Port Blair

Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is worth visiting for its colonial history, beautiful sea views, museums, and nearby tropical islands. I would allow 1–2 days for Port Blair itself, with extra days for boat trips to the surrounding islands.

Best places to see in Port Blair

1. Cellular Jail

Must-see

One of India's most important historical sites, built during British colonial rule to imprison freedom fighters. Explore the prison cells and historic galleries, and consider attending the evening light-and-sound show.

Allow 1.5–2 hours.

2. Corbyn's Cove Beach

A scenic, palm-fringed beach close to the city. Good for a relaxed walk, sea views, photographs, and watching the sunset when conditions are favourable.

Allow 1–2 hours.

3. Chidiya Tapu

A lovely nature destination known for birds, forest scenery, rocky coastlines, and sunsets. Ideal if you enjoy quieter places away from the city.

Allow half a day; roughly 25–30 km from central Port Blair.

4. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island

Formerly Ross Island, this small island has atmospheric colonial-era ruins, enormous tree roots, walking trails, and beautiful coastal views. You reach it by boat from the Port Blair waterfront.

Allow 2–3 hours, including the boat trip.

5. Samudrika Naval Marine Museum

A useful introduction to the islands' marine life, coral ecosystems, shells, geography, and indigenous cultures. Particularly worthwhile before visiting the surrounding islands.

Allow 45–90 minutes.

6. Anthropological Museum

Learn about the history and traditional cultures of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands' Indigenous communities through exhibits and historical material. A good stop for cultural context.

Allow around 1 hour.

7. Marina Park

A pleasant waterfront area for an evening stroll, sea breezes, and views of boats and the harbour. Convenient to combine with Cellular Jail and the nearby waterfront.

Allow 30–60 minutes.

More places worth considering

8. North Bay Island

Best for snorkelling, glass-bottom boat rides, and water activities. A boat excursion from Port Blair makes it a good choice if you want to experience the underwater world.

9. Wandoor Beach

A quieter coastal destination with scenic views. It is also the gateway area for boat trips to Jolly Buoy Island when services and access permits allow.

10. Chatham Saw Mill

An unusual stop for those interested in industrial history, timber, and the islands' colonial past.

Day 1

Cellular Jail and Samudrika Marine Museum

Cellular Jail light-and-sound show, then Marina Park

Day 2

Boat trip to Ross Island; add North Bay if time permits

Corbyn's Cove or sunset at Chidiya Tapu

My recommendation: If you love natural scenery more than museums, prioritise Chidiya Tapu, North Bay, and a boat trip to Ross Island. If history interests you, Cellular Jail is the one place I would not miss.

One practical point: Port Blair is now officially named Sri Vijaya Puram. Check ferry schedules and attraction access locally, especially during the monsoon, because boat services can be weather-dependent.