Sri Vijaya Puram
Explore
Sri Vijaya Puram
Previously Known as “PORT BLAIR”
1. Introduction to Port Blair
Port Blair is the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a Union Territory of India located in the Bay of Bengal. It serves as the gateway to the pristine archipelago and is well known for its tropical climate, stunning beaches, colonial history, and tribal heritage.
2. History of Port Blair
Pre-Colonial and Indigenous Era
The Andaman Islands have been inhabited by indigenous tribes for tens of thousands of years. These tribes include the Great Andamanese, Onge, Jarwa, and Sentinelese.
These communities maintained an isolated and self-sufficient existence, with little contact with the outside world.
Colonial History
The British first surveyed the islands in the late 18th century, and Port Blair was established in 1789 by Captain Archibald Blair, after whom the city is named.
It was later abandoned and then re-established in 1858, following the First War of Indian Independence (1857). The British built the Cellular Jail, a colonial prison used to exile political prisoners.
During World War II, Port Blair was briefly occupied by Japanese forces (1942–1945). It was under the nominal control of the Azad Hind government led by Subhas Chandra Bose.
Post-Independence
After India’s independence in 1947, Port Blair became the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The Cellular Jail became a national memorial in honor of the freedom fighters imprisoned there.
3. Culture of Port Blair
Ethnic Diversity
Port Blair is a melting pot of various communities — Bengalis, Tamils, Telugus, Nicobarese, Burmese (Rangoon Tamils), and North Indians.
Despite the dominance of Indian cultures, the influence of indigenous tribes and colonial heritage is visible in its lifestyle and architecture.
Languages
Hindi and English are widely spoken.
Regional languages like Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Nicobarese are also common.
Festivals
Port Blair celebrates all major Indian festivals: Diwali, Holi, Durga Puja, Christmas, and Eid.
Local celebrations include Island Tourism Festival, Subhas Mela, and Indira Gandhi Island Festival.
4. Major Tourist Destinations in Port Blair
A. Cellular Jail (Kala Pani)
A historic colonial prison used by the British to exile Indian freedom fighters.
Now a national memorial, featuring a light and sound show that narrates its grim history.
Must-see for history buffs.
B. Ross Island (now Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island)
Once the administrative headquarters of the British.
Now an archaeological site with ruins of colonial buildings, churches, and barracks.
Offers light and sound shows and deer parks.
C. North Bay Island
Known for coral reefs, underwater activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and sea walking.
Appears on the Indian ₹20 note.
D. Chidiya Tapu (Sunset Point)
Known for its birdwatching, mangrove forests, and panoramic views.
Ideal for witnessing mesmerizing sunsets and photography.
E. Mount Harriet National Park
The second-highest peak in the Andaman Islands.
Offers trekking, wildlife watching, and scenic views.
The location featured on the old Indian ₹20 note.
F. Wandoor Beach and Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Wandoor Beach is serene and ideal for picnics.
The nearby marine park is famous for rich marine biodiversity, coral reefs, and island tours (Jolly Buoy and Red Skin Islands).
5. Museums in Port Blair
A. Anthropological Museum
Depicts the life, history, and culture of the indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Includes models, photographs, weapons, and traditional items.
B. Samudrika Naval Marine Museum
Run by the Indian Navy.
Focuses on marine life, oceanography, tribal communities, and history.
Houses marine specimens, shells, and corals.
C. Fisheries Museum
Exhibits over 350 species of marine life native to the islands.
D. Forest Museum
Displays wooden art, flora, and fauna from the Andaman forests.
Managed by the Forest Department.
6. Food and Cuisine in Port Blair
Local Cuisine
Influenced by Bengali, South Indian, and Tribal cuisines.
Seafood is a staple — crab, lobster, fish curry, prawns, and squid are popular.
Dishes like fish tikka, coconut prawn curry, grilled lobster, and Andaman-style crab masala are must-tries.
Vegetarian Options
A variety of vegetarian meals are available, influenced by Tamil and Bengali cooking styles.
Popular Restaurants
Annapurna Cafeteria – Pure veg South Indian.
New Lighthouse Restaurant – Famous for seafood.
Full Moon Café – Western and Indian fusion.
Amaya – Upscale dining with rooftop views.
7. Other Attractions and Activities
Corbyn’s Cove Beach
Closest beach to the city center.
Ideal for sunbathing, jet skiing, and speed boat rides.
Sagarika Government Emporium
Great for shopping local handicrafts made from seashells, wood, and coconut.
Marina Park
A waterfront promenade with gardens, eateries, and sea views.
Scuba Diving and Water Sports
Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex – Offers parasailing, jet skiing, and boating.
Havelock Island (via ferry) is ideal for certified diving courses and water sports.
8. How to Reach Port Blair
By Air
Port Blair’s Veer Savarkar International Airport is connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.
By Sea
Ships from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam operate to Port Blair, though it takes around 3–4 days.
9. Best Time to Visit
October to May is the best season — pleasant weather, ideal for water activities.
Monsoon (June to September) experiences heavy rainfall and limited transport.
10. Accommodation Options
Budget: Hotel Mainak, Driftwood Hotel
Mid-Range: Sinclairs Bayview, SeaShell Port Blair
Luxury: Taj Exotica Resort & Spa (Havelock), Fortune Resort Bay Island
Conclusion
Port Blair is a rich blend of natural beauty, deep-rooted history, and cultural diversity. From walking through colonial ruins to diving among vibrant coral reefs, it offers something for every traveler. Whether you are a history enthusiast, nature lover, or thrill-seeker, Port Blair is an unforgettable gateway to the Andaman dream.