Port Blair - The Gateway to the Andaman Islands
Port Blair is the capital of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. It is also the gateway to exploring the Islands of A&N. The city houses several marine national parks and museums to conserve the marines of the Island. Out of all of them, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is the oldest one. Apart from this, the city is home to the famous INS Jarawa which is located at Phoenix Bay in Port Blair.
Moving to the beautiful panoramic Islands in and around the city leaves you mighty impressed and provide you with a joyous experience. Some of the most famous islands are Wandoor Ross Island, Viper Island, and Corbyn’s Cove Island. There are several beaches where Island festivals are organized by the authorities in order to promote tourism in Andaman and Nicobar.
History Of Port Blair
According to the Anthropological Survey of India, originally, the people residing there came to the city from North Africa about 40,000 years ago. According to modern history, Port Blair was formed as a penal colony by the Bengal Government in the year 1789 at Chatham Island which is located in the southeast region of Andaman. The name 'Port Blair' is given to the city after Lieutenant Archibald Blair of East India India Company.
Later, the penal colony was shifted to the northeast area of Andaman and renamed Port Cornwallis to honor Admiral William Cornwallis. But, there were frequent deaths and diseases that gave it a ceasing position. Due to urgent prior requirements, the British Government ordered immediate constructions of prisons for the prisoners, who majorly were Indian Freedom Fighters and political personalities. The prison was named Cellular Jail aka Kala Pani.
Places To Visit In Port Blair
Port Blair is among the famous places in Andaman that you can visit. Here's the list of famous Port Blair sightseeing that you can explore on your trip
1. Cellular Jail
Generally famous as Kala Pani, the Cellular Jail is proof of the gruesome colonial era. The spot is known as one of the most famous places to visit in Port Blair as the place draws attention to Indian freedom. You can also explore the architecture of the building similar to the solitary cells that were used earlier for the outcast and political prisoners.
2. Japanese Bunkers
The Japanese Bunkers were constructed during World War II and can be seen across the city. These bunkers take us to the time when a blockade on Andaman and Nicobar Islands was imposed. Alongside, there are also some other sites to explore in Port Blair like Ross Island or Corbyn Cove beach.
3. Chatham Saw Mill
There are countless places to visit in Port Blair, one of the best ones from them is the Chatham Saw Mill which is one of the most renowned landmarks of these beautiful islands, it was set up during the time of British administration in 1883.
Things to Do in Port Blair
- Scuba diving, snorkeling, and sea walking at North Bay Island and Havelock.
- Explore colonial ruins and wildlife on Ross Island.
- Watch the Light and Sound Show at Cellular Jail.
- Enjoy water sports like jet skiing and banana boat rides at Corbyn’s Cove.
- Take a boat ride to Jolly Buoy Island to see pristine coral reefs.
- Taste fresh seafood and local delicacies like fish curry, coconut prawn curry, and lobsters.
Best Time to Visit Port Blair
The ideal time to visit Port Blair is October to May, with pleasant weather perfect for sightseeing and water activities.
- Winter (Oct–Feb) - Best season, 20°C to 30°C, ideal for beaches and sightseeing.
- Summer (Mar–May) - Warm but manageable, 25°C to 35°C, great for water sports.
- Monsoon (Jun–Sep) - Heavy rains and rough seas, not suitable for travel.
How To Reach Port Blair
Here are the following details on how you can travel to Port Blair by the following means of public transportation.
- Nearest metropolitan city. Bengaluru
- Nearest airbase. Veer Savarkar International Airport
- Nearest railhead. No railway station
- Distance from Bangalore. 1777 Kms
By Air
If planning to travel by air then, deboard at the Port Blair Airport aka Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ). The airport is well-connected with other Indian cities. Several renowned airline services like Vistara, Air India, Indigo, SpiceJet, and GoAir operate to and fro via direct and connecting flights. Tourists can also avail helicopter services within the island for an exotic tour experience.
- Distance from Veer Savarkar International Airport. 5.5 Kms
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Port Blair
By Road
Road connectivity within the region of Andaman and Nicobar union territory is quite convenient. Several buses connect Port Blair to different destinations in Andaman such as Rangat (163km) and Diglipur (296km). The kilometers mentioned are an approximate value.
- Distance from Baratang Island. 100 Kms
By Train
Though the UT Andaman and Nicobar do not have any rail service to provide the travelers, there is a proposed project of Port Blair to Diglipur to be facilitated for the locals as well as visitors within the island's geography.
By Ship
Many passenger ships make their sail to the islands from Chennai, Vizag, and Kolkata. It is important to note that a passenger ship’s voyage may take around 60-70 hours and also that these ships have a limited amount of food and entertainment choices/options. Apart from that, one can also enjoy a ferry (government/private) ride for exploring the place around. To book a ship or a ferry, you will need to visit the official government site.
- Distance from Chennai. 1432 Kms
Conclusion
Port Blair is a beautiful and historically rich city that is the gateway to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Its stunning marine national parks, popular historical sites like the Cellular Jail, and picturesque islands such as Ross Island and Corbyn's Cove offer a memorable experience for all visitors. The best time to visit is from October to May. Whether travelling by air, road, or ship, reaching Port Blair is convenient. For those wondering, "Port Blair in which state?" It is the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a union territory of India.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Port Blair
Q 1. Why is Port Blair famous?
Ans - Port Blair is famous for its historic Cellular Jail and the small islands such as Wandoor, Ross Island, Corbyn’s Cove, and Viper Island.
Q2 . Is Port Blair Safe to visit?
Ans - Port Blair is completely safe to visit. It is one of the most famous tourist destinations in India.
Q3 . Where is port blair?
Ans - Port Blair is the capital city, located in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, in the union territory of India.
Q 4. What is the best time to visit Port Blair?
Ans - The best time to visit Port Blair is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and water activities.
Q 5. How can one reach Port Blair?
Ans - Port Blair is accessible by air and sea. The Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair has regular flights from major Indian cities, and passenger ships operate from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam.
Q 6. What activities can tourists enjoy in Port Blair?
Ans—Tourists can enjoy a variety of activities in Port Blair, including snorkelling and scuba diving, exploring historical sites, visiting museums, and relaxing on beautiful beaches.
