The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a tropical haven, not only with serene beaches but also for the rich historical significance the group of islands holds. Many of these islands have formed part of crucial moments in history, and as such, they are ideal destinations for history lovers. A trip to Andaman requires a list of historical places in Andaman and Nicobar Islands for gaining full insight into the beauty and heritage of this place. Whether you go on an Andaman tour package or travel on your own, these attractions are a peek into India's past.
Location: Port Blair
Kala Pani, or Cellular Jail, is one of the most famous historical places in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It was constructed by the British at the end of the nineteenth century in order to imprison Indian freedom fighters. The prison had dark solitary cells as well as conditions that can be referred to as torturous, therefore the prison’s infamy. It is today a national memorial and hence, is a place for everyone who wants to learn more about the freedom struggle of India.
Must-Do:
Watch the light and sound show, which depicts the moments of the freedom fighters.
Go to the galleries of clothes of prisoners.
The sunset view of Port Blair can be enjoyed from the rooftop of the jail.
Location: Near Port Blair
The island on which this political move was made is Ross Island, which has been renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, once a political-administrative centre established by the British for the Andaman Islands. Sometimes referred to as the ‘Paris of the East’ during British colonial rule, its ruins are a history of colonial elegance. This place got deserted after an earthquake in 1941 and afterwards occupied by the Japanese during the Second World War.
Must-Do:
Visit old British construction and graveyards.
Check out the colonial heritage situated in the museum on the island.
Also, do not leave the Japanese bunkers remaining from World War II, which would complete the second history of the island.
Location: Havelock Island
When most people go visiting Havelock Island, they only go for the beaches, but it has a rich history. It was initially inhabited by the native populations, however, the British later took up the mantle of its development. Nowadays, Havelock Island can be considered world-famous for tourism, but its connection to the indigenous people of the Andaman Islands is honored as well.
Must-Do:
Familiarize yourself with the indigenous culture and history, as well as relax on the beautiful Radhanagar Beach. Walk around the area, which may have been inhabited by pioneers and is now an empty desert.
Location: Near Port Blair
Even before the Cellular Jail, the British used Viper Island as a prison to imprison political prisoners. This island has its origins from the British ship by the name H.M.S. Viper and up to date contains remnants of a gallows used to hang prisoners. Tours to Viper Island present a rather dramatic vision of the colonial period in India.
Must-Do:
Crossing the old gallows and prison ruins.
To get better acquainted with the dark side of the island, take a guide tour.
Take a boat ride to the island with the wonderful scenic views to the further side of the sea.
Location: Port Blair
A century ago, the Chatham Saw Mill was a business center, having been started right from 1883, to serve the British colony’s timber demands back then. The mill has also been attacked during the Second World War bombings by the Japanese but has also been reconstructed. Today it stands as historical commercial and industrial heritage of the island.
Must-Do:
Visit the mill and museum to realizing its importance in historical places in Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Find out about the timber trade as well as its contribution to the colonial period.
Visit displays that explain the part played at the sawmill during the British colonisation..
Location: Several places in Port Blair
During World War II, the Japanese occupied Andaman and the Nicobar Islands and engineered several bunkers in Port Blair for defensive use. The following are some of the historical places in Andaman and Nicobar Islands that explain the part played by these islands during the second world war. Fortunately, a number of such bunkers exist at this moment, and one can visit these historical sites.
Must-Do:
Tour the Japanese bunkers located at Corbyn’s Cove Beach & Ross Island.
Find out more on the importance of the islands during the Second World War.
Location: Port Blair
If for some reason the indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are of interest to the visitor, there is an Anthropological Museum with exhibits detailing the lifestyle of such tribes. The museum gives extensive information on tribal groups such as Jarwa, Nicobarese, and Shompen and acquaints the travelers with the first inhabitants of the islands.
Must-Do:
Spend time in the different exhibits that contain images and items of tribal tools, jewelry, and other products.
To get information about the measures taken by the indigenous people for their lifestyle and customs.
View documentaries on the tribes' relationship with the natural environment.
Location: Port Blair
Located at Port Blair and operated by the Indian Navy, the Samudrika Naval Marine Museum showcases Andaman & Nicobar’s marine wealth and naval history. It also displays marine life, anthropology, and history, giving a balanced view of the islands and their significance.
Must-Do:
Explore the marine life section with coral, shells, and unique Andaman species.
Go to the history page to find out about the islands during colonialism and the Japanese period.
Visit the archaeology area filled with artefacts of the islands and the sea.
Conclusion
Andaman and Nicobar Islands are not only a beach tourist spot, but they are the living history of the world. History lovers can come across Cellular Jail freedom fighter tales, Ross Island and its British influence, and the history of Havelock Island within the Andaman as well. Regardless of whether you are entering Havelock Island as a part of the Andaman tour package or you are there on your own, don’t miss to visit these historical landmarks. History tourism makes the individuals have a deeper feeling of the islands, and therefore going for a holiday in Andaman and Nicobar Island is not only about sand and sea, but it is also about history. Exploring the historical places in Andaman and Nicobar Islands gives travelers a deeper connection to the islands, making your visit not just about beaches but also about uncovering India’s layered history.
Browse popular Andaman Theme Packages like: Andaman family packages, Andaman adventure packages.
Browse our Andaman packages from Indian different cities like: Andaman Packages from Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, Delhi, Ahmedabad
Also browse our popular Andaman packages by theme like: Andaman honeymoon packages, Family Tour Packages , Beach Adventure Package, Andaman Luxury Package
Copyright © 2024 All Rights Reserved
