Chatham Saw Mill & Forest Museum
Chatham Saw Mill, located on Chatham Island near Port Blair, is one of the oldest and largest sawmills in Asia and a popular heritage attraction in the Andaman Islands. The complex includes working timber machinery, extensive timber yards, and the on-site Forest Museum which showcases the region's forestry history, timber species, colonial-era tools and wildlife exhibits. Visitors can observe vintage steam and electric saw equipment, learn about sustainable forestry practices, and enjoy scenic views of the harbor and surrounding mangroves.
Location
Chatham Island (Chatham Saw Mill & Forest Museum), Port Blair, India
Duration
1–2 hours (typical); 3–4 hours if combined with other nearby sites or a relaxed visit
Best Time to Visit
October to May (dry season) — calm seas and pleasant weather. Avoid heavy monsoon months (June–September) for boat transfers.
Pricing
Entry to the museum is typically a nominal fee (around INR 10–50). Transfer to Chatham Island requires a government/local boat from Phoenix Bay/Port Blair ferry point; shared government boats are inexpensive (approx. INR 20–150 round trip depending on service), while private launches are costlier. Additional fees may apply for camera use or guided tours in some seasons. Prices are indicative and can change — carry small cash and confirm current fares locally.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Historic saw mill machinery — some machinery dates back to colonial times and can be viewed in operation
Forest Museum displays — timber species, forestry tools, mounted specimens and educational panels about Andaman ecology
Timber yards and processing areas — see large logs and the scale of timber operations
Scenic harbor & mangrove views — good photographic opportunities of Port Blair harbor
Short boat ride from Port Blair — pleasant water crossing offering coastal views
Itinerary
Board government/charter boat at Phoenix Bay/Port Blair and cross to Chatham Island.
Boats run at scheduled times; arrive early to secure seats during peak season.
Guided/independent tour of the Chatham Saw Mill compound.
Observe vintage saw machinery, timber processing areas and operational demonstrations if available.
Visit the Forest Museum.
Read exhibits about local timber species, forestry history and conservation efforts.
Walk along the jetty and mangrove frontage; take photographs.
Watch for birds and shoreline life; respect signposted no-entry zones in processing areas.
Return boat to Port Blair.
Check boat schedules; timing may vary with tides and operator.
Safety Requirements
Wear closed-toe shoes in the sawmill and yard — uneven surfaces and heavy equipment present hazards
Follow all posted safety signs and staff instructions — do not enter restricted or operational areas
Life jackets on boats — ensure life jackets are available and worn on small boat crossings
Sun protection and hydration — bring sunscreen, hat and water, especially in hot months
Keep a safe distance from machinery and moving logs — photography near machinery may be restricted
Tips
Carry ID and small cash — small local fees and boat fares often require cash.
Go early in the morning to avoid heat and crowds; mid-week visits are quieter.
Bring a camera (check for any camera fees or restricted zones) and binoculars for birdwatching along the mangroves.
Combine the visit with other nearby attractions in Port Blair (Cellular Jail, local markets) for a fuller day.
Respect museum exhibits and avoid touching specimens or machinery unless explicitly allowed.
Confirm boat timings and entry fees locally as schedules and charges change frequently.
If you have mobility issues, check access conditions — some parts of the compound can be uneven or require steps.
