Things To Do in Port Blair, Andaman: A Complete Tourism Guide

Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, is your gateway to emerald islands, coral gardens, and layered history. Whether you’re here for a short stopover or a relaxed holiday, this coastal city offers a balanced mix of heritage, beaches, marine adventures, and local culture. Use this guide to plan what to see, do, eat, and how to move around efficiently.

Top Highlights at a Glance

• Cellular Jail National Memorial and the Light & Sound Show
• Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island) and North Bay Island day trip
• Jolly Buoy/Red Skin Islands in Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park for pristine corals
• Chidiya Tapu sunset and the Munda Pahad nature walk
• Water sports at Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex and Corbyn’s Cove
• Museums: Samudrika, Anthropological, Fisheries, and Chatham Saw Mill
• Food and shopping around Aberdeen Bazaar and Sagarika Emporium

Heritage and History

Cellular Jail National Memorial

The iconic “Kala Pani” stands as a solemn reminder of India’s freedom struggle. Walk through its galleries, climb the central tower for views, and reflect in the museum wings dedicated to freedom fighters.

• Must-do: Book the evening Light & Sound Show (English/Hindi slots). Arrive early to queue for good seats.
• Allow: 2–3 hours (including show).
• Tip: Photography is limited in certain areas; check on-site signage.

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island)

A short boat ride reveals atmospheric British-era ruins draped in banyan roots, a small museum, and roaming deer and peacocks. In the evening, a projection mapping show (on select days) narrates colonial history.

• Combine with: North Bay Island on the same trip (shared boats depart from Water Sports Complex).
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes; some paths are uneven.

Chatham Saw Mill & Forest Museum

Among Asia’s oldest saw mills, this site traces the region’s timber legacy and WWII-era episodes. The attached museum and Japanese bunkers add context.

Islands, Beaches, and Viewpoints

North Bay Island

Famous for the lighthouse featured on the INR 20 note, North Bay offers snorkeling, sea walking, and glass-bottom boat rides over shallow reefs—great for first-timers.

Corbyn’s Cove Beach

The city’s closest sandy stretch for a relaxed swim, coconut sips, and light water sports. Best visited in the early morning or around golden hour.

Chidiya Tapu and Munda Pahad

Nicknamed the “Sunset Point” of Port Blair, Chidiya Tapu is ringed with mangroves and rocky shores. Take the short Munda Pahad trail for cliff-top vistas.

• Allow: 2–3 hours; carry water and start before late afternoon.
• Nearby: Biological Park (for families and bird lovers).

Wandoor & Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park

Launchpad for Jolly Buoy and Red Skin Islands—arguably the most vibrant coral experiences accessible from Port Blair. Permits are required and visitor numbers are capped.

• Activities: Snorkeling, glass-bottom rides; diving is typically elsewhere.
• Seasonality: Open on specific months/days; one island often opens while the other rests.

Marine Adventures and Water Sports

Scuba Diving

While many dive hubs are based on Swaraj Dweep (Havelock) and Shaheed Dweep (Neil), Port Blair has introductory dives at select centers.

• Try Dives: 20–40 minutes underwater with a certified instructor; ideal for beginners.
• Courses: Open Water/Advanced courses available; book 2–4 days.
• Note: Weather and visibility depend on season; monsoon can limit dives.

Sea Walking, Snorkeling, and Parasailing

• Sea Walk: Mostly at North Bay; a helmet supplies air while you stroll on the seabed.
• Snorkeling: Best clarity at Jolly Buoy/Red Skin; North Bay is convenient for first-timers.
• Parasailing/Jet Ski: Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex and Corbyn’s Cove offer quick thrills.

Glass-Bottom and Semi-Submarine Rides

Perfect for non-swimmers and families—watch vibrant reefs without getting wet. Look for eco-operators authorized by the Forest/Marine Park authorities.

Museums and Culture

Samudrika Naval Marine Museum

A concise primer on Andaman’s marine biodiversity, tribal communities, and island geology. Great to visit early in your trip.

Anthropological Museum

Exhibits on the indigenous communities offer context while emphasizing respect for protected reserves and non-intrusion.

Fisheries Museum and Science Centre

Family-friendly stop with displays on local fish species and simple, interactive education on marine ecosystems.

Island Tourism Festival (Seasonal)

Usually held around January in Port Blair—expect cultural performances, food stalls, and crafts. Dates and venues vary yearly.

Food, Cafes, and Night Views

What and Where to Eat

• Seafood: Grilled fish, lobster, crab curry; try waterfront eateries for fresh catch.
• Vegetarian: Popular local restaurants around Aberdeen Bazaar cater well to veg diets.
• Cafes & Rooftops: Seafront spots near Marina Park and premium hotel rooftops are great for night views.

Tip: Dinner service ends relatively early by mainland standards; plan reservations in peak season.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Aberdeen Bazaar

The city’s busy heart with clothing, snacks, and travel essentials. Look for local spices and condiments.

Sagarika Government Emporium

Government-run store for shell craft (ethically sourced), wooden artifacts, and handicrafts. Avoid buying live coral, black corals, or turtle products—strictly illegal.

Popular Day Trips from Port Blair

Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island)

World-class beaches (Radhanagar, Kalapathar) and top-notch diving. Regular ferries from Port Blair make day trips possible, though an overnight stay is more rewarding.

Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island)

Compact, laid-back island with natural rock formations and tranquil beaches—ideal for a slow day.

Baratang Island (Limestone Caves & Mud Volcano)

A long but memorable day trip featuring boat rides through mangroves to limestone caves. The route crosses the Jarawa Tribal Reserve with strict no-stopping and no-photography rules.

• Important: Do not photograph, interact with, or give anything to tribal communities. Respect all regulations.

Suggested Itineraries

Port Blair in 2 Days

• Day 1: Cellular Jail + museums (Samudrika/Anthropological) → Ross Island + North Bay combo → Light & Sound Show
• Day 2: Wandoor → Jolly Buoy/Red Skin snorkeling → Evening at Chidiya Tapu for sunset

Port Blair in 3 Days

• Day 1: Chatham Saw Mill + Fisheries Museum → Corbyn’s Cove → Marina Park
• Day 2: Ross & North Bay water activities → Shopping at Sagarika → L&S Show
• Day 3: Wandoor Marine Park islands or Baratang day trip (if open and you’re up early)

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

• Oct–Apr: Peak season with calmer seas and better visibility for snorkeling/diving.
• May–Sep: Monsoon brings rain and choppy waters; some islands/activities may close.

Getting There

• By Air: Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) connects with major Indian cities.
• By Sea: Occasional passenger ships from Chennai/Kolkata/Visakhapatnam (multi-day) exist but are infrequent and basic.

Getting Around

• Within City: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and rented scooters (carry a valid license).
• To Islands: Government and private ferries (e.g., to Swaraj/Neil); book early in peak season.
• Boat Jetties: Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex for Ross/North Bay; Wandoor jetty for Marine Park islands.

Permits, Tickets, and Regulations

• Permits: Most tourist areas in and around Port Blair do not require special permits for Indians. Regulations for foreign nationals have been eased for many islands; however, some zones remain restricted. Always check the latest advisory before travel.
• Marine Park/Island Entries: Jolly Buoy/Red Skin require Forest Department permits and have daily caps. Book via authorized counters or tour operators.
• Drones: Require prior authorization from local authorities; flying without permission can attract penalties.
• Conservation: Collecting corals/shells, feeding fish, or touching marine life is prohibited.

Costs and Payments

• Entries: Museums and memorials have modest entry fees; the Light & Sound Show, island ferries, and water sports are additional.
• Activities: Snorkeling/glass-bottom rides are budget-friendly; sea walk/parasailing/scuba cost more.
• Payments: Digital payments are common in town; carry some cash for small vendors and remote jetties.

Connectivity and Essentials

• Mobile/Data: 4G from major operators (Airtel/Jio/BSNL) works best in Port Blair; connectivity drops on remote islands.
• ATMs/Pharmacies: Available around Aberdeen Bazaar and key market areas.
• Electricity: Occasional brief outages; carry a power bank.

Health, Safety, and Etiquette

• Swim Safety: Heed lifeguards and flag systems. Rip currents can occur.
• Sun & Hydration: Use reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and drink plenty of water.
• Wildlife: Do not disturb marine life; keep distance from jellyfish or sea urchins.
• Respect: Tribal reserves are strictly off-limits to tourists; never attempt contact or photography.
• Emergency: Dial 112 (pan-India), 100 (police), 108 (ambulance).

Photography and Sunset Spots

• Cellular Jail: The central tower and corridors (where allowed).
• Ross Island: Banyan-covered ruins and coastal vistas.
• Chidiya Tapu: Rocky shoreline and Munda Pahad cliffs at dusk.
• Corbyn’s Cove: Gentle arcs of beach with coconut palms.

Responsible and Sustainable Travel

• Plastic: Minimize single-use plastics; carry refillable bottles.
• Reef Care: Choose operators who avoid anchoring on reefs and practice “look, don’t touch.”
• Waste: Pack out all trash on island trips; use designated bins.
• Local Economy: Hire licensed local guides and buy genuine local crafts from authorized stores.

Quick Planning Tips

• Book Ahead: Light & Sound Show, Jolly Buoy/Red Skin permits, and inter-island ferries sell out in season.
• Start Early: Beat queues and the midday sun; many trips leave in the morning.
• Buffer Time: Weather can affect sailings; keep flexibility on island-hopping days.
• Pack Smart: Dry bag, water shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, a light rain jacket in monsoon.

Final Word

Port Blair is more than a transit hub—it’s a compact showcase of Andaman’s soul: resilient history, living reefs, and mellow island life. With a little planning and a lot of respect for nature, you’ll find days here both easy and unforgettable.