The Cellular Jail in Andaman is not just a tourist attraction, but it is a living reminder of the struggle of India to gain independence. Have you ever wondered how it felt to be like the freedom fighters in remote cells surrounded by the sea? The Cellular Jail Andaman, is a tragic historical experience that depicts the tales of bravery, sacrifice, and strength. Even the corridors and the light and sound show in the evening illustrate the stories of courage. Whether as a history lover, culture lover or a traveller, you will be inspired and feel thankful for the sacrifices of the freedom fighters, as you stroll through this Jail with the Andaman tour package. This guide is going to reveal all the information you need about this historic place for a memorable and insightful visit.
Cellular Jail History
The history of the Cellular Jail started in 1906 when the British constructed it in Port Blair to put the Indian freedom fighters as far as possible, out of the mainland. The Jail was constructed as a seven-winged facility, which was meant to control prisoners and demoralize them. The wings had long corridors with little cells that could hold a single inmate, which promoted very little communication. Revolutionaries, freedom fighters, and political activists who were against British rule were brought here in severe conditions.
Among the most remarkable inmates was an iconic revolutionary leader by the name of Veer Savarkar. In 1909, he had been arrested on account of his participation in the Indian independence movement and was deported to the Andaman Islands. Savarkar suffered in solitary confinement but still managed to build up the spirits of fellow prisoners through his bravery and determination. He is remembered as a symbol of constant patriotism and strength, having been jailed in Cellular Jail.
The Jail accommodated hundreds of brave Indians over the years who were subjected to forced labour, inhumane treatment, and isolation. It is an ancient monument, representing the Indian struggle to gain their freedom, and today, it is the place that keeps the memories of loss, heroism, and the undying spirit of the prisoners. The Cellular Jail, Andaman, is a strong and thought-provoking place to visit, a chapter in history, as the visit will make you relate to it.
Location: Port Blair, Andaman
Established: 1906
Famous for: The freedom movement, the place of imprisonment of Veer Savarkar, and Indian history.
Important Information About Cellular Jail
You must know about certain things before visiting the Cellular Jail for a better experience, such as the Jail timings, location, fee, etc.
Where is Cellular Jail located: Port Blair, Andaman Islands
Cellular Jail Timings: 9:00 AM- 5:00 PM
Best Time: October- March
Entry fee: ₹30 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners.
Must-See: Solitary cells, museum, light and sound show.
Nearby Attractions: Marina Park, Ross Island.
Architecture of Cellular Jail
The Cellular Jail is a unique and haunting architecture. The building is a three-storey star-shaped building, whose long corridors branch out at a central watchtower. Inside this Jail, the cells are not large but big enough to accommodate one prisoner, and the design was such that there can be little interaction between the prisoners. The design of the isolation of the Jail was supposed to put down the rebellion; however, nowadays, it has become an excellent example of colonial architecture and planning. The visitors are also amazed by the symmetry, the well-thought-out design, and the atmosphere of solemnity that transports the visitors to the beginning of the 20th century.
Design: Colonial prison design.
Unique Characteristic: 7- point star design.
Famous for: Prison cells, historic design.
Best Time to Visit Cellular Jail
Cellular Jail is best visited during October and March when the weather is pleasant in Andaman. The temperature of these months ranges between 20°C and 30°C, and hence exploration is comfortable without any exhaustion. June to September is not suitable as it marks the beginning of the monsoon season with rain and humidity. Going there during winter means you can enjoy the evening Cellular Jail light and sound show without any interruptions, you can stroll around the grounds and look around the museum at your own pace.
Recommended Months: October -March.
Conditions: Pleasant and moderate.
Avoid: Monsoon season (June -September)
How to Reach Cellular Jail
Cellular Jail is situated in Port Blair, which is the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. A majority of the tourists access Port Blair by air from mainland India (Chennai, Kolkata, and Delhi). The Jail is approximately 4-5 km away by taxi, auto-rickshaw or local buses from the airport or the seaport. The size of the city of Port Blair is small, allowing visiting the Jail and other attractions in the area easily. As a tourist, a guided tour helps you to know the history and meaning of every section of the Jail and therefore makes your visit worthwhile.
Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair.
Distance from Airport: 5 km
Local Transport: Taxis, buses, and auto-rickshaws.
Things To Do At Cellular Jail
Going to the Cellular Jail in the Andaman Islands is an experience you cannot have anywhere else. There are a lot of things that you can enjoy while being there to make your trip worthwhile. The top 5 things to do are listed below.
1. Explore the Solitary Cells
A visit to Cellular Jail by walking through the solitary cells is a heart-wrenching experience. Cells were constructed to accommodate one prisoner each, and ventilation was limited, with the interiors of the cells being bare. It is possible to visualise how badly freedom fighters lived as you pass through cell after cell. The skinny passages and cramped rooms make an eternal impression of the high isolation and mental stress that the prisoners had to go through. The trip makes you relate closely to the fight for the independence of India and the sacrifices that lie behind this struggle.
Timings: 9:00 AM- 5:00 PM
Cost: ₹30 (Indians), ₹100 (Foreigners).
Famous For: Depicting the struggle of the freedom fighters in a little space.
2. Witness The Cellular Jail Light and Sound Show
The evening light and sound show in the Jail helps to recreate history with the help of lights, narration, and sound effects. The narratives of freedom fighters, their strength, and heroic deaths are presented in a captivating style. It is an emotional experience that various visitors describe as a moving experience, which makes the struggle and pain of the inmates come to life. The show takes approximately 45 minutes and is a must-visit for any person who has been to Port Blair because it offers some narrative to the gloomy architecture of the Jail.
Timings: 5:30 PM- 6:15 PM
Cost: Included in the ticket or a nominal fee of ₹30.
Famous For: Emotional storytelling and historical coming alive.
3. Go to the Cellular Jail Museum
The Cellular Jail Museum contains the artefacts, photographs, and personal belongings of the prisoners. The museum gives a better insight into the life of inmates by showing the ancient documents, letters, tools, and uniforms. Their stories can be read, and this fact gives more meaning to the visit to the Jail. The museum also includes exhibits of the history of the Jail, which makes the visitors learn the way the British used this Jail to suppress the liberation movement. It is very educational to the student, lovers of history, as well as to the curious traveller.
Timings: 9:00 AM- 5:00 PM
Cost: This is included in the main ticket.
Famous For: Artefacts and historical exhibitions.
4. Tour the Jail Premises
The experience of visiting the indoor and outside corridors, watchtowers, and gardens is rather tranquil instead of intense. The seven wings, the central watchtower, and the gardens around the Jail can be observed. Taking a walk gives you an idea of the size of the Jail and how it was constructed in order to observe the prisoners. You are allowed to shoot photos in some areas, and it makes the visit unforgettable. It is an effective means of reflecting on the past of this site.
Timings: 9:00 AM- 5:00 PM
Cost: Included in the ticket.
Famous for: architecture and broad perspectives.
5. Visit Guided Historical Tours
There are guided tours that tell about the history of the Jail. The guides discuss freedom fighters, highlight building information, and explain why every wing is significant. These tours are not only useful in learning how the Jail looks, but far more than that. Guided walks allow many visitors to access the facts that cannot be easily perceived by just looking at the walls or cells.
Timings: Morning and afternoon sessions.
Cost: ₹100- ₹200 per group
Famous for: Education and history.
Tips For Visiting Cellular Jail
A visit to the Cellular Jail can be enhanced by following some simple tips.
Wear comfortable shoes.
Bring a hat and water when you go during the day.
Attend the evening light and sound show to have a complete experience.
Hiring a guide is a good option if you want to learn more about history.
Stay safe and try toavoid the monsoon season for a better and struggle-free visit.
Conclusion
The Cellular Jail is not just a structure. It demonstrates courage, sacrifice and struggle to liberate India where we live today. Taking a stroll through the cells, viewing the museum, and enjoying the light and sound show make you relate to the life of the fighters. You are left inspired and reflective after the visit. It is a must-see spot in Port Blair. The Jail is a great connection to the past of India, which is deeply appreciated by history lovers, cultural visitors, or any person who wants to spend a meaningful day. Don't top yourself anymore, and pack your bags for a trip to Andana Iskands, as you are going to create some memories that you will never forget.
View on Map
(+91) 8287636079