Forest Museum: A Glimpse into Andaman's Timber Heritage
Explore Andaman's natural heritage at the Forest Museum, showcasing local flora, fauna, and the history of the islands' timber industry.
The Forest Museum, managed by the Forest Department of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, provides a fascinating look into the region's diverse forest ecosystems and woodcraft traditions. Situated on Chatham Island, within the historic Chatham Saw Mill complex (one of Asia's oldest and largest sawmills), the museum displays artifacts made from local woods like padauk, gurjan, satinwood, and timber. The museum's exhibits include wooden sculptures, carvings, and scale models that demonstrate the craftsmanship of local artisans and depict the islands' flora and fauna. Visitors can learn about the different tree species found in the Andamans, forest conservation efforts, and the evolution of forestry operations in the region. The museum also features a mini zoo and zoological garden, housing various species of birds, animals and endangered plants. Visiting the Forest Museum offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the ecological wealth of the Andaman Islands and the role of sustainable forestry in preserving it. It's an educational experience for nature lovers, history buffs, and those interested in local craftsmanship.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Chatham Saw Mill to see one of Asia's oldest and largest sawmills.
- Photography may be restricted inside the museum, so check before you enter.
A brief summary to Forest Museum
- MPQF+4G4 Chatham Island, Foreshore Rd, Port Blair, Haddo, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, 744102, IN
- +917428996082
- Monday 10 am-2 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-2 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-2 pm
- Thursday 10 am-2 pm
- Friday 10 am-2 pm
- Saturday 10 am-2 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From central Port Blair, take a local bus or auto-rickshaw towards Chatham Island. The Forest Museum is located within the Chatham Saw Mill complex, which is approximately 5 km from Port Blair. Bus fares are typically around INR 10-20. Auto-rickshaws may cost between INR 80-150.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Hire a taxi or ride-share from Port Blair to the Forest Museum on Chatham Island. The journey is about 5 km and takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. A taxi or ride-share may cost around INR 200-300.
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Ferry
To reach Chatham Island, you can take a ferry from Phoenix Bay Jetty in Port Blair to Bamboo Flat Jetty. From Bamboo Flat, it's a short taxi or auto-rickshaw ride to the Chatham Saw Mill and Forest Museum. The ferry costs approximately INR 14 per person. Auto-rickshaw from Bamboo Flat to the museum may cost INR 50-100.
