Top Activities to Do in Port Blair

Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is your gateway to paradise. This vibrant city blends history, culture, and natural beauty in a way few Indian cities can match. Whether you're spending one day here before island-hopping or dedicating 2–3 days to exploring, Port Blair has plenty to keep you busy.

1. Cellular Jail National Memorial

Step into history at the infamous Cellular Jail, once known as Kala Pani. This colonial prison housed Indian freedom fighters sent here by the British to suffer solitary confinement far from the mainland. Now a national monument, it's one of the most emotionally powerful places you'll visit in India.

What to Expect

Historical exhibits and artefacts
Seven-wing prison architecture
Sound and Light Show (evenings)
Gallery of freedom fighters' stories

Practical Info

Entry fee: ₹30 for adults
Timing: 9 AM – 5 PM (Tue–Sun)
Light Show: 6 PM (Hindi) & 7:15 PM (English)
Plan 2–3 hours minimum

💡 Pro Tip

Book the Sound and Light Show tickets in advance during peak season (Dec–Feb) — they sell out. The English show at 7:15 PM is better for first-time visitors for full comprehension.

2. Corbyn's Cove Beach

Just 8 km from the city centre, this coconut palm-fringed beach is Port Blair's most popular spot for relaxation and water sports. The gentle waves and clean sand make it ideal for families and couples.

Activities Available

🏄 Jet Skiing

🏊 Swimming

🚤 Speed Boating

🏐 Beach Volleyball

🚴 ATV Rides

🌅 Sunset Views

3. Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island)

Once the administrative headquarters of the British in the Andamans, Ross Island is now a fascinating ruin reclaimed by nature. Deer roam freely among crumbling colonial buildings draped in thick roots and foliage. A 15-minute boat ride from Aberdeen Jetty takes you there.

⏰ Timings & Entry

• Open: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• Entry: ₹150 for Indian nationals
• Boat: Aberdeen Jetty (₹200–300 return)

📸 Don't Miss

• Church ruins, old bakery, tennis court
• Deer and peacocks roaming freely
• Museum with old photographs

4. North Bay Island — Coral World

Located just 15 minutes from Ross Island by boat, North Bay is famous for its rich coral ecosystem and water sports. It's one of the best places in Andaman for snorkeling and sea walking for travellers who don't want to go all the way to Havelock.

🤿

Snorkeling

₹1,200–1,500

🪸

Sea Walking

₹3,000–3,500

🔭

Glass Bottom Boat

₹500–700

5. Samudrika Marine Museum

Run by the Indian Navy, this museum is an excellent introduction to the Andaman Sea's rich marine life and ecology. It's a great first stop before heading underwater — you'll recognise what you see while snorkelling. Entry is ₹50 and the museum takes about 45 minutes to explore.

6. Aberdeen Bazaar — Food & Souvenirs

The heart of Port Blair's commercial activity, Aberdeen Bazaar is where you go for evening food, souvenirs and local life. Try the fresh seafood at roadside stalls, pick up sea-shell jewellery, and explore the weekly market.

🍽️ Food Recommendations

Must Try

• Fresh fish curry and rice (₹120–200)
• Grilled prawns at beach stalls
• Coconut water straight from the shell
• South Indian tiffin at morning dhabas

What to Buy

• Pearl and sea-shell jewellery
• Andaman spices and coconut products
• Tribal-inspired handicrafts
• Dried fish and pickles

Getting Around Port Blair

🛺 Transport Options

Auto-rickshaws (most convenient)
Local buses (budget-friendly)
Taxi rentals (comfortable for families)
Scooter/bike rentals (most flexible)

💰 Approximate Costs

Auto-rickshaw: ₹10–15 per km
Taxi full day: ₹2,500–3,500
Scooter rental: ₹400–600/day
Local bus: ₹5–20 per trip

Top Activities to Do in Port Blair: Complete City Guide