Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram)
About Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram)
Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), the capital of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, is a union territory in the Bay of Bengal, India. Known for its appeal among both Indian and international visitors, tourism is focused solely in the Andaman region, as Nicobar remains a protected tribal area with restricted access for tourists. As the only entry point to the Andaman Islands, Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) hosts the territory’s sole commercial airport. This article provides an introduction and in-depth look at Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), the gateway to the entire island chain, which can be reached by both air and sea.
How can you get to Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) ?
Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), the capital of the Andaman Islands, is accessible by both air and sea, with flights and ships available from various locations in mainland India.
-By Ship:
The Andaman Islands are accessible by sea, with ships departing from major Indian ports like Chennai, Kolkata, and Vizag. Government-operated services allow ticket bookings via the Directorate of Shipping or Shipping Corporation offices at these ports. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 days in favorable weather. Kolkata sailings occur once or twice a month, while Chennai and Vizag have monthly departures. For updated schedules to Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), check the official ship schedule. Although flights are recommended for their convenience, a ship journey offers a unique experience for extended vacations. However, due to long travel times and potential weather issues, ships are less commonly recommended.
-By Flights:
For travelers with limited time, flights are the preferred option to reach the Andaman Islands, covering about 1300 km from mainland India in around 2.5 hours. Airlines like Air India, SpiceJet, Vistara, GoAir, and Indigo offer direct flights to Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), the only commercial airport. Direct routes operate from Chennai, Bangalore, Delhi, and Kolkata, with seasonal flights from Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad via GoAir and Indigo. For updated flight schedules to Port Blair (IXZ), check the airlines’ websites. Currently, flights are only available between 7 AM and 4 PM, as no evening flights operate post-sunset.
Are there any requirements to enter Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) ?
Indian nationals do not need to complete any formalities to enter the Andaman Islands.
-Indian Nationals
Indian nationals do not need a visa to visit the Andaman Islands, but a valid government-issued ID is required, excluding a PAN Card. No special permits are needed for Indians to explore most areas of the islands; however, entering restricted tribal zones is strictly off-limits. Access to areas occupied by defense or paramilitary forces, along with any sensitive locations, requires permissions from authorized agencies.
As the Andaman Islands are strategically located, entry requirements might change on rare occasions. Contact us to stay updated on any recent adjustments to entry procedures and fees when visiting Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram).
-Foreign Nationals
All foreign nationals, NRIs, and OCI cardholders must present their original passport at the immigration counter upon arrival at Port Blair’s (Sri Vijaya Puram’s) airport or seaport for verification. Foreign nationals need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit the Andaman Islands, which can be easily obtained on arrival at Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) by air or sea, provided they hold a valid visa. The RAP is issued for 30 days. Currently, the requirement for a RAP has been lifted for 30 islands. For more information, refer to the Andaman Tourism website’s section on foreign entry requirements.
Popular Places to Visit in Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram)
Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) offers numerous attractions, and when compared to the other islands, it boasts the highest number of places to visit in the Andaman Islands. From historical sites to beautiful beaches, Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) provides a wide array of experiences to explore. Below is a list of places to visit:
Explore the historical Cellular Jail and enjoy the Light and Sound Show
The Cellular Jail is a top spot to visit on Day 1 of your Andaman tour. You can explore the jail during the day, while in the evening, only the light and sound show is available, as the jail itself is closed to visitors.
Museums and Parks
Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) also features several museums and parks that are open for daytime visits.
Corbyn’s Cove Beach
Corbyns Cove Beach, one of the nearest beaches to Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), is easily accessible by cab. This beach offers activities like jet skiing, sea karting, boat rides, and parasailing. The scenic road leading to the beach adds to the experience.
Explore the Coral Island of Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), also known as North Bay Island
North Bay Island is a prime spot for water sports in the Andaman Islands, offering a variety of activities for enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, sea walking, parasailing, and glass-bottom boat rides, making it an ideal location for water sports lovers.
Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island)
Chidiatapu
The sunset at Chidiatapu is a popular attraction in Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), with many visitors drawn to its serene evening ambiance. Located about 30 km from Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), Chidiatapu offers a peaceful experience, and you can also trek to Mundapahad from this spot.
Jolly Bouy Island
Jolly Buoy Island, located within the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Reserve, is a fantastic place to explore near Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram). Its vibrant marine life is unmatched by other spots around Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), though visitors need permits to access this location.
Flag Point – 1st Tricolour Hosting In India
Flag Point is a historic site where Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose first hoisted the tricolor flag on Indian soil in 1943. Today, it has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors to spend time at this significant landmark.
Baratang Island
From Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), reaching the Middle Andaman Islands is now easier than ever. Baratang Island, located in the Middle Andamans, offers travelers a unique experience with its blend of attractions, including tribal reserves, limestone caves, mangrove boat rides, and a fascinating mud volcano—all in one destination.
A Short History Of Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram)
“Port Blair” is named after Lieutenant Archibald Blair of the Bombay Marine, who discovered the area. While the city does not offer all the amenities found in mainland India, it remains the lifeline of the entire island group. People from all parts of the islands depend on the capital for urban facilities, largely because imported goods and services from mainland India are readily accessible here.
Port Blair's (Sri Vijaya Puram's) Weather Overview
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a warm tropical climate, with pleasant weather year-round. Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) experiences humidity and no winter season, while the monsoon lasts for up to 120 days, starting in late May. Rainfall varies from moderate to heavy. The region does not experience extreme hot summers or chilling winters, and there are no major issues like waterlogging or traffic jams during the monsoon. Any time of year is suitable for a vacation, with an average temperature of 25 to 27°C. Weather can be unpredictable, so travelers should check AccuWeather for the latest updates before visiting the Andaman Islands.
Is Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) Suitable For Tourists ?
The city provides excellent amenities for tourists. Tourist-friendly accommodations are found near Phoenix Bay, while restaurants, local food joints, and hotels are located around Aberdeen Bazaar and Junglighat. Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) is home to people from various cultures and traditions across mainland India, making it a ‘Mini India.’ Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of cuisines, with numerous restaurant options situated in and around the city’s main areas. Some prime locations to stay in Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) can help you choose the best places to lodge.
Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) serves as the lifeline of the Andaman Islands, being the most prominent city connected to all other islands in the territory. However, one major drawback is the limited availability of super-fast internet; currently, 3G is the fastest connection available, and that only in select hotspot areas. As of 2021, internet connectivity in the islands has seen improvements.
Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) offers various attractions for tourists, including museum visits, historical tours, exciting water sports, extraordinary boat rides, leisurely strolls in parks, and shopping opportunities.
How To Travel To Other Islands From Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram)
Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) is the sole point of access to all the other islands in the Andaman archipelago, with various ferries, boats, and cruises available. Transfers from Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) to Havelock Island and other islands can be made through the following methods:
1. By Road:
Only the Middle and Northern parts of the Andaman Islands can be accessed from Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) by road. The islands in the North Andaman region are partially connected by road, and private car rentals are available for hire in Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram). You can travel to Diglipur, Mayabunder, Rangat, and Baratang from Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) via roadway.
2. Private ferry:
Private luxury cruises depart daily from Port Blair’s (Sri Vijaya Puram’s) Phoenix Bay Harbor and Haddo Wharf to Swaraj Dweep (Havelock) and Shaheed Dweep (Neil). These cruises publish their sailing schedules and offer ticket pre-booking on their websites, allowing for confirmed transfers well in advance. The main cruise operators serving these routes include Makruzz, Sea Link Cruise, Green Ocean Cruise, and ITT Majestic. All ferry bookings to the Andaman Islands can be made online.
3. Government ferries:
Regular government ferry services operate from Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) to most major islands. The sailing schedule is published in the Administration’s newspapers, The Daily Telegrams and Dweep Samachar, as well as on the official website. However, ticket booking is done offline at the STARS counters at Phoenix Bay Harbor or through nearby government-authorized Common Service Centers. Due to high demand, tickets should be booked either three days in advance or on the day of sailing.
Top Locations & Hotels for Staying in Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram)
Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) offers a wide variety of accommodations spread across various parts of the city, but it’s recommended to stay near prime areas such as Phoenix Bay, Junglighat, Foreshore Road, Marina Park, and Aberdeen Bazaar. Numerous properties in these locations provide comfortable stays with quality services. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) has accommodations suited to every type of traveler. Our Island experts can help you select properties that match your budget and preferences, ensuring a handpicked experience. All properties in Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) come with basic amenities, ranging from simple, elegant rooms to spacious luxury suites.
Most accommodations are situated near key areas of the city, with some located closer to the airport. When planning a stay in Andamans, note that certified star hotels are limited; only Taj Exotica currently holds a star certification. Hotels are categorized by cost, services, interiors, and amenities, with options including Economy, Standard, and Premium, among others.
Room service is available for most categories, except Economy. Many hotels also have in-house restaurants where guests can dine if they wish. The ambiance varies based on the location of each property, with diverse categories available for a tailored stay in Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram).
Budget Category
Economy hotel rooms are ideal for those seeking comfort at an affordable price. These options are especially suited for backpackers or travelers who simply need a clean, basic space to rest after a day of exploring. Typically, these rooms come with a large bed or two single beds, making them a budget-friendly choice.
Standard Category
Standard hotel rooms offer comfort and essential services for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. Generally regarded as 2-star facilities, these rooms are a bit more spacious than economy options. Find the best places to stay in the Andaman Islands.
Premium Category
Premium properties feature spacious rooms with various options, including larger layouts, rooms with scenic views, attached balconies, sea-facing and corner rooms, etc. These accommodations are priced higher than the standard categories.
Deluxe Category
The deluxe category in Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) offers spacious rooms with good furniture, high ceilings, and modern amenities. The cots are available in large sizes and the bathroom has separate spaces for shower and toilet. Guests who are willing to spend a little more out of the budget for better comfort can opt for the deluxe category. We have recently come up with an upgrading option for the Deluxe range customers- The Deluxe Plus.
Luxury Category
Royal Category
These are the top-tier hotels and resorts for guests seeking 4-star amenities, offering a more exclusive experience compared to standard 4-star properties in mainland India. Many of these high-end accommodations are situated near the sea, providing scenic views along with modern amenities, including swimming pools. Rooms and bathrooms feature luxurious interiors, elegant furnishings, and spacious, comfortable beds. Select properties also have balconies, enhancing the relaxation experience for guests. For travelers wanting a refined, luxury stay, these properties offer an exceptional choice. Explore all the luxury accommodations in the Andaman Islands.
Top Shopping Spots in Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram)
Items of interest to buy in Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) include cane products, miniature Nicobari canoes, palm flooring, and various artifacts or handicrafts crafted from shells, wood, mirrors, pearls, and more. These unique pieces are handmade by local artisans of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and are available in shops across the city.
-Top places to shop from
Sagarika Emporium
Sagarika Emporium, a government cottage industry, offers a range of handcrafted items made from shells, coconuts, and more, making it an ideal spot to buy souvenirs from the Andamans. The emporium operates daily from 08:45 AM to 06:45 PM, except on Sundays when it remains closed.
Shell Craft Boutique at Middle Point
The Shell Craft showroom at Middle Point is a great place to find handmade shell accessories, jewelry, and various other unique items. This shop is open every day from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM.
Craft Treasures at Junglighat
Craft shopping at Junglighat is another excellent option, open daily from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM.
Food Choices in Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram)
Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram) provides a variety of cuisines, so you won’t have much trouble finding food to suit your taste. Pure vegetarian, multi-cuisine, seafood, Chinese, fast food, Bengali, and South Indian dishes are all readily available in Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram).