Port Blair: Walking Through India’s Freedom Struggle

Port Blair is more than a transit point; it’s a museum of India’s freedom struggle. The Cellular Jail stands as the island’s most powerful monument – a seven-pronged building that once held political prisoners in solitary confinement. Walking through its corridors, you can still feel the damp chill of oppression.

I joined the guided tour, which takes you through the jail’s history – from the construction by the British in 1906 to the brutal conditions inmates endured. Each cell measured just 4.5 by 2.7 metres, with no windows except a small ventilator. Prisoners were not allowed to speak to each other; their only company was the clanking of chains and the distant roar of the sea. The names of revolutionaries like Vinayak Savarkar, Batukeshwar Dutt, and Yogendra Shukla are carved into the walls – reminders that freedom came at a terrible price.

In the evening, I attended the Light and Sound Show – a 45-minute spectacle that narrates the jail’s story through projections, music, and a moving voice-over. It ends with the Indian flag fluttering on the jail’s rooftop, a poignant symbol of triumph over tyranny. I won’t lie – I had tears in my eyes.

Ross Island

A short ferry ride away is Ross Island (now Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island). Once the British administrative headquarters, it now lies in ruins – banyan trees enveloping old churches, a bakery, and a swimming pool built for colonial officers. Deer and peacocks roam freely, giving the place an eerie, post-apocalyptic feel. I spent an hour exploring the crumbling structures, imagining the grand parties that once took place there.

Viper Island

Nearby Viper Island is less visited but equally haunting – it held prisoners before the Cellular Jail was built. Today, only a dilapidated gallows and a few ruins remain, surrounded by thick mangroves.

These historical sites are not tourist attractions; they are pilgrimage spots for every Indian. Visiting them deepened my gratitude for the freedoms we often take for granted. Port Blair isn’t just a gateway to beaches – it’s a gateway to remembering who we are.

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Best Time to Visit the Andaman Islands: A Month-by-Month Guide

The Andaman Islands enjoy a tropical climate, but choosing the right time can make or break your trip. Here’s a practical month-by-month breakdown based on my experience and local advice.

October to February (Peak Season)

This is the sweet spot. The monsoon has retreated, the skies are clear, and the sea is calm. Temperatures hover around 25–30°C – pleasant for both beach lounging and diving. December and January are the busiest; book ferries and accommodation well in advance. I visited in November and found perfect weather – barely a drop of rain, visibility underwater at its best.

March to May (Shoulder Season)

The heat builds up, with temperatures reaching 35°C and humidity soaring. Mornings are still fine, but afternoons can be uncomfortable. That said, the seas remain clear, and you’ll find fewer tourists – great for budget travellers. It’s also the nesting season for sea turtles on many beaches – a spectacular sight if you’re lucky.

June to September (Monsoon)

Heavy rains lash the islands, often accompanied by strong winds and rough seas. Ferry services frequently get cancelled, and diving is limited. I wouldn’t recommend this period unless you’re prepared for indoor activities and constant uncertainty. However, the islands turn lush green and waterfalls cascade down the hills – a different kind of beauty for the adventurous.

Pro tip: The Andaman Islands lie close to the equator, so daylight is fairly consistent year-round – about 6 am to 6 pm. Always carry a raincoat, even in peak season, because tropical showers can appear without warning.

Best Months for Diving & Birdwatching

If you’re a diver, aim for February to April – the water is warmest (around 28°C) and visibility often exceeds 30 metres. For birdwatchers, the winter months (November–February) bring migratory species.

I planned my trip in November, and it was ideal – no cyclones, glassy seas, and comfortable nights. Whatever you choose, keep a flexible itinerary; island weather is famously unpredictable. And remember – even a rainy day in the Andamans is better than a sunny day in the office!

— Brought to you by The Kite Journeys – explore more at
thekitejourneys.com