The capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Port Blair, is a place full of history, beauty and adventure. This city is enclosed by the blue waters of the Bay of Bengal and is likely to be the first stop for those who are planning an Andaman tour. There are a lot of interesting places to visit in Port Blair, including historic sites such as the Cellular Jail, beautiful beaches, museums and a lot more. You can learn about the history of India, enjoy and relax by the sea or go for exciting boat rides. Port Blair brings about a beautiful combination of cultural beauty and natural charm, which makes every trip truly unforgettable.
15 Best Places to Visit in Port Blair
From historic landmarks to calm beaches and vibrant markets, Port Blair has something for every traveller. Given below is a list of the 15 best places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar, especially in Port Blair, that will give you the real taste of the Andaman Islands.
1. Cellular Jail
Cellular Jail or Kala Pani is among the most important must-visit places in Port Blair. This ancient structure was used by the British for imprisoning freedom fighters in small, isolated cells. One can see the museum, walk through the long corridors and learn about India's struggle for freedom. The sunset light and sound show is very emotional and speaks of bravery and sacrifice. It is among the most visited Port Blair famous places and is a must-visit for anyone who loves and is curious about history.
Location: Atlanta Point, Port Blair
Timings: 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM & 1:30 PM - 4:45 PM (closed Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹30 (extra for light and sound show)
2. Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island)
Ross Island, previously renamed Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Port Blair. The administrative centre of the British, here existed grand bungalows, churches and offices. It is now thickly covered with banyan roots, and it feels like magic. The island is serene, surrounded by clear blue water, and it is perfect for a day boat tour. It is claimed to be the best place to visit in Port Blair if you prefer a mix of history and nature.
Location: 3 km east of Port Blair, ferry ride required
Timings: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (closed Wednesdays)
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children
3. Corbyn’s Cove Beach
Corbyn's Cove Beach is one of the most relaxed places in Port Blair to enjoy the sea. Its blue waters and golden sands are just perfect for swimming, sunbathing or a walk along the beach. Coconut trees stand in a row on the beach to make it look very gorgeous, and there are tiny shops and restaurants within walking distance. Adventure lovers can enjoy jet skiing and speed boat tours. It is a favourite among visitors and residents at sunset. It is certainly one of the most refreshing places to see in Port Blair.
Location: 7 km from Port Blair city centre
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
4. Chidiya Tapu
Chidiya Tapu or Bird Island is perhaps one of the most peaceful places to visit in Port Blair. The site is renowned for its mangroves, white beaches and sunsets. It is also home to many colourful birds, hence it is the paradise of nature and photography enthusiasts. Many visitors hike to the Munda Pahad viewpoint near it for stunning hill and sea panoramic views. It is one of the most loved Port Blair tourist places, both offering natural beauty and quiet charm.
Location: 25 km from Port Blair
Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. North Bay Island
North Bay Island is a famous adventure and marine life destination. It is one of the must-see places in Port Blair for those who love water sports and is renowned for sea walking, scuba diving and snorkelling and the coral reefs and colourful fishes can be seen at close proximity. The sea is crystal clear and therefore suitable for underwater photography. Interestingly, North Bay is depicted on the old ₹20 note of India. It is actually one of the most thrilling places to explore in Port Blair.
Location: 15-20 minutes by boat from Port Blair
Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (activities cost extra)
6. Samudrika Marine Museum
The Indian Navy operates the Samudrika Marine Museum, which is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Port Blair. It has five galleries depicting marine life, vegetation, tribes, archaeology and geography of the Andaman Islands. One can observe seashells, corals, fish specimens and even historical models depicting the history of the islands. It is a great learning experience for both children and adults. It is one of the best among the top Port Blair famous places, often included in Andaman backpacking trips, as it gives an overall idea about the islands in a single visit.
Location: Haddo, Port Blair
Timings: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM & 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM (closed Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
7. Wandoor Beach & Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Wandoor Beach is well known due to its white sand and crystal clear water and thus among the most beautiful places to visit in Port Blair to relax. Right next to it is the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, which maintains a variety of marine life and corals. The park includes small islands like Jolly Buoy and Red Skin, popular for snorkelling and glass-bottom boat tours. They make a complete family day picnic and nature walk together. The site is counted among the most exciting places to see in Port Blair.
Location: 25 km from Port Blair
Timings: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM (boat timings depend on weather)
Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indians, ₹500 for foreigners
8. Mount Harriet National Park
Mount Harriet is the third-highest peak in the Andaman Islands and a popular picnic spot. It is among the most scenic places to visit in Port Blair for trekking and photography. The park boasts rare birds, butterflies and animals. From the top, tourists enjoy panoramic views of forests, the sea and islands around. This location is also shown on the backside of the older ₹20 Indian currency note. It is among the most peaceful places to visit in Port Blair if you love to admire the beauty of nature
Location: 15 km by road and ferry from Port Blair
Timings: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹25 for Indians, ₹250 for foreigners
9. Anthropological Museum
The Anthropological Museum is among the most fascinating places in Port Blair to learn about tribal people living in the islands. It contains tools, clothing, boats and tribal artefacts of the Sentinelese, Jarawas and Nicobarese tribes. Travellers can see unusual pictures and models that depict their way of life. It's an informative spot that offers extensive information about the history and culture of the Andaman tribes. This museum is one of the most valuable sites to visit in Port Blair.
Location: Phoenix Bay, Port Blair
Timings: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM & 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM (closed Mondays & holidays)
Entry Fee: ₹20 for Indians, ₹50 for foreigners
10. Gandhi Park
Gandhi Park is one of the most family-friendly places to visit in Port Blair. Surrounding a freshwater lake, the park is a peaceful walking, boating and picnicking destination. It also includes children's play areas, gardens and wartime Japanese bunkers of World War II. Locals spend their evenings here. A mix of nature and history turns it into one of its kind and a place that’s perfect to spend a peaceful evening after sightseeing.
Location: Middle Point, Port Blair
Timings: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
11. Japanese Bunkers
The Japanese Bunkers are one of the most intriguing places to visit in Port Blair to witness history. The bunkers were built during World War II and were held by the Japanese forces during the time they were dominating the islands. The visitors can see old structures, bringing back memories of wars. Fueled with foliage near Corbyn's Cove Beach, they are easily reachable and often form part of tours.
Location: Near Corbyn’s Cove Beach, Port Blair
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
12. Chatham Saw Mill
Chatham Saw Mill, set up in 1883, is Asia's oldest and largest sawmill. It is one of the most interesting places to visit in Port Blair for those curious about learning about the islands' history. The wood was treated by the mill for years, and visitors can still see huge logs being cut. There is a small museum inside which narrates the history of the mill and showcases wood-based items. Surrounded by sea on three sides, the mill is not only industrial but also scenic and therefore a must-visit place in Port Blair.
Location: Chatham Island, Port Blair
Timings: 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM (closed Sundays)
Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
13. Marina Park and Aquarium
Marina Park is a lovely seafront location perfect for night strolls, and the aquarium nearby has colourful sea life. As an ensemble, they form one of the most family-friendly places to visit in Port Blair. The aquarium has a showcase of colourful fish, shells and corals of the islands. Children enjoy the exhibits the most, while their parents take it easy at the seafront. With street food stalls and views of Ross Island on the horizon, it is one of the most happening places to see in Port Blair.
Location: Marina Park Road, Port Blair
Timings: Aquarium open 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (closed Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹10 per person (Aquarium)
14. Viper Island
One of the oldest places to visit in Port Blair, Viper Island is home to an old jail where Britishers kept their prisoners before the Cellular Jail came up. The ruins are a reminder of India's fight for independence. The island is worth seeing for its picturesque views of the sea, mangroves and nearby islands. The boat tour of Viper Island is peaceful, and travellers often combine it with Ross Island and North Bay Island tours.
Location: 20 minutes by boat from Port Blair
Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹75 per person (boat charges)
15. Science Centre
The Science Centre is amongst the most educational places to visit in Port Blair, where families and children can enjoy interactive displays. It talks about the sea life, volcanoes and science of the Andaman Islands. Models, exhibits and learning through activities are all here. The centre also has a mini planetarium where space programmes are viewed by the visitors. For students and families, it is one of the best places to spend a couple of hours that brings about a combination of fun, science and discovery.
Location: Goodwill Estate, Corbyn’s Cove Road, Port Blair
Timings: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM (closed Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
Conclusion
Besides being the gateway to the Andaman Islands, Port Blair is a historical, cultural and natural beauty. There is something different in every corner of Port Blair- be it the moving stories of Cellular Jail or the soft sands of Corbyn Cove Beach. There are museums, islands and bustling markets that enhance the beauty of the place. Explore the places to visit in Port Blair mentioned above when you are planning a holiday to the Andamans to explore the magic of the island like never before.
