Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a place of stunning natural beauty and cultural diversity. Its unique blend of picturesque landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local culture make it a truly enchanting destination. It is surrounded by pristine beaches with soft, powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters. The beaches like Corbyn’s Cove, Wandoor Beach, and Chidiya Tapu offer breathtaking views and opportunities for relaxation, water sports, and sunset watching.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to several indigenous tribes, some of which still maintain their traditional way of life. While interactions with these tribes are strictly regulated to protect their culture and way of living, their presence adds to the mystique of the islands. Port Blair offers a wide range of water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and fishing. There are several things to do in Port Blair but what are the best among them? Here is a list that you can check.
List of the best things to do that you should enjoy during your trip to Port Blair
1. Visit the Cellular Jail
Visiting the Cellular Jail in Port Blair is a poignant and historically significant experience. The jail, also known as Kālā Pānī, played a crucial role in India’s struggle for independence and stands as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by freedom fighters. The Cellular Jail was constructed by the British colonial government in the late 19th century to house political prisoners, many of whom were involved in India’s fight for independence.
It offers an evening light and sound show that narrates the story of the jail’s history and its significance in the Indian freedom struggle. The show is a moving experience that takes visitors on a journey through time, highlighting the sacrifices and struggles of the inmates. The jail complex now houses a museum and several galleries that showcase artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the Indian independence movement and the prisoners who were incarcerated here.
2. Visit the Samudrika Marine Museum
The Samudrika Marine Museum is a fascinating attraction located in Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India. This museum is dedicated to showcasing the diverse marine life, ecology, and indigenous culture of the region. The museum boasts an impressive collection of marine life specimens, including various types of colorful coral reefs, shells, fish, and other marine organisms. The exhibits provide insight into the rich biodiversity found in the Andaman Sea and the surrounding waters.
Some sections of the museum might focus on sea turtle conservation efforts. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to various species of sea turtles, and the museum may have exhibits or information about turtle conservation projects in the area.
3. Explore Ross Island
Ross Island, located near Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a historically significant and visually captivating destination. Once a British administrative center, the island is now a preserved archaeological site that provides a unique glimpse into its colonial past. The ruins include the Chief Commissioner’s House, church, hospital, bakery, and other structures. Exploring these remnants offers a fascinating insight into the architecture and lifestyle of that era.
One of the unique features of Ross Island is its population of friendly deer that roam freely. These deer add to the island’s charm and often interact with visitors, making for some delightful photo opportunities.
4. Go birdwatching at Chidiya Tapu
Birdwatching at Chidiya Tapu, also known as the “Bird Island,” is a delightful experience for nature enthusiasts and bird lovers. Chidiya Tapu is located on the southern tip of South Andaman Island in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago and is known for its rich avian diversity. The best time for birdwatching is typically early in the morning when birds are most active and the weather is cooler. Plan to arrive at Chidiya Tapu shortly after sunrise to maximize your chances of spotting a variety of bird species.
Bringing a pair of binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens can greatly enhance your birdwatching experience. Binoculars allow you to observe birds from a distance without disturbing them, while a camera enables you to capture the beauty of the avian life you encounter.
5. Enjoy the beaches of Port Blair
Port Blair, the enchanting capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, boasts a collection of beaches that captivate visitors with their natural beauty and inviting shores. From the serene Corbyn’s Cove with its soft sands and gentle waves to the picturesque Wandoor Beach known for its coral reefs and clear waters, Port Blair’s beaches offer a paradise for relaxation and exploration. Bask in the sun’s warmth as you lounge on the powdery white sands, surrounded by the soothing sounds of waves lapping the shore.
As the sun sets, the beaches transform into a canvas painted with hues of orange and pink, casting a magical glow on the surroundings. Whether you’re seeking solitude, romantic moments, or exhilarating activities, Port Blair’s beaches offer a symphony of experiences that embody the essence of paradise found within the embrace of nature’s beauty.
6. Visit the Anthropological Museum
The Anthropological Museum in Port Blair is a captivating destination that offers a fascinating insight into the indigenous cultures and history of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. As you step into the museum, you’ll embark on a journey through time to explore the rich cultural heritage of the islands’ native communities. Each section of the museum is dedicated to showcasing a specific tribe, such as the Great Andamanese, Onge, Jarwa, and Sentinalese. Through exhibits, you can learn about their hunting techniques, fishing practices, clothing, dwelling structures, and more.
The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, tools, handicrafts, photographs, and artwork representing the various indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. These exhibits shed light on the unique lifestyles, traditions, rituals, and daily lives of these tribes.
7. Snorkel or dive in the Andaman Sea
Snorkeling and diving in the Andaman Sea offer unparalleled opportunities to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. With its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and stunning coral reefs, the Andaman Sea is a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. Many snorkeling sites are located in relatively shallow waters, making them accessible without the need for diving equipment. This is great for those who want to experience the underwater world without going too deep.
Diving in the Andaman Sea exposes you to a vast array of marine life, including schools of fish, reef sharks, rays, eels, and possibly even larger species like mantas and whale sharks. The coral reefs in the Andaman Sea are renowned for their beauty and diversity. Diving allows you to explore intricate coral formations and discover the fascinating creatures that inhabit them.
8. Take a ferry to Jolly Buoy Island
Taking a ferry to Jolly Buoy Island is an exciting adventure that offers the chance to explore one of the most beautiful and ecologically important islands in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago. Known for its stunning coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, Jolly Buoy Island is part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. The journey begins with a ferry ride from Wandoor Beach, which is located about 30 kilometers from Port Blair. The ferry ride itself offers picturesque views of the sea and the surrounding islands.
The island is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, making it a paradise for snorkelers and divers. The underwater world is teeming with a variety of colorful fish, coral species, and other marine creatures.
Conclusion
From its historical significance to its natural beauty, Port Blair presents a tapestry of attractions that weave together the island’s rich past and vibrant present. Exploring the poignant history of the Cellular Jail and participating in its evocative light and the sound show provides a glimpse into India’s struggle for independence. The serene beaches, such as Corbyn’s Cove and Wandoor, invite visitors to unwind on soft sands and indulge in water sports, while Ross Island’s colonial ruins and lush landscapes offer a journey back in time.
For those intrigued by cultural diversity, the Anthropological Museum opens a window into the indigenous tribes’ lives and traditions. The Samudrika Marine Museum sheds light on the region’s marine ecology, while Chidiya Tapu offers birdwatching amidst picturesque scenery.
See Also: Things to do in Andaman | Places to visit in Port Blair