Port Blair

Port Blair stands as the capital and focal point of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, constituting its paramount city. Approximately one-fourth of the entire archipelago's population resides in this vibrant city. Serving as the sole airport hub on the island, Port Blair also hosts the primary ship jetty, the largest market, numerous government offices, hotels, and a comprehensive range of amenities akin to those found on the mainland of India.

The nomenclature "Port Blair" pays homage to British lieutenant Archibald Blair, a key figure in the establishment of a British Colony here in 1789. Port Blair is home to the Cellular Jail, a significant historical site where a substantial number of individuals involved in India's freedom struggle were incarcerated.

Beyond its historical significance, Port Blair emerges as a gem for marine life and tourism. Tourists typically allocate 3 to 5 nights in Port Blair to explore its local attractions. The encompassing region of Port Blair boasts an abundance of natural resources and wildlife, featuring around 240 bird species, 80 reptile species, and 45 mammal species.

Things to See at Port Blair

Cellular Jail

Situated in the northeastern part of the city, the location is approximately 9 kilometres away and can be reached in about 20 minutes via VIP Road, connecting to the main city. A notable attraction is the evening light and sound show, which enjoys popularity among visitors in this area.

Chatham Sawmill

Ranked among the oldest and most extensive timber processing units in both Andaman and India, this site holds historical significance as the original base for the British on the island. A museum on the premises offers insights into the site's history, and visitors have the opportunity to acquire local artefacts. Chatham Island is linked to the main island by the Chatham Bridge. Additionally, a meticulously preserved Japanese bunker, constructed by the British as a refuge against Japanese bombardment during World War II, stands as a compelling and essential attraction on the site.

Water Sports Complex

This facility provides an exhilarating array of water sports, including water skiing, sailboats, windsurfing, and speed boats, as well as safer options like paddle boats and row boats. Situated in proximity to the central Aberdeen Bazar area, the jetty here is commonly known as the Aberdeen Jetty, serving as the focal point for all water sports activities. It is also the departure point for boats heading to Ross Island, now renamed Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island.

Ross Island

Ross Island stands as a symbol of British aristocracy during the colonial rule in India. Once serving as the British headquarters, the island features a captivating church atop the hill and a noteworthy museum near the boat jetty, both of which are highly recommended for exploration. Accessible by a roughly 20-minute boat ride from the Aberdeen Jetty, Ross Island offers a glimpse into the historical legacy of British influence in the region.

Corbyn’s Cove

Corbyn's Cove, situated approximately 3 km from Port Blair airport and 7 km from the main market of Port Blair, stands as the closest beach to the city. While Port Blair is surrounded by a seafront, none of it qualifies as a proper beach, making Corbyn's Cove the go-to destination for those seeking a beach experience near the capital.

Chidiya Tapu

Chidiya Tapu is an ideal spot for witnessing the captivating sunset over the sea. Located approximately 17 km from Port Blair, the journey to Chidiya Tapu typically takes around 45 minutes, offering a scenic drive to this picturesque destination.

Samudrika Marine Museum

The Marine Museum stands as a must-visit attraction on the island, featuring an extensive collection of sea-related items that promise to captivate and educate visitors of all ages. The exhibits within offer surprises for both the young and the old, providing a valuable and enriching learning experience for all.

Viper Island

Named after the ship 'The Viper,' which met its demise nearby, Viper Island served as a punitive destination for convicted prisoners who had violated prison discipline in bygone eras. Accessible by Harbour Cruise, the journey from Port Blair to Viper Island takes approximately 45 minutes, covering a distance of around 22 km via NH4. The island bears historical significance rooted in its association with the shipwreck and its role as a disciplinary location for prisoners.

Forest Museum

Operated by the Forest Department, the Forest Museum showcases intricately crafted woodwork pieces made from various timber types like Padauk, Marble, Peama, or Satin. Open every day except Sundays and holidays, the museum welcomes visitors between 9 a.m. to 12 noon and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Located approximately 12 km away, the museum can be reached in about 20 minutes via VIP Road.

Harbour Cruise

The Phoenix Bay Jetty cruise offers a delightful experience of navigating the harbour on a boat, providing a panoramic view of the seven points that create lasting memories. Tourists are drawn to this thrilling excursion when exploring the Andaman Islands.

The Mini Zoo, a small zoological garden showcasing rare animal and bird species indigenous to the islands, is a popular attraction. Open every day except Monday, from 8 AM to 5 PM, the zoo is located approximately 9 km away and can be reached in about 20 minutes via the Great Andaman Trunk Road.

The island experiences an average temperature ranging between 26 to 30 degrees Celsius in summer and 12 to 18 degrees in winter. Summers can be relatively warm, prompting tourists to carry essentials such as sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen lotion for protection.

Accommodation

The accommodation options in Port Blair cater to the diverse needs of travellers, promising a memorable stay amidst the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Andaman Islands. Whether it's a luxury retreat, a cosy guesthouse, or an economical stay, Port Blair ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all its visitors. Most hotels are located in a 12 square kilometre area North of the Airport. However, luxury properties are spread in different directions. For the latest update about accommodation options at Port Blair, contact our helpdesk experts.

Local Travel

There are autorickshaws available on the main roads for local transport. For reserved tourist transport, the choice is somewhat limited compared to the mainland. You may not get to choose your vehicle's specific make for local travel here, but a comfortable vehicle can be assured. Most travel distances are short, half an hour to one hour in most cases. So local travel will not be an area of concern for you. Contact our helpdesk experts for more information and queries.