Port Blair, India

🌊 Port Blair Travel Guide: Gateway to the Andaman Wonders

Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, is more than just an entry point — it’s a vibrant coastal city rich in history, culture, and natural charm. From colonial relics and serene beaches to marine adventures and local delicacies, Port Blair offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for every kind of traveler.

🏛️ Cellular Jail – Echoes of Colonial Resistance

The Cellular Jail, known locally as Kala Pani, is a haunting yet powerful reminder of India’s freedom struggle.

Built in 1906 by the British to isolate political prisoners.
Famous inmates include Veer Savarkar and Batukeshwar Dutt.
The Sound & Light Show (in Hindi and English) brings history to life with narration, lights, and music.

🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹30 | Show: ₹150
📍 Location: Atlanta Point, Port Blair

🌅 Corbyn’s Cove Beach – Close Escape to Tranquility

Just 8 km from town, Corbyn’s Cove is a crescent-shaped beach lined with coconut palms and soft waves.

Great for a relaxed swim or sunbathe.
Watersports like jet skiing and speed boating available.
Beachside cafes offer coconut water, snacks, and seafood.

🕒 Best Time: Early morning or just before sunset for cooler weather and fewer crowds.

🌴 Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island)

A short ferry ride from Port Blair, Ross Island is a surreal blend of history and nature.

Once the British administrative HQ, now a ghost town with vine-wrapped ruins.
Explore British-era church, bakery, and barracks.
Free-roaming deer and peacocks add to its enchanting feel.

🛥️ 15-minute ferry ride from Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex.

🐠 North Bay Island – Underwater Adventure Awaits

Located just across from Ross Island, North Bay is the hub for marine activities.

Popular Activities:

Snorkeling over coral gardens
Sea walking (walk on the ocean floor with a helmet)
Glass-bottom boat rides

📷 Featured on the ₹20 Indian currency note – spot the same lighthouse!

🛍️ Aberdeen Bazaar – Local Markets & Island Souvenirs

The heartbeat of Port Blair’s shopping scene, Aberdeen Bazaar is perfect for souvenir hunting.

👜 Things to Buy:

Pearl jewelry, shell handicrafts
Nicobari mats, spices, and locally made artifacts
Tropical clothing and casual beachwear

💡 Tip: Bargain politely and check for authenticity when buying pearls.

🦐 Local Cuisine – Island Flavors to Savor

Port Blair’s cuisine reflects a fusion of Bengali, Tamil, and coastal tribal traditions.

Must-Try Dishes:

🦞 Grilled Lobster & Crab Masala
🍛 Coconut Fish Curry
🍲 Banana Flower Sabzi (local vegetarian delight)
🌴 Fresh coconut water on every corner

📍 Try New Lighthouse Restaurant, SeaShell, or Ananda for authentic seafood.

🏨 Where to Stay – Comfort with a View

Port Blair has a wide range of stays, from boutique hotels to budget lodges.

Recommended Options:

SeaShell Port Blair – Sea-facing rooms & rooftop bar
Fortune Resort Bay Island – Colonial charm with ocean views
Sinclairs Bayview – Ideal for couples and peaceful travelers
Hotel De Marina – Affordable and centrally located

🛎️ Book early during peak season (Nov–March).

🛥️ Getting Around Port Blair

🛺 Auto-rickshaws and scooter rentals are popular for local travel.
🛳️ Ferries to nearby islands depart from Phoenix Bay Jetty and Aberdeen Jetty.
📵 Internet is patchy; download offline maps and ferry schedules.

📅 Best Time to Visit

✅ October to March – Dry season with pleasant temperatures
🌧️ April to June – Hot, but manageable for sightseeing
🚫 July to September – Monsoon brings heavy rains and limited water activities

🌞 Ideal Months: December to February

📍 Additional Nearby Attractions

🏝️ Chidiya Tapu – Known for its fiery sunsets and birdwatching (30 km from Port Blair)
🌲 Mount Harriet National Park – For hiking and panoramic views
🔭 Science Centre & Samudrika Naval Marine Museum – Great for families and marine enthusiasts

❤️ Why Visit Port Blair?

While often overshadowed by Havelock and Neil Islands, Port Blair is a vibrant destination in its own right — a place where colonial past, coastal beauty, and modern comfort intertwine. It’s the perfect starting point to discover the Andamans, while also offering plenty of gems to explore without ever leaving the city.