Cellular Jail National Memorial
A historic colonial prison, now a National Memorial, echoing the sacrifices of India's freedom fighters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
For the captivating Light & Sound Show.
Cellular Jail National Memorial
Best Time
For the captivating Light & Sound Show.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic colonial prison, now a National Memorial, echoing the sacrifices of India's freedom fighters.
"Visiting the historic Cellular Jail was a truly moving and memorable experience.
"🎟️ Book Show Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the Light & Sound Show in advance, as offline purchase options are limited.
🚶♂️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the historic complex.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Light and Sound Show
A mesmerizing evening spectacle reliving the struggles and sacrifices of India's freedom fighters.
The Prison Cells
Step into the solitary confinement cells that housed political prisoners during British rule.
Museum and Dioramas
Explore exhibits and sculptures depicting the harsh lives and resilience of inmates.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Light & Sound Show in Advance
Allocate Sufficient Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Show Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the Light & Sound Show in advance, as offline purchase options are limited.
🚶♂️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the historic complex.
📸 Capture the History
The architecture and exhibits offer powerful photo opportunities.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush; immerse yourself in the poignant history.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Show Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the Light & Sound Show in advance, as offline purchase options are limited.
🚶♂️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the historic complex.
📸 Capture the History
The architecture and exhibits offer powerful photo opportunities.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush; immerse yourself in the poignant history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cellular Jail is a deeply moving and historically significant site, often described as a 'must-visit' for its poignant portrayal of India's freedom struggle. Visitors are particularly impressed by the excellent Light and Sound Show and the immaculate condition of the monument. While the historical context is profound, some find the daytime visit to be a bit rushed due to time constraints.
"Cellular Jail, also known as Kalapani, is an unforgettable place to visit in Port Blair. The evening light and sound show was excellent, beautifully showcasing the struggles and survival of our freedom fighters. In the morning, we explored the jail premises, saw the cells, and learned their stories through sculptures and images. The coordinators explained the history in detail, making the experience even more meaningful. A truly inspiring and must-visit landmark."
tom Paulson
"Historic : Most important place in history which shows dominance of Japan over British in India . Struggle of freedom fighter .
Must watch place in tour and located in prime location of the city
Light shows: To be booked advance with English & Hindi shows listed only in online . Physical counter or purchase is not abalone for offline. Better story and visualisation than other shows .
Time: Not allowed to spend long time for visitor and neatly organised .
Overall quick and mandatory place to visit."
venkatesh “Venki”
"Visiting the historic Cellular Jail was a truly moving and memorable experience. The place is not just a monument but a symbol of India’s freedom struggle, and standing inside those walls gives you a deep sense of history and respect for the sacrifices made.
One thing that really stood out during my visit was how exceptionally clean and well-maintained the entire complex is. From the pathways to the museum areas - - everything was spotless. The authorities have done a remarkable job in preserving this heritage site while keeping it so neat and tidy for visitors.
I highly recommend everyone to visit Cellular Jail at least once in their lifetime—not only for its historical significance, to appreciate how well it is maintained for future generations."
Alwyn Elias
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cellular Jail is centrally located in Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It's easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi from anywhere in the city. Many visitors also walk to the jail if staying nearby.
While there isn't direct bus service to the jail, local buses can get you close to the area, and from there, it's a short walk. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are the most convenient options.
Port Blair is primarily accessible by air from major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai. You can also reach Port Blair by sea from Kolkata and Chennai, though this is a much longer journey.
Yes, there are parking facilities available for vehicles near the Cellular Jail complex.
While not explicitly mentioned as a formal service, you might find local guides offering their services outside the jail. The museum staff also provide historical context.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cellular Jail is typically open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily, with a lunch break from 1 PM to 2 PM. The Light and Sound Show usually takes place in the evening.
Entry fees for the Cellular Jail complex are nominal. Separate tickets are required for the Light and Sound Show, which should be booked in advance.
It is highly recommended to book tickets for the Light and Sound Show online in advance, as physical counter purchases may not always be available or may sell out quickly.
Visitors are generally allowed a reasonable amount of time to explore the jail during the day, typically around 1.5 hours is considered sufficient for a quick visit.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas of the Cellular Jail complex, but it's always good to check for any specific signage or restrictions within the museum or certain exhibits.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Light and Sound Show at Cellular Jail is a captivating presentation that vividly narrates the history of the Indian freedom struggle and the harrowing experiences of the freedom fighters imprisoned there. It's a deeply moving experience.
The museum inside Cellular Jail features historical artifacts, photographs, and poignant dioramas that depict the lives and struggles of the political prisoners.
Yes, visitors consistently praise Cellular Jail for being exceptionally clean and well-maintained, with authorities doing a remarkable job preserving the heritage site.
'Kala Pani' translates to 'Black Water' and refers to the dreaded punishment of exile to the Cellular Jail, where prisoners were isolated and faced harsh conditions, often never returning.
The Cellular Jail is known for its unique seven-wing radial pattern, resembling a bicycle wheel, with a central watchtower for guards to observe all wings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no significant food or dining facilities directly within the Cellular Jail complex itself. Visitors are advised to eat before or after their visit.
Port Blair offers a variety of dining options, from local eateries serving fresh seafood to more established restaurants. You can find many options within a short distance from the jail.
Seafood is a specialty in Port Blair, with fresh catches of the day being a highlight. You'll also find North Indian and South Indian cuisine widely available.
📸 📸 Photography
The architectural structure of the jail, the solitary cells, and the museum exhibits offer compelling photographic opportunities. The exterior shots, especially during the evening light, are also quite striking.
Photography is generally permitted in most areas, including the cells, but it's always wise to be respectful and check for any specific restrictions posted within the complex.
The late afternoon leading into the evening, before and during the Light and Sound Show, offers dramatic lighting. Morning hours can also be good for capturing the architecture without harsh midday sun.
Typically, photography and videography are restricted during the Light and Sound Show to allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the historical narrative and the bravery of the individuals. The well-maintained grounds offer space for children to move around, and the visual storytelling in the museum can be engaging. Consider attending the Light and Sound Show as a family to experience the history together, but be mindful of younger children's sensitivity to potentially intense themes.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Delve into the stories of prominent freedom fighters incarcerated here and understand the harsh realities of the 'Kala Pani' punishment. The Light and Sound Show is particularly recommended for its detailed historical narrative. Consider reading up on the history of the Indian independence movement before your visit to gain a deeper appreciation of the site's significance.
📸 Photographers
While photography is generally allowed, be mindful of the solemn nature of the site. The museum exhibits and dioramas also present opportunities for capturing the human element of the history, though always with respect. The Light and Sound Show, while visually impressive, may have restrictions on photography, so check on-site guidelines.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Kala Pani
Inside its formidable walls, revolutionaries like Veer Savarkar, Batukeshwar Dutt, and countless others endured solitary confinement and brutal treatment. The jail's unique architectural design, featuring seven wings radiating from a central watchtower, was intended to maximize surveillance and prevent any communication among prisoners. Today, it serves as a National Memorial, a pilgrimage site for those who fought for India's freedom, and a place for visitors to reflect on the immense sacrifices made.
The Light and Sound Show held here is a particularly poignant experience, bringing to life the stories of courage, suffering, and resilience of these historical figures. It's a powerful way to connect with this significant chapter of Indian history.
Experiencing the Light and Sound Show
It's crucial to book tickets in advance, especially if you wish to attend the English or Hindi shows, as they are often in high demand and can sell out quickly. The show typically runs in the evenings, offering a different perspective on the jail as it is illuminated against the night sky. Many visitors describe it as 'mesmerizing' and 'world-class,' making it a must-see attraction.
While the show is a highlight, remember that it's a somber reflection on a difficult period. Prepare for an emotionally resonant experience that deepens your understanding of India's fight for independence.
Preservation and Maintenance
From the pathways and grounds to the museum areas and the cells themselves, everything is kept neat and tidy. This meticulous upkeep ensures that visitors can appreciate the historical integrity of the monument without being distracted by disrepair. It allows the stories of the past to be told in a dignified and respectful environment, making the experience more profound for everyone.
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