Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, serves as the primary entry point for travelers exploring the archipelago. It is located on the east coast of the South Andaman Island. With its vibrant mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, Port Blair welcomes visitors who typically spend 1-2 nights at the beginning and last night of their journey, aligning with flight timings. This strategic stop allows travelers to acclimate to the tropical paradise and immerse themselves in the historical significance of sites like Cellular Jail and the serene beauty of Corbyn's Cove Beach.
The mainland of Port Blair is the primary gateway to nearby islands such as Neil Island, Ross Island, Rutland Island, Viper Island, Jolly Buoy Island, and Barren Island (known for the only active volcano on the Indian Subcontinent). Chidiya Tapu (a small beach famous for bird watching and catching the sunset) is just 28km away from Port Blair.
Port Blair is home to attractions such as the scenic Wandoor Beach (famous for swimming and coral sighting) and several museums, the most famous being the Anthropological Museum, which sheds light on the protection of local tribes of the Andamans, and the Samudrika Naval Marine Museum, which aims to promote marine conservation.
The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is west of Port Blair and is the oldest national park in the Andaman islands. It aims to protect marine life, corals, and nesting sea turtles and is revered among nature lovers and conservationists across India.
Port Blair is well connected with mainland India by both air and sea. While it is still impossible to fly to Port Blair from outside India, there are many direct flights connecting Port Blair to all major cities in India, the quickest of them being from Kolkata, Chennai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bhubaneshwar, and Vishakhapatnam. Port Blair is also connected by sea to Kolkata, Chennai, or Vishakhapatnam, although the travel time is 3-4 days.
The best time to visit Port Blair is between October and May, as these months offer pleasant weather with moderate temperatures and minimal rainfall. During this period, travelers can enjoy the pristine beaches, historical landmarks, and outdoor activities without the interruption of heavy monsoon rains.
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