Cellular Jail

Cellular Jail, also known as “Kala Pani,” is a historically significant building located in Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It holds a prominent place in India’s struggle for independence and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by freedom fighters during British colonial rule.

Constructed in the late 19th century by the British, the Cellular Jail was designed as a panopticon-style prison, consisting of seven wings radiating from a central watchtower. Each wing had multiple individual cells, hence the name “cellular.” The unique design allowed the jailers to keep a constant watch on the inmates with minimal staff.

The Cellular Jail was used to incarcerate political prisoners, mainly freedom fighters from different parts of India who were actively involved in the fight for independence. They were subjected to harsh and inhumane conditions, enduring extreme heat, isolation, and physical torture. The primary objective was to crush their spirits and break their determination to fight for India’s freedom.

Despite the oppressive conditions, the political prisoners displayed remarkable resilience and solidarity, turning the jail into a symbol of resistance against British rule. They communicated with each other through secret codes and signals, which helped in maintaining their spirits and camaraderie.

Today, the Cellular Jail stands as a national memorial, preserving the memories of India’s struggle for freedom. It houses a museum that provides insights into the lives of the brave freedom fighters who were imprisoned here. A visit to Cellular Jail offers a somber yet enlightening experience, allowing visitors to pay homage to the valiant souls who fought for the country’s independence. The Light and Sound Show held in the evenings narrates the poignant history of the jail and its role in the freedom movement, making it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Cellular Jail

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How to Reach Cellular Jail

To reach the Cellular Jail in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, you can follow these steps:

  1. Arrive in Port Blair: The first step is to reach Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. You can do this by taking a flight to the Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), which is well-connected to major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bangalore.
  2. From the Airport: After arriving at the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-booked transfer to reach your accommodation in Port Blair. Many hotels and resorts offer airport transfers for their guests.
  3. Travel within Port Blair: Port Blair is relatively small and easy to navigate. You can use local taxis, auto-rickshaws, or rent a two-wheeler to move around the city and explore nearby attractions.
  4. Cellular Jail: The Cellular Jail is situated in the heart of Port Blair, on South Andaman Island. It is located at a distance of approximately 2-3 kilometers from the city center. You can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the Cellular Jail from your accommodation. The journey takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Entry and Timings

The Cellular Jail is open for visitors from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM  and 13:00pm to 16:45pm every day, except on national holidays. There is an entry fee for Indian and foreign tourists, and it also includes access to the Light and Sound Show that takes place in the evenings.

Entry Fees at Cellular Jail

The entry fees for visiting the Cellular Jail in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, were as follows:

For Indian Citizens:

  • Adults: Rs. 30 per person
  • Children (age 5 to 12 years): Rs. 10 per person

For Foreign Nationals:

  • Adults: Rs. 100 per person
  • Children (age 5 to 12 years): Rs. 25 per person

For Video Camera:

  • Video Camera/ Handy Camera (Nonprofessional): Rs.200/-
  • Video Camera/ Handy Camera (professional): Rs.1000/-
  • Film Shooting on freedom movement (with prior permission) : Rs.10,000/-
Cellular-Jail

Things to do in Cellular Jail Port Blair

Visiting the Cellular Jail in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is not just a historical experience but also an opportunity to engage in various activities that offer insights into India’s struggle for independence and the life of the freedom fighters imprisoned there. Here are some things to do at the Cellular Jail:

  1. Guided Tour: Take a guided tour of the Cellular Jail to learn about its history, architecture, and the plight of the freedom fighters who were incarcerated here during the British colonial rule. The guides provide detailed information about the jail’s infamous past, its architecture, and the stories of the brave prisoners.
  2. Light and Sound Show: Attend the mesmerizing Light and Sound Show held in the evening at the Cellular Jail. The show narrates the saga of the Indian freedom struggle, bringing alive the heroic tales of the freedom fighters. The combination of light effects, sound effects, and storytelling creates a powerful and emotional experience.
  3. Explore the Exhibits: Inside the Cellular Jail, there is a museum that showcases various exhibits related to India’s freedom movement, the lives of the political prisoners, and the struggle for independence. Explore the exhibits to get a deeper understanding of the historical significance of the jail.
  4. Photography: Capture the historical essence and architectural beauty of the Cellular Jail through photography. The intricate design of the building and the surrounding premises offer great opportunities for photography.
  5. Pay Tribute at the Martyrs’ Memorial: Located within the premises of the Cellular Jail, the Martyrs’ Memorial is a tribute to the brave freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence. Take a moment to pay your respects to these heroes.
  6. Reflect and Contemplate: The Cellular Jail, with its haunting history, provides a serene environment for reflection and contemplation. Sit in the peaceful surroundings and reflect on the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters and the significance of their struggle.
  7. Shopping: The Cellular Jail complex has small souvenir shops where you can buy books, postcards, and other mementos related to the Andaman Islands’ history and culture.
  8. Enjoy the View: The Cellular Jail is located on a beautiful stretch of land surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy the scenic views and the refreshing sea breeze while strolling through the jail’s premises.

Sightseeing Near to Cellular Jail

  1. Corbyn’s Cove Beach: Located just a few kilometers away from the Cellular Jail, Corbyn’s Cove Beach is a beautiful sandy beach with clear blue waters, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and water activities. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like jet skiing and banana boat rides here.
  2. Anthropological Museum: Situated around 3 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, the Anthropological Museum showcases the rich cultural heritage and history of the indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It exhibits tribal artifacts, tools, photographs, and models representing the island’s tribal communities.
  3. Fisheries Museum: This museum, located approximately 3.5 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, is a fascinating place to learn about the marine life of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It houses a diverse collection of marine specimens, including rare species of fish, coral reefs, and shells.
  4. Samudrika Naval Marine Museum: Around 4 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, this museum is run by the Indian Navy and focuses on the unique geography, ecology, and marine life of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It also provides insights into the island’s tribal culture, history, and the 2004 tsunami.
  5. Cellular Jail Memorial: Right next to the Cellular Jail, there is a memorial dedicated to the freedom fighters who were imprisoned in the jail. It honors their sacrifices and serves as a reminder of their contribution to India’s independence struggle.
  6. Chatham Saw Mill: About 4 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, the Chatham Saw Mill is one of the oldest and largest sawmills in Asia. It offers an interesting glimpse into the process of wood cutting and milling, as well as the island’s forestry history.
  7. Marina Park and Aquarium: Located approximately 3 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, Marina Park is a popular spot for evening walks and leisure activities. The adjoining aquarium showcases a variety of marine life found in the Andaman waters.
  8. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island): You can take a boat ride from the Water Sports Complex, which is around 3 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, to reach Ross Island. Once a British administrative headquarters, it now stands in ruins, surrounded by lush greenery, and offers a glimpse into its past grandeur.

Popular Hotels Near to Cellular Jail, Port Blair

  1. Sinclairs Bayview Port Blair: This hotel is located about 1.5 kilometers from the Cellular Jail and offers beautiful views of the sea. It is known for its comfortable rooms, good hospitality, and convenient location.
  2. Hotel Sentinel: Situated around 2 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, Hotel Sentinel offers modern amenities and a rooftop swimming pool with views of the city. It is a popular choice for travelers looking for a comfortable stay.
  3. Hotel Sea Shell: Located approximately 2 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, Hotel Sea Shell is known for its pleasant ambiance, well-appointed rooms, and proximity to the city center.
  4. Hotel GB Oceania: This hotel is situated around 2.5 kilometers from the Cellular Jail and is known for its friendly staff and clean rooms. It offers a comfortable stay at a reasonable price.
  5. Hotel Shompen: Located about 3 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, Hotel Shompen is a centrally located property with modern amenities and easy access to various attractions.
  6. J Hotel: Situated around 3.5 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, J Hotel offers comfortable rooms and a rooftop restaurant with scenic views.
  7. Hotel De Marina: This hotel is about 4 kilometers from the Cellular Jail and provides a pleasant stay with decent facilities.
  8. Hotel Haywizz: Located about 2.5 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, Hotel Haywizz offers comfortable rooms and a rooftop restaurant with lovely views of the city.
  9. Hotel Aparupa: Situated around 3 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, Hotel Aparupa provides a budget-friendly stay with basic amenities and easy access to nearby attractions.
  10. Hotel Rhishabh: This hotel is approximately 3.5 kilometers from the Cellular Jail and offers comfortable rooms and friendly service.
  11. Hotel Marina Manor: Located about 4 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, Hotel Marina Manor provides a pleasant stay and is known for its hospitality.
  12. Hotel Anchorage Inn: Situated around 4 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, Hotel Anchorage Inn offers a cozy stay and is well-connected to other parts of the city.
  13. Hotel Marine View: This hotel is about 4.5 kilometers from the Cellular Jail and offers budget-friendly accommodation with essential amenities.
  14. Hotel Diviyum Manor: Located around 5 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, Hotel Diviyum Manor offers comfortable rooms and a convenient stay.
  15. Peerless Sarovar Portico: Situated approximately 5.5 kilometers from the Cellular Jail, this hotel offers a luxurious stay with modern amenities and a serene ambiance.

Popular Hotels near Cellular Jail

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