Cellular Jail
The Cellular Jail located at Port Blair is a massive structure which was built for the solitary confinement of the prisoners (freedom fighters) during the British Rule in India. Completed in 1906, this infamous symbol of colonial oppression was built in such a way that each prisoner would get an individual cell. Designed specially for solitary confinement, it had earned the dreaded name Kala Pani or “Black Waters” reflecting the atrocities that awaited the prisoners.
A part of the jail was destroyed by the Japanese troops during World War II. In 1945 the British recaptured the island and closed the jail. Out of the seven wings laid out around a central watchtower, only three are remaining. The cells are 3 by 3.5 m in size. Daily rations consisted of two cups of water and two cups of rice which were provided to the prisoners.
This puce-coloured building, now a national memorial is visited widely by tourists from across the globe. It remains one of the most prominent landmarks of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
There is also a Museum, an Art gallery, and a Photo gallery, which are open on all days except Monday from 9.00 AM to 12 Noon and 2.00 PM to 5.00 PM.
Ross Island
Once the seat of British power and capital of these Islands, it stands now as a ruin of the bygone days with the old structure almost in debris. The island houses the ruins of old buildings like Ballroom, Chief Commissioner’s House, Govt. House, Church, Hospital, Bakery, Press, Swimming Pool and Troop Barracks, all are in an abandoned condition.
There is a small museum established by the Indian Navy and is named 'Smritika' that holds photographs and other antiques of the British relevant to these islands. The island is open to the visitors during day time as the boat services are available from the Phoenix Bay jetty at 8.30 AM, 10.30 AM, and 12.30 PM.
Viper Island
The British used to imprison convicts here. The first jail was constructed here which was abandoned after the construction of Cellular Jail. It has a gallows atop a hillock, where condemned prisoners were hanged. Sher Ali, who killed Lord Mayo, the Viceroy of India in 1872, was also hanged here.
Today it is a popular site for tourists who visit the island to have a glimpse of the British colonial era. Tourists can reach the spot from Port Blair by using waterways. The sailing provides a panoramic view of different point around the island. Only