Best Places to Visit in Port Blair for Leisure, Pleasure, and Bleisure

Often overlooked over its cool cousins like Havelock Island, Neil Island, Port Blair is the perfect place in the Andaman Islands to fuel your wanderlust. Port Blair is also the lively provincial capital hugged by the rugged coastline and tropical forests. Geographically. It lies in the South Andaman region. Dare I say the places to visit in Port Blair tick a lot of boxes as a travel destination. Cellular Jail – a symbol of British oppression on Indian Freedoms. Big Tick. Hiking and bird watching at Chidiya Tapu. Tick. Scuba diving, underwater sea walking, snorkeling at Ross Island (Once colonized by the Britishers. Tick and tick.

As a tourist, you will have a good time in Port Blair tourist places as they all are suitable for everyone, kids, family, couple and leisure travelers. Whether you love outdoor hopping at the museums or like to soak some Vitamin SEA, or you quench your craving for watersports, there is a place for everyone in Port Blair. However, you must arrive at Port Blair first because it has the only international airport (Veer Savarkar International Airport). Consider making Port Blair the base station of your extension to Andamans islands tourist places to visit.

Are Places to Visit in Port Blair Worthy for Sightseeing?

Yes! Additionally, Port Blair itself is a very important travel destination according to the tourism perspective. When someone arrives at Andaman and Nicobar Islands, they first land at Veer Savarkar International Airport (the sole airport in the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands). Subsequently, the travel places to visit in Port Blair are a cluster of 6 islands, out of which 4 are major ones – Chatham Island, Garacharma Island, Ross Island, Snake Island.

For every age group of people, there are places of interest in Port Blair. For instance, kids will love hopping to Mouth Harriet National Park in quest of flora and fauna. Backpackers would love to thrill themselves from head to toe at Rajiv Gandhi Watersports Complex with snorkeling, parasailing, and jet skiing. Additionally, family tourers can spend a good time at the museums. Lastly, couples, leisure, and bleisure travelers will have profound island hopping time.

10 Best Places to Visit in Port Blair That Are Drop Dead Dazzling

1. Cellular Jail (Kala Pani Jail): Symbol of British Oppression on Indian Freedom Fighters

Timings: 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon, and from 1:30 PM to 4:45 PM (approx.). Every day except National Holidays
Entry Fee: 30 ₹ for all
Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours (approx.)

A mute testimony to the selfless sacrifice of Indian freedom fighters, Cellular Jail, is one of the most visited places to visit in Port Blair. It is now a national memorial, but before independence, Britihesrs used to keep and torture the brave Indian freedom fighters. A light and sound show is held in the evening at Cellular Jail that showcases how the British invaders made our heroic martyrs suffer agony. Inside the Cellular Jail, there is a museum, photo gallery, and library to read the books served to the freedom fighters.

• Light & Sound Show Timings: 2 shows – 6 PM (Hindi) and 7:15 PM (English) every day, and camera entry is restricted
• Light & Sound Show Entry Price (approx.): ₹ 30 per head for Indians, ₹ 100 per head for foreigners
• Gypsy Tip: Video camera, professional camera, and handy camera charges are additional. Guides are available for around ₹ 200 per hour.

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Why is the Cellular Jail of Port Blair in Andamans Famous?

Britishers used to give soul-destroying slave work. The former penal colony was designed to break the people who raised their voice for Indian Independence. Explore the history of Cellular Jail on a guided excursion to the Jail Museum inside the complex. Even more, the architecture of this place is torturing enough as it was made to keep the political prisoners as lonely as it can be. Therefore, Kala Pani Ki Saza was rated the second most brutal punishment during the British Raj. Lastly, Cellular Jail is famous today because it housed famous prisoners like Batukeshwar Dutt and Veer Savarkar, who raised their voices for India’s independence.

2. Sri Vetrimalai Murugan Temple – Showcases Impeccable Dravidian Architecture

Dedicated To Deities: Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati
Timings for Darshan: 5 AM – 12 PM, 4 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free for all
Ideal Duration: 1 hour (approx.)

Touted as one of the best Hindu Temples in Port Blair, Sri Vetrimalai Murugan Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan – Lord Shiva’s Son. Since Sri Vetrimalai Murugan Temple is one of Andamans’ few temples, it is one of Port Blair’s best places to visit with family. Additionally, couples, backpackers and even leisure travelers can attend the aarti at the temple that goes round the year. The garden around the premises of the temple is used for a picnic in winter.

Why is Sri Vetrimalai Murugan Temple in Port Blair Famous?

Firstly, the temple is the fusion of Dravidian architecture, inspired by the south Indian temples. Secondly, it is like any other temple of Tamil Nadu in terms of architecture. Thirdly, Tamil Inhabitants and devotees of various breeds have put their souls to build Sri Vetrimalai Murugan Temple.

3. Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island): The Place to Witness the Heydays of British Aristocracy

Visiting Hours: The island remains open from 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (afterward, no entry is allowed)
Ideal Duration: Half day trip
Must-See Attractions in Ross Island: Ancient Presbyterian Church, Club Houses Remnants, Ferar Beach

Earlier dedicated to the Marine Surveyor Daniel Ross, this tourist place to see in Port Blair is also renamed by the current Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. Now it is dedicated to Netaji Subash Chandra Bose, and hence, its new name is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. This island was the headquarters of the Britishers during their invasion. Alongside, Japanese traces of World War II could be seen. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island) has museums, gardens and the light and sound show is the big highlight.

For now, the island is under British Navvy Control, and hence, guests might face some restrictions. The best thing? Scuba diving excursions and underwater sea walking trips at the pristine blue waters of Ross Island are a big hit.

Why is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island) in Port Blair Famous?

Ross Island, which is now Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island, was the same island where Netaji landed with the help of the Japanese troops on December 30, 1943. Afterward, he hoisted the Indian Tricolor Flag to challenge the Britishers to leave the country; otherwise, get ready to face the wrath of Azad Hind Fauj. Moreover, the island was a British colony, and hence, there are various ruins of the colonized period. Even more, there are remnants of the clubhouses commissioned by the elite Britishers for their whims and fantasies. Lastly, Ross Island is also the place to see the Light & Sound Show during/after sunset on the theme of India’s struggle for independence.

• Light & Sound Show Timings at Ross Island: After 5 PM (hovers according to sunset time)
  How to Obtain Light & Sound Show Ticket: Upon arrival with proof, your identify
• Boat/Ferry Boarding Time: 4 PM
  Ferry Cost from Port Blair Jetty to Ross Island: ₹ 50 for adults, ₹ 25 for children for to and fro movement
• Gypsy Tip: Tourists can’t stay at Ross Island as it’s under the supervision of the Naval of India.

How to Reach Ross Island from Port Blair

No road journey is possible to reach Ross Island. But you can reach its ferry station – Aberdeen Jetty, Phoenix Bay Jetty, Water Sports Complex to board a ferry to the island, and it hardly takes 15-20 minutes (approx.).

Gypsy Tip: Since the island is under the supervision of the Indian Navy hence, there are National Holidays when the Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island) remains closed. Make sure to enquire from your tour operator before you go!

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4. Corbyn Cove Beach – Kids-Friendly Beach for Swimming

Famous Water Sports at Corbyn Cove Beach: Scuba Diving, Jet Skiing, Parasailing, Speedboat Ride
Watersports Duration with Price (approx.): 15-20 minutes starting at ₹ 1,000 onwards per person
Approx Distance from Central Port Blair: Within 10 kilometers
Transportation Option to Reach from Port Blair City Center: Autorickshaw, bus, taxi

Traveling to Port Blair with kids because they love swimming, sunbathing? Look no further than Corbyn Cove Beach. This is a sandy palm-fringed public beach where jet skiing rentals, lounge chairs are arranged to entice guests. Also, several shacks or eateries are dotted around the beach, along with a budget for swanky accommodations. The lush green palm trees flanked around the shoreline are a sight to behold with your near or dear ones. Corbyn Cove Beach is one of the safe beaches in Port Blair for swimming. It is the silver sands of the beach that is a serious crowd puller here.

Why is Corbyn Cove Beach in Port Blair Famous?

Parasailing over the turquoise blue waters of the beach is what entices tourists of all age groups the most. Unlike other beaches of India, Corbyn Cove Beach has ample watersports options to quench your thirst for adventure. Even more, Corbyn Cove Beach follows a no smoking and drinking policy. Hence, families, kids, and couples can use the room from morning until sunrise at Corbyn Cove Beach.

Gypsy Tip: At some parts of the beach, there are crocodiles spotted. Beware and visit the beach zones where you see public gatherings, not isolation.

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5. Chidiya Tapu – Get Close to Nature As You Desire

Visiting Hours: 8:30 AM to sunset
Distance from Port Blair Airport: 22 km/40 minutes (approx.)

Chidiya Tapu is one of the eye-catching photo points in Port Blair and provides sweeping views of the Andaman coastline. Literally translated to Bird Island (Chidiya means birds and Tapu means island), this place to see in Port Blair requires a 2 km short trek through a forested trail called Munda Parvat. Famous for its sunset, the Chidiya Tapu or Bird Island is among places worth visiting in Port Blair. Not only does it offer an incredible view of the Andaman coastline, but the place also houses over 40 varieties of regional birds.

The Munda Pahar Beach on Chidiya Tapu is a sought-after picnic destination. Beautiful star corals and other seashells can be collected on the beach. You must know that swimming is not safe here. The 1.5 km Munda Pahar trek is a pleasant treat. Sit for a while with your partner holding his/her hands and watch the sunset going down the horizon while leaving its golden hues in the skies.

Duration of Munda Pahar Trek: 2 kilometers (approx.)
Travel Time: 30 minutes (approx.)

Why Chidiya Tapu is A Famous Tourist Attraction in Port Blair?

The entire place is a bird watcher’s paradise, and around 46 species of endemic birds flourish at Chidiya Tapu. Also, the dense mangrove forest carpet is a photographer’s delight. On your way to Munda Pahar Beach, Chidiya Tapu falls a little early and is the starting point to reach Munda Pahar Beach. Chidiya Tapu has a Sunset Point where many romantic couples visit to witness the sun dipping into the womb of the Bay of Bengal. It is a year-round tourist spot, but January is the best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands for bird watching. In January, several migratory birds breed here.

6. Samudrika Marine Museum – Get Aware of the Various Aspects of Oceanic Environment

Visiting Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM, 2:10 PM to 4:30 PM, Sunday closed
Entry Price Ticket: ₹ 50 for adults and ₹ 25 for kids
Ideal Duration of Exploration: 1-2 hours (approx.)

Educate your kids about flora and fauna found at the deepest part of the sea on your Andamans trip. Samudrika Marine Museum is one of the top attractions in Port Blair for kids. The entrance to Samudrika Marine Museum is decorated with the giant whale skeleton enclosed in a glass shell. The Indian Navy runs this museum and takes care of it. Since the museum is an enclosed attraction thus, Samudrika Marine Museum is one of the top places to visit in Port Blair in the summers. On a half-day trip, kids and even adults will learn a lot about how corals and shells are formed beneath the sea bed.

What Makes Samudrika Marine Museum A Famous Tourist Attraction in Port Blair?

Five sections at Samudrika Marine Museum showcase the best knowledge about the erstwhile marine world of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Visitors are provided with an audio device in which they can hear about the marine flora and fauna in detail. Inside the museum, a small souvenir shop sells coral shells and other products. Lastly, if you belong to the family of civil defense personnel, you will get discounts on tickets. Did we mention disable people can explore the museum in a wheelchair?

Read more: Plan a Trip to Andaman From Kolkata

7. Chatham Saw Mill – A Rich Tapestry of History

Visiting Hours: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Entry Price Ticket: ₹ 10 per person
Ideal Duration: 1 hour (approx.)

A sawmill by nature that is still functional from the 19th century, Chatham Saw Mill is Asia’s one of the largest and oldest sawmills. Established in 1883 by the Britishers to meet the requirement of timber in the local area. There is a souvenir shop that sells teak objects. Ideally, this tourist attraction in Port Blair is located on Chatham Island – one of the six islands of Port Blair. If you are looking to explore the unexplored places in Port Blair, bookmark Chatham Saw Mill. It is less on the touristy radar but should be because this ancient mill even tells the tale of World War 2.

What Makes Chatham Saw Mill A Worthy Tourist Attraction in Port Blair?

Visitors can come across the giant saw blades dating back to the pre-independence era used by the Britishers. The timber from Chatham Saw Mill is still explored in many places across India and even across the borders. History lovers will be bowl over with the Bomb Crater and the bunkers left by the Japanese Ordanance during World War II.

Gypsy Tip: Hire the guide for the sawmill tour in detail in just ₹ 50 (approx.) for a few minutes.

8. Mount Manipur National Park – Has A Tale Associated With Anglo-Manipur War of 1891

Visiting Hours: 7 AM – 5 PM, every day
Entry Price Ticket: ₹ 10 per person for kids, ₹ 25 per person for adults (Indians, and ₹ 250 for foreigners
Ideal Duration: 1 hour (approx.)

Rechristened from Mount Harriet to Mount Manipur National Park by the Union Government in October 2021, this is another place to visit in Port Blair for history enthusiasts. Also gaining the title of the highest peak in the South Andaman archipelago and second highest in Andaman (365m high), Mount Manipur National Park is one of the lush green places to see in Port Blair. To bond with family, the manicured greenery of Mount Manipur National Park is scintillating. Inside the national park are eco huts for halts. Such elevation requires a little bit of trekking which is easy for kids also!

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What Makes Mount Manipur National Park A Worthy Tourist Attraction in Port Blair?

Mount Manipur National Park is fastly emerging as the newest tourist attraction. The Central Government renamed the 2nd highest peak of Andaman in Oct 2021 regarding the significant contribution to the several Manipuris who fought with Britisher during Anglo Manipur War of 1891. The lush green carpet of this place includes a small orchidarium within it, alongside the traditional Nicobari hut used by the Japanese army. Even more, there is a camping facility inside the enclosed areas of Mount Manipur National Park.

Gypsy Tip: Avoid jungle trekking in the monsoon because of the spiders, leeches. Also, professional camera charges are additional.

9. Aberdeen Bazaar – Shop Some Souvenirs from the Bustling Heart of the Capital

Visiting Hours: 10 AM – 9 PM
Ideal Duration: 1 hour (approx.)

Looking for the best places to shop, eat, and stay with your significant other? End your search with Aberdeen Bazaar as it is the bustling heart of the capital town and hence, one of the must-visit places in Port Blair for shopping. Most tourists do not return home from Port Blair without shopping for some souvenirs at the Aberdeen Bazaar. From trinkets to souvenirs to shells, take your pick and explore Aberdeen Bazaar during the evening for the best experience.

10. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park – For the Quirky Underwater World

How to Reach: Drive from Port Blair to Wandoor Village
Important Advice: A permit is required, which can be obtained on arrival
Opening Timings: 8:30 AM – 10 AM (subject to change)
Private Ferry Operates From: Wandoor Village, 30 kilometers (approx.) from Port Blair

Established in the 1980s with an aim to protect the marine life of the area, Mahatma Gandhi is a cluster of the open sea, creeks, and 15 small and large islands in Wandoor Village. Out of the cluster of the islands, two are accessible for tourists (Jolly Buoy and Red Skin). Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a carpet of manicured mangroves and pristine beaches (not all of them are suitable for swimming).

If you are a marine enthusiast, get ready to be spoiled with rare, exquisite corals and the underwater marine world. There are glass bottoms, scuba diving, snorkeling, and boating activities for every age group. Inside the national marine park is a small auditorium that showcases the audio-visual programs regarding flora and fauna of this region.

What Makes Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park A Worthy Tourist Attraction in Port Blair?

The Chief Wildlife Warden of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands forest department takes care of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. In just one single package (inclusive of to and fro ferry fare, national park permit, and activities like snorkeling, glass-bottom boat ride), guests can have the best experience of the underwater world. Put your binoculars and DSLR because Jolly Buoy Island is a perfect place for birdwatching (migratory birds). Even more, scuba diving is totally safe at Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, along with snorkeling. Additionally, the Turtle Breeding Center is another highlight.

Scuba Diving Price and Duration at Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park: ₹ 3,500 per person for 30 minutes (approx.)
Snorkeling Price and Duration at Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park: ₹ 600 per person for 15-20 minutes (approx.)

Anything Else?

Intrigued to plan a trip to Port Blair? Indian Holiday has some award-winning deals on our Port Blair tour packages from metro towns like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, etc. Take time to browse the itineraries of Port Blair or go bespoke with our customized trips to Port Blair with or without flights.

Things to Know About Places to Visit in Port Blair

• Some tourist attractions to visit in Port Blair remain closed on Monday and Wednesday – mainly museums.
• The cultural shock will tantalize you because the native of Port Blair is a fusion of Bengalis, Telugus, Nicobarese, Myanmarese, and Tamils.
• Boats, cruises, and ferries are the only option for nearby island hopping. However, within the city, the commute is the same as in metro towns except for the rail network.

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