Best of AndamanThink one day isn’t enough to explore Port Blair? Think again. From sunrise at the beach to sunset at Chidiya Tapu, here’s how to make the most of your day in Andaman’s capital.
Introduction
One day in Port Blair can actually go a long way—if you know where to go.
Most travelers either treat it as a stopover or rush through without realizing how much this compact capital actually offers. But within just a few kilometers, you’ve got serene beaches, historic landmarks, scenic islands, and unforgettable sunsets.
In this blog, we’ve laid out a simple, time-friendly plan that covers the top places to visit near Port Blair in one day. Whether you’re landing in the morning or catching a ferry the next day, this itinerary helps you experience the best of nature, history, and local charm without wasting time figuring it out on the spot.
Corbyn’s Cove Beach and Cellular Jail, Port Blair (8:30 AM – 11:00 AM)
Your one-day journey in Port Blair starts with a quiet morning at Corbyn’s Cove Beach—just 8 km from the town center. It’s a peaceful stretch of sand where you can catch the early sun, sip a quick coconut water, or take a short walk before the day picks up. From there, it’s a quick drive to the iconic Cellular Jail, a major historical landmark in Port Blair. Known for its powerful stories and preserved architecture, the Cellular Jail Museum offers a moving look into India’s freedom struggle. Visiting both Corbyn’s Cove and the Cellular Jail in the morning gives you the perfect balance of nature and history before you head out to the islands later in the day.
Ross Island Trip from Water Sports Complex (11:30 AM – 2:00 PM)
Late in the morning, head over to the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex to catch a ferry to Ross Island, now known as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island. It’s just a short 15–20 minute ride across the water, but it feels like you’re stepping into another world. Once you arrive, take your time wandering through shady trails, old British buildings, and crumbling ruins—like the church, bakery, and officer quarters. You’ll probably run into a few friendly deer and maybe even spot some peacocks along the way. The abandoned Japanese bunkers tucked into the greenery give the place a cool, slightly eerie vibe. Plan to spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring, then hop on the return ferry by 1:45 PM so you’re back in Port Blair by 2:00 PM right on schedule for the next part of your day.
Chidiya Tapu – Port Blair’s Sunset Point (2:30 PM – 6:10 PM)
After lunch, aim your wheels south toward Chidiya Tapu, roughly 25 km from Port Blair—about a 45‑minute drive that swaps city streets for forested curves. Locals call it the ultimate sunset point in Port Blair, and for good reason: the light here can turn the whole bay gold. Get to Chidiya Tapu Beach by 3:30 PM so you’ve got time to walk the short nature trail, scan the mangroves for kingfishers, and line up a few photos of this quiet corner of Chidiya Tapu, Andaman. Stick around until the sky melts into oranges and pinks around 5:30–6:00 PM, then start the ride back at 6:10 PM to keep your one‑day Port Blair itinerary on track.
Cellular Jail Light and Sound Show (7:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Wrap up your one-day tour with the Light and Sound Show at Cellular Jail, a powerful way to end your Port Blair experience. The show usually starts around 6:55 or 7:15 PM, depending on the season, so it’s best to book your tickets in advance to avoid last-minute hassles. The storytelling, combined with lights projected onto the jail walls, brings history to life in a way that’s both emotional and unforgettable. From the voices of freedom fighters to atmospheric music, it adds real depth to what you saw earlier in the day. To check Cellular Jail light and sound show timings or ticket prices, you can visit the official website or ask your hotel to assist with ticket booking. It’s not just a show it’s a moment of reflection that ties your whole day together.
Conclusion
One day might feel short, but if you plan it right, it’s more than enough to take in some of the best that Port Blair has to offer. From early-morning beach walks at Corbyn’s Cove to exploring colonial ruins on Ross Island, soaking in the sunset at Chidiya Tapu, and ending with the powerful Light and Sound Show at Cellular Jail—this itinerary gives you a complete and memorable slice of Andaman in just a single day.
If you’re planning your trip and want a hassle-free experience, you can book this one-day Port Blair tour with Andaman Ocean Hills. We follow this exact route to help you make the most of your limited time without missing a thing.
Want more? Check out our blog on the 50 Best Places to Visit in Andaman for ideas beyond Port Blair.
