Ultimate List: 28 Things To Do in Port Blair [2024 Edition]

Written By Go2andaman Editorial Team on January 03, 2024 Things To DoPort Blair

Things To DoPort Blair

Ultimate List: 28 Things To Do in Port Blair [2024 Edition]

The capital of Andaman is the core of the Andaman Islands. Make it a short yet important part of your entire experience here. With a rich and diverse history as well as a bustling port and town, there is a lot to experience here.

Most Famous Things To Do In Port Blair

These are the most famous things to do in the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Don’t leave without doing at least a few of these if not all. 

These are the keys to the Port Blair Experience. 

1. Cellular Jail

Cellular Jail, Port Blair
Cellular Jail, Port Blair

Constructed between 1857 and 1906, the Cellular jail called “Kalapani” stands as a gritty reminder of the colonial rule and the undaunted spirit of our freedom fighters that were sent here to face punishment by the British.

The silent walls and corridors of Kalapani have witnessed the horrors of torture and the spirit of resistance and still stand, bleak and empty as ever. Built to give the guards an all-around view of the inmates, you can now catch amazing views from the top of the watchtowers.

Derived from the Hindi words “kala” meaning death and “pani” meaning water, the jail held freedom fighters like Yogendra Shukla, Batukeshwar Dutt, and Babarao Savarkar.

Visit the gallows for an eerie experience, get a feel of prison life, and admire the strategic constructions that highlight the tactical mind of the British Empire.

Fee: Rs 30; Guide: Rs.200 (optional)
Timings: 9.00 am to 5.00 pm open all days except on National Holidays.
Things To See: Cellular Jail Museum, Photo Gallery, Library, Veer Sarvakar’s Cell, Distinct Architecture.
Location: Click here
G2A Tips: We recommend that you visit the jail in the afternoon as you have a better chance of getting a guide during this time.
Read More: Cellular Jail

 

2. Light and Sound Show, Cellular Jail

Attending the light and sound show is the thing to do in Port Blair. You haven’t had the full experience of the land, unless and until you have experienced this.Aimed at telling the story of the history of Cellular Jail, it is a perfect blend of both information and entertainment. For those interested in indulging in a brief presentation about India’s heroic freedom struggle, the Light and Sound  show is worth a visit.

The saga of island adversities is brought alive inside the jail compound.The show lasts about 45 minutes. The show is available in both English and Hindi. The idea of the story being narrated through the voice of an ancient Peepal tree is a refreshing and creative one. The show brings up the dark history of the islands and reminds us exactly why these beautiful islands were once called Kalapani (black waters).

Fee: Rs 300.
Timings:6:00 pm (Hindi), 7:15 pm (English). Open all days except on National Holidays.
Things To See: The beautiful and storied history of the Kalapani.
Location: Click here
G2A Tips: We recommend that you visit early to book the ticket.
Read More: Sound and Light Show

3. Ross Island

Well, whoever thought they might have to go all the way to France to witness Paris, were clearly in the wrong! They didn’t know of Ross Island a.k.a. Paris of the East.

Ross was the seat of imperial power in those days. It is said that on one night, when electricity came to Ross Island for the first time, and all its structures – the bungalows, the ballroom, the church, the printing press- lit up, and someone saw the mesmerizing view and termed it Paris of the East. Today, it is a magnificent ruin of a time. 

Fast forward to World War 2, the Japanese pillaged the island and turned it to ruin. And now the stories there seem to be buried under the rubble. One thing to do is to hire a local guide to dig them out. Or attend the light and sound show, along with the Ross Island Museum to experience the full scope of the land. 

Fee: Rs 90;
Timings: 08:30 pm to 04.00 pm Closed only on Wednesdays
Things To See: The Ruins, Light and Sound Show, Museum, Japanese bunkers, Wildlife Sanctuary.
Location: Click Here, short 15mins boat ride from Port Blair.
G2A Tips: Exploring the island can take around 3-4 hours. So, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothing as there is plenty of walking to be done.
Read More: Ross Island

4. Corbyn’s Cove

Visiting Corbyn’s Cove is a Port Blair essential. In fact, it is one of those definite things to do in Port Blair, where you can get an equal dose of mesmerizing, beautiful, relaxing landscape plus catch the thrill fever from all the water sports that go around there. 

Water sports in corbyn’s cover include Sea Karting, Jet skiing, kayaking, surfing, boating, scuba diving. Also you can hop on the boat to visit Snake Island which is a nearby tourist attraction that claims to have deadly snakes slithering about. Thrilling right? Tell us about it! And lest we forget about the Japanese and their bunkers! It’s all happening in Corbyn’s Cove. 

Fee: Entry Free
Timings: 07:00 am to 05.00 pm
Things To Do: Water sports, Boating, Swimming.
Location: Click Here.
G2A Tips: You can also try out a self-drive sea-kart, a fairly new activity. It’s just like go-karting.

5. Mount Harriet

Get an astonishing eagle’s eye view of the Andaman coastline from the peak of Mount Harriet. The ruins of a British summer house is an iconic landmark of the area. Take pictures! Mount Harriet is a great place for landscape photography and would stand out in your feed. It’s also a great place to spot endemic birds of Andaman. 

Mount Harriet National Park offers panoramic aerial views of Port Blair City, Ross Island, and Havelock Island. A great sightseeing place, Mount Harriet is one of the most famous things to do in Port Blair.

Fee: Rs.25 per person, Rs.250 for foreigners, Rs.25 for Camera
Timings: 07:00 am to 05.00 pm
Things To Do: Trekking, Sightseeing, Birdwatching.
Location: Click Here.
G2A Tips: We recommend you to wear long pants and long sleeves, comfortable shoes, and lots of mosquito repellent. Don’t forget to bring enough water supply and snacks.
Read More: Mount Harriet

6. Day Trip to Chidiya Tapu

Chidiya Tapu literally translates to Bird Island. Although, we wonder if that is what us locals think of it! The place invokes a lot more in the mind. It invokes the curve of meandering mangroves that outline the shorelines of Chidiya Tapu, it invokes the famous, colorful sunsets that everyone goes there to witness, it invokes the trek to Munda Pahad which offer panoramic views, it invokes the thrill as Chidiya Tapu has some of the best dive spots in whole of Port Blair. 

So rent a scooter or a cab and take a stunning 40 minute journey to the best kept secret in Port Blair. 

Fee: Rs 25;
Timings: 06:00 am to 07.00 pm
Things To Do: viewing sunset & mangrove
Location: Click Here.
G2A Tips: Locals know the place well, so simply ask them for directions. And check out the activities at Chidiya Tapu to make the most of your trip there.
Read More: Chidiya Tapu

7. Scuba Diving at Chidiya Tapu

Visiting Andamans alone? With family? With friends? With your best friend? With your, how do we say, better half? Or your situationship, if you please? We don’t know the answer to that, but we do know that there is something you can do to make this trip unbelievably memorable. Yes! It will stick in your memory book for years and years to come. 

The answer is Scuba Diving! Yes!

Scuba Diving in Chidiya Tapu is a must do. The dive sites are beautiful and the dive instructors we have waiting for you are incredibly amazing. You’re bound to have an amazing time. The kaleidoscope of life underwater will mesmerize you. 

Fee: Starts from Rs.4500/-
Timings: 06:00 am to 07.00 pm
Things To Do: Scuba diving.
Location: Click Here.
G2A Tips: Scuba in Andaman generally fills out fast. Which is understandable given you’re in the scuba capital of India. So we recommend you do your research and pre-book your dives before coming to Andamans. And if you have any questions, we always love to chat directly with our readers.
Read More: Scuba Diving

8. Kayaking

If you’re looking for adventurous things to do in Port Blair, consider a slow paddle through the scenic ocean waters alongside the lush green mangroves. This off-beat trip takes you to the lesser-explored parts of the islands, away from the more bustling tourist places, where you can experience island solitude and bliss. It’s an adventurous yet calming and soothing experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the sun, sea, and tropical greenness that the Andamans have to offer.

Although kayaking may seem uncomfortable if you’re new to it, the instructors will go the extra mile to make you comfortable at all times. After about 15-20 minutes, the entire experience will start to feel familiar and easy, making it a great option for those looking for a unique adventure in the Andamans.

Fee: Starts from Rs.2500/-
Timings: 06:00 am to 07.00 pm
G2A Tips: We recommend wearing quick-dry clothes and keep a torch if you’re out for night kayaking!. Also the same advice as scuba diving goes here – pre-book because the best slots are gone in a jiffy!
Read More: Kayaking in Andaman

 

Lesser-Known Things To Do In Port Blair

 

While everyone will be doing things from the list above, you here could have a chance to do something different. Something that is a hundred percent good and worthy. This is the list of the lesser known things to do in Port Blair. This is the list of this-just-made-my-vacation things to do in Port Blair. This is the Locals’ Recommends list of things to do in Port Blair. 

9. Intertidal Walk + Reef Watch

‘Inter-tidal’ refers to an area of the shore that is inundated by seawater at high tides and is exposed at low tides. Various habitats can be found in the intertidal zone, including rocky shores, sandy shores, mudflats, seagrass meadows, coral rubble, and coral reefs. Take a 1.5-hour-long walk with a trained marine biologist into the mangroves. It is one of the best places to see in Andaman. It can be customized and costs about Rs 500 per person.

Reef Watch is a non-profit organization in Chidiyatapu whose vision is to protect the ocean through education, research, and management. If you too are passionate about marine life in Andaman you can help by volunteering with the organization!

Read More: Mangrove Awareness in Andamans

10. Experience Homestay

Experience staying with Andaman locals in a homestay. It will be one of the interesting things you could do in Port Blair. Furnished and comfortable, these homesteads are a cheaper and budget-friendly option and are comfortable alternatives to hotels, in general. 

Range: Starting at Rs 1000/- per night
Tips: Emerald Gecko homestay is one of the best places to visit if you want the authentic Andaman local experience. Due-diligence always helps! Here’s our favorite five homestays in Andaman and Nicobar.
Read More: Eco Huts

11. Take in the sense of Port Blair – Get a Day Trip

beautiful top view of the city of port Blair against the sea.Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Home among the palm trees. Asian densely populated city

Do you desire to capture the sense of a city? There are so many ways to visit a place. This way, right here, is all about creating this unique summarizing sense of a town, a city, an island, a historical capital, an ancient settlement. 

Explore the best of Port Blair on this full-day city tour that starts with a visit to the iconic Cellular Jail and takes you to Jogger’s Park, located at the other end of the island. Learn about India’s freedom struggle and get insights about the island’s marine life, stop by a bomb pit from World War II (!), shop for souvenirs at museums, enjoy the sea breeze by the beach, and top it all off with  a stunning sunset perched atopa hill – this trip has it all! 

Trust us, the best and the most succinct way to spend a day in the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. 

Fee: Starts from Rs.2999/-
Trip Timings: 10:00 am to 05.30 pm
G2A Tips: We recommend Booking in advance to avoid last-minute rushes.
Read More: Port Blair – Day Tour

12. The Street Food is actually Good

Trying the Best Street foods  (the Kolkata connection) is one of the most famous things to do in Port Blair, The best street food place would be the opposite of  Aberdeen Jetty. Every evening after 6 PM, you can find a variety of food such as burgers, noodles, pav-bhaji, and more being sold. If you have a sensitive stomach don’t worry, you can try the sweet and chaat shop at Icy Spicy. Here you can find everything from puchkas to momos and samosas to jalebis although they may be a bit costlier than the vendors. They do however come with the benefit of quality and hygiene.

One would find it unlikely, but the street food of Port Blair is actually good.  

13. Munda Pahad Trek

Munda Pahad trek is a super fun experience to have. Partially because it is so easy to do. In fact, it is one of the more family friendly treks that one can do. And in another fact, it is not a trek at all, just a sweet little trail. It’s more of a fun activity than an adventurous one. 

Along the trail, you’ll find trees labeled with their scientific names, and there are some spectacular sea viewpoints where you can stop and rest if needed. The route ends with a breathtaking view of Rutland and a few other islands in the distance. To locate the starting point of this trail, simply walk along the beach, and you will come across a sign pointing towards the trail.

Fee: Entry Free.
Timings: 05:00 am to 06.00 pm
Things To Do: Trekking, Sunset.
Location: Click Here.
G2A Tips: We recommend visiting early in the afternoon for a better Trek experience. On hotter days, trek early in the morning, or late afternoon.
Read More: Trekking in Andaman

14. Bird Watching

Did you know that there are 50 odd species of birds that are endemic to the Andaman and Nicobar islands? Means that they are only found in these little drops of land in the ocean?! How cool is that? 

So if there’s one activity that you shouldn’t miss out on, it’s bird watching. 

Enthusiasts often have a ball of a time observing the different birds and many photographers spend time taking pictures of them. It is marked as one of the lesser-known but unmissable things to do in Port Blair by nature lovers. 

Or if you’re one of those serious about your stuff, then you can go on even longer full day birdwatching journeys in other islands.

Fee: Rs 25; Rs.250 for foreigners.
Timings: 07:00 pm to 05.00 pm
Things To Do: Bird watching.
Timings: Sunrise & Sunset.
Location: Click Here for birdwatching in Mount Harriet.
G2A Tips: We recommend you visit the park early in the morning as the birds are active at that time.
Read More: Birds of Andaman.

15. Sunset Date

If relaxing sunsets and late evening aesthetics are what you’re in it for, you can enjoy a few drinks at the roof bars of famous places like Love Garden, Amaya, and Nico-Bar.

Amaya has a magnificent rooftop sea view and offers excellent seafood, barbecue, sizzlers, and cocktails. Live music sets the mood as you enjoy the evening breeze, and you’ve got to try out their signature flaming shots before leaving. Don’t miss out on the nightlife scene at Nico-Bar, which offers a selection of spirits, wines, and beer, and of course, their fruity concoctions are served in coconut shells- courtesy of the barman.

Amaya
Cost for two: 1500
Location: Click Here

Nico-Bar, Fortune Bay Island, Port Blair
Cost for two: 1200
Location: Click Here
Read More: Top Restaurants in Havelock, Top Restaurants in Port Blair

16. Learn about Tribal Life

One of the more interesting things to do in Port Blair is to learn about the different tribes that are native inhabitants of the island and have been for the last 1000 years. Most of these tribes prefer to live in isolation and thus access to their lands is restricted.

The Anthropological Museum covers all you need to know about the tribes such as the Andamanese, Sentinelese, Jarawas, Onge, and more. It has artifacts and tools used by them in their day-to-day lives; it is quite intriguing.

Sift through  over a hundred rare books available at the State Library which isn’t a place normally visited but has tonnes of knowledge to offer.

You can borrow a book and enjoy reading in the Air-conditioned aisles of the library.

Fee: Rs 30 per person, Rs.20 for camera
Timings: 09:30 am to 04.30 pm
Things To Do: Learn about the different tribes of Andaman.
Location: Click Here.
G2A Tips: Zonal Anthropological Museum Andaman remains Closed on Mondays and Public Holidays
Read More: Tribes of Andaman

17. Luxury in Andaman – Vacation in Style

Have you been doing way too much work and need a clear mind to relax with? Say no more. Treat yourself to stays in Symphony Samudra, Big Tree Resort, Wild Grass, and Sea Princess which are all 5-star luxury properties. You’ll be pampered here with almost all the amenities and goodies that will make you and your partner feel like Royals. 

Read More: 25 Best Resorts in Andamans

18. Yoga Session

Inner Peace…Inner peace. Yes, you can even find your inner peace without being disturbed here at Myoho Yoga which offers serene rooftop sessions with qualified instructors. It is one of the most famous places among yoga studios.

Enjoy a refreshing serving of tea and snacks after your session.

Fee: Based on sessions.
Timings: 07:00 am to 06.00 pm except Sundays.
Things To Do: Hatha yoga, Ashtanga yoga.
Location: Click Here.
G2A Tips: We Recommend you book slots earlier as per your time convenience.

More Things To Do In Port Blair (If You Have The Time)

19. Climb Lighthouse in North Bay

You can take a two-island tour including Ross Island and North Bay Island! We’ve already described Ross Island, so we will give you a whiff of North Bay.

Towering over all islands is the Lighthouse on North Bay Island that is featured on the Rs 20 note. This lighthouse has an almost iconic status and rewards anyone brave enough to climb it with a spectacular view of the expanse of sparkling water to the horizon. Shallow waters make coral viewing a sensation here which lights up the place with color.

Experiencing water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and sea walks here makes it one of the famous things to do in Port Blair and a trip to North Bay can consume your day so we advise you to carry a few beverages and snacks.

Fee: Rs 450 per person for ferry.
Timings: 09:00 pm to 04.00 pm 

Things To Do: Sea Walking, Glass Bottom Boat Ride, Snorkeling and Scuba Diving, Parasailing.
Location: Click Here short 15mins boat ride from Port Blair.

G2A Tips: Since it gets crowded during the season, it is advisable to pre-book the water activities.

Read More: North Bay Island

20. Visit the Parks

  1. Gandhi ParkA couple of hours spent here is what you may just need to kick back and relax. Laze around as much as you like. A statue of Gandhi at the center of the park overlooks everything. The lake there has activities like boating and around it lies a nature trail!
  2. Marina ParkMarina Park is a must-visit spot that is becoming one of the tourist attractions in Port Blair. It offers a jogging track for fitness enthusiasts, a water sports complex for adventure seekers, and a Children’s Traffic Park for kids. There is also a Marine Aquarium nearby. Ocean Blue Restaurant is perfect for seaside dining. Visiting Marina Park is one of the most famous things to do in Port Blair for relaxing.
  3. Jogger’s ParkMissed by most people visiting, Jogger’s Park is a peaceful place recommended for honeymooners who want to enjoy the calm and quiet of the island. A magnificent spectacle is when the sun goes down and the darkness creeps into the sky. The illuminated city is something of a wonder at this time and Jogger’s Park is the best seat in the house to see it.

    Fee: Free
    Timings: 08:00 am to 08.00 pm.
    Things To Do: Relaxing. Reading a Book. 
    Location: Gandhi ParkMarina Park, Joggers Park.
    G2A Tips: We Recommend you spend a few hours in such serenity is a good way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
    Read More:  Gandhi Park, Marina Park, Jogger’s Park

 

21. Butterfly Garden

Mount Harriet National Park at Port Blair is home to some of the largest butterflies in the world and offers the richest butterfly diversity you’ll ever see. Words cannot describe the fantasy-like colors on the butterflies. Better experience it yourself! . Along with this, several animals and birds can also be spotted here. 

Fee: Rs.25 per person, Rs.250 for foreigners, Rs.25 for Camera
Timings: 07:00 am to 05.00 pm 

Location: Click Here.

Read More: Flora & Fauna

22. Shopping

  1. Aberdeen Bazaar:
    Located in the bustling city of Port Blair, Aberdeen Bazaar is a shopper’s paradise. It is an active marketplace jam-packed with supply shops for umbrellas, footwear, raincoats, hats, stationery, and other essentials.When you are done negotiating for products to take back home, take a stroll through the market for parathas at local stalls and savories at Lighthouse Restaurant, Hotel J, and Hotel Annapurna to name a few. You can also buy Andaman t-shirts with quotes and heritage prints on them.

    Location: Click Here.

  2. Sagarika Emporium:
    The government of Andaman has taken the initiative and set up an emporium for skilled locals to display their crafts and items and sell them at fixed prices. Spices, souvenirs, handcrafted clothes, and wooden items are incessantly available here.Naturally grown, pesticide-free spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg have been available under the name of “Spices of Andaman” in the market for 30 years. Mirrors, jute items, apparel, and pearls at several stalls are eye-catching.

    Location: Click Here.

    Read More: Shopping in Andamans

23. Photoshoot – Get Clicked

Gone are those days when we said the best moments can’t be captured. 10 Degrees Photography in Port Blair offers a candid photoshoot for you and your loved ones. Find a location you think is best for a photoshoot. These guys have got you covered.

You can even take a photography tour to explore the different birds of Andaman. Find out more here.

24. Museum Hopping

Anthropological Museum, Port Blair
Anthropological Museum, Port Blair

Andaman has a long and intriguing history that mostly goes unnoticed by many tourists. The island has seen itself come under British, Dutch, and even Japanese rule, and this is just 200 years of it! Apart from this, there are also a variety of Tribes that are native to Andaman such as the Jarawas, Onges, Sentinelese, and the Andamanese.

If you’re curious, you can check out the Anthropological Museum which displays many tribal artifacts such as weapons and tools. You can also visit the Zoological Survey Museum which has a range of wildlife of the region displayed. It is quite interesting although not frequently visited and boasts a wide collection of animals and reptiles. It even has a beautiful display of butterflies that resemble a palette of colors.

Read More: Anthropological Museum, Zoological Survey Museum, Samudrika Marine Museum, Forest Museum, Driftwood Museum, Kalapani Museum

25. Dinner Cruise

TSG Bella Bay hosts a beautiful and luxurious Tourist attraction with a dinner cruise that departs every evening from the Junglighat jetty. If you are looking for a fun evening with some live music and a DJ with your loved ones or a special someone, we recommend this; it’s one of the best things to do in Port Blair. 

Imagine this: a cool evening sea breeze andwith great sightssightseeing greets you while you listen to the local Nicobar band play live music, right under the stars.

The buffet dinner costs around 2999 per person and you take away memories of a lifetime.

Location: Click Here

26. Spa Relax

The spas and the massages here prove quite the cure for tension in the body. Couple massages are a wonderful way to relax and de-stress. They hold the power to create a closer bond in your relationship through a shared experience. Let go of all your worries, and enjoy a soothing massage with your loved one at luxurious stays like Aqua Spa, Symphony Samudra, and Sinclairs Bay View.

These aptly encapsulate most of the activities and experiences Port Blair has to offer that cater to all spirits. One thing’s for sure- no one leaves without a smile.

27. Coral Safari

Do you want to witness the colorful seabed without getting wet? Well, then you have to give this glass bottom boat ride a go. The coral safari lets you explore the seabed differently altogether with the with the the feel of a submarine descending to the depths.

This is a unique experience that can be given a go if you have spare time on your hands.

Fee: Starts at Rs 1800/- per person.
Timings: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Things To Do: Exploring a variety of Marine life and Underwater Reefs.
Location: Click Here.
G2A Tips: Not everyone is a water baby and so this activity is an inclusive ride for the rest of us!

28. Spiritual Visits

  1. Sri Vetrimalai Murugan Temple
    The Shri Vetrimalai Murugan Temple was established on Ross Island and completed in 1932. The temple was built at the request of Tamil members of the administrative staff who lived in the then-capital headquarters of the British.
  2. Roman Catholic Church
    The Roman Catholic Church in Phoenix Bay is a beautiful combination of religious and architectural art. Besides being a place of worship, it is famous for its stunning designs that reflect the Victorian era. The church’s intricate and lovely architecture will leave you spellbound as you walk through its passages.
  3. Jama Masjid
    The Jama Masjid of Port Blair is the first mosque built in the Andaman Islands during the pre-independence era. The mosque has a three-dome structure and can accommodate up to 2000 worshipers, as well as providing ample ablution space. It has been regularly updated and repaired, and now also features a separate lounge area for jamats.
  4. Radhakrishna Temple
    The Radhakrishna Temple is located in Shadipur, Port Blair, in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India. Every month, thousands of bhakts (devotees) and pilgrims visit the temple. Radha and Krishna are considered the combination of both the feminine and masculine aspects of God in Hinduism. Krishna is often referred to as Svayam Bhagavan in Vaishnavism.
  5. Brethren Assembly
    This church has been serving the Lord since 1968 when it was founded in January of that year by P.G. Samuel Thomas Phillip Kurien. It is located just 3 km from the Port Blair Airport, which is a major landmark on the Island. Services at the church are conducted in Hindi, English, Tamil, and Malayalam languages.

 

Author
Go2andaman Editorial Team

Hello! We’re a bunch of content enthusiasts writing about all things Andaman. Our blogs are the result of our immersive first-hand travels to the Andamans and the experiences of those we know closely. We keep a close watch on the travel space in the Andamans, so we can always bring to you the most updated information. Hope you enjoyed reading this blog as much as we enjoyed writing it!