Islands are always ideal destinations to relax during the summer, especially when they offer a significant historical background. One such place is Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This island city is far from mainland India and has a fascinating colonial connection. It served as the headquarters of the Azad Hind Movement led by Subash Chandra Bose and was also home to the infamous 'Kala Pani' (Black Waters) Jail, where Indian convicts were imprisoned. Port Blair has a captivating blend of natural beauty with its turquoise waters and intriguing stories from its pre-Independence era. It serves as a living testament to its past, inviting visitors to explore its history and immerse themselves in its unique culture. Let's discover the top attractions of this remarkable island.
Built during British rule, imprisonment at this jail was considered the harshest punishment. Also known as "Kala Pani," the jail now serves as a national memorial. Constructed between 1896 and 1906, the three-storeyed prison is a must-visit. While here, experience the saga of freedom struggle in Son-et-Lumiere (light and sound show) inside the jail compound. To learn more about the jail's history, visit the museum, art gallery and photo gallery.
Renamed Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island recently, this destination seamlessly combines history and nature. It boasts dense forests and a charming lighthouse, offering plenty of opportunities for exploration. Notably, the lighthouse tower, constructed in 1977, holds historical significance as it was the site of India's first photovoltaic panel launch. Additionally, the island preserves various remnants from its colonial past, including dilapidated buildings and a bakery dating back to the British era. The island derives its name from Captain Daniel Ross, a hydrographer who served under the East Indian Company. It is believed that this island served as the administrative headquarters of the British for 85 years. As you stroll through the island's picturesque landscape, don't be surprised to encounter deer and peacocks roaming freely.
Located a few kilometres from Port Blair, it is the perfect place to unwind after a tiring day. Its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters offer a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to relax and enjoy water activities such as swimming and sunbathing. Corbyn's sunset views are postcard-worthy, so make sure you make the most of it.
Located in the Delanipur area of Port Blair, Samudrika (Naval Marine Museum) houses an impressive collection of shells, corals, and colourful fish species found in the region. One of the main highlights of the museum is the enormous skeleton of a blue whale.
The ethnographic museum in Port Blair offers valuable insights into the lifestyle and culture of the Andaman Islands' four Negrito tribes (Jarawas, Sentinelese, Great Andamanese, and Onges), along with the two Mongoloid tribes of the Nicobar Islands. This museum serves as a platform to acquaint visitors with these indigenous communities' rich traditions and heritage. Through its exhibits and displays, you can better understand their way of life and cultural practices.
A perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is an amalgamation of biodiversity and beaches. Spread across 15 islands, this park offers a glimpse into the underwater world. Explore the vibrant coral reefs, pristine beaches, and rich marine biodiversity through activities like snorkelling and glass-bottom boat rides. The park is home to diverse marine species, including colourful fish, turtles, and coral colonies.
Situated next to Port Blair's Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, the Fisheries Museum provides a glimpse into the unique marine life that inhabits the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The museum showcases a wide range of species endemic to this region, with many of them found in the Indo-Pacific and the Bay of Bengal.
Once you have explored Port Blair and still crave more, visit Havelock Island in your itinerary. This popular island is approximately 3 hours away and is renowned for its pristine beaches, including Radhanagar Beach and Elephant Beach. To reach Havelock Island, you will need to take a ferry ride. Enjoy activities such as trekking through its tropical forests or simply basking in the sun's warm embrace while admiring the scenic views.
Immerse yourself in snorkelling and scuba diving while visiting the Andaman Islands. North Bay Island and Neil Island are particularly famous for their stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life, offering a captivating underwater experience. These islands are easily accessible from Port Blair, just a short ferry ride away.
Carry necessary travel essentials, including sunscreen and comfortable shoes. Ensure you play your part as a responsible tourist and contribute to preserving the island's heritage as much as possible. When there, please do not litter and follow the rules.
Connectivity to this off-beat place is possible only via regular flights and ferry services. The Veer Savarkar Airport is your entry point to Port Blair and is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Kochi and New Delhi. To and fro ferry services are available from Chennai, Kolkata and Visakhapatnam. There is no train connectivity to this island city.