Port Blair
The vibrant capital and gateway to the Andaman Islands, rich in history and natural beauty.
Quick Facts About Port Blair
Location
South Andaman Island, capital of A&N Islands
Known For
Cellular Jail, Ross Island, Ferry Hub
Access
Primary entry via Veer Savarkar Int'l Airport (IXZ)
Overview
Port Blair, the capital and entry point to the Andaman Islands, blends colonial history (Cellular Jail), diverse museums, and serves as the main hub for ferries to popular islands like Havelock and Neil. Explore nearby beaches, markets, and historical sites.
Getting There & Around
- Air: Veer Savarkar Int'l Airport (IXZ) connects major Indian cities.
- Sea: Long ferry journeys (~3 days) from Chennai/Kolkata (less common).
- Local Transport: Autos (₹50–150), taxis, local buses, scooter rentals (₹400–500/day).
- Ferries: To Havelock/Neil (Phoenix Bay), Ross/North Bay (Aberdeen Jetty).
Key Attractions
Cellular Jail
Historic prison, now a National Memorial. Don't miss the Light & Sound Show.
Ross Island
Former British HQ with scenic ruins, deer, peacocks. Short boat ride.
Corbyn's Cove
Popular city beach for swimming and light water sports.
Museums
Samudrika (Naval Marine) & Anthropological museums offer cultural insights.
View Comprehensive Guide
Detailed Overview
Port Blair, the bustling capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, serves as the primary entry point and administrative center for the archipelago. Far more than just a transit hub, it's a city with a complex past, vividly captured by the imposing Cellular Jail, a symbol of India's freedom struggle.
Visitors can explore poignant museums detailing the islands' unique ecology and tribal heritage, relax at Corbyn's Cove beach, wander through the lively Aberdeen Bazaar, or take short ferry trips to discover the ruins of Ross Island or the underwater wonders near North Bay.
Best Time to Visit
Nov–Feb
Pleasant, dry, peak season.
Mar–May
Hotter, good sea visibility.
Jun–Sep
Monsoon, lush greenery, fewer crowds.
Comprehensive Travel Guide
Reaching Port Blair:
- By Air (Primary): Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) is well-connected with direct flights from Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and other major Indian cities. Pre-paid taxis and auto-rickshaws are available.
- By Sea: Government passenger ships operate from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam (~3-day voyage). Advance booking essential.
Getting Around Port Blair:
- Auto-Rickshaws: Common for intra-city rides (₹50–150).
- Taxis: Available for point-to-point and day tours (≈ ₹2-3k per day).
- Two-Wheeler Rentals: ₹400-600/day, helmet compulsory.
- Local Buses: Extremely economical STS buses connect major spots.
- Ferries: Boats to Havelock, Neil, Ross & North Bay run from Phoenix Bay / Aberdeen Jetty.
Exploring Attractions & Activities
Cellular Jail National Memorial
Guided tours reveal India’s freedom-struggle history. Book the evocative Light & Sound show in advance. Closed Mondays.
Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep)
Short boat ride to atmospheric British-era ruins entwined with banyan roots; friendly deer roam freely.
Corbyn's Cove
City beach for swimming, jet-ski & speed-boat rides; coconut-lined promenade.
Samudrika Naval Marine Museum
Excellent primer on islands’ marine biodiversity, tribal culture & geology. Closed Mondays.
Anthropological Museum
Artefacts & dioramas on Jarawa, Sentinelese, Nicobarese tribes. Closed Mondays.
Accommodation & Food
Stay: Budget lodges in Aberdeen Bazaar (₹1-3k). Mid-range favourites: Sinclairs Bayview, Peerless Sarovar Portico, Fortune Resort Bay Island. Limited luxury suites at SeaShell & Welcomhotel.
Eat: Seafood at New Lighthouse & Mandalay; vegetarian at Annapurna/Icy Spicy; cafes like Ripple Coffee; sundowners at Amaya & Nico Bar.
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