Cellular Jail Andaman: History, Kala Pani & Light Show

A view of the main entrance to the historic Cellular Jail Andaman, showcasing its red brick facade, two large circular towers, and a red-tiled roof under a cloudy sky.

Andamanoceanandhills@gmail.com September 23, 2025

The Cellular Jail Andaman is more than a monument it’s a living reminder of India’s freedom struggle. Once feared as Kala Pani, this massive colonial prison was where the British exiled revolutionaries to break their spirit through isolation. Walk past its high brick walls and you’ll feel the weight of history in the eerie silence. Today it stands as both a national memorial and a major tourist stop in Port Blair, drawing visitors for its powerful stories and the captivating Cellular Jail Light and Sound Show that brings those dark days to life each evening.

Brief History of Cellular Jail Andaman

Built by the British in the late 19th century, the Cellular Jail Andaman was designed to isolate and punish India’s bravest revolutionaries. This massive brick prison, feared as Kala Pani, kept inmates cut off from the mainland so their voices could never reach home. Each prisoner lived in a solitary cell, enduring hard labor and brutal torture. Many prominent patriots were imprisoned here. Some of the notable figures from the list of 10 freedom fighters in Cellular Jail include Veer Savarkar, Batukeshwar Dutt, Bipin Chandra Pal, Aruna Asaf Ali, Devabrata Biswas, Makhanlal Chaturvedi, Ramananda Chatterjee, Nagesh Shukla, Durgawati Devi (Durga Bhabhi), and Harinarayan Apte. Their courage and sacrifices make the Cellular Jail a powerful symbol of India’s struggle for independence.

Portrait of Veer Savarkar, an Indian revolutionary and freedom fighter, known for his armed struggle against British rule.

Portrait of Batukeshwar Dutt, an Indian revolutionary who participated in the 1929 Central Legislative Assembly bombing with Bhagat Singh.

Portrait of Durgawati Devi, also known as Durga Bhabhi, an Indian revolutionary who played a key role in the independence movement.

Visitor Information

The Cellular Jail Andaman is in Port Blair, just 5–6 km from the airport, reachable by taxi or auto in 15–20 minutes.

The Jail Museum is open daily from 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM, closed on National Holidays, with last entry at 3:50 PM. Tickets cost ₹30 for Indians and ₹100 for foreigners. Cameras and film-shooting require additional fees.

The evening Light and Sound Show offers Hindi shows at 5:50 PM, 6:50 PM, 7:50 PM (selected days) and an English show at 6:50 PM. Tickets are ₹300 per adult, ₹150 per child.

The best time to visit is October to March. Allow 2–3 hours to explore the museum and watch the show for a complete experience.

Architecture & Cellular Jail Museum

The Cellular Jail Andaman was originally designed with seven wings radiating from a central watchtower, each containing solitary cells built for complete isolation. Today, only three wings remain, but the layout still reflects the strict colonial design. Visitors can explore the central tower and cells, experiencing firsthand the harsh conditions faced by prisoners, and enjoy the roof viewpoint for a panoramic view of Port Blair.

The Cellular Jail Museum preserves the history of the prison and its inmates. It features photographs, personal belongings, letters, and artifacts that tell the stories of India’s freedom fighters and their struggles during the Kala Pani era. Alongside the museum, the Martyrs’ Memorial honors the brave prisoners, making this part of the jail a must-visit for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Cellular Jail Light and Sound Show

The Cellular Jail Light and Sound Show is an evening experience that brings the history of the jail and its brave inmates to life. Through dramatic narration, lighting effects, and music, visitors can relive the stories of sacrifice and courage from India’s freedom struggle.

Visitors can secure their Cellular Jail Light and Sound Show tickets online or at the gate. Ticket prices are ₹300 per adult and ₹150 per child (ages 5–11). The Cellular Jail Light Show timings vary by language: Hindi shows are typically at 5:50 PM, 6:50 PM, and 7:50 PM on select days, while English shows are at 6:50 PM on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

The show is highly recommended as it complements a daytime visit to the museum and cells, offering a complete understanding of the jail’s historic significance.

Historical figures are projected onto the outer wall of the Cellular Jail during the Cellular Jail Light and Sound Show, as a crowd of people watches and takes pictures.

The Cellular Jail building is illuminated in the colors of the Indian flag—saffron, white, and green—during a night-time spectacle of the Cellular Jail Light and Sound Show.

Travel Tips

Book in advance: Secure Light & Sound Show tickets online or at the gate to avoid long queues.
Best schedule: Visit in the late afternoon to explore the jail and museum, then stay for the evening show for a complete experience.
Stay comfortable: Carry water, wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for some walking.
Photography: Check and follow the museum’s photography rules to avoid any issues.

Nearby Attractions

Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island): Historic island with British-era ruins and scenic views.
Marina Park & Aquarium: Ideal for a relaxed stroll and a glimpse of marine life.
Corbyn’s Cove Beach: Perfect for sunset views and water activities near Port Blair.

Conclusion

The Cellular Jail Andaman is not just a monument it’s a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by India’s freedom fighters. Visiting the jail offers a deep insight into the struggles of the past, and the experience is best appreciated with respect and reflection. For anyone traveling to Port Blair, the Cellular Jail is a must-visit for history, heritage, and inspiration.