Port Blair is famous for being the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a Union Territory of India. It is known for its rich history, particularly during the British colonial period, with historic sites like the Cellular Jail. Port Blair is also the gateway to various beautiful islands and beaches in the archipelago, offering opportunities for water sports and exploration of rich marine life and coral reefs.
The best time to visit Port Blair is from October to May. During these months, the weather is pleasant for sightseeing, and water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving can be fully enjoyed due to the clear waters.
Port Blair can be reached by air and sea. Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair is well-connected with major Indian cities like Chennai, Kolkata, New Delhi, and Bangalore. Regular passenger ship services are also available from Chennai, Kolkata, and Vishakhapatnam.
While Port Blair itself is not known for its beaches, it acts as a portal to other islands with stunning beaches. Nearby Corbyn's Cove is a small, curved, coconut-palm fringed beach, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. For more pristine and scenic beaches, tourists often take short boat excursions to nearby islands such as North Bay, Ross, and Havelock Islands.
Key attractions include the Cellular Jail, where visitors can learn about the Indian freedom struggle through the light and sound show; Samudrika Naval Marine Museum that showcases the marine biodiversity of the islands; the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park; and Chatham Saw Mill, one of the oldest and largest in Asia. Additionally, visiting the Anthropological Museum provides insights into the tribal communities of the region.
Indian nationals do not need a special permit to visit Port Blair or the main Andaman islands. However, foreign nationals are required to obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), which can easily be obtained on arrival at Port Blair, either by air or sea, and is usually valid for a period of 30 days.
Port Blair offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury resorts and 4-star hotels to budget hotels, homestays, and government-run guesthouses. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
Visitors should try local seafood delicacies like grilled fish, prawns, crabs, and lobsters. Traditional dishes such as fish curry, coconut prawn curry, and the Andamanese thali, which includes various local specialties, are also a must-try. Fresh tropical fruits like mangoes, bananas, and pineapples are also abundant.
Port Blair offers a glimpse into the lives and traditions of the Indigenous tribes, although direct contact is restricted to protect their culture and health. Tourists can enjoy cultural shows that depict tribal dances and music. The Island Tourism Festival, usually held in December-January, is a showcase of the islands' cultural heritage and local performances.
Nightlife in Port Blair is relatively subdued compared to mainland Indian cities. A few hotels and resorts may have in-house bars or host live music events. Generally, the city has a laid-back vibe with evenings spent enjoying seaside views or dining at local eateries.
Beaches (22)
Historical Places (1)
National Parks (1)
Villages (1)
Island (15)
Waterfalls (1)
