Fri 22-08-2025 09:38
Tue 23-06-2026 03:44

Sri Vijay Puram

The Gateway to Andaman - Overview

Sri Vijaya Puram

Sri Vijaya Puram, formerly known as Port Blair (established in 1789 and named after Captain Archibald Blair of the East India Company), is the capital city and the gateway to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Located on the eastern coast of South Andaman Island, the city serves as the administrative and cultural hub. Its natural beauty, diverse marine ecosystems, and rich history create a unique combination of leisure, culture, heritage and adventure that few tourist destinations can offer.

History of Sri Vijaya Puram

Sri Vijaya Puram occupies a significant place in India's history. Historical records suggest that the Islands were used by Rajendra Chola I as a strategic naval base during the Chola Empire. During the British colonial period, Sri Vijaya Puram became the administrative headquarters of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and played a significant role in India's freedom struggle.

The iconic Cellular Jail, built to imprison political prisoners and freedom fighters, stands as a symbol of sacrifice and courage. During the Second World War, the islands came under Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945. In December 1943, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose hoisted the Indian National Flag at the site today known as Flag Point, marking an important chapter in India's independence movement.

Destination for Every Traveller

Sri Vijaya Puram is a vibrant destination that offers experiences for every type of traveller. History enthusiasts can explore Cellular Jail, Japanese Bunker, Chatham Saw Mill, the Anthropological Museum, and other heritage sites. Nature lovers can visit Chidiyatapu, Mount Manipur National Park, Wandoor Beach, and nearby islands known for their scenic beauty and biodiversity.

Adventure seekers can enjoy snorkelling, scuba diving, sea walking, kayaking, game fishing, and boat excursions to nearby attractions such as Marina Park, North Bay, Corbyn’s Cove, Chidiyatapu and Wandoor. The city's seashore drive, local markets, museums, and cultural landmarks provide visitors with an opportunity to experience the rich heritage and diverse culture of the islands.

Island Location
Emergency Numbers
Police 100
Fire 101
Ambulance 108
Tourist Helpline 1363
Coast Guard 1554

How To Reach

By Air ✈️

Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) is located approximately 3 km from Aberdeen Bazaar. It is regularly connected to major Indian cities including Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi, and Mumbai through direct and connecting flights.

By Sea 🚢

Passenger ship services operated by the Directorate of Shipping Services connect Sri Vijaya Puram with Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam via Haddo Wharf. The journey typically takes 60–72 hours depending on weather and sea conditions.
Book Ship Tickets Online

Inter-Island Connectivity ⛵

Regular ferry and cruise services operate from Phoenix Bay Jetty & Haddo Jetty, around 3 to 5km from the airport, connecting Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep, Little Andaman, Rangat, Mayabunder, and Diglipur.
Government Ferry: DSS E-Ticketing Portal
Private Ferry: Makruzz, Nautika & Green Ocean

Wandoor Beach
Explore Beach
Corbyn’s Cove Beach
Explore Beach
Wandoor Beach
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Chidiya Tapu
Explore Beach
Cellular Jail
Explore Heritage
Chatham Island
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Balidan Vedi
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Netaji Flag Hoisting Memorial
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Param Vir Chakra Memorial
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Aberdeen Heritage Walk
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Anthropological Museum
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Forest Museum
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Bird Watching
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Harbour and dinner cruise
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Festivals of Andaman and Nicobar Islands
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Parasailing Thrills
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Travel Information

Weather Profile

Best Season

September to March: Pleasant weather, calm seas, and clear skies — ideal for sightseeing, island excursions, water sports, scuba diving, snorkelling, and all beach activities. This is the peak visitor season.

Monsoon

June to September: The islands transform into a lush green paradise with moderate to heavy rainfall. While beautiful for nature lovers, outdoor activities and ferry services may occasionally be affected by weather conditions.

Year-Round

Temperature: 23°C – 31°C.
Sri Vijaya Puram experiences a warm, tropical maritime climate throughout the year. Temperatures remain remarkably stable, making it a viable destination in every season.

Food and Stay

Accommodation

Sri Vijaya Puram offers lodging for every budget: luxury resorts, premium hotels, budget stays, guest houses, homestays, hostels, and government tourism lodges, all conveniently located near the Aberdeen Bazaar, Airport area, Phoenix Bay, Junglighat, Corbyn’s Cove Road, Haddo Sea Shore Road and major attractions.

Advance Booking is recommended during the peak tourist season. (Book registered lodges)

Culinary Delights

Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, South Indian, North Indian, Bengali, and international cuisine. Freshly caught seafood, prawn curries, crab, and grilled lobster are local favourites, while the city's diverse culture ensures a wide range of authentic South Indian breakfast and traditional Bengali fish and multi-cuisine North Indian restaurants.

Most restaurants, cafés, and eateries are concentrated around Aberdeen Bazaar, Marina Park, Delanipur, Junglighat, Haddo, and the beachfront areas of Sri Vijaya Puram, with additional dining options available at major tourist destinations across the islands.

Transport Facilities Inside Sri Vijaya Puram

Getting around the capital city is simple and traveller-friendly. Choose from a range of convenient local transport options:

Cabs

Prepaid cabs are available at the airport terminal and near the Aberdeen Bazaar area for sightseeing.

Two-Wheeler Rentals

Scooters and motorcycles are available for daily rental across Sri Vijaya Puram. Most rental operators are located in Aberdeen Bazaar, Junglighat, Phoenix Bay, Marine Hill, Dollygunj, Goal Ghar, and Bhathubasti. A valid driving licence is required, and many operators offer vehicle delivery and pickup services.

Public Buses

Government buses operate regularly, connecting visitors to major attractions on different islands. Mohanpura Bus Terminal is the major hub for buses to different locations in the Andaman Islands through the ANTS Portal.

Auto-Rickshaws

Readily available at every street corner for quick point-to-point drops within city limits. Convenient from Aberdeen Bazaar, Junglighat, Haddo, and Goal Ghar.

Entry Permits and Visitor Regulations

Visitors must comply with all applicable Protected Area and Restricted Area regulations during their stay. Prior permission to certain islands may be obtained through the Van Anumati Portal.

Indian Nationals

A valid government-issued photo ID is required for travel and hotel check-ins.

Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals must carry a valid Passport, Indian Visa (including e-Visa), and identification documents during their stay.

Things to Remember Before Planning Your Visit

  1. Pre-Book Your Ferries: Book government ferries through the DSS E-Ticketing Portal and Private cruise tickets (Makruzz, Nautika & Green Ocean) online in advance, especially for Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep.
  2. Strict Environmental Laws: Single-use plastics are strictly banned across the Andaman Islands due to its ecologically sensitive zone. Do not carry plastic carry bags, and avoid littering. Touching, stepping on, or collecting corals and seashells is a punishable legal offence.

Tourist Information Centres

Reach out to our official centres for assistance, bookings, and guidance during your visit.

Directorate of Tourism (A&N Administration)

Sri Vijaya Puram, 744101

Timings: 8.30 AM – 12.30 PM; 2.00 PM – 5.00 PM

Phone: 03192 – 232694

Email: touristhelpdeskandamans@gmail.com

Andaman Tourism (ANIIDCO)

TTDC Complex, Wallajah Road,
Near Kalaivanar Arangam,
Chennai – 600102

Mobile: 09841015934

Phone: 044-25360952, 24743238

Veer Savarkar International Airport

Sri Vijaya Puram

Phone: 03192 – 232414

India Tourism Office

Junglighat, Sri Vijaya Puram

Tourist Information Centre

Swaraj Dweep Jetty, Swaraj Dweep

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