Samudrika Naval Marine Museum
Samudrika Naval Marine Museum is a small but informative maritime and marine-life museum run by the Indian Navy in Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The museum showcases the region's marine biodiversity, coral reef ecology, shell and mollusc collections, sea turtles, and exhibits on the maritime history and tribal life of the islands. It's a great introductory stop to understand the Andamans' underwater environment and naval heritage.
Location
Near Aberdeen Jetty / Haddo area, Port Blair (Naval premises), Port Blair, India
Duration
Recommended visit time: 45 minutes – 1.5 hours
Best Time to Visit
Best months: October to May (dry season) — mornings are quieter and cooler. Avoid monsoon months (June–September) for general island travel.
Pricing
Entry fee: Nominal charge (varies). Typically affordable — indicative range: INR 20–100 depending on visitor nationality/age. Note: Indian Navy-run facilities may require ID and are subject to change — confirm on arrival or through local tourism queries.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Marine biodiversity exhibits — corals, molluscs, shells, preserved fish and marine invertebrates
Sea turtle and stingray displays — educational specimens and information on conservation
Coral reef ecology — panels explaining reef formation, threats and conservation
Maritime and naval history — exhibits on naval operations, shipwrecks, and island life
Cultural displays — information on indigenous tribes and traditional livelihoods linked to the sea
Photographic panels and dioramas — good for quick learning and orientation to the Andamans' marine environment
Itinerary
Arrival & security check
The museum is located on or near naval premises; visitors may undergo a brief security/ID check. Carry a valid photo ID.
Main galleries — marine life and corals
Start with biodiversity exhibits: corals, shells, preserved marine species and explanatory panels.
Maritime history & cultural section
Browse displays on naval operations, shipwrecks, islanders' maritime traditions and conservation efforts.
Short film / audiovisual (if available) & souvenir browsing
Some visits include a short informative film or a small souvenir stall; timings vary by day.
Exit / nearby stroll
Finish and proceed to nearby attractions like Corbyn's Cove, Cellular Jail (short drive), or jetty area.
Safety Requirements
Carry a valid government-issued photo ID — required for entry to naval premises
Follow museum rules: no touching preserved specimens, no flash photography where prohibited
Supervise children at all times; some displays contain fragile specimens
Respect restricted areas and instructions from museum/security staff
Tips
Carry ID: Mandatory at naval-run facilities — bring passport/driver's license/Aadhaar photocopy
Timing: Visit early morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat
Duration: Allocate about 1 hour as it's a compact museum
Combine visits: Pair with nearby Port Blair sights (Cellular Jail, Corbyn's Cove) for efficient sightseeing
Ask polite questions: Staff and naval personnel can provide useful conservation context and local tips
Check updates: Opening hours, entry fees and access rules can change — verify locally before visiting
