Things To Do In Port Blair

Port Blair is, in many ways, the cultural and political center of Andaman. Its history has been colored with numerous events, like when the first men sailed to its land and established great tribes, to when the British made it an island for political imprisonment and finally its post independence glory. So when it comes to the question of the things you can do in Port Blair, the options are varied. On one hand there are all the adventurous marine activities awaiting its people and on the other hand there are numerous institutions dedicated to preserving the culture of Andaman that beg a visit. 

The islands of the Andaman are very popular for scuba diving. The unique and calming experience is made available to almost everybody who wants to visit the world under water. There are no special skill sets required for scuba diving and persons will be accompanied by an instructor at all times. Beginning with an introductory dive in shallow waters, so as to become familiar with the equipment, the instructors will then take you to the dive sites, most of them around 35 ft deep. Scuba diving is one of the must-dos while in the area, with dive sites located in the north of Port Blair. Once under water, a whole new world will open up right in front of your eyes. The numerous fish, in all sorts of colors and shape, the breathtaking coral reefs are only few things that await you. PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) even award you with a participatory certificate.

If you don’t like to get your toes wet and still want to see the stunning creatures that inhabit the waters of Andaman And Nicobar Islands, the glass bottom boat ride is tailor-made for you. Seated comfortably while still being able to see all the stunning views of the underwater world is quite the luxury. From the live corals to the several species of fishes and the graceful turtles swimming about, the ride is simply too good.

The Rajiv Gandhi Sports Complex in Port Blair is very popular among tourists, especially those who have an appetite for adventure water sports. The Jet ski rides, speed boat cruises and kayaking will definitely leave you asking for more. Walking with the fishes under the crystal clear waters is undoubtedly a mesmerizing experience. The sea walks are for everybody and if you are in Port Blair, it is something that you shouldn’t miss out on.

The trek to Munda Pahar comes as a unique experience amidst this island city. You will leave the sea behind and head into the jungles of Andaman. The trek starts off upon Chidyatapu and the way to Chidyatapu is an experience in itself. The numerous birds that give the place its name, ‘Chidyatapu’ are sure to leave you stunned. Upon reaching the starting point, an experienced guide will accompany you throughout the refreshing trek into the jungle and back. Once at the end of the trek, if lucky one can catch a glimpse of the sunset from this place. It is said to be one of the most beautiful sights in the whole region.

Among the most visited places in Port Blair is the national memorial, the Cellular Jail. This was a prison constructed to detain political prisoners in hopes to curb the Indian Freedom Movement. Centuries later people now come here to pay their respects. The city is also very famous for its museums. There are museums like the forest museum, the anthropological museum and the Samudrika Naval Marine museum that are dedicated to creating awareness about the islands unique aquatic and terrestrial life and its heritage. They have extensive libraries and interesting artifacts on display. 

Port Blair houses a variety of restaurants serving Indian, Bengali and South Indian cuisines. It goes without saying that the place has some of the best seafood. Although the city does not pride itself on the nightlife here, it does have some pubs that serve a wide range of beverages. The Nico bar is quite popular for its beverages served inside coconut shells.