Things to Do in Port Blair: Sights, Beaches and Day Trips

Port Blair, now officially Sri Vijaya Puram, is where almost every Andaman trip begins and ends. Many travellers rush through it, but it has history, easy beaches and sunsets worth a day or two.

Must-see sights

• Cellular Jail. The old colonial prison is the most important historic site in the islands. Visit in the evening to stay for the light and sound show. See our Cellular Jail guide.
• Ross Island and North Bay. A short boat ride takes you to ruined colonial buildings, then to a coral-rich island. Read our Ross Island and North Bay guide.
• Museums. The Anthropological Museum and the Samudrika Naval Maritime Museum explain the islands' people and marine life.
• Chatham Saw Mill. One of Asia's oldest saw mills, a short stop for history fans.

Beaches near the city

• Corbyn's Cove: closest beach to town, good for an evening walk.
• Wandoor: a larger beach and the gateway to the marine national park. Jolly Buoy trips run from here in season.
• Chidiyatapu: a forest drive to a quiet sunset spot and birdlife.
• Collinpur and Khurmadera: quieter beaches for a calmer day.

A sample two-day plan

Day 1: Arrival, Corbyn's Cove, Cellular Jail and the light and sound show. Day 2: Ross Island and North Bay in the morning, museums or shopping in the afternoon.

For a longer stay add Baratang. See the Baratang guide.

Shopping

Aberdeen Bazaar and the government emporium sell shell crafts, wooden items and souvenirs. Avoid buying coral or shells collected from the sea. Our travel rules guide explains why.

Ready-made Port Blair plans

• Port Blair Heritage (3 nights)
• Port Blair Complete (4 nights)
• Offbeat Beaches for quieter shores

If you are heading on to other islands, our itinerary guide shows how Port Blair fits in.

Have an extra day? Try the South Andaman day trips to Chidiyatapu, Wandoor and Mount Harriet.