permission: Rs. 10000

Son-et-Lumiere (Sound and Light Show) at Cellular Jail

The show presents the saga of the heroic freedom struggle. The entry fee for kids is Rs. 25 and for adults, it is Rs. 50. You can choose any of the following timings to watch the one-hour show:

05:30 pm to 06:30 pm

06:45 pm to 07:45 pm

08:00 pm to 09:00 pm 

09:15 pm to 10:15 pm 

Corbyn’s Cove Beach

You can go there on the first evening of your trip. After a long day, all everyonewants is to take a leisurely stroll surrounded by peaceful beach vibes. One of the most famous beaches in Port Blair, people come here for boating, water scooters, and jet skiing as well. It is easily accessible, and you can spend hours here while relaxing, shopping and eating.  

But let us tell you that this beach is nowhere near the pristine beaches of Havelock Island. 

YOU CAN’T MISS THIS WHEN IN PORT BLAIR!!!

If you want to see something extraordinary, then don’t forget to include Barren Island in your travel itinerary. Located in the Andaman Sea, the Barren Volcano is the only confirmed active volcano in South Asia. Also, along a chain of volcanoes from Sumatra to Myanmar, this is the only active volcano. It is located nearly 138 kilometers from Port Blair. If it’s a lucky day and if you are also fortunate enough, then you can see the volcano erupting lava and ash. Its first eruption was recorded in 1787.

Getting there

If you are willing to have a sightseeing tour around the Island, then you can do so by renting boats/ferries. However, visitors are restricted to land ashore. A seaplane tour from Port Blair can also be opted to look around the island. Getting approval of the forest department and necessary permits is mandatory as this island comes under the restricted zone.

Best time to visit

Usually, November to February is considered the best time to visit this island. The weather is clear during these months giving a good possibility to see the island and the volcano. 

Other places to see when in Port Blair

If you have more time, then you can visit these places as well: 

• Ross Island
• Viper Island
• North Bay Island
• Chidiya Tapu
• Baratang Island
• Jolly Buoy Island
• Anthropological Museum
• Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex
• Wandoor & Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
• Samudrika Naval Marine Museum 
• Marina Park & Fisheries Museum
• Chatham Saw Mill

If you are in the planning stage of your vacation in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, then contact Andaman Island Travels to make all your bookings. A well-known and trusted tour agency, it is located in Port Blair and is committed to help you in planning the holiday of your dreams as per your budget and requirements. Whether it is your accommodation, any adventure activity that you want to do, or hire a car, it will take care of all your needs in the best way possible.