Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Must-Visit Markets and Shopping Zones
- What to Buy in Port Blair
- Best Time to Shop and Market Timings
- How to Reach Port Blair & Get Around
- Estimated Costs & Money Matters
- Accommodation Options for Shoppers
- Local Food Near the Markets
- Culture & Responsible Shopping
- Nearby Getaways from Port Blair
- Tips for Different Travelers
- General Travel Tips for Port Blair
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Port Blair, the gateway to the Andaman Islands, is more than ferries and sea views—it’s a compact shoppers’ hub brimming with government emporiums, bustling bazaars, island-made crafts, and delicious local treats. Use this guide to navigate the best markets, find authentic souvenirs, shop responsibly, and make the most of your time between island-hopping adventures.
Must-Visit Markets and Shopping Zones
Aberdeen Bazaar (MG Road & surrounds)
- The city’s main shopping artery with lanes of souvenir stalls, clothing stores, luggage shops, pharmacies, and snack counters.
- Great for quick buys, street prices, and everyday essentials.
Sagarika Government Emporium
- Government-run, fixed-price emporium known for authentic island handicrafts.
- Best for: cane and bamboo work, coconut shell crafts, Nicobari-style mats, wood carvings, and curated gift sets.
- Why go: transparent pricing, quality control, and receipts.
Khadi & Village Industries (Khadi Gramodyog)
- Hand-spun cotton apparel, natural soaps, herbal products, and simple souvenirs.
- Good for breathable clothing and eco-friendly buys.
Anthropological Museum Souvenir Shop
- Small but reliable for books, postcards, and ethically sourced crafts.
Water Sports Complex & Aberdeen Jetty Stalls
- Clusters of souvenir counters selling T-shirts, magnets, keychains, and island-themed trinkets.
Local Produce Markets (Junglighat, Mohanpura, Delanipur)
- Morning markets for fish, fruits, vegetables, and spices. Ideal for foodies wanting local flavors.
- Touristic souvenirs are limited, but prices for produce can be excellent.
Beyond Shopping: Quick Sightseeing Picks
- Cellular Jail, Corbyn’s Cove Beach, Chatham Saw Mill, Samudrika Marine Museum.
- Combine sightseeing and shopping by ending near Aberdeen Bazaar for the evening.
What to Buy in Port Blair
Island Handicrafts
- Cane & bamboo baskets, trays, coasters, lamp shades.
- Coconut shell bowls, ladles, jewelry, and decor.
- Nicobari-style mats and wall hangings (ethically sourced replicas via emporiums).
Shell-Inspired Crafts (Know the Rules)
- Decor using legally sourced shells and mother-of-pearl—buy only from reputable stores with bills.
- Avoid coral, turtle shell, and black corals—these are illegal to buy/transport.
Spices & Edible Souvenirs
- Clove, cinnamon, pepper, bay leaf, and mixed spice packs.
- Virgin coconut oil, coconut jaggery, banana chips, and island-made pickles.
Clothing & Fabrics
- Light cottons, khadi wear, beach shirts, sarongs, and batik prints.
Jewelry & Keepsakes
- Pearl-inspired jewelry and sea-themed trinkets (verify authenticity; expect costume-quality at tourist prices).
- Magnets, postcards, island maps, and handcrafted stationery.
Best Time to Shop and Market Timings
- Overall best season: November to March (pleasant evenings, high stock, festive buzz).
- Summer (April–May): hot and humid—shop in mornings or post-sunset.
- Monsoon (May–September): frequent showers; shopping is viable but carry a light raincoat.
- Typical hours: 9:30 AM–8:30 PM for bazaars; government emporiums ~9:00 AM–7:00 PM.
- Weekly closures vary by shop; some close on Sundays/public holidays—check locally.
How to Reach Port Blair & Get Around
By Air
- Fly to Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), well-connected from major Indian metros.
By Sea
- Passenger ships from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam to Haddo Wharf take ~60–70 hours; limited schedules.
Getting Around for Shopping
- Auto-rickshaws and taxis are plentiful around Aberdeen Bazaar.
- Scooter rentals: approx. ₹500–800 per day (+ fuel). Useful for hopping between markets and beaches.
- Most key shops are walkable within Aberdeen area; use an auto for Sagarika and museum shops.
Estimated Costs & Money Matters
- Souvenirs: small trinkets ₹100–300; magnets/keychains ₹100–250; T-shirts ₹300–800.
- Coconut/cane crafts: ₹250–1,500 depending on size/finish.
- Nicobari-style mats: ₹800–3,000+ based on weave and size.
- Spice packs: ₹200–800; virgin coconut oil: ₹250–500 per 500 ml.
- Local transport: autos ~₹30–50 base fare + per-km; short taxi hops ₹200–400.
- Payment: UPI and cards accepted in larger stores; network can be patchy—carry some cash.
- Shipping: India Post/parcel services available; mainland delivery ~7–15 days for non-fragile items.
Accommodation Options for Shoppers
- Budget stays (guesthouses, simple hotels) near Aberdeen Bazaar: ~₹1,200–2,500 per night.
- Mid-range hotels across city center and Port Blair hills: ~₹3,000–6,000 per night.
- Upscale and boutique stays with sea views: ~₹7,000–15,000+ per night.
- Peak season (Dec–Jan) sees higher rates; book ahead if you want to stay walking-distance from markets.
Local Food Near the Markets
- Seafood shacks and family-run eateries near the waterfront for fish thalis, prawns, and crab.
- Vegetarian canteens and South Indian tiffin joints around Aberdeen for dosas and meals.
- Bakeries and sweet shops for snacks, samosas, and mithai between shopping runs.
- Try tender coconut water, seasonal fruits, and packaged island spices to take home.
Culture & Responsible Shopping
- Respect local and tribal heritage—avoid items claiming “tribal artifacts.” Genuine tribal products are not sold in tourist markets.
- Do not buy coral, turtle shell, or items made from protected marine life. It’s illegal and can be confiscated at the airport.
- Carry a reusable bag; single-use plastics are restricted in the Andamans.
- Ask for bills, especially for higher-value items—helps with warranty and proves legal purchase.
Nearby Getaways from Port Blair
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island): colonial ruins, peacocks, and sea views—pair with quick souvenir shopping on return.
- North Bay Island: snorkeling; souvenir stalls near jetties back in Port Blair.
- Swaraj Dweep (Havelock) & Shaheed Dweep (Neil): beaches and boutique craft shops—reach by ferry from Phoenix Bay/Haddo.
- Chidiya Tapu: sunset point; visit emporiums before or after for relaxed shopping.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families
- Shop in the morning or early evening to avoid heat; bazaars can be crowded for strollers.
- Choose fixed-price stores (Sagarika) to save time and ensure quality.
- Carry water, wet wipes, and light snacks for kids.
Honeymooners & Couples
- Pick a few meaningful keepsakes: matching shell-free jewelry, handwoven mats, or custom name magnets.
- Ship fragile items; keep luggage light for inter-island ferries.
- Time shopping to catch sunset at Corbyn’s Cove afterward.
Friends & Backpackers
- Haggle politely in street markets; compare 2–3 shops first.
- Rent a scooter to cover Sagarika, bazaar lanes, and food stops in one loop.
- Use UPI where possible; keep small cash for snacks and autos.
General Travel Tips for Port Blair
- Connectivity: Mobile data can be inconsistent; download maps offline and keep cash handy.
- Weather-ready: Light cottons, hat, sunscreen, and a compact rain jacket in monsoon.
- Airport rules: Marine curios (coral/shells) may be seized; keep receipts for legitimate purchases.
- Language: Hindi and English are widely understood; basic phrases go a long way in bargaining.
- Safety: Port Blair is generally safe; keep valuables secure in crowded bazaars.
FAQs
Q: Where can I buy authentic Andaman handicrafts in Port Blair?
A: Head to Sagarika Government Emporium and museum-affiliated shops for fixed prices, quality checks, and proper billing.
Q: Is it legal to buy seashells and coral souvenirs?
A: Buying or transporting coral, turtle shell, or items from protected marine life is illegal. Only purchase shell-inspired crafts from reputable stores and avoid real coral entirely.
Q: Do shops accept cards or UPI?
A: Larger stores often accept cards and UPI, but connectivity can be patchy. Carry sufficient cash for bazaars and small vendors.
Q: What are typical market hours?
A: Most shops open around 9:30 AM and close by 8:30 PM. Government emporiums usually run 9:00 AM–7:00 PM, with closures on some holidays. Check locally for weekly off days.
Q: Can I ship my purchases home?
A: Yes. India Post and private couriers operate from Port Blair. Pack items well, avoid restricted goods, and keep invoices inside the parcel.
Conclusion
Port Blair’s markets balance authenticity with convenience: Sagarika for reliable handicrafts, Aberdeen Bazaar for lively bargain finds, and museum shops for curated picks. Shop in cooler hours, carry cash as a backup, and choose eco-friendly souvenirs that reflect the islands’ character—then pair your spree with coastal sunsets and nearby island escapes.
