Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is not an island itself but is located on South Andaman Island, the largest island in the Andaman group. As the administrative hub and the entry point for tourists visiting the archipelago, Port Blair offers a variety of attractions and activities. Here are some key details and highlights about Port Blair and its surroundings:

Key Attractions

1. Cellular Jail National Memorial: Also known as Kala Pani, this historical prison was used by the British to exile political prisoners. The light and sound show in the evening narrates the story of India's struggle for independence.
2. Ross Island: A short ferry ride from Port Blair, this island was once the administrative headquarters for the British. It features ruins of colonial buildings and a small museum.
3. North Bay Island: Famous for its lighthouse (depicted on the Indian 20-rupee note) and water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and sea walking.
4. Corbyn's Cove Beach: Located about 8 km from the city center, this beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
5. Chidiya Tapu: Also known as Bird Island, it is a great spot for birdwatching and sunset views, located about 25 km from Port Blair.
6. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park: Located in Wandoor, about 29 km from Port Blair, it is known for its coral reefs and marine life. Activities include snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides, and diving.
7. Anthropological Museum: Offers insights into the life, culture, and history of the indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
8. Samudrika Marine Museum: Managed by the Indian Navy, this museum showcases the marine biodiversity of the islands and provides historical and geographical information.

Activities

• Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Several operators offer diving and snorkeling trips to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
• Water Sports: Jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides are available at various beaches.
• Trekking: Nature trails and trekking routes are available, especially around Chidiya Tapu and Mount Harriet National Park.
• Bird Watching: Chidiya Tapu is particularly popular among bird watchers.

Local Transportation

• Taxis and Auto-rickshaws: Widely available for getting around the city and nearby attractions.
• Public Buses: Connect various parts of the city and some nearby areas.
• Ferries: Regular ferry services connect Port Blair with nearby islands like Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), Neil (Shaheed Dweep), Ross Island, and North Bay.

Accommodation

Port Blair offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses and homestays, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Port Blair is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing and water activities.

How to Reach

• By Air: Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair is well-connected with major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai.
• By Sea: Passenger ships operate from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam to Port Blair, though the journey takes about 3-4 days.

Conservation Efforts

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are ecologically sensitive areas with rich biodiversity. Visitors are encouraged to follow eco-friendly practices to help preserve the natural environment, including avoiding plastic, respecting wildlife, and following guidelines for responsible tourism.

Port Blair serves as a gateway to exploring the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it a compelling destination for travelers.