Port Blair, the serene capital of the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, is a gateway to pristine beaches, tropical forests, and rich cultural heritage. Azure skies and cerulean waters set the stage for a paradise that appeals to solo travelers, families, honeymooners, and international tourists alike. As one travel guide notes, the Andaman Islands “often top charts of best places” and are “a perfect place for honeymooners, families, bachelors and (solo travelers)”.

Planning Your Port Blair Visit

Port Blair is accessible via regular flights from major Indian cities like Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Delhi. Travel permits (like the Restricted Area Permit) are usually arranged on arrival, simplifying entry for foreign Andaman tourists. The peak tourist season is November to April, when the weather is sunny and dry; monsoons (May–September) can bring heavy rain and rough seas. Always confirm current travel and ferry schedules before departure, as services may vary by season.

Top Tourist Attractions in Port Blair

Cellular Jail (Kala Pani)

The iconic Cellular Jail is Port Blair’s most famous historical site. Once a colonial prison for Indian freedom fighters, it stands today as a national memorial to the independence struggle. Visitors can tour the restored cells and witness the moving light-and-sound show each evening, which narrates the sacrifices of the freedom fighters.

Corbyn’s Cove Beach

A 20-minute drive from town, Corbyn’s Cove is Port Blair’s nearest beach. With its gentle curve of palm-lined sand, it’s popular for swimming and sunset strolls. Beach shacks serve coconut water and local snacks, so it’s easy to relax here for an afternoon. (Note: water sports rentals are also available at Corbyn’s if you want more activity.)

Ross Island & North Bay Island

A short boat ride from Port Blair, Ross Island was once the British colonial headquarters. Today its ruined church and bungalows are overgrown with trees and deer, giving it an eerie, jungle-like charm. Nearby North Bay Island is famous for snorkeling and glass-bottom boat trips around colorful coral reefs. According to the official tourism guide, a typical island tour includes a visit to Ross Island, then North Bay Island, and lastly Viper Island (home to old British ruins).

Chidiya Tapu (Sunset Point)

About 25 km south of Port Blair, Chidiya Tapu (“Bird Island”) is beloved for its lush forest and unspoiled beaches. It is an excellent spot for birdwatching, and it boasts one of the archipelago’s most spectacular sunset viewpoints. Many tour packages include Chidiya Tapu for an evening stop to watch the sky turn pink over the water.

Anthropological Museum

The Anthropological Museum in Port Blair offers insight into the lives of the local indigenous tribes. Exhibits feature tribal artifacts, traditional huts, and information about the Jarawa, Onge, Sentinelese, and other island communities. It’s a short walk from the city center and makes for an educational half-day visit.

Mount Harriet National Park

For a taste of Andaman’s wilderness, head to Mount Harriet National Park (recently renamed Mount Manipur). About 30 minutes by road from the city, this park includes Andaman’s third-highest peak (365 m). It offers tropical forest treks and panoramic island views from the summit. Wildlife watchers may spot hornbills and butterflies along the trails.

Accommodation: Hotels and Stays

Port Blair has lodging to suit every budget. Options range from luxury resorts with beachfront views to budget guesthouses in town. Many properties offer comfortable rooms in Port Blair with air conditioning and family-friendly amenities. For example, Welcomhotel by ITC (Bay Island) and Sandhya Residency Port Blair are often listed among the top budget hotels in Andaman Port Blair. These 4-star hotels have pools, restaurants, and organized tours.

• Luxury: Welcomhotel (Bay Island) – 5-star resort with spa and beachfront pool. SeaShell Port Blair – 4-star hotel on Rocky Bay with multi-cuisine restaurant.
  
  
• Mid-Range: Peerless Resort (Corbyn’s) – family-friendly with pool and lawn. Port Blair Residency – centrally located, moderate rates.
  
  
• Budget: Guesthouses in Aberdeen area – basic AC/non-AC rooms. Dorm hostels & Homestays (often ₹800–₹1200 per bed) for solo travelers.
  
  

Tours, Packages, and Travel Agencies

Many travelers simplify planning by booking an Andaman tour package. Numerous local agencies offer customizable Andaman and Nicobar holiday packages that include ferries, hotels, transfers, and sightseeing. Tour lengths commonly range from 3 to 10+ days. 

For example, a typical 6-night/5-day itinerary might look like this: Port Blair (2 nights) – explore Cellular Jail and Corbyn’s Cove, then a day trip to Ross and North Bay; Havelock Island (1 night) – enjoy Radhanagar Beach; Baratang Island (day trip) – see the limestone caves; then return to Port. Longer packages (7–8 nights) often add Neil Island or Little Andaman on the itinerary. It’s best to compare a few package options (government tourism board and private operators) early, since tours fill up fast during the high season.

Transportation & Getting Around

Port Blair is a compact city, but exploring the islands requires planning:

• Local Cabs: There are no ride-hailing apps like Uber. Instead, you rely on prepaid taxis or hotel-arranged drivers. The taxi fleet (mainly SUVs and sedans) is limited, especially in peak months. Travelers often book cars a day or more in advance through their hotel or agent. Fares are fixed by destination; for example, a round-trip taxi to Corbyn’s Cove might cost around ₹1500.
  
  
• Car Rentals: Self-drive rental cars are not available (by government rule). If you need a vehicle for a day tour, you must hire it with a driver. Toyota Innova and similar vehicles are common, but they book up quickly, so plan ahead.
  
  
• Scooter & Bike Rentals: Motorbike hire is common on Havelock and Neil Islands, where you can zip around to beaches. In Port Blair city itself, scooter rentals are scarce. On Havelock, renting a scooter (~₹500–₹700/day) is a popular, economical way to see Radhanagar and Kala Pathar beaches.
  
  
• Ferries: To reach Havelock, Neil, Ross, and others, take ferries or passenger boats from Port Blair. Government ferries (online tickets) run multiple times daily; high-speed ferries (2–3 hour ride) are available too. Book ferries well in advance (especially Dec–Feb). Many tour packages include ferry transfers.
  
  
• Public Transport: A public bus links Port Blair to Corbyn’s Cove a few times daily (very cheap fare). No regular buses cover further attractions, so most visitors use taxis or booked tours for destinations like Baratang (which also requires permits).
  
  

Activities and Adventures

Port Blair offers plenty of adventure and fun:

• Water Sports: The Water Sports Complex at Aberdeen is the hub for parasailing, jet skiing, banana-boat and more. For scuba diving or snorkeling, North Bay and Havelock’s Elephant Beach have rich coral reefs – Andaman’s waters “harbor some of the richest coral reef ecosystem” in the world. Even beginners can try a guided shore dive or helmet dive.
  
  
• Island Hopping: Boat tours from Port Blair often include Ross & Smith Islands (check out the unique sandbar) and North Bay Island (glass-bottom boat rides). Excursions to Jolly Buoy Island (Mahatma Gandhi Marine Park) let you swim in crystal lagoons and see vibrant marine life.
  
  
• Cultural Shows: Besides the Cellular Jail Light & Sound Show (every evening except Monday), look for tribal dance performances at some resorts and cultural centers. Honeymooners might enjoy a romantic beachside dinner under the stars (available at select hotels).
  
  
• Trekking & Nature: Aside from Mount Harriet, you can explore short forest trails. For instance, the path to Munda Pahad Beach (near Chidiya Tapu) winds through trees to a quiet, pink-sand shore. Nature lovers can also visit the Hornbill International Centre (Bharatpur) to see Andaman hornbills and other wildlife exhibits.
  
  
• Shopping in Port Blair: Aberdeen Bazaar is the place to buy souvenirs. Pick up Andaman specialties like spice blends, coconut-shell crafts, seashell jewelry, and banana chips. Try bargaining politely at local shops. This area also has small cafes serving local snacks.
  
  

Tips and Considerations for All Travelers

• Weather & Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended year-round. Even winter evenings can be breezy near the coast. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. If traveling during April–September, include a light rain jacket for afternoon showers.
  
  
• Health & Safety: Stick to bottled water and carry a small first-aid kit (basic meds, rehydration salts). Use mosquito repellent at dawn/dusk hours. Travel insurance is wise for medical emergencies or evacuation. The islands are generally very safe – crime is rare – but always safeguard your belongings in busy markets.
  
  
• Budgeting: Port Blair is relatively affordable. Mid-range hotel rooms might cost ₹2500–₹5000 ($30–$60) per night; high-end resorts ₹8000+. A local taxi (Innova car) might charge ₹3000–₹4000 per day (split between passengers). Meals at modest restaurants range ₹200–₹500 per person. Keep some cash (₹100s/₹500s) since small vendors may not accept cards; there are ATMs in Port Blair but none on smaller islands.
  
  
• Connectivity: Mobile networks (BSNL/GSM) work in town but are unreliable in remote spots. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels. Download offline maps and let friends/family know your itinerary in case you travel to areas with no signal.
  
  
• Environment & Customs: The Andamans have fragile ecosystems and protected tribes. Do not touch corals or litter. Avoid venturing into any “restricted” tribal reserves (these are off-limits). When visiting beaches at night (turtle nesting areas), use dim red lights if possible. Respect local rules and enjoy nature responsibly.
  
  

Port Blair makes an ideal base to immerse yourself in the Andamans. Whether you’re soaking up sunsets on golden shores, diving in turquoise waters, or tracing India’s history, this city has something for everyone. With welcoming hotels, friendly guides, and attractions fit for couples, families, and solo adventurers, a holiday here promises unforgettable memories.