Home > In & Around > Things to Do in Port Blair
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Corbyn’s Cove
The only beach that is closest to the city. The beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming and chilling. Activities such as Speed Boat Rides and Jet Ski are available here. The beach is open on all days, and no entry tickets are required.
Cellular Jail
Cellular Jail, also known as Kalapani, was constructed by the British in the 18th century to imprison Indian Freedom Fighters, standing today as a silent testament to their suffering. Originally a seven-wing prison with 663 solitary cells, only three wings remain. Visitors can experience a poignant light and sound show depicting the anguish of these fighters, available in both Hindi and English (timings: 5:15 PM, 6:20 PM, 7:25 PM; subject to change). The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM). Please note, the jail is closed on Mondays.
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Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex
The one-stop destination for water sport activities, the complex, also known as the Marina Park, offers a panoramic view of the sea on one side and the trees on the other and is the perfect place to relax. The boats to North Bay and Ross Islands are available here.
North Bay Island
Known for the amazing water activities that it offers, the boat to North Bay is to be boarded at the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex. Activities that the island offers are Sea Walking, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Glass Bottom Boat Rides, Semi Submarine Ride and Andaman Dolphin. The ferry tickets and the entry tickets are to be pre-purchased. North Bay Island has a variety of food joints available for snacks and lunches for the guests, and also has facilities for changing clothes and restrooms. Boat timings are from 08:30 AM to 10:00 AM, and the island is closed on Wednesdays. The boats usually cover North Bay Island and Netaji Subash Chandra Bose Island – Ross Island together as a full-day trip.
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Netaji Subash Chandra Bose Island (Previously Ross Island)
Netaji Subash Chandra Bose Island is the first administrative settlement of the British in the Andaman Islands. Rich in history, you can see the ruins and spot the Japanese bunkers and cannons during their occupancy. Birds and deer can be found roaming around the island. Like the Cellular Jail, there is a light and sound show that is displayed in the evenings for the tourists, depicting the history and struggles of the people on the island during the pre-independent era. The boat leaves from Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, and the ferry tickets and the entry tickets are to be pre-purchased. Boat timings are from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM, and the island is closed on Wednesdays.
Samudrika Marine Museum
Run by the Indian Navy, this museum has a wide collection of shells, fossils, corals and a few species of colourful fish of the sea around the islands. It also provides history, geography, aquatic life and the anthropology of the Andaman Islands. The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and the entry closes at 4:00 PM. The museum is closed on Mondays.
Zonal Anthropological Museum
The anthropological museum talks all about the life and culture of the native Andaman tribes. Established in the year 1975, the museum showcases the tools, clothes, handicrafts, art & crafts, pictures, and other tribal items on display for the tourists. It gives the information about all 6 tribes that have inhabited this island ages ago and how they still live with little or no contact with the rest of the world. The museum timings are from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM & 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM, and the entry closes at 4:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays & Government holidays.
Fisheries Museum
The fisheries museum showcases specimens of various aquatic creatures from small fish to big sharks and whales. A variety of shells, corals and skeletal remains of marine creatures are displayed at the museum. It hosts about 300 species of marine life, and the remains are preserved in glass and chemicals. It is advisable not to touch any of the items displayed in the museum. The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM & 2:00 PM to 4:45 PM, and the entry closes at 4:00 PM. It is closed on all Mondays.
Chatham Saw Mill
One of the oldest and largest sawmills in Asia, the Chatham Government Saw Mill, established in 1883, has a museum inside the mill which exhibits several decorative Marble, Gurjan, Wooden Furniture and Satin Wood, etc. The mill is open from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM and is closed on Sundays. It can be reached via road from Port Blair to Chatham Island.
Chidiya Tapu
If you’re looking for the perfect Sunset point, look no further, as Chidiyatapu is the perfect place in all the surroundings of Port Blair. About 30 km from the city, this is a perfect spot for trekking, bird watching, and of course to view the sunset. This place is open on all days but is closed after sunset; also, entry tickets are not required.
Mount Harriet National Park
Initially a reserve forest which was later converted into a national park in 1979, it is the 2nd highest peak in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Approximately 55 km by road and 15 km by ferry from Port Blair, it has a variety of flora and fauna, and Port Blair can be spotted from the peak of this mountain. The attraction for which this place is famous is the view of the Light House that is located in North Bay, the picture of a light house on the back of a Twenty Rupee Indian Currency Note is the picture taken from this viewpoint of Mount Harriet. So, the point from where this view is seen is commonly known as the '20 Rupees viewpoint'.
Red Skin Island:Â A Hidden Coral Paradise Near Port Blair
Red Skin Island, nestled within the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, is a pristine, protected coral island open seasonally as an alternative to Jolly Buoy Island. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, it's perfect for snorkelling, swimming, and glass-bottom boat rides, offering surreal views of colourful marine life like clownfish and living corals. Strict environmental regulations preserve its fragile ecosystem, making it a top eco-tourism choice. Accessible by boat from Wandoor Jetty, this island is ideal for day trips and a must-visit for nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape. Due to limited visitor entry, advance permits are required, so early booking is recommended. For unspoiled coral beauty near Port Blair, Red Skin Island promises an unforgettable marine experience.
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Jolly Buoy Island:Â The Ultimate Coral Island Experience
Jolly Buoy Island, within the protected Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, is a stunning, eco-preserved coral island and widely considered the best place for snorkelling. A short boat ride from Wandoor Jetty, this uninhabited island boasts crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and pristine white sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy snorkelling, glass-bottom boat rides, and swimming to witness colourful corals and exotic marine life. As a no-plastic zone with strictly regulated entry, it's a top eco-tourism spot. Open seasonally (typically November-May), advance permits are essential. For tranquillity, natural beauty, and an unforgettable underwater experience, Jolly Buoy Island offers one of the best day trips from Port Blair.
Wandoor Beach: Gateway to Coral Reefs & Marine Wonders
Just 25 km from Port Blair, Wandoor Beach is a picturesque, tranquil spot with white sands and turquoise waters, serving as the main entry to the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling, and glass-bottom boat rides, it offers stunning views of coral reefs and marine life. From Wandoor Jetty, easily access Jolly Buoy and Red Skin Island for incredible coral experiences (advance booking essential). Wandoor Beach provides a peaceful coastal escape and a gateway to Andaman's best marine wonders, all near Port Blair.
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Cinque Island: A Hidden Gem of Coral Reefs and Turquoise Waters
Cinque Island, near Port Blair and divided by a sandbar, is one of the Andaman archipelago's most picturesque and unspoiled gems. It's a premier spot for scuba diving, snorkelling, and underwater photography due to its vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear turquoise waters rich in marine life. Accessible by private charter, this uninhabited island with white sandy beaches and lush greenery is perfect for day trips and nature escapes. Its raw beauty and regulated entry (permits required) preserve its fragile ecosystem, making it an ideal, secluded destination for divers and those seeking untouched island charm.
Baratang Island: Home to Limestone Caves, Mud Volcanoes & Mangrove Creeks
Baratang Island, 100 km north of Port Blair, is an incredibly diverse and offbeat destination. It's renowned for its limestone caves (accessed via thrilling mangrove boat rides), mud volcanoes, and dense mangrove creeks. Situated within the Jarawa Tribal Reserve (no interaction allowed), Baratang offers a glimpse into indigenous protected zones. Ideal for day trips, it's a perfect eco-tourism escape for those seeking unique natural wonders and adventure beyond typical beaches.
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Diglipur: The Offbeat Gem of North Andaman
Diglipur, in North Andaman, is an underrated yet breathtaking destination offering adventure, untouched nature, and local charm, perfect for offbeat travellers seeking an escape from crowds. Its prime highlight is the Ross and Smith Islands, twin islands connected by a mesmerising natural sandbar. Adventurers will love Saddle Peak, the Andaman's highest point, offering thrilling treks and panoramic views. Other attractions include the explorable Alfred Caves and Ram Nagar Beach, known for turtle nesting. Accessible by road or ferry from Port Blair, Diglipur is ideal for eco-tourism, island exploration, and adventure in Andaman's northern frontier.
Ross and Smith Islands: The Twin Paradise of North Andaman
Ross and Smith Islands, near Diglipur in North Andaman, are uniquely stunning, famously connected by a natural sandbar appearing with the tides. With powdery white sand and emerald waters, they're perfect for swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling, and photography, offering a secluded escape. Their clear waters boast vibrant coral reefs, making it an excellent snorkelling spot. As a protected marine sanctuary, permits are required. Accessible by boat from Aerial Bay Jetty, these islands are a tranquil, unforgettable addition to any offbeat itinerary.
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