Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do
- Nearby Attractions
- How to Reach
- Timings, Tickets & Light-and-Sound Show
- Estimated Costs
- Where to Stay
- Local Food, Shopping & Culture
- Suggested 1-Day Plan
- Travel Tips & Etiquette
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- Responsible Travel & Rules
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Cellular Jail in Port Blair—often called Kala Pani—is the most poignant landmark of the Andaman Islands. Once a colonial penal settlement where Indian freedom fighters were exiled, it is now a National Memorial. Walk its echoing corridors, see solitary cells, and stay for the stirring light-and-sound show that brings history to life. This guide covers history, practical info, timings, tickets, what to see, and how to plan your visit.
History & Importance
Why it Matters
Built by the British between 1896 and 1906, Cellular Jail epitomized isolation and solitary confinement. Hundreds of freedom fighters—including Veer Savarkar—were imprisoned here. Post-independence, it was declared a National Memorial to honor their sacrifices.
Architecture at a Glance
- Originally seven wings radiating from a central watchtower (now three remain).
- Each wing had multiple floors with narrow, ventilated cells designed for solitary confinement.
- The layout ensured strict surveillance and isolation—no two cell doors faced each other.
Key Timeline
- 1857: First political prisoners sent to the Andamans after the First War of Independence.
- 1896–1906: Cellular Jail constructed.
- 1930s–1940s: Peak incarceration of political prisoners; Japanese occupation briefly during WWII.
- 1969: Declared a National Memorial.
Best Time to Visit
- November to February (Winter): Best weather (24–30°C). Clear skies and pleasant evenings for the light-and-sound show.
- March to May (Summer): Hot and humid (27–34°C). Visit mornings or late afternoon; carry water and sun protection.
- June to September (Monsoon): Intermittent rain; fewer crowds. Check show schedules and ferry operations if pairing with island trips.
Peak hours: 10:00–12:00 and evenings during show timings. For quieter exploration, arrive at opening or mid-afternoon before sunset.
Top Things to Do
- Walk the Cell Blocks: Step inside solitary cells, including those associated with Veer Savarkar.
- Museum Galleries: Archival photos, letters, and exhibits on the freedom struggle.
- Central Watchtower & Rooftop: Panoramic views of Port Blair and the sea (stairs involved).
- Martyrs’ Column & Eternal Flame: Pay respects at memorial installations.
- Light-and-Sound Show: An emotive narrative with music and projection mapping in the evening.
Recommended duration: 1.5–3 hours for the jail and museum; add 1 hour for the light-and-sound show.
Nearby Attractions
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island): 15–20 min boat; colonial ruins and deer.
- North Bay Island: Snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides, coral viewing.
- Corbyn’s Cove Beach: Sunset strolls; about 20–25 min by road.
- Samudrika Naval Marine Museum: Marine life and island ecology exhibits.
- Anthropological Museum: Insight into Andaman’s indigenous communities (respectful, educational displays).
- Chatham Saw Mill & Forest Museum: One of Asia’s oldest sawmills; island timber history.
- Flag Point & Marina Park: Evening promenade and street eats.
- Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (Wandoor): Day trips for reefs and beaches.
- Mount Manipur (Mount Harriet) National Park: Short treks and views.
How to Reach
By Air
- Fly to: Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), Port Blair.
- Connectivity: Direct/connecting flights from Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, and seasonal routes.
- To the Jail: 4–6 km from airport; 15–25 minutes by taxi/auto-rickshaw.
From Islands
- Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) / Neil (Shaheed Dweep): High-speed ferries to Port Blair; then taxi/auto to Cellular Jail.
Local Transport
- Auto-rickshaws are easy and economical.
- App cabs and local taxis available via hotels or stands.
- City buses stop near Aberdeen Bazaar; the jail is walkable from the market area.
Timings, Tickets & Light-and-Sound Show
Visiting Hours (Typical)
- Jail & Museum: 09:00–12:30 and 13:30–16:45.
- Closed: Some public holidays and occasional maintenance days (often Monday). Schedules can change; verify locally.
Entry Fees (Indicative)
- Entry: ~INR 30 (Indian nationals); ~INR 100 (foreign nationals).
- Camera: ~INR 200 (still); additional for video equipment.
Light-and-Sound Show
- Showtimes: Usually 18:00 and 19:15 (Hindi/English sessions; seasonal variations).
- Tickets: ~INR 300 (adult), concessions for children; available at the counter and via official/local booking portals.
- Seating: First-come-first-served within your section—arrive 20–30 minutes early.
Note: Fees and timings change periodically. Confirm at the ticket counter, tourism office, or official Andaman administration sources.
Estimated Costs
- Local transport (return): INR 150–500 (auto/taxi, depending on distance and waiting).
- Entry + camera: INR 30–230 per person (if carrying a camera).
- Light-and-sound show: INR 200–350 per person.
- Guide (optional): INR 300–600 per group for a short walkthrough.
- Souvenirs/snacks: INR 200–1,000 as desired.
Typical total (excluding flights/hotels): INR 500–1,500 per person.
Where to Stay in Port Blair
- Aberdeen Bazaar / Goal Ghar: Central, budget to mid-range stays; walkable to eateries and markets.
- Phoenix Bay / Marine Hill: Mid-range hotels, convenient for Cellular Jail and jetty access.
- Corbyn’s Cove area: Quieter, some higher-category stays near the beach; 20–25 minutes to the jail.
Indicative prices (double, per night):
- Budget: INR 1,200–2,500
- Mid-range: INR 2,500–6,000
- Upper: INR 6,000–12,000+
Local Food, Shopping & Culture
Food to Try
- Grilled reef fish, coconut prawn curry, crab masala.
- South Indian breakfasts, fresh coconuts, and tropical fruit.
- Plenty of vegetarian options in town; ask for less spice if needed.
Shopping
- Aberdeen Bazaar: Spices, clothes, and local snacks.
- Sagarika Government Emporium: Ethically sourced handicrafts, coconut shell and cane/bamboo products.
- Important: Do not buy corals, turtle shells, or any wildlife products—strictly prohibited.
Culture
- Cellular Jail is a solemn memorial; maintain decorum and silence in galleries.
- Photography may be restricted in certain exhibits—observe signage.
- Indigenous communities are protected; tours to their habitats are prohibited for ethical and legal reasons.
Suggested 1-Day Plan
- Morning (09:00–11:00): Explore museum and cell blocks soon after opening.
- Late morning (11:00–12:30): Rooftop and watchtower views; pause at Martyrs’ Column.
- Lunch: Nearby eateries in Aberdeen Bazaar.
- Afternoon: Samudrika Naval Marine Museum or Anthropological Museum.
- Evening: Return for the light-and-sound show; arrive 20–30 minutes early.
Combo idea: If starting early, do Ross Island in the morning and the Jail + show in the evening.
Travel Tips & Etiquette
- Carry: Water, hat, sunscreen, and a light shawl for breezy evenings.
- Footwear: Comfortable shoes; expect stairs to upper floors.
- Accessibility: Ground floor access is easier; upper levels require stair climbing and may not be wheelchair-friendly.
- Respect: Keep voices low; avoid leaning on or defacing walls.
- Weather backup: Shows may be rescheduled during heavy rain—retain your ticket for the next slot.
- Cash/UPI: Counters generally accept cash and common digital payments; carry small change.
- No drones: Drone flying is restricted without permits.
Traveler-Specific Tips
Families
- Discuss the site’s historical context with kids beforehand; some exhibits can feel intense.
- Strollers are fine on ground floors; carriers are better for stairs.
- Keep snacks and water handy; restrooms are available near the entrance.
Honeymooners & Couples
- Time your visit near sunset for soft light and cooler temperatures.
- Pair with a romantic walk at Marina Park or Corbyn’s Cove post-show.
Friends & Groups
- Consider a local guide to enrich the narrative and manage time.
- Book show tickets together to sit in the same section; arrive early for better seats.
Responsible Travel & Rules
- No littering; use bins and carry a reusable water bottle.
- Do not touch artifacts or climb restricted areas.
- Avoid plastic where possible; the islands have waste constraints.
- Never purchase corals or wildlife derivatives—illegal and harmful.
FAQs
Q: How much time do I need at Cellular Jail?
A: Allocate 1.5–3 hours for the museum and cell blocks, plus around 1 hour for the evening light-and-sound show.
Q: Is photography allowed inside?
A: Yes, in most areas with a camera ticket where applicable. Some galleries restrict flash or photography—follow posted signs.
Q: Can I book light-and-sound show tickets in advance?
A: Yes, tickets are sold at the venue counter and through official/local booking portals. Advance purchase is advisable in peak season.
Q: Which show language should I choose?
A: Sessions run in Hindi and English on most days. Choose based on comfort and availability; timings can vary by season.
Q: Is the site suitable for elderly visitors?
A: Ground floors are manageable; upper levels require stair climbing. Plan for rests, avoid mid-day heat, and consider skipping upper tiers if mobility is limited.
Conclusion
Cellular Jail is a profound chapter of India’s freedom struggle set against the Andaman Sea. Plan a morning or late-afternoon visit, explore its cells and galleries, and stay for the evocative light-and-sound show. With nearby attractions, convenient access from Port Blair, and a respectful, informed approach, your visit will be both moving and memorable.
