The Andaman and Nicobar Islands hold great historical significance, as demonstrated by their former status as the British Navy’s station. Known now as Port Blair, the British built their base on Chatham Island in the Great Andaman.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site and the tourist emblem, Cellular Jail, can be found at Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Despite its walls and guards, the freedom fighters in Cellular Jail National, a former British jail, saw it as a sacred space where they shared ideas, literature, and heated discussions. One must not miss the nightly light and sound show. Throughout World War II, the Japanese also ruled Chatham Island.
The island’s establishment was bombarded by RAF aircraft. When the British reoccupied it, though, it was rebuilt. Situated on Baratang Island, Balidan Vedi serves as a reminder of the Japanese occupation of the islands. Known as the “Paris of the East” due to its numerous ancient buildings and monuments, Ross Island is another must-see historical site when on vacation in the Andaman Islands.
Tourists should also visit Viper Island, which formerly housed a jail where the British kept political prisoners and criminals, while on a history tour of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
When the Cellular Jail was built in 1906, the old jail was abandoned. At Mount Harriet, the Chief Commissioner’s summer residence, the British have even left their mark in the shape of heritage sites.
Many colonial-era structures at Mount Harriet are a must-see on an Andaman and Nicobar Islands historical tour.
The Netaji Flag Hoisting Memorial is another must-see sight. This is the location where, on December 30, 1943, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose raised the Tricolour for the first time, long before India gained her independence. Similar to the Param Vir Chakra Memorial, which is devoted to the country and serves as a testament to the sacrifices made by troops, this location immediately inspires feelings of patriotism.
Cellular jail
How to reach
From anyplace in the city, one may take a cab, rickshaw, bus, or minibus to go to the cellular prison.
What to do and see
During an Andaman trip, it is imperative to attend the nighttime sound and light performance at the Cellular Jail. Recently designated as a National Memorial, the bottom level features an exhibition gallery and a photo gallery dedicated to the freedom fighters. The building’s first level has a library on the freedom movement, the Netaji Gallery, and an art gallery.
The museum also has a section devoted to the First War of Independence and an antique photo collection. Constructed in remembrance of all liberation warriors, Swatantrya Jyoti stands squarely in the middle of the prison.
Ross Island
If you visit Ross Island while in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, it’s a stunning location. If you want to spend a whole day exploring this site and learning about its historical significance, it’s a great destination to visit for hours. As the colony’s headquarters, Ross Island is home to the remnants of structures constructed during the British era.
If you visit the island now, you can experience the state-of-the-art light and sound display that the tourist administration commissioned to preserve the atmosphere from the past.
How to reach
It’s not hard to get to Ross Island; there are many ferry rides available from Marine Park in Port Blair. Ferries operate from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., so if you want to see the entire island in a day, it’s best to take one in the morning and come back in the afternoon.
What to do and view
Ross Island is now a popular tourist site for those looking to explore its ruins and experience the grandeur of bygone eras.
Ideal time to visit
November through February are the ideal months to explore Ross Island. The weather is still pleasant throughout these months, making them the finest times to visit and explore the island for sightseeing and other water sports.
Viper Island
Viper Island, which is located close to Port Blair, had an ancient British jail where they kept political prisoners and harboured criminals.
How to reach
Viper Island and Port Blair are connected via ferry.
What to do and view
It is possible to explore the former prison structure. The major port and navy ships of Port Blair are visible from the boat ride to this island. Another delight to be enjoyed here is the harbour’s expansive vista of seven points.
Ideal time to go:
While there is always year-round travel to the island, November through February are the best months to go because of the somewhat cooler temperatures and nearly nonexistent humidity.
Param Vir Chakra Memorial
The first of its type, the Param Vir Chakra Memorial, is situated in the lovely Marina Park. Lieutenant Governor Lt Gen A K Singh (Retd) has dedicated this memorial to the nation in honour of their unwavering selflessness and affection for it. All 21 of the Param Veer Chakra winners are featured in photos and descriptions on the Param Vir Chakra Memorial.
How to reach
The trip to the Param Vir Chakra Memorial, which is 8.9 kilometres from Port Blair’s centre, takes around 20 minutes.
What to do and see
The Param Vir Chakra Memorial is situated at Marina Park in Port Blair. It is here that you may browse through images of all 21 Param Veer Chakra winners. Situated within the Marina Park, one may also witness a variety of aquatic fauna and explore adjacent points of interest like the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex and Cellular Jail.
Memorial time
The Param Vir Chakra Memorial is open daily from 6:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m.
The best time to go
The year-round weather is ideal for travel, but November through February are the finest months to explore the sites and take advantage of the attractions.
Aberdeen Heritage Walk
Throughout British rule, Aberdeen was a major centre for trade and was home to several affluent stores, elegant homes, and government buildings.
A historical walk was started in Aberdeen in 2016 with the goal of educating visitors about the local customs, culture, oral history, and other related tales. Nine locations are included in the almost one-kilometer Heritage Walk, which may be completed in an hour.
The walk starts from Netaji Club Ground and ends at the Development Commissioner’s bungalow. Along the way, it passes by the Clock Tower, Police Temple, Police Masjid, Police Mandir, Supply Barrack Lane, and Andaman Club.
How to reach
There are rickshaws, buses, minibuses, and taxis that will take you to Aberdeen.
What to do and see
See historical sites such as the location where Subhash Chandra Bose raised the flag and proclaimed it the first Indian territory to be freed from foreign domination. The earliest Andamanese religious centres are also open for visits.
The best time to go
November through March in Port Blair have rather decent weather. The perfect time to schedule a heritage walk
You may also like:
The Best Beaches of Andaman
Khandala Hill Station: The Complete Travel Guide For Every Traveler
