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Cellular Jail

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historical-site
—°17
Cellular Jail (India)

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The Cellular Jail in Port Blair, popularly known as 'Kala Pani' (Black Water), was a notorious British colonial prison in the remote Andaman and Nicobar Islands used primarily to exile political prisoners. Completed in 1906, the jail featured a unique radial design with seven wings extending from a central watchtower, allowing for constant surveillance of all inmates. The name 'Cellular' refers to the individual cells that ensured total solitary confinement, preventing any communication between the freedom fighters incarcerated there. Notable figures of the Indian independence movement, such as Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, endured years of brutal labor and severe physical hardship within its walls. During World War II, the islands were occupied by the Japanese, further complicating the site's dark history. Following India's independence, much of the structure was demolished, but three remaining wings were preserved and converted into a national memorial in 1969. Today, the complex hosts a light and sound show that chronicles the resilience of the prisoners and the harsh realities of colonial incarceration.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272728292929282828282828
Rain mm42124072359384370344410231190113

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Cellular Jail in the Andaman Islands is a historic prison now serving as a memorial. Visitors can tour the cells, courtyard, and museum.
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Typical hours
The jail is usually open from 9 AM to 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM, except Mondays. Plan your visit accordingly.
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Photography
Photography is allowed in most areas without flash. The museum does not permit photos of exhibits.
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Time needed
A visit takes about one to one and a half hours. If you also want to see the evening light and sound show, come later.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Anthropological Museum and Corbyn's Cove Beach. Port Blair itself has more historical sites.
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Getting there
Cellular Jail is located in Port Blair, about 3 km from the bus stand. Taxis and rickshaws are the best modes of transport.
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Insider tip
Book tickets for the evening show in advance as they sell out quickly. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking.

Geography

Coordinates
11.67300, 92.74300

Facts

  • The construction of the jail was completed in 1906.
  • The facility originally housed 693 individual isolation cells.
  • The radial design consisted of seven wings radiating from a tower.
  • Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was imprisoned here from 1911 to 1921.
  • The jail was dedicated as a national memorial in 1969.
  • The Japanese military controlled the prison during World War II.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Port BlairPort Blair<1 km · SExplore →
Krishna Nagar VillageKrishna Nagar Village26 km · NExplore →
Govind NagarGovind Nagar28 km · NExplore →
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)33 km · NExplore →
Arakan MountainsArakan Mountains96 km · NWExplore →
KyaukpyuKyaukpyu100 km · NWExplore →
Kyaukpyu Special Economic ZoneKyaukpyu Special Economic Zone105 km · NWExplore →
Rakhine CoastRakhine Coast147 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Cellular Jail (17)

Emrald viewpoint🌿 nature

This viewpoint provides panoramic vistas over the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea.

Semiramis Bay📍 landmark

A scenic bay near Port Blair known for its calm tropical waters.

Stewartganj Creek📍 landmark

A tranquil waterway lined with dense mangrove forests and local settlements.

Aquarium🎡 recreation

This aquarium showcases the diverse marine life of the Indo-Pacific, including coral reef fish and sea turtles.

Veer Savarkar Prison Cell📍 landmark

The specific cell in Cellular Jail where the Indian freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was incarcerated.

Clock tower🏺 historical

A colonial-era landmark in the center of Port Blair, commemorating local residents.

Gandhi statue🏺 historical

A prominent bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi located in a central public park.

Zonal Anthropological Museum🏛 museum

This museum displays artifacts and history of the indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

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Samudrika marine museum🏛 museum

Run by the Indian Navy, this museum features a blue whale skeleton and displays on ocean ecology.

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Mini Zoo🎡 recreation

A small facility housing endemic species of the islands, such as the Andaman pig.

Forest Museum🏛 museum

Located at Chatham, this museum displays timber artifacts and information on tropical forestry.

Gandhi Park🌿 nature

A central green space with a lake, walking paths, and a statue of Mahatma Gandhi.

Delanipur Park🌿 nature

A neighborhood park offering sea views and recreational space for locals.

Rajastan⛪ religious

A religious site for the local Rajasthani community in Port Blair.

Ramakrishna Mission⛪ religious

A spiritual center offering meditation and social services based on the teachings of Ramakrishna.

Kali⛪ religious

A temple dedicated to the goddess Kali, central to the Bengali community in the islands.

Sabzi Mandi🎭 culture

A spirited vegetable market selling fresh local produce and tropical fruits.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is the jail called 'Kala Pani'?
It means 'Black Water', referring to the remote sea location from which there was no escape for prisoners.
Is there a sound and light show?
Yes, there are evening shows in Hindi and English narrating the history of the freedom fighters.
Can you visit the cells?
Yes, visitors can walk through the jail wings and view the stark solitary cells.
Where is Cellular Jail located?
It is located in Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Is there a weekly holiday?
The jail is typically closed to visitors on national holidays.
Cellular Jail: where is it located?
Cellular Jail is located in India.
Cellular Jail: what is there to see?
Highlights include Emrald viewpoint, Semiramis Bay, Stewartganj Creek.
Cellular Jail: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Cellular Jail: why is it worth visiting?
The Cellular Jail in Port Blair, popularly known as 'Kala Pani' (Black Water), was a notorious British colonial prison in the remote Andaman and Nicobar Islands used primarily to exile political prisoners.
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Krishna Nagar Village — Cellular Jail (India)
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Govind Nagar — Cellular Jail (India)
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Vijay Nagar — Cellular Jail (India)
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A paradisiacal coastal stretch on Havelock Island (Andamans), known for turquoise waters and white sandy beaches under Mahua trees.
Port Blair — Cellular Jail (India)
Port Blair
Port Blair is the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, known for its deep historical roots and colonial heritage.
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) — Cellular Jail (India)
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
Neil Island is a peaceful retreat known for its laid-back vibe, vibrant coral reefs, and unique natural rock formations.