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Considered to be one of the most prominent spots of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Cellular Jail is a former British prison that today serves as a shrine to the freedom fighters who fought for Indian independence. Also known as ‘Kala Pani’, the place was considered to be one of the most gruelling and dreaded colonial prisons where some of the most atrocious punishments were imposed on the inmates. A national memorial, the cellular jail museum is a living witness of the pain and misery of the jailed revolutionaries.
Quick Details About Cellular Jail Museum
Cellular Jail Museum Address: Atlanta Point, Port Blair
Cellular Jail Museum Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair
Nearest Port: Port Blair
Best Time To Visit: Open throughout the year, however, preferably from October to March
Entry Fee: ₹50 per person (for Indians), ₹100 per person (for foreigners)
About Cellular Jail
Photo: Aliven Sarkar / Wikimedia Commons
The Cellular Museum is one of the famous landmarks of the capital city of Port Blair. Construction of this jail began in 1896 and it took over 10 years for the Britishers to build this place. Originally, the jail had seven wings with over 698 cells but several of these were destroyed by the Japanese army during the heights of World War II. Today, only three wings are remaining. One of the most famous prisoners of this jail was Veer Damodar Savarkar who was jailed here for 7 years from 1914 to 1921. Converted into the Kala Pani Museum today, you can visit the cells here, walk through the corridors and get to the gallows where executions were done.
Suggested Read: Museums In Port Blair That You Must Visit On Your Next Trip
How To Reach Cellular Jail Museum
Photo: Georgy Trofimov / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Cellular Jail Museum location is around 7.8 km away from Port Blair. It can be reached through an auto, bus, taxi, minibus or rickshaw. There are cycles and two-wheelers too that you can hire to get around in the city. You can also take regular ferries and ships to Port Blair and then visit the museum via cab or bus.
Places To Visit Around The Museum
Here are a few places to visit around the Cellular Jail Museum for an exciting getaway.
1. Chidiya Tapu
Photo: Arkadeep Meta / Wikimedia Commons
Also known as Bird Island, Chidiya Tapu is a charming little island located at a short distance away from the museum. The place has open seascapes with one of the best sunset points of Andaman. It also has a trekking trail that allows the trekkers to explore the fascinating Kala Patthar rugged rocks of the place. Though the place is famous for bird watching, there are water sports, beach treks and a biological park that add to the charm of this island.
Location: Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Timings: 7 AM – 5:30 PM
Suggested Read: Get Ready To Explore Little Andaman Island For A Magical Experience
2. Samudrika Naval Marine Museum
Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons
Managed by the Indian Navy, the Samudrika Naval Marine Museum is located 2 km away from Port Blair City Centre. The place presents a perfect blend of the tribal roots and the marine biodiversity of Andaman. The museum is divided into 5 rooms that provide in-depth information on local Andamanese tribes and the exquisite array of flora and fauna thriving in the Andaman waters.
Location: Airport Authority Colony, Haddo, Port Blair
Timings: 9 AM – 12 PM, 2 PM – 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)
3. Zonal Anthropological Museum
Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons
The Zonal Anthropological Museum is a living portrait of the local community tribes of the Andaman Islands. The museum provides a sneak peek into the lifestyles of Onges, Jarawas, Sentinelese, Andamanese, Shompens, and Nicobarese. Since these tribes keep minimal contact with the world, this museum is a storehouse of information for those looking to gain a better insight into their lives.
Location: Thomas Colony, Junglighat, Port Blair
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM (closed on Mondays)
Suggested Read: Fisheries Museum Port Blair
4. North Bay Island
Photo: Rockydsuza / Wikimedia Commons
North Bay Island is a secluded island of Port Blair that offers a host of water activities. In addition, the place has a great sea view, healthy coral settlements and lush green jungle cover for the visitors. The popularity of the view from the hilltop can be gauged from the fact that the same has also been featured on the Indian 20 rupee note too.
Location: Near Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
5. Corbyn’s Cove Beach
Photo: Doctors photography / Shutterstock
Located just near the Cellular Jail is Corbyn’s Cove Beach which is one of the most popular beaches of Port Blair among both locals as well as tourists. This tranquil beach offers various thrilling water activities that one can indulge in including paragliding, scuba diving, snorkelling, and many more.
Location: Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Timings: 24*7
Suggested Read: Best Beaches In Port Blair For a Sun-Kissed Vacation
6. Ross Island
Photo: Shimjithsr / Wikimedia Commons
A trip to Ross Island is considered to be one of the easiest inter-island trips that can be done in Andaman. This place features prominently in Indian history books with ruins of British-made sanatoriums, churches and government offices still standing on the island. However, no civilian settlement is allowed on the island.
Location: Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Timings: 8:30 AM – 4 PM (Closed on Wednesdays)
7. Wandoor Beach
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons
Suffused with pristine golden sands, swaying palm trees, and glistening blue waters, Wandoor Beach is a tropical paradise. It stretches across 15 km and is the gateway to Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. An ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, Wandoor Beach promises a serene getaway. Here, you can observe colourful fish and elusive sea turtles in their natural habitat. You can also enjoy glass-bottom boat trips to nearby islands, snorkelling, and trekking through the lush mangroves.
Location: Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Timings: 4 AM – 9 PM
Suggested Read: Top Beaches In Andaman That Will Leave You Spellbound & In Awe
8. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Photo: Nilanjan pathak / Wikimedia Commons
Spread across an area of 281.5 square kilometres, the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a major tourist attraction nestled near Wandoor. A protected sanctuary, the national park is home to an array of marine life, coral reefs, and endangered species. The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park comprises 15 islands, divided into two major groups: the Labyrinth Islands and the Twin Islands. For travellers seeking a closer interaction with the exotic marine life, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is the ideal destination.
Location: Wandoor, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM (closed on Mondays)
9. Mount Manipur National Park
Photo: Kyle Nieber / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Mount Manipur National Park, also known as Mount Harriet National Park, is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the national park houses more than 90 species of birds and a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Andaman wild pig, saltwater crocodiles, turtles, and robber crabs. Studded with rugged terrains, the park is also an excellent spot for adventure lovers who want to indulge in moderate trekking.
Location: Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Suggested Read: Saddle Peak National Park
10. Havelock Island
Photo: Dr. K. Vedhagiri / Wikimedia Commons
Havelock Island, adorned with sandy shores, turquoise-blue waters, and lush green palm trees, is a picturesque abode. Also known as Swaraj Island, it is a part of Ritchie’s Archipelago in the Andamans. In addition to mesmerising natural beauty, the island is also known for its exciting water activities, including snorkelling, scuba diving, and more. Havelock Island, with its perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, promises an unforgettable tropical getaway for those seeking an escape to paradise.
Location: Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
11. Neil Island
Photo: Ankur Panchbudhe / Wikimedia Commons
Neil Island, blessed with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, is a serene abode for travellers looking for a tropical escape. The island boasts three pristine beaches—Bharatpur Beach, Laxmanpur Beach and Sitapur Beach. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in a variety of activities, including scuba diving, glass-bottom boat rides, and snorkelling to fuel their adrenaline. With its laid-back atmosphere, Neil Island is a perfect destination for a peaceful retreat.
Location: Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Timings: 12 AM – 12 PM
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Neil Island On Your Next Holiday
Where To Stay
Photo: Boonkong Boonpeng / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Since Kala Pani Museum is considered to be one of the prime tourist destinations of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, there are several hotels and resorts located nearby that can fit all types of budgets. Some of the popular ones are Blue Bridge Home, Sunnyvale Andaman, Atlanta Cottage, Hotel Raj Palace, Hotel Guru International, and many more.
Where To Eat
Photo: Abhik Paul / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
When the hunger pangs hit, there are several eating options located right in the vicinity of the Cellular Museum. You can find both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options here for reasonable charges. Some of the best restaurants here are Icy Spicy, Ananda Multi-Cuisine Restaurant, Fortune Resort Bay Island, and New Lighthouse Restaurant.
Suggested Read: Street Food In Andaman
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Thought Catalog / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- The memorial remains closed on Mondays so plan your trip accordingly.
- Wear flats or closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes as you need to trek and climb rocky trails while visiting this prison.
- Sound and Light shows are conducted in both Hindi and English languages, you can choose among both as per your preference.
With its architectural marvel and great historical and sentimental value attached, the Cellular Jail Museum is one of the best places to visit when in Andaman. The place soaks you in the glory of the Indian freedom struggle. Plan your trip with TripXL for a customised itinerary to Cellular Museum and relish the beauty of this age-old marvel.
Cover Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
