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The Zonal Anthropological Museum is one of the most popular museums in Port Blair. This place showcases the historical, traditional and cultural roots of the island through its exhibits and artefacts. At this museum, you can focus on the lives of the four major Andamanese tribes namely Onges, Sentinalese, Jarawas and Great Andamanese. The Zonal Anthropological Museum provides a sneak peek into the lifestyle of these tribes that used to live on the island and those that continue to reside there.
Quick Details About Zonal Anthropological Museum
Location: Thomas Colony, Junglighat, Port Blair
Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair
Nearest Port: Port Blair Port
Best Time To Visit: September to April
Zonal Anthropological Museum Ticket Price: ₹10 for adults, Free for children
Zonal Anthropological Museum Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM (Mondays Closed)
About Zonal Anthropological Museum Port Blair
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Zonal Anthropological Museum is one of the most visited museums of Port Blair for tourists looking to get better acquainted with the palaeolithic islanders’ lives and lifestyles. Some of the major exhibits of the museum include shamanic sculptures and a Jarawa chest guard. For history buffs, the place is a treasure trove of knowledge related to the primordial eras of the Andaman and Nicobar tribes. The museum is home to handicrafts, implements, photographs and clothing of these communities.
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How To Reach Zonal Anthropological Museum
Photo: Jpatokal / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
From Port Blair: The Anthropological Museum is at a distance of just 7.3 km from Port Blair. Hail a taxi, cab or bus to the museum for a drive that takes about 15-20 minutes.
From Havelock Island: If you are starting from Havelock Island, then your trip to the Zonal Anthropological Museum will take around 2.5-3 hours. The journey can be done via bus, car or taxi.
Places To Visit Around Zonal Anthropological Museum
After experiencing the tribal ambience and vibrant culture of this museum, here are some other attractions that you can explore nearby.
1. Samudrika Naval Museum
Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons
Samudrika Naval Museum was built for the promotion and preservation of the island’s marine life and is run by the Indian Navy. Also called the Fisheries Museum, this tourist hotspot has a large collection of colourful corals, fishes, seashells and species of sea animals. The exhibits are displayed in five main sections: Andaman history, marine archaeology, marine life, Andaman tribes and geographical information. At this museum, you can view a skeleton of a majestic blue whale that was washed ashore on the island.
Location: Airport Authority Colony, Haddo, Port Blair
Timings: 9 AM – 1 PM, 2 PM – 5 PM (Mondays Closed)
Entry Fees: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children
Suggested Read: Samudrika Naval Marine Museum
2. Fisheries Museum
Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons
The Fisheries Museum is near the Rajiv Gandhi Sports Complex and has a broad collection of corals and fishes. This museum also houses marine creatures, plants and other marine life species that are endemic to the Andaman Islands. At this tourist destination in Port Blair, you can spot varieties of marine creatures like Mollusca, ichthyofauna, reef fishes, butterflyfish, rabbitfish, mangrove crabs, leatherbacks, hawksbills, clownfish, and green turtles. Besides this, you can also view the collection of large and small-sized seashells here.
Location: Rajiv Gandhi Nagar, Port Blair
Timings: 9 AM – 1 PM, 2 PM – 4:45 PM (Mondays Closed)
Entry Fees: ₹5 for adults, ₹3 for children
3. Cellular Jail Museum
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons
This is a famous colonial jail museum in Port Blair that is a reminder of one of the darkest freedom struggle chapters of India. Every room of the Cellular Jail Museum brings to life the tales of sacrifice and bravery of the Indian freedom fighters. In addition, there is a photo gallery as well as a library that further displays the struggle and journey of the jail inmates. Also called Kala Paani, the jail rooms of this museum signify the sacrifice and bravery of the prisoners.
Location: GB Pant Road, Atlanta Point, Port Blair
Timings: 9 AM – 12 PM, 2 PM – 5 PM (Mondays Closed)
Entry Fees: ₹30 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Port Blair
4. Forest Museum
Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons
Famous for its decorative pieces and artefacts designed from satinwood, oak, padauk, timber gurjan and sandalwood, the museum collection reflects the rich flora and fauna of Andaman forests. The Forest Museum is located inside the Chatham Saw Mill and presents the history of the island through the eyes of artists and skilled labourers. Tourists can also visit the miniature zoo and the zoological garden that is located inside the premises of the museum. Also, purchase wooden artefacts from the museum as souvenirs.
Location: Near Haddo Zoo, Chatham Island, Foreshore Rd, Port Blair
Timings: 8 AM – 12 PM, 2:30 PM – 5 PM (Sundays Closed)
Entry Fees: ₹2 per person
5. Chidiya Tapu
Photo: swapnil singh durgavanshy / Shutterstock
Chidiya Tapu, affectionately known as Bird Island, is a charming destination located within close proximity to the Zonal Anthropological Museum in Port Blair. This enchanting spot is celebrated for its lush mangrove forests, diverse birdlife and pristine coastal views, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along scenic trails, where the melodious calls of native birds complement the serene surroundings. Integrating natural splendour with cultural exploration, Chidiya Tapu is an essential stop for travellers keen to experience the best of the Andamans.
Location: Beonabad Panchayat, Port Blair, South Andaman Island
Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fees: ₹20 (₹50 for foreign nationals)
6. Corbyn’s Cove Beach
Photo: Nymishanandini / Wikimedia Commons
Corbyn’s Cove Beach, just a stone’s throw away from the Zonal Anthropological Museum in Port Blair, is an ideal coastal retreat that perfectly complements cultural excursions. The pristine, crescent‑shaped shoreline lined with swaying palms offers gentle waves for a refreshing swim or a relaxed stroll along the sandy beach. This well‑maintained destination not only allows visitors to enjoy a variety of water sports, including jet skiing and boating, but also promises breathtaking sunsets over the Andaman Sea. Its tranquil ambience and scenic charm make it an unmissable spot for those seeking both adventure and relaxation in an idyllic island setting.
Location: Approximately 8 km from Port Blair city
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: No entry fee
7. Mount Harriet National Park
Photo: Madhumita7 / Wikimedia Commons
Mount Harriet National Park, located just a short drive from the Zonal Anthropological Museum, is a must-visit destination in the Andaman Islands. Established in 1969, this protected area boasts diverse flora and fauna alongside a network of well‑kept trails winding through tropical forests. Visitors can enjoy panoramic hilltop views that capture the stunning expanse of the archipelago. Whether you are an avid nature enthusiast, a keen birdwatcher, or simply seeking a tranquil retreat from urban life, Mount Harriet National Park offers an enriching experience that perfectly complements a cultural visit to the museum.
Location: Hope Town, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹25 for Indian adults, ₹10 for Indian children, ₹250 for foreigners
8. Water Sports Complex
Photo: Jun Jie Yam / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nestled near the Zonal Anthropological Museum, the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex is a vibrant hub of aquatic adventure in Port Blair. It offers a delightful blend of leisurely water sports like paddle and row boating, ideal for families, alongside more thrilling pursuits such as jet skiing, parasailing and banana boat rides that cater to adventure enthusiasts. Set against a picturesque coastal backdrop, the complex ensures visitors enjoy both safety and excitement amid stunning Andaman vistas. A visit here not only provides an adrenaline boost but also a refreshing escape, making it an ideal complement to your cultural exploration in the area.
Location: Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: No entry fee
Where To Stay
Photo: William Warby / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Whether you are looking for luxury resorts or budget stays, there are many accommodation options available near the Zonal Anthropological Museum address. Some popular choices include Hotel Sentinel, Hotel De Marina, Hotel Blue Marlin, GKM Grand Hotel, and Hotel Hari International. Each of these hotels is well-furnished and equipped with the major amenities.
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Where To Eat
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are several eateries near the Anthropological Museum that can satiate the hunger pangs of tourists. Some of the top-rated ones include The Andaman Kitchen, The Love Garden, Annapurna, Ananda Restaurant and The Lighthouse Residency.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Ketut Subiyanto / Pexels/ Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- Make sure you have your identity cards with you at all times as you will need them during security checks.
- It is advisable not to touch the museum exhibits.
- Do not take any Zonal Anthropological Museum photos.
- Wear comfortable clothing and footwear as per the season
Suggested Read: Beaches In Andaman
The Zonal Anthropological Museum is a tourist destination in Port Blair that throws light on the indigenous tribal communities of the island. From shamanic sculptures to Jarawa chest guards, you can get a quick glimpse into the life of the Andaman and Nicobar tribal people. If you are looking to add this museum to your next Andaman trip, contact TripXL for a customised itinerary.
Cover Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons
