Presenting a perfect blend of past and present, Samudrika Naval Marine Museum is one of the most popular tourist destinations of Port Blair. The museum is under the the control of Indian Navy and was built to create awareness about the ocean and the marine life inside it. The exhibits portray an expansive history of the people and area of the Andaman Islands through corals, sculptures and many more. The place makes for a great place to learn about the tribal culture, geographical diversity and marine life of the islands.
Quick Details About Samudrika Naval Marine Museum
Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons
Location: Haddo Road, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Timings: 9 AM – 1 PM and 2 PM – 5 PM (Mondays Closed)
Entry Fees: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for kids and free for freedom fighters, handicapped and senior citizens
Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport
Nearest Port: Port Blair
Best Time To visit: October to March
Suggested Read: Andaman And Nicobar Nightlife
About Samudrika Naval Marine Museum
Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons
The Samsudrika Naval Marine Museum is thoughtfully divided into five rooms, each showcasing a different aspect of the Andamanese ecosystem. The first room covers the historical significance of the islands. The Second room or the Aqua room is a sneak peek at the exotic marine creatures. The third room has a large collection of unique and colourful corals along with origin information. The fourth display room features beautiful sea shells and other random stuff found in the sea. The last room or the Tribal room offers a peek inside the lives of various tribal groups inhabiting the islands.
How To Reach
Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons
The international airport of Port Blair is well connected with all the major Indian cities. One can also reach the city through various cruises to Andaman operating regularly from mainland India. Samudrika Naval Museum is just 2 km away from the City Centre and can be easily reached via 2 wheelers, auto rickshaws or cabs.
Suggested Read: Beaches In Andaman
Places To Visit Around
Owing to its central location, several places of tourist interest are located close to the Naval Museum. Many exciting things can be indulged in when visiting the Samudrika Naval Marine Museum.
1. Cellular Jail
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
Located just a few kilometres away from the museum is the historic Kala Pani Jail or the Cellular Jail. It tells the story of the Indian freedom struggle through its walls and museum exhibits. There is also an engaging light and sound show that takes place showcasing the rich Indian history.
Location: Atlanta Point, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Timings: 9 AM – 12 PM, 2 PM – 5 PM (Mondays Closed)
Entry Fee: ₹30 for adults, ₹100 for foreigners
2. Corbyn’s Cove
Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons
This is a serene coconut palm-fringed beach located just a short drive away from the Naval Museum, offering a stunning coastline view. The place is a thriving hub of water sports like skiing, scuba diving and speed boat rides.
Timings: 24*7
Suggested Read: Little Andaman Island
3. Mount Harriet National Park
Photo: Chinmayisk / Wikimedia Commons
Named after a British officer, Mount Harriet National Park offers a refreshing taste of nature with exciting hiking trails and expansive viewpoints. The place also offers activities like trekking and nighttime hiking for those looking to enjoy the Andaman nightlife.
Location: Hope Town, Port Blair
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹25 for adults, ₹10 for children, ₹250 for foreigners
4. Mahatma Gandhi National Park
Photo: Dvellakat / Wikimedia Commons
Mahatma Gandhi National Park is located in Wandoor Village of Andaman and is ideal for those looking for colourful corals and vibrant marine life. The place offers several aure activities too like glass bottom rides, snorkelling, speed boat rides and many more.
Location: Wandoor Village, Port Blair
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: ₹50 for adults, ₹500 for foreigners
Suggested Read: Scuba Diving In Andaman Islands
Where To Stay
Photo: Voguru / Wikimedia Commons
There are many offbeat beach resorts as well as hotels fitting all pockets located near the museum. Since the hotel is located near the city centre of Port Blair, the area is dotted with several guest houses, B&B, resorts as well as hotels. Some popular choices are North Harriet View, Hotel Sentinel, TSG Emerald View, Hotel Driftwood and Hotel Hill View.
Where To Eat
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
When it comes to hunger pangs, travellers are spoilt for choice with the number of restaurants and eateries located near Samudrika Naval Museum. The closest restaurant is Cafe Rebel which serves delicious burgers and many other items to all. Other popular eateries located nearby include Rola Costa, Annapurna, Mandalay, Amaya, and Ruchi.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Andaman And Nicobar Islands
Samudrika Naval Marine Museum was built to educate all about aquatic life preservation as well as keeping the sensitive marine ecosystem well-balanced. If you are a marine enthusiast, willing to explore the Andaman Islands then, this museum is one of the places to start from. Plan a trip with TripXL and add this spot to your next Andaman trip itinerary.
Cover Photo: Vizag Explore / Unsplash