Port Blair Andaman – Must-Visit Places & Local Experiences
Port Blair Andaman is more than just a capital city — it’s the soul of the islands, blending colonial history, marine life, and island hospitality into one unforgettable experience.
From the haunting stories of Cellular Jail to the colorful coral reefs at North Bay, Port Blair sets the tone for your entire Andaman journey. It’s where the past meets the sea, where you’ll find bustling markets, charming museums, scenic beaches, and easy access to nearby islands like Ross Island and Havelock.
Whether you’re here for a short stopover or a longer cultural stay, Port Blair Andaman offers the perfect mix of convenience and discovery.
🌊 Start your Andaman adventure where history, nature, and the ocean meet — in Port Blair.
How to Reach Port Blair Andaman
Port Blair, the capital of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, is the main gateway to the archipelago and is well-connected to mainland India by air and sea.
By Air – The Fastest & Easiest Option
The Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) in Port Blair is the only commercial airport in the Andaman Islands.
- Direct flights operate daily from Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Mumbai
- Flight time ranges from 2 to 5 hours, depending on the city
- Airlines like IndiGo, Vistara, Akasa, Air India offer regular connections
💡 Tip: Morning flights are more reliable, especially during monsoons.
🛳️ By Sea – For the Scenic Adventure
You can also reach Port Blair by passenger ships from:
- Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam
- The sea journey takes 60 to 70 hours (3 to 4 days), depending on weather and route
- Ships are operated by the Shipping Corporation of India and offer basic accommodation
- Not recommended during monsoon or for those with tight schedules
📍 Whether you fly or sail, Port Blair Andaman is where your island adventure officially begins — and we help make your arrival smooth and stress-free.
Best Time to Visit Port Blair
The best time to visit Port Blair is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant, ferry services run smoothly, and all major attractions are open.
☀️ Peak Season: November to March
- Clear skies, calm seas, and ideal temperatures (around 24–30°C)
- Perfect for sightseeing, island hopping, and water activities in North Bay & Ross Island
🌤️ Shoulder Season: April to May
- Hotter days but fewer crowds
- Great for snorkeling, swimming, and early morning sightseeing
🌧️ Monsoon Season: June to September
- Frequent rains and rough seas
- Some islands and water sports (like Jolly Buoy) may close temporarily
- Not ideal for first-time visitors, but budget travelers may find lower rates
💡 Tip: For the best experience of Port Blair attractions and smooth ferry connections, plan your trip between November and early April.
Local Travel Tips & Essentials for Port Blair
To make your Port Blair Andaman experience smooth and enjoyable, here are some quick tips and practical travel essentials to keep in mind.
🚖 Local Transport
- Taxis, autos, and self-drive scooters are easily available
- App-based cabs are limited, so pre-booking local transport is a smart move
- Ferries to other islands depart from Phoenix Bay Jetty or Haddo Wharf
📶 Mobile Network & Internet
- BSNL and Airtel offer the best coverage in Port Blair
- Expect slow or no connectivity outside urban zones
Wi-Fi is available at many hotels and cafés, but speeds may vary
💳 Currency & Payments
- INR (Indian Rupee) is the official currency
- Most shops accept UPI and cards in Port Blair
- Carry cash when heading to smaller islands or local markets
🧴 What to Pack
- Lightweight cotton clothes, slippers, and swimwear
- Eco-friendly sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent
- Waterproof bag for gadgets if you’re doing water sports
🪪 ID & Permits
- Keep Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter ID handy for hotel check-ins and ferry travel
- Foreign nationals need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) — issued on arrival at the airport
🧭 Pro Tip: Always leave some buffer time for ferries and flights. Weather can be unpredictable in the Andamans.
Top Things to Do in Port Blair Andaman
📞Start Your Andaman Story in Port Blair
Where is Port Blair located?
Port Blair is the capital city of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, located in the Bay of Bengal. It serves as the main entry point to the islands.
Is Port Blair worth visiting?
Yes! Port Blair offers a unique mix of history, beaches, museums, and access to nearby islands like Ross Island and North Bay.
How do I reach Port Blair from mainland India?
You can fly directly to Veer Savarkar International Airport from major Indian cities or take a passenger ship from Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam.
What are the top attractions in Port Blair?
Must-visits include Cellular Jail, Corbyn’s Cove, Ross Island, North Bay, Samudrika Museum, and Aberdeen Bazaar.
Is a permit required to visit Port Blair?
Indian citizens do not need a permit. Foreign tourists must get a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), usually available on arrival.
How many days should I spend in Port Blair?
Spend 1 to 2 days to cover the key sights before heading to other islands like Havelock or Neil.
Are there good beaches in Port Blair?
Yes! Corbyn’s Cove Beach is the most popular. You can also access nearby beach destinations via short ferries.
Can I go scuba diving in Port Blair?
Scuba diving and sea walking are available at North Bay Island, just a ferry ride away from Port Blair.
Is Port Blair safe for solo and family travelers?
Absolutely. It’s clean, safe, and welcoming for all types of travelers, including families, couples, and solo explorers.
10. What islands can I visit from Port Blair?
You can easily reach Havelock, Neil, Baratang, Jolly Buoy, North Bay, and Ross Island from Port Blair via ferries.