4 Historical Places To Visit In Port Blair
While in Port Blair, set out on a journey to explore the heritage and architecture by visiting these places of the city. All of these places have deeply rooted history latched to themselves which is exactly what makes it interesting for travelers. The sense of a privileged old-world charm is prevalent and clearly visible.
- Cellular Jail: The Prison-Turned-Museum
- Japanese Bunkers: Reminiscent Of The World War II
- Chatham Saw Mill: The Rustic Beauty Of The Pre-Independence Days
- Murugan Temple: A Religious Excursion
1. Cellular Jail: The Prison-Turned-Museum
Popularly known as Kalapani, the Cellular Jail of all Port Blair tourist places has served as a testimony to the gruesome colonial era. This national memorial draws attention to the Indian freedom struggle and is amongst the most famous places to visit in Port Blair, primarily because of the history associated with this place. The overall architecture of the building stands in contrast to the solitary cells that were once used to exile and execute political prisoners.
Timings for Cellular Jail and Jail museum: 09:00 – 12:00 and 13:00 – 16:15 (Closed on Mondays and Public Holidays)
Entry Fee: INR 30 (adults)
Don’t miss: The light and sound show, narrated by the Peepal tree which stood tall and witnessed the atrocities committed by the colonizers. The voice behind the Peepal tree is that of actor Om Puri.
Timings: There are two shows every day at 18:00 and 19:15 in Hindi except for on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday when the second show is in English.
2. Japanese Bunkers: Reminiscent Of The World War II
These relics of the bygone era were built during World War II and can be easily spotted across Port Blair tourist places. The Japanese Bunkers attest to the time when a siege on Andaman and Nicobar Islands was attempted. They are among the major places to see in Port Blair and are situated on the way to Ross Island and Corbyn Cove beach. So, make sure to add this intriguing place in your Port Blair sightseeing list!
3. Chatham Saw Mill: The Rustic Beauty Of The Pre-Independence Days
There are umpteen places to see in Port Blair apart from the picturesque and serene beaches. Chatham Saw Mill is one such place to discover in these cluster islands. The mill was set up under the British administration in 1883 and is a well-known wood processor in Asia. Amidst the popular tourist places in Port Blair, the mill is quite an attraction for the young ones.
Things to do: Search for the Japanese bomb crater left during World War II
Timings: 9:00 – 16:00 (Monday – Friday) | 9:00 – 14:30 (Saturdays)
Entry Fee: INR 20
Don’t forget: Take home beautiful woodwork from the souvenir shop.
4. Murugan Temple: A Religious Excursion
Centrally located in Port Blair, Murugan Temple is the biggest pilgrim site of the Andaman islands. Dedicated to Lord Murugan – the son of Lord Shiva, the temple is known for its amazing Dravidian architecture. Plan your visit to the temple during festival time so that you can witness the grand occasion. Also, don’t forget to try the mouthwatering vegetarian or the non-vegetarian platter around the temple complex. They serve authentic food from different cultures that are definitely worth a try.
Timings: 5 AM – 12 PM and 4 PM – 9 PM
