Port Blair, officially known as Sri Vijaya Puram, is the capital and main gateway to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is the primary arrival point for most travellers and combines history, beaches, museums, island excursions and access to destinations such as Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep.
Port Blair is now officially known as Sri Vijaya Puram. It is the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and serves as the main gateway for travellers arriving in the islands.
The city is different from the resort-style experience of Swaraj Dweep or Shaheed Dweep. Sri Vijaya Puram is where history, local culture, museums, beaches, transportation and island connections come together.
For many travellers, Port Blair is the first and last stop of an Andaman holiday, while others use it as a base for exploring nearby attractions and islands.
About Port Blair / Sri Vijaya Puram
Sri Vijaya Puram is located on the eastern coast of South Andaman Island and functions as the administrative and cultural centre of the territory.
According to the Andaman & Nicobar Tourism Department, the city combines history, heritage, marine experiences, beaches and adventure activities.
The city's most important historical landmark is Cellular Jail, while nearby attractions include Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep, North Bay, Corbyn's Cove, Chidiyatapu and Wandoor.
How to Reach Port Blair
The easiest way for most travellers to reach Sri Vijaya Puram is by air.
Veer Savarkar International Airport is located close to the city and receives flights from several major Indian cities, either directly or through connecting services.
Passenger ship services also connect Sri Vijaya Puram with mainland ports including Chennai, Kolkata and Visakhapatnam. Sea travel takes considerably longer than flying and schedules depend on the service and sea conditions.
| Travel Option | Main Information | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Flight | Veer Savarkar International Airport serves Sri Vijaya Puram. | Most tourists and short holidays |
| Passenger Ship | Services connect the islands with mainland ports. | Travellers interested in sea travel |
Cellular Jail
Cellular Jail is one of the most important historical landmarks in Sri Vijaya Puram and a national memorial connected with India's freedom struggle.
The historic prison complex was used by the British colonial administration to imprison political prisoners and freedom fighters.
Visitors can explore the historic complex and learn about the lives and sacrifices of freedom fighters.
Cellular Jail Sound & Light Show
The Sound & Light Show presents the history of Cellular Jail and the freedom struggle through a multimedia performance.
Show schedules and ticket availability can change, so travellers should check the official tourism booking portal before planning their visit.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep
Formerly known as Ross Island, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep is a popular island excursion from Sri Vijaya Puram.
The island is known for the remains of the former British settlement, historic structures and its connection with the colonial history of the Andaman Islands.
A boat trip to the island can be combined with North Bay depending on the available excursion schedule.
North Bay Island
North Bay is known for coral viewing and marine activities.
Depending on current operating conditions and permitted services, visitors may experience glass-bottom boat rides, snorkeling or scuba diving.
Water activities are weather and sea-condition dependent, so availability should always be confirmed before planning your day around them.
Corbyn's Cove Beach
Corbyn's Cove is one of the easily accessible beaches near Sri Vijaya Puram and is commonly included in city sightseeing itineraries.
It can be a convenient place to relax by the sea, especially when travellers have limited time in the city.
The official tourism itinerary also includes Corbyn's Cove as part of Sri Vijaya Puram city tours.
Museums in Port Blair
Sri Vijaya Puram has several museums that provide insight into the marine environment, local culture, natural history and the region's heritage.
- Samudrika Naval Marine Museum
- Anthropological Museum
- Forest Museum
- Science Centre
- Fisheries Museum
Museums can be especially useful for travellers who want to understand the islands beyond their beaches and water activities.
Chidiyatapu
Chidiyatapu is a popular nature and sunset destination located south of Sri Vijaya Puram.
The area is associated with bird watching, sunset viewing, coastal scenery and nature experiences.
Travellers with enough time can include Chidiyatapu as a half-day or full-day excursion depending on their itinerary.
Wandoor Beach
Wandoor is another important coastal destination around Sri Vijaya Puram.
It is known for its natural surroundings and is also a gateway for excursions towards the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.
Access to marine park islands and water activities depends on current permissions, weather and operating conditions.
Things to Do in Port Blair
A good Sri Vijaya Puram itinerary can combine history, sightseeing, beaches and nearby island excursions.
- Visit Cellular Jail.
- Watch the Cellular Jail Sound & Light Show.
- Explore Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep.
- Visit North Bay Island.
- Relax at Corbyn's Cove Beach.
- Visit Samudrika Naval Marine Museum.
- Explore the Anthropological Museum.
- Visit the Science Centre.
- Explore Chidiyatapu.
- Visit Wandoor.
- Shop for local products and souvenirs.
How Many Days Are Enough for Port Blair?
Most travellers can cover the major Sri Vijaya Puram attractions in 1 to 2 days.
If your itinerary includes Chidiyatapu, Wandoor, North Bay or other excursions, allowing additional time can make the trip more comfortable.
| Stay | Suitable For | Suggested Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Night | Short itinerary | Cellular Jail + city sightseeing |
| 2 Nights | First-time visitors | City + Cellular Jail + nearby island |
| 3 Nights | Relaxed travellers | City + islands + Chidiyatapu/Wandoor |
Suggested 2-Day Port Blair Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival and City Sightseeing
Arrive at Sri Vijaya Puram, check in to your hotel and take some time to settle down.
Depending on your arrival time, visit Corbyn's Cove Beach and explore selected museums or city attractions.
In the evening, visit Cellular Jail and attend the Sound & Light Show if the schedule matches your travel date.
Day 2 – Ross Island and North Bay
Start the day with a boat excursion towards Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep.
Continue towards North Bay for coral viewing or permitted marine activities, depending on the day's operating conditions.
Return to Sri Vijaya Puram by afternoon or evening. If your schedule permits, you can use the remaining time for local sightseeing or shopping.
Port Blair for Families
Sri Vijaya Puram is a practical starting point for family holidays because it combines sightseeing, history, beaches and access to nearby islands.
Families should keep sufficient buffer time between airport, hotel, sightseeing and ferry transfers.
Children should remain under adult supervision around beaches, boats and water-based activities.
Port Blair for Honeymoon Couples
Port Blair is generally used as the arrival and departure point of a honeymoon rather than the main beach-resort destination.
Couples can combine a short stay in Sri Vijaya Puram with longer stays in Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep for beaches, resorts and island experiences.
Best Time to Visit Port Blair
Sri Vijaya Puram can be visited throughout the year, but the broader October to May period is generally preferred for conventional Andaman travel.
Outdoor sightseeing, ferry travel and water activities can be affected by rainfall, wind and sea conditions. Travellers should therefore check current forecasts and local operating advisories before travelling.
Port Blair Travel Tips
- Keep your first day flexible if arriving by flight.
- Keep sufficient buffer before ferry departures.
- Book Cellular Jail Sound & Light Show tickets in advance when possible.
- Confirm boat excursion timings before visiting nearby islands.
- Carry sun protection and comfortable footwear.
- Keep some flexibility for weather-dependent activities.
- Follow local instructions at beaches and marine activity locations.
- Avoid leaving plastic or other waste at tourist attractions.
Important Things to Know Before Visiting
Port Blair is the main transportation hub for Andaman island travel, so ferry schedules can have a major effect on your overall itinerary.
If you are travelling onwards to Swaraj Dweep or Shaheed Dweep, keep adequate time between your arrival flight and ferry departure.
Boat trips and water activities can be affected by weather and sea conditions. Never assume that a particular excursion will operate regardless of conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Port Blair now called Sri Vijaya Puram?
Yes. The city formerly known as Port Blair is now officially known as Sri Vijaya Puram.
How do I reach Port Blair?
Most travellers reach Sri Vijaya Puram by flight through Veer Savarkar International Airport. Passenger ships also connect the islands with mainland ports.
How many days are enough for Port Blair?
One to two days are usually sufficient for the main city attractions, while three days allow more time for nearby excursions.
What are the best places to visit in Port Blair?
Cellular Jail, Corbyn's Cove, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep, North Bay, Chidiyatapu, Wandoor and the city's museums are among the main places to consider.
Is Cellular Jail worth visiting?
Yes. Cellular Jail is one of the most important historical landmarks in the Andaman Islands and a national memorial connected with India's freedom struggle.
Can I visit Ross Island and North Bay in one day?
Yes. Boat excursions commonly combine Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep and North Bay, subject to the operating schedule and sea conditions on the day.
Is Port Blair good for a honeymoon?
Port Blair is useful as the arrival and departure base for a honeymoon. Couples usually combine it with longer stays in Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep for a more beach-focused experience.
This guide has been prepared using official Andaman & Nicobar Tourism information about Sri Vijaya Puram, its attractions, transport connections and suggested sightseeing experiences. Attraction timings, ferry schedules, boat services, ticket prices and activity availability can change. Always confirm current information before travelling.
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