Best Places to Visit in Port Blair

A trip to Port Blair is incomplete without visiting the iconic Cellular Jail, also known as Kala Pani. This colonial-era prison stands as a chilling reminder of India’s struggle for independence. Built by the British in the late 19th century, the jail once housed prominent freedom fighters like Veer Savarkar and Batukeshwar Dutt.

Today, it serves as a national memorial and one of the most historical places to visit in Port Blair. The architecture, seven wings radiating from a central tower, was designed for solitary confinement. A key highlight here is the Light and Sound Show, which brings the prison’s history to life with powerful narration and visual effects.

Highlights:

• Explore the old prison cells and galleries
• Watch the Light and Sound Show in the evening
• Learn about India's freedom movement

Timings:

• 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and public holidays)
• Light & Sound Show: 6:00 PM onwards (Check schedule locally)

Entry Fee:

• Around ₹30 for entry
• Additional charges for the Light and Sound Show

This site is one of the must-visit Port Blair tourist places, especially for those who want to connect with India’s past while soaking in coastal serenity.

Just a short ferry ride from Port Blair, Ross Island, recently renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, is a captivating blend of colonial ruins and tropical wilderness. Once the administrative headquarters of the British in the Andaman Islands, this island now stands as a hauntingly beautiful reminder of a bygone era.

Covered in thick banyan roots and lush greenery, Ross Island features the remnants of old churches, ballrooms, and British residences. Its eerie charm makes it one of the most unique places to explore in Port Blair. Visitors can also spot friendly deer, peacocks, and tropical birds as they walk through the trails.

Highlights:

• Explore ruins of the British colony
• Visit the bakery, church, and chief commissioner’s house
• Enjoy nature walks and photography
• Learn about Netaji’s brief occupation of the island during WWII

How to Reach:

• 10–15 minute ferry ride from the Aberdeen Jetty
• Regular boats available; tickets can be purchased on-site or online

Entry Fee:

• Nominal entrance fee (around ₹30–₹50)
• Photography charges may apply

Ross Island is a top attraction in Port Blair that offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and peace. It’s ideal for a half-day visit with scenic views and Instagram-worthy photo spots.

Located just 6 km from the city center, Corbyn’s Cove Beach is one of the most popular and easily accessible Port Blair tourist places. Surrounded by coconut palms and gentle waves, this serene beach is perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, and enjoying water activities. It offers a laid-back vibe without the crowds found on other beaches.

Whether you want to enjoy jet skiing, speedboat rides, or simply walk along the soft sands, Corbyn’s Cove provides a refreshing escape for travelers. The beach is also dotted with small eateries and benches where visitors can enjoy local snacks with a view of the sea.

Highlights:

• Water sports like jet skiing and boating
• Ideal spot for swimming and sunset watching
• Cafes and food stalls by the shore
• Safe and family-friendly environment

Best Time to Visit:

• Early morning or late afternoon for pleasant weather
• Sunsets here are particularly stunning

Travel Tip:

• Combine your visit with the Cellular Jail Light and Sound Show in the evening, as both are nearby

Corbyn’s Cove is one of the top places to explore in Port Blair if you're looking for a peaceful beach experience with the convenience of being close to the city.

Chidiya Tapu, also known as the Bird Island, is a peaceful destination located about 25 kilometers from Port Blair. It’s famous for its lush mangroves, dense forests, and rich birdlife, making it one of the best places in Port Blair for nature lovers and photographers.

The main attraction here is the Chidiya Tapu Sunset Point, where the sky turns into a palette of warm colors each evening. It’s also a great spot for trekking, with the Munda Pahad trail offering scenic views of the coastline and the open sea.

This spot is less commercialized, giving travelers a quiet place to relax and observe nature. For those searching for scenic beauty and birdwatching opportunities, Chidiya Tapu ranks among the most serene places to explore in Port Blair.

Highlights:

• Sunset viewing and birdwatching
• Nature trails and short treks
• Peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds

Best Time to Visit:

• Late afternoon, around 4 PM, to enjoy the sunset
• Morning visits are great for spotting birds

Chidiya Tapu is one of the top attractions in Port Blair for those who enjoy calm surroundings and scenic beauty away from the city buzz.

The Anthropological Museum in Port Blair offers a fascinating look into the indigenous cultures of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Established in 1975, this museum is one of the most educational and culturally rich places to explore in Port Blair. It showcases the lifestyle, tools, crafts, and traditions of the local tribes like the Jarawas, Sentinalese, Onges, Shompens, and Great Andamanese.

The museum houses rare photographs, tribal artifacts, wooden boats, hunting weapons, and models of traditional huts. It gives visitors a deep understanding of the native communities who have lived in isolation for centuries. For history buffs and curious minds, this is one of the most insightful Port Blair tourist places.

Highlights:

• Exhibits on tribal history and heritage
• Rare photographs and ancient tools
• Educational displays and tribal hut replicas

Timings:

• Open from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM
• Closed on Mondays and government holidays

Entry Fee:

• Very minimal, usually around ₹10 to ₹20

If you're looking to learn more about the island’s roots and indigenous populations, the Anthropological Museum is a top attraction in Port Blair you shouldn't miss.

Managed by the Indian Navy, the Samudrika Naval Marine Museum is one of the most informative and well-maintained Port Blair tourist places. Located near the Andaman Teal House, this museum is dedicated to showcasing the rich marine biodiversity, history, geography, and culture of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

The museum is divided into five sections, covering everything from the oceanic ecosystem and tribal communities to island geography and marine life. A standout feature is the impressive collection of seashells, corals, and preserved marine species, including rare fish and deep-sea creatures.

Samudrika is a must-visit for families, students, and anyone with an interest in ocean life and island ecology. It’s a top pick among places to explore in Port Blair for an engaging and educational experience.

Highlights:

• Marine life exhibits and coral displays
• Tribal and cultural history of the islands
• Informative sections on island ecosystems
• Well-curated and Navy-maintained facility

Timings:

• Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Closed on Mondays

Entry Fee:

• Around ₹50 per person

Whether you're a marine enthusiast or a curious traveler, the Samudrika Naval Marine Museum offers a deeper look into the natural world that surrounds Port Blair, making it one of the top attractions in Port Blair.

North Bay Island is a popular destination just a short boat ride from Port Blair and is well-known for its vibrant coral reefs and thrilling water sports. This scenic island is one of the most adventurous places to explore in Port Blair, attracting tourists who love the sea and underwater life.

The crystal-clear waters around the island offer perfect visibility for activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and sea walking. These experiences allow visitors to get up close with colorful corals and tropical fish, making it one of the top spots for marine exploration in the region.

In addition to water sports, North Bay Island provides opportunities for relaxing on the beach or enjoying panoramic views from the nearby lighthouse, the same one featured on the back of the Indian ₹20 note.

Highlights:

• Coral reefs and marine biodiversity
• Water activities: scuba diving, snorkeling, sea walking, glass-bottom boat rides
• Lighthouse with a panoramic island view

How to Reach:

• 30–40 minute ferry ride from the Aberdeen Jetty
• Ferries are available with scheduled departures in the morning and return by afternoon

Entry and Activity Costs:

• Entry fee is usually included in boat ticket
• Water sports are charged separately based on activity

North Bay Island is a must-visit Port Blair tourist place for adventure seekers and nature lovers looking to dive into the underwater world.

Mount Harriet National Park is one of the most scenic and eco-rich places to explore in Port Blair. Located about 20 kilometers from the city, this national park is named after Harriet Tytler, the wife of a British officer and an avid naturalist. The park is home to the third-highest peak in the Andaman Islands, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding islands and forests.

It is a haven for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and trekkers. The area is rich in flora and fauna, including rare species of birds, butterflies, and mammals. The viewpoint at the top of Mount Harriet is featured on the ₹20 Indian currency note, making it a unique photo spot for travelers.

Whether you're hiking through its nature trails or simply soaking in the views, Mount Harriet National Park ranks among the top Port Blair tourist places for a mix of adventure and tranquility.

Highlights:

• Trekking trails through lush greenery
• Stunning views of the coastline and nearby islands
• Rich biodiversity and peaceful surroundings
• Site featured on the ₹20 note

Best Time to Visit:

• October to March for cooler weather and clear views
• Early morning is ideal for birdwatching and hiking

Entry Fee:

• Nominal fee, typically ₹25 for Indians and ₹250 for foreigners
• Additional fees for cameras and guides may apply

Mount Harriet National Park is a must-visit top attraction in Port Blair for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat into nature.

Jolly Buoy Island is one of the most pristine and eco-protected Port Blair tourist places, known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and untouched natural beauty. Located within the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, this island is famous for glass-bottom boat rides, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

What makes Jolly Buoy unique is its commitment to conservation. Plastic is strictly banned, and only a limited number of visitors are allowed per day, ensuring the island remains clean and unspoiled. The coral reefs here are among the best in India, making it a top destination for underwater photography and marine exploration.

This island is ideal for day trips from Port Blair and is often preferred by eco-tourists and families who want to explore nature in its purest form. It stands out as one of the most beautiful places to explore in Port Blair for those seeking both adventure and serenity.

Highlights:

• Unspoiled coral reefs and marine life
• Crystal-clear water ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving
• Glass-bottom boat rides for non-swimmers
• Strict eco-rules to preserve nature

How to Visit:

• Accessible only by boat from Wandoor Jetty
• Requires a special permit (arranged through tour operators or tourism offices)
• Open only for a few months each year (usually November to May)

Entry Requirements:

• ID proof for permit
• No plastic allowed (bags and bottles checked before boarding)

Jolly Buoy Island is one of the top attractions in Port Blair for those who value nature conservation and unforgettable underwater experiences.

Wandoor Beach is a peaceful and scenic getaway located about 25 kilometers from Port Blair. It is one of the most relaxing places to explore in Port Blair, perfect for those who love nature, quiet walks along the shore, and stunning sunset views.

The beach is part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, making it a gateway to famous islands like Jolly Buoy and Red Skin. It features soft white sand, calm turquoise waters, and plenty of shade from coconut and tropical trees, creating the perfect atmosphere for relaxation.

Wandoor is also ideal for light swimming and photography. Though swimming is seasonal and depends on tide conditions, the natural beauty and peaceful surroundings make it one of the most beloved Port Blair tourist places among nature lovers.

Highlights:

• Serene beach with white sands and clear water
• Sunset views and peaceful walking trails
• Entry point to marine national park islands
• Great for a relaxing day trip from Port Blair

Best Time to Visit:

• November to April for pleasant weather
• Early morning or evening for the best views

Entry Fee:

• Free beach access
• Charges apply for boats to nearby islands (via permit)

If you're looking to unwind and connect with nature, Wandoor Beach is a top attraction in Port Blair that combines natural charm with easy access to other island adventures.