Port Blair – The Gem in the Sea
Port Blair is the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a group of more than 550 picturesque islands, big and small, inhabited and uninhabited, lying in the Bay of Bengal. Located in the South Andaman, Port Blair is the most inhabited part of this island cluster in the Indian Ocean.
Port Blair was established as a centre of detention during the British rule in India. Political prisoners and Indian freedom fighters were sent to Andaman.
Port Blair serves as an important base for the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard. Port Blair today is a much sought after destination, mostly on account of tourism. Port Blair, the administrative capital of the islands, is also home to the majority of the population that comprises of many tribes and several who have come from the mainland.
In Port Blair, the most important attraction is the Cellular Jail. In this prison several Indian freedom fighters were locked up. Some of the big names include Veer Savarkar, Bhai Parmanand and Batukeshwar Dutt, among others. A light and sound show showcasing the life of the prisoners is conducted every evening.
Not to be missed is the Chatham Saw Mill, the largest and oldest saw mill in Asia. Located on the Chatham Island, the Chatham Saw Mill was established in 1883 and has operating ever since using the original machinery and technology of wood processing. The mill has a system of transporting logs and wood across rails, powered by a diesel locomotive and having a unique navigation system. The adjoining forest department museum showcases exquisite pieces of wood work. The mill was bombed by the Invading Japanese forces in 1942 and the attack is evident with the bomb pits in the grounds of the mills.
The Science Centre provides knowledge on the science behind the functioning of Oceans and the growth of Corals.
The other islands like Cove Island, Ross Island, Neil Island and Viper Island can be accessed from Port Blair by ferries.
Corbyn’s Cove is the main beach in Port Blair and is most suitable for snorkelling, boating and swimming.
Although the tidal waves of the 2004 Tsunami ravaged the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Port Blair was untouched, and hence, operated as the base for the relief processes.
Port Blair is connected by air and water. Most budget airlines run services from the major Indian cities, especially from Kolkata and Chennai to the Veer Savarkar Airport. It is also possible to go by ship which is the more time consuming way of reaching Port Blair.
The best time to visit Port Blair is during the winter months. Summers can be hot and humid and during the monsoons expect heavy rains.
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