Port Blair is the territorial capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, an archipelago consisting of a group of 572 emerald islands and islets of which only 37 are inhabited. The city is located on the east coast of South Andaman Island and is popularly known for its colonial history, pristine beaches, and rugged coastline.
Things to do in Port Blair
Taking a guided tour of the Cellular Jail tops the list of things to do in Port Blair. You can spend all afternoon unveiling the story of the historic place and the heart-wrenching struggle of the freedom fighters, who were imprisoned here during the British rule. You must also attend the Light and Sound Show in the evening. Nature lovers can head to Chidiya Tapu, a picturesque beach located 17.1 km from Port Blair, famous for sunset viewing and bird watching. Apart from that, there are plenty of adventure activities, such as sea walking, scuba diving, and snorkelling, to indulge in at the islands located nearby.
Tourist attractions in Port Blair
The most famous and visited tourist attractions in and around Port Blair include Samudrika Marine Museum, Gandhi Park, Mount Harriet, Barren Volcano, Munda Pahar Beach, Viper Island, Ross Island, North Bay Island, Corbyn’s Cove Beach, and Chatham Saw Mill.
Places to visit in Port Blair
Aberdeen Bazaar is the main shopping junction in the city. The marketplace has an array of street shops and government emporiums, where you can shop for a variety of colourful fabrics, jewellery, wooden artefacts, and other knick-knacks at extremely reasonable prices. The Sagarika Government Emporium is a great place to purchase beautiful lampshades, tribal masks, handicrafts, pearl jewellery, and home décor items. Lulu Shopping Mall and Oasis Plaza are a popular choice if you are looking for branded goods.
Best time to visit
October to March is the best time to visit Port Blair, as the weather remains pleasant and apt for outdoor ventures during this period.
Modes of transport
Buses and auto-rickshaws are the most common and economical way of travelling around in Port Blair. Rented cars are a good option to travel short distances and explore popular tourist spots. To get to the nearby islands, one has to take a launch boat ride.
Weather in Port Blair
Port Blair enjoys tropical weather throughout the year. Summers (March to May) are warm and humid with temperatures rising to 31 degrees Celsius, while winters (December to February) are mildly cold and soothing with temperatures dropping below 20 degrees Celsius. Although occasional drizzles are common all around the year, the city receives moderate to heavy rainfall in monsoon, between June and September.
Airport in Port Blair
Veer Savarkar International Airport (IATA: IXZ) is the main airport handling all domestic flights from Port Blair to other key locations. To find out more about IndiGo flights operated from this airport, visit goIndiGo.in.