Explore Port Blair
Places to Visit in Port Blair
Top attractions and must-see spots in Port Blair
Beaches
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Chidiya Tapu (Bird Island)
Located at the southernmost tip of South Andaman, Chidiya Tapu is a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers. True to its name, it is home to numerous endemic bird species. Beyond its avian residents, the area is famous for its breathtaking sunset views over the 'Munda Pahar' beach and its lush mangrove forests. It offers a tranquil escape from the busier tourist hubs.
Corbyn's Cove Beach
The closest beach to Port Blair's city center, Corbyn's Cove is a picturesque, coconut-palm-fringed curve of sand. It is ideal for a quick dip or enjoying water sports like jet skiing and speed boating. With its clean waters and well-developed promenade featuring small shacks and cafes, it is the most popular spot for tourists and locals alike to relax and watch the sunset.
North Bay Island
Famed for its vibrant coral reefs, North Bay Island is the premier destination for underwater exploration near Port Blair. It offers a variety of activities, including scuba diving, sea walking, and snorkeling. Interestingly, the lighthouse featured on the back of the old Indian ₹20 note is located here. The island's crystal-clear waters make it perfect for viewing diverse marine life through glass-bottom boat rides.
Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island)
Once the 'Paris of the East' and the administrative headquarters for the British, this island now holds hauntingly beautiful ruins reclaimed by nature. Walking through the remains of a church, ballroom, and hospital, you'll encounter friendly deer and peacocks. Renamed in honor of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the colonial past amidst lush tropical greenery and calm shores.
Viper Island
Viper Island is steeped in history as the site of the first jail built by the British in the Andamans. Before the construction of Cellular Jail, convicts and freedom fighters were imprisoned and executed here on the historic gallows visible atop a hill. While the old brick structures have weathered over time, the island remains a significant historical landmark representing the early days of penal settlement.
Wandoor Beach & Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Wandoor Beach serves as the gateway to the breathtaking Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. This protected area spans 15 islands, showcasing vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Visitors can enjoy glass-bottom boat rides to Jolly Buoy or Red Skin Islands to witness underwater wonders. The beach itself is known for its serene atmosphere and turquoise waters, making it a premier spot for eco-tourism and nature photography in the Andamans.
Landmarks
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Anthropological Museum
This insightful museum offers a deep dive into the lives of the six indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Through well-curated exhibits, visitors can view ancient tools, weapons, traditional huts, and rare photographs that document the survival and evolution of these reclusive communities. It provides a respectful and educational look at the Jarawa, Sentinelese, and Onge tribes, making it an essential stop for history buffs and those curious about human civilization's oldest roots.
Cellular Jail (Kala Pani)
A somber testament to India's freedom struggle, this colonial-era prison was used by the British to exile political prisoners. Known as Kala Pani, its unique seven-wing design ensured solitary confinement. Today, it serves as a National Memorial where the moving Light and Sound Show narrates the harrowing sacrifices of revolutionaries like Veer Savarkar. It remains a poignant site for reflection on the cost of independence.
Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex
Located in the heart of Port Blair, this bustling complex is a playground for adventure enthusiasts. It offers a wide array of thrilling activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, and speed boating. The facility is well-maintained and serves as the primary departure point for ferries to North Bay and Ross Island. Whether you are looking for an adrenaline rush or a pleasant evening stroll by the pier, this vibrant hub has something for everyone.
Samudrika Naval Marine Museum
Operated by the Indian Navy, this museum is a comprehensive guide to the Andaman Islands' marine ecosystem and tribal culture. It features five distinct galleries focusing on history, geography, anthropology, and marine life. The highlight is a massive blue whale skeleton displayed outside the entrance. Inside, visitors can explore rare species of fish, corals, and seashells. It serves as an educational hub, highlighting the importance of ocean conservation and the islands' unique biodiversity.
Sippighat Farm
Established in 1959, this sprawling 80-acre Government Agricultural Farm is a center for research and development of tropical crops. Visitors can explore vast plantations of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and black pepper, alongside numerous varieties of coconut and betel nut. It offers a fascinating educational experience regarding the islands' agricultural potential. The farm's lush landscape and scientific approach to farming make it a unique stop for nature lovers and students interested in botany.
National Parks
2Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Covering a protected area of 15 islands, this national park showcases vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Visitors can enjoy glass-bottom boat rides to Jolly Buoy or Red Skin Islands to witness underwater wonders. The park is a premier spot for eco-tourism and nature photography in the Andamans, offering a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the region.
Mount Harriet National Park
As the third-highest peak in the Andaman archipelago, Mount Harriet National Park offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding islands. The park is a haven for trekkers and birdwatchers, featuring lush evergreen forests and exotic endemic species. Interestingly, the view from its peak is the one famously depicted on the older twenty-rupee note. It provides a cool, refreshing retreat from the tropical heat, perfect for those seeking tranquility and a touch of colonial history.
Scenic Spots
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Jogger's Park
Perched on a hilltop near the Port Blair airport, Jogger's Park is one of the most peaceful spots in the city. It is particularly famous for offering a bird's-eye view of the lit-up runway at night and breathtaking vistas of the sea. Locals and tourists frequent the park for evening walks and relaxation amidst manicured gardens. The illuminated paths and quiet benches provide a perfect setting for those looking to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
Veer Savarkar Park
Located right across from the historic Cellular Jail, this beautifully landscaped park is dedicated to the memory of the legendary freedom fighter Veer Savarkar. It features a majestic bronze statue of Savarkar and serves as a quiet space for reflection after visiting the prison. The park is adorned with seasonal flowers, walking trails, and seating areas, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals to enjoy a peaceful evening amidst greenery and history.
Shopping
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Aberdeen Bazaar
Aberdeen Bazaar is the beating heart of Port Blair's commercial life and a paradise for street shoppers. This bustling marketplace is filled with colorful shops selling everything from daily essentials to exquisite pearl jewelry and wood carvings. It is the best place to experience local island culture, sample authentic street food, and interact with residents. Whether you are looking for clothing, electronics, or unique souvenirs, the vibrant energy of this historic market makes it a must-visit destination.
Delanipur Market
Busy Port Blair market for household goods, clothes, and local shopping.
Haddo Market
Harbour-side local market useful for everyday buys near the Haddo area.
Junglighat Market
Local market area for everyday goods, clothes, and island shopping beyond Aberdeen.
Sagarika Government Emporium
Managed by the Andaman and Nicobar administration, Sagarika is the premier destination for authentic, locally-made handicrafts. This emporium provides a platform for tribal artisans to showcase their skills, offering high-quality items such as seashell jewelry, cane furniture, and coconut shell crafts. Shopping here ensures that you are buying genuine products at fixed government prices while supporting the local economy. It is an ideal spot to pick up meaningful mementos that represent the rich artistic heritage of the islands.
Temple
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Naval Kali Temple (Kali Badi Mandir)
Perched on a small hillock, the Naval Kali Temple is a significant spiritual landmark dedicated to Goddess Kali. Managed by the Indian Navy, the temple is renowned for its immaculate upkeep and stunning views of the surrounding sea and Port Blair harbor. The temple complex is particularly popular during Durga Puja and Kali Puja, when it is decorated grandly. It provides a perfect blend of religious devotion and scenic beauty, offering a quiet space for meditation.
Radha Krishna Temple
This elegant temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha, is a centerpiece of devotion and peace in Port Blair. Built with a blend of modern and traditional Hindu architecture, the temple features beautiful idols and a spacious prayer hall. The evening Aarti is a soulful experience that attracts many visitors. Surrounded by well-kept gardens, it offers a meditative environment for those looking to escape the city's hustle and immerse themselves in spiritual tranquility.
Shri Lakshmi Narayan Temple
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, this temple is a marvelous example of North Indian temple architecture in the Andamans. Built by the Birla family, it is often referred to as a Birla Temple. The structure is characterized by its white marble finish and intricate carvings depicting various mythological scenes. Located near the heart of the city, it serves as a serene retreat where visitors can appreciate the fine craftsmanship and participate in daily devotional rituals.
Shri Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
Dedicated to the revered saint Shirdi Sai Baba, this temple is a cornerstone of peace and spirituality in Port Blair. The temple features a pristine white marble idol of Baba and a spacious, well-ventilated prayer hall that hosts regular devotional bhajans. Its clean and orderly environment provides a meditative escape for devotees of all faiths. The temple is especially vibrant on Thursdays, attracting many locals and tourists seeking spiritual solace and divine blessings during their island travels.
Sri Karpaga Vinayakar Temple
Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, this beautifully maintained temple is known for its calm and spiritual ambiance. The architecture follows classic South Indian patterns, with detailed stone carvings and a brightly painted entrance. It is a central place of worship for the local community, especially during Ganesh Chaturthi. Travelers often visit here to seek blessings before starting their journey across the islands, enjoying the temple's clean surroundings and devotional chanting.
Sri Vetrimalai Murugan Temple
This vibrant temple is one of the oldest and most significant religious sites in Port Blair, dedicated to Lord Murugan. Built in the traditional Dravidian architectural style, it features an intricately carved Gopuram and colorful interiors that reflect rich South Indian heritage. The temple becomes particularly lively during festivals like Thai Poosam. Its serene atmosphere and spiritual energy attract devotees and architecture enthusiasts alike, offering a peaceful sanctuary within the busy city center.