Cellular Jail, Andaman Islands Travel Guide

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Explore Cellular Jail in Port Blair, a poignant national memorial and a symbol of India's freedom struggle, showcasing the sacrifices of freedom fighters.

The Cellular Jail, also known as 'Kala Pani', is a former British colonial prison in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Built to incarcerate political prisoners and freedom fighters, it stands as a haunting reminder of their sacrifices and the struggle for India's independence.

A brief summary to Cellular Jail

Port Blair, Atlanta Point, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, 744104, IN
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Monday 9 am-12 pm
Tuesday 9 am-12 pm
Wednesday 9 am-12 pm
Thursday 9 am-12 pm
Friday 9 am-12 pm
Saturday 9 am-12 pm
Sunday 9 am-12 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cellular Jail.

The Cellular Jail is closed on Mondays and national holidays. Plan your visit accordingly.
Photography is allowed, but there are extra charges for still and video cameras.
Consider taking a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical significance of the jail.
The Light and Sound Show is a must-see, with shows in both Hindi and English.
Book tickets for the Light and Sound show in advance to secure your seat.

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Explore Cellular Jail on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cellular Jail, mapped for you.

Getting There

Taxi/Auto-rickshaw

From Veer Savarkar International Airport or the Port Blair city center, hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Cellular Jail, located at Atlanta Point. The journey from the city center is approximately 7.8 km and takes 15-20 minutes. Auto-rickshaws are readily available and fares should be negotiated beforehand. Taxis offer a more comfortable, fixed-rate option. * Taxi fare: Approximately ₹200-₹300. * Auto-rickshaw fare: Approximately ₹100-₹150 (negotiable).
Public Transport

While public buses are available in Port Blair, they may not be as frequent or convenient as taxis or auto-rickshaws. Check local bus routes and schedules for service to Atlanta Point. From the bus stop, it may be necessary to walk a short distance to the Cellular Jail entrance. * Bus fare: Approximately ₹10-₹20.
Walking

If staying in the vicinity of Atlanta Point, consider walking to Cellular Jail. From Aberdeen Bazaar, it's a 2 km walk. Be aware of the weather conditions, as Port Blair has a tropical climate. * No cost for walking.

Discover more about Cellular Jail

The Cellular Jail, completed in 1906, is a grim yet essential historical site in Port Blair, serving as a national memorial to India's freedom movement. Constructed by the British, the puce-colored brick building was designed for solitary confinement, earning it the infamous name 'Kala Pani' (Black Water), signifying the isolation and suffering endured within its walls.The jail's architecture is based on Jeremy Bentham's panopticon design, originally comprising seven wings radiating from a central tower, allowing guards to monitor inmates at all times. Each wing consisted of three stories with 693 individual cells, measuring just 4.5 by 2.7 meters, each with a small ventilator. The cells were deliberately designed to prevent communication between prisoners. Today, only three of the original wings remain, as the jail suffered damage from earthquakes and demolitions.Notable Indian freedom fighters, including Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, Batukeshwar Dutt and Yogendra Shukla, were imprisoned here, enduring harsh conditions, forced labor, and torture. The Cellular Jail is now a museum showcasing artifacts, photographs, and documents that chronicle the lives of the prisoners and the history of India's independence movement. Visitors can explore the prison corridors, gallows, and other exhibits that offer a glimpse into the past. A moving Light and Sound show recreates the freedom struggle through dramatic light effects and narration.