Port Blair,Andaman
Port Blair is the administrative capital of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and a key historical gateway to India's island territories. It is notable for the Cellular Jail (Kala Pani), a colonial-era penal settlement where Indian freedom fighters were imprisoned. The city also preserves WWII relics and colonial ruins, and serves as a base for exploring rich coral reefs, tropical rainforests and unique island ecosystems.
Places to visit
- Cellular Jail (Kala Pani) — museum and evening light & sound show
- Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island) — colonial ruins and museum
- Corbyn's Cove Beach — popular beach close to town
- Chidiya Tapu (Bird Island) — birdwatching, sunset viewpoint and small treks
- North Bay Island — coral gardens, snorkeling and glass-bottom boat rides
- Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (Wandoor/Jolly Buoy access) — marine life and snorkeling (seasonal)
- Anthropological & Samudrika Museums — natural history, tribal culture and marine exhibits
- Chatham Saw Mill and Cellular Jail complex — industrial heritage and local history
Unique Aspects
- Rich coral reefs and diverse marine life close to Port Blair (good for snorkeling and introductory dives)
- WWII-era ruins, colonial architecture and convict-era history centered at Cellular Jail and Ross Island
- Tropical evergreen forests, birdlife at Chidiya Tapu and coastal mangroves
- A gateway for island-hopping to Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), Neil (Shaheed Dweep) and other islands
Things to do
- Attend the Cellular Jail light & sound show (evening) to learn the freedom struggle history
- Island hopping by ferry — day trips to North Bay, Ross Island, Chidiya Tapu and Wandoor
- Snorkeling and glass-bottom boat rides to view coral gardens; beginner scuba experiences available nearby
- Beach time and sunset at Corbyn's Cove and Chidiya Tapu
- Walking tours of colonial ruins on Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island) and WWII sites
- Visit Samudrika and Anthropological museums for context on marine ecology and tribal cultures
- Local shopping for handicrafts, shell jewelry and island specialties
Festivals & Events
- Andaman Tourism Festival / Island Tourism Festival (seasonal — often held in winter months)
- Cultural programmes and craft fairs timed with the tourist season (Nov–Feb)
- Local celebrations for national holidays (Independence/Republic Day) with events at Cellular Jail
Best Time to Visit
October to May (pleasant weather and calm seas). Peak season: November to February. Monsoon months (June–September) bring heavy rain and rough seas, affecting inter-island ferries.
Weather Conditions
Tropical maritime climate — warm and humid year-round. Typical daytime temperatures range from about 24–32°C (75–90°F). Monsoon: heavy rainfall and high humidity; winter: mild and comfortable.
Accessibility
Port Blair is served by Veer Savarkar International Airport (Port Blair) with regular flights from major Indian cities (Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, etc.). Sea connectivity: passenger ferries link Port Blair to Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), Neil (Shaheed Dweep) and other islands — schedules vary seasonally. Local transport: taxis, auto-rickshaws, rental bikes and limited public buses. Note for foreign nationals: travel to some islands may require Protected/Restricted Area permits — verify current visitor permit rules before travel.
Recommended Duration
For Port Blair alone: 2–3 days to cover main museums, Cellular Jail show and nearby islands. For a broader Andaman trip including Havelock/Neil: 6–10 days is recommended.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Light cotton clothing, a sunhat, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, water shoes for rocky beaches, swimwear, and a light rain jacket during monsoon months. Carry insect repellent and basic medications.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Try fresh seafood specialities (fish curries, grilled/tandoori fish and local shellfish), coconut-based dishes and small beachside eateries. Popular souvenirs: shell jewelry, coconut-shell handicrafts, local honey, handloom items and shell art. Avoid buying or trading protected coral pieces or items of doubtful provenance.





