Port Blair Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Written by Finn Weber, Karen Price, Rahul Sharma
11/08/2025
Captivating sunset view over Port Blair harbor with a docked ship casting a serene reflection on the water.
Nabil Naidu, Pexels

Port Blair serves as a compelling entry point to the Andaman Islands, seamlessly blending significant historical sites with vibrant marine ecosystems and opportunities for relaxation on its coastal stretches.

For socializing, Corbyn's Cove Beach offers a lively environment with various dining and refreshment options. Aberdeen Bazaar functions as a central hub for commercial activity and local interaction. Additionally, some rooftop venues provide a more laid-back atmosphere for evening gatherings.

Top 6 Things to do in Port Blair Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Port Blair offers a diverse range of activities, from exploring poignant historical sites and understanding local cultures to engaging in thrilling water sports and witnessing vibrant marine life.

1. Cellular Jail National Memorial

Visitors can delve into India's struggle for independence at this former colonial prison, also known as 'Kala Pani'. The jail's architecture, with its solitary confinement cells, tells a powerful story. A must-attend 'Light and Sound Show' in the evening vividly narrates the hardships and sacrifices of freedom fighters. The museum within the premises further showcases artifacts from this significant period.

Cost: Entry fee for Indians: INR 30. Entry fee for Foreigners: INR 100. Light & Sound Show ticket: INR 300 per person. Camera fees: Still Camera INR 200, Video Camera INR 1000.

Transport: The Cellular Jail is easily accessible from most parts of Port Blair. It is approximately 3 km from the airport and 7.8 km from the city center. Visitors can reach it by local bus, auto-rickshaw, or taxi. A taxi from the city center may cost around INR 150-300 one way.

2. Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island)

Once the administrative headquarters of the British in the Andaman Islands, Ross Island now stands as a captivating ruin showcasing remnants of colonial architecture. Exploring the old church, bakery, chief commissioner's house, and Japanese bunkers offers a glimpse into its past. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and peacocks, roaming freely. A Light and Sound Show here further enriches the historical experience.

Cost: Entry fee is free for visitors. Ferry ticket: Approximately INR 370 - INR 470 per person for a round trip from Port Blair. Electric golf carts are available on the island for exploring at around INR 80 per head for sharing.

Transport: Ross Island is a short 15-minute boat ride from Aberdeen Jetty (inside the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex) in Port Blair. Ferries operate frequently from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM. Visitors can reach the jetty by auto-rickshaw (approx. INR 60-100) or taxi (approx. INR 150-300) from most areas of Port Blair.

3. Corbyn's Cove Beach

This picturesque beach, lined with coconut palms, is known for its clear blue waters and soft sand, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and water sports. Visitors can enjoy activities like jet skiing, parasailing, sea karting, and speed boat rides. It is also a popular place to witness stunning sunsets. Changing rooms, lockers, and food stalls are available.

Cost: There is no entry fee for the beach. Water sports prices vary: Jet Ski, Parasailing, Sea Kart, and Speed Boat Ride typically cost between INR 500 - INR 3500 depending on the activity and duration. A speed boat ride to nearby Snake Island and back typically takes 10-15 minutes. Self-driving is not applicable for most water sports; operators and instructors provide guided experiences.

Transport: Located approximately 7-8 km from Port Blair city. A taxi or private cab may cost around INR 800 for a round trip. Local buses are available for around INR 30 per person, taking 30-45 minutes. Auto-rickshaws and rented two-wheelers are also convenient options.

4. North Bay Island & Underwater Activities

North Bay Island is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, visible through its crystal-clear waters. It is a premier destination for underwater activities such as scuba diving, snorkelling, and sea walking. Glass-bottom boat rides offer an alternative for those who prefer to stay dry while observing the underwater world.

Cost: A combined ferry ticket for Ross Island and North Bay Island is approximately INR 870. Scuba diving packages for beginners typically range from INR 3400 to INR 6500, often including basic training, equipment, and underwater photos/videos. Guided snorkelling costs around INR 1000-2500. Glass-bottom boat rides range from INR 800 to INR 1500 depending on duration. Visitors can self-snorkel by renting gear for about INR 1000 if not opting for a guided tour.

Transport: North Bay Island is typically reached by a ferry from Aberdeen Jetty (Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex) in Port Blair, often as part of a combined trip with Ross Island. The ferry ride to North Bay from Ross Island takes approximately 40 minutes.

5. Samudrika Naval Marine Museum

Managed by the Indian Navy, this museum offers an insightful journey into the diverse marine life, ecology, and tribal communities of the Andaman Islands. It features an extensive collection of corals, shells, and preserved marine specimens, as well as exhibits on the island's geography, history, and the indigenous tribes. A highlight is the skeleton of a blue whale displayed outdoors.

Cost: Entry fee: INR 50 for adults, INR 25 for children. Camera charges: Still Camera INR 25, Video Camera INR 50.

Transport: Located in Haddo, approximately 2 km from Aberdeen Bazaar in Port Blair. It is easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi. Local buses also operate in the area, or it can be reached by a short walk from nearby accommodations.

6. Zonal Anthropological Museum

This museum provides a detailed look into the lives, cultures, and traditions of the indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Its exhibits include artifacts like tools, weapons, and handicrafts used by the Onges, Jarawas, Sentinelese, and other communities, offering a unique cultural and historical perspective on these isolated groups.

Cost: Entry fee for Indians: INR 10. Entry fee for Foreigners: INR 50. Camera charges: Still Camera INR 20, Video Camera INR 50.

Transport: Situated at Middle Point in Port Blair, roughly 7.4 km from the city center. It can be reached by local transport like auto-rickshaws, taxis, or buses. The museum is well-connected within Port Blair.

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