Port Blair

Port Blair, recently renamed Sri Vijaya Puram, is the historic gateway to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. It is a city that wears its heritage with pride, offering a unique blend of poignant history, emerald-green landscapes, and the burgeoning infrastructure of a modern maritime hub.

The Historic Heart: Chivalry and Courage

• Cellular Jail (Kala Pani): This national memorial remains the most significant site in the islands. The Sound and Light Show has been recently upgraded with state-of-the-art projection mapping, narrating the heroic stories of India’s freedom fighters with hauntingly beautiful visuals.

• Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island): A short boat ride from the city, this was once the “Paris of the East.” Today, it is a picturesque ruin where peacocks and deer wander through the ivy-covered remains of a British ballroom and cathedral.

• Flag Point: This is the spot where the Indian tricolor was first hoisted on Indian soil in 1943. It offers a majestic view of the harbor and stands as a symbol of national pride.

Coastal Wonders and Sunset Views

• Corbyn’s Cove Beach: The city’s nearest beach is lined with towering coconut palms and offer a scenic drive along the coast. It is a popular spot for jet skiing and evening relaxation.

• Chidiya Tapu (Munda Pahar): Known as the “Bird Island,” it is the premier sunset point of Port Blair. The drive through dense tropical forests leads to a beach famous for its uprooted ancient trees and panoramic views of the sea meeting the horizon.

• Mount Harriet (Mount Manipur): The highest point in South Andaman, it offers a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding islands—the very view depicted on the back of the old twenty-rupee note.

The Hub of Island Transit and Luxury

As the primary entry point, the city has seen a rise in sophisticated urban retreats:

• Welcomhotel by ITC (Bay Island): Built on a hill overlooking the sea, this architectural marvel uses local timber and stone to create a luxury experience that feels entirely organic to the islands.

• Symphony Samudra Beachside Jungle Resort: Located near Chidiya Tapu, this resort offers an infinity pool that merges with the ocean, providing a “jungle-luxury” vibe within the capital.

• Taj and SeaShell Properties: These remain the elite choices for travelers seeking world-class service before they head out to the outer islands like Havelock and Neil.

Gateway to Underwater Treasures

• North Bay Island: Famous for its iconic lighthouse, it is the best spot near the city for Sea Walking and glass-bottom boat rides, offering a glimpse into the vibrant coral life.

• Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (Wandoor): A gateway to the stunning Jolly Buoy and Red Skin Islands, this protected area offers some of the most pristine coral reefs and clear waters in the entire archipelago.