The roots of this beautiful city with an enthralling atmosphere and peaceful vibe lie in a dark colonial past. In the 1800s, due to their dire need to house an increasing number of Indian prisoners, the British colonised Port Blair and began building the Cellular Jail. In 1857, after the Great Sepoy Mutiny was suppressed, most of the prisoners were sent to this island paradise to live out their lives in confinement.
With IndiGo’s Coimbatore to Port Blair flights, you are brought one step closer to connect with the colonial past, along with the opportunity to avail unbelievable flight booking offers.
Things to do in Port Blair
Port Blair, being the administrative capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is always bustling with activities. From visiting the alluring markets of Aberdeen Bazaar to witnessing the serene sunsets of Munda Pahar Beach to bird watching at Chidiya Tapu, there are a lot of things to do. And, if all that doesn’t appeal to you, then one could indulge in gazing at the ominous beauty of the constant mild eruptions of the active volcano at Barren islands.
Popular tourist attractions of Port Blair
There are ample places to visit. You could watch the light and sound show at Cellular Jail that will tell you an interesting story, you could go scuba diving at the coral reefs of North Bay Island, or visit the WWII era Japanese war bunkers. But, if it’s peace and tranquillity that you desire, then be sure to visit Gandhi Park and Mount Harriet.
Places to shop at Port Blair
Port Blair is not only an almost utopian island city but it is also a popular shopping destination for handicrafts and shell work. At the Sagarika Emporium and Aberdeen Bazaar, one can buy exquisite woodwork paintings and beautiful hand-woven fabrics with a hint of the native tribal culture. One can also relish mouthwatering local food.
Best time to visit Port Blair
The summer months are the ideal time for tourist activities and water sports while the winter season is best suited for witnessing cultural activities of the region. Specifically, the Dweep Mahotsav or Island Tourism Festival takes place during the winter season and is worth a visit.
Modes of transport
Taxis, auto-rickshaws and ferry service are the most common modes of transportation in Port Blair. Auto-rickshaws, although cheap, aren’t very comfortable there. However, to travel between islands, the ferry service remains a good option.
Weather at Port Blair
Port Blair is one of the few cities of India which offers perennial tourism mainly due to its soothing subtropical climate that generally remains constant throughout the year. Monsoon spells occur almost year-round in light and heavy showers across the city.
Airport at Port Blair
The Veer Savarkar International Airport (IATA: IXZ) is the only public terminal airport in Port Blair. It is strategically located, which is why a part of it that is inaccessible to the public is controlled by the Indian Navy. IndiGo operates over 20 weekly flights to and from Port Blair airport.
