About Cellular Jail
Cellular Jail, famously known as Kala Pani, is one of the most significant historical landmarks in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Located in Port Blair, this colonial-era prison was constructed by the British between 1896 and 1906 to exile and imprison Indian freedom fighters during the struggle for independence. The jail was designed to isolate prisoners from each other, making it extremely difficult for them to communicate or organize rebellions.
The prison originally had seven wings radiating from a central tower, resembling a starfish structure. Each wing contained hundreds of solitary cells where prisoners were kept in harsh and inhumane conditions. Many prominent freedom fighters such as Veer Savarkar, Batukeshwar Dutt, and Yogendra Shukla were imprisoned here. Because of its brutal punishment system and the isolation from mainland India, the jail became widely known as “Kala Pani,” which means black waters.
Today, Cellular Jail stands as a National Memorial dedicated to the brave freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for India's independence. The site has been converted into a museum where visitors can learn about the history of the Indian freedom struggle. The jail also hosts a famous Light and Sound Show in the evening that narrates the heroic stories of the prisoners and the history of the Andaman Islands. Visiting Cellular Jail is both an emotional and educational experience that reflects the sacrifices made by countless patriots.
Activities
• Explore the historic prison building and solitary confinement cells
• Visit the Cellular Jail museum to learn about India’s freedom struggle
• Attend the famous Light and Sound Show held in the evening
• Walk through the galleries displaying historical photographs and artifacts
• Climb the central watchtower for panoramic views of Port Blair
• Experience the emotional stories of freedom fighters through exhibits
• Take photographs of the iconic colonial architecture
• Learn about the life and sacrifices of prisoners who fought for independence
• Explore the surrounding gardens and memorial areas
• Visit nearby attractions such as Marina Park and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island
Highlights
• One of the most important historical monuments in India’s freedom struggle
• Built by the British colonial government between 1896 and 1906
• Famous for its unique seven-wing radial architectural design
• Each wing contained solitary confinement cells for prisoners
• Home to many famous freedom fighters including Veer Savarkar
• Declared a National Memorial by the Government of India in 1979
• Houses a museum displaying artifacts, photographs, and historical records
• Offers a popular Light and Sound Show that narrates the history of the prison
• Provides panoramic views of Port Blair city from the central watchtower
• One of the most visited tourist attractions in the Andaman Islands
⭐ Rating
4.8 / 5
🕒 Timing
Opening Hours:
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Light and Sound Show Timings:
First Show – 6:00 PM
Second Show – 7:15 PM
The Light and Sound Show is conducted in both Hindi and English and is one of the most popular attractions at the Cellular Jail. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure seats for the show.
📍 How To Reach
Cellular Jail is located in Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The site is easily accessible from different parts of the city and is only a few kilometers away from the main airport.
By Air:
The nearest airport is Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, which is well connected to major Indian cities such as Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, and Bengaluru. Cellular Jail is located approximately 4 kilometers from the airport and can be reached within 10–15 minutes by taxi.
By Road:
Visitors can easily reach Cellular Jail by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus from any part of Port Blair. The jail is situated close to the city center and is a well-known landmark.
By Sea:
Tourists arriving in Port Blair via cruise ships or ferries can also reach Cellular Jail easily as it is located near the main harbor area of the city.
