Forest Museum Chatham
Explore Asia's historic Chatham Saw Mill and its fascinating Forest Museum, showcasing Andaman's rich biodiversity and intricate wooden art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler, drier weather
Forest Museum Chatham
Best Time
Cooler, drier weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Asia's historic Chatham Saw Mill and its fascinating Forest Museum, showcasing Andaman's rich biodiversity and intricate wooden art.
"A wonderful blend of education, history, and artistry, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting Port Blair."
Allow ample time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the mill and museum exhibits. :clock1:
Shop for souvenirs
Don't miss the shops selling beautiful wooden crafts and artwork. :shopping_bags:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Chatham Saw Mill
Step back in time at one of Asia's oldest and largest sawmills, a testament to industrial heritage.
Forest Museum Exhibits
Discover the rich biodiversity of Andaman's forests, from flora and fauna to indigenous forest products.
Intricate Wooden Artwork
Admire stunning sculptures and crafts made from local timber, showcasing incredible craftsmanship.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Combine History and Nature
Best Time to Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allow ample time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the mill and museum exhibits. :clock1:
Shop for souvenirs
Don't miss the shops selling beautiful wooden crafts and artwork. :shopping_bags:
Learn about forestry
Engage with the exhibits to understand the history of timber milling and forest resources. :evergreen_tree:
Capture the history
The old machinery and structures offer great photo opportunities. :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
Allow ample time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the mill and museum exhibits. :clock1:
Shop for souvenirs
Don't miss the shops selling beautiful wooden crafts and artwork. :shopping_bags:
Learn about forestry
Engage with the exhibits to understand the history of timber milling and forest resources. :evergreen_tree:
Capture the history
The old machinery and structures offer great photo opportunities. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Forest Museum and Chatham Saw Mill for their historical significance and educational value, particularly highlighting the impressive wooden artwork and the insights into forestry. While some find the exhibits a bit dated, the overall experience is considered a worthwhile cultural and natural exploration.
"This is a known as name saw mill. It is situated on chattam 🏝️ island. There is a japanese bunkers, museum, bambari place, and some shop for wooden items"
Ravi Ashish
"The Forest Museum in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a fascinating attraction showcasing the region's rich forest resources and biodiversity. Managed by the Department of Environment and Forests, the museum is located within the premises of the historic Chatham Saw Mill, adding to its significance as a cultural and educational site.
The Forest Museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural and cultural heritage of the Andaman Islands. It provides a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between the forests, the indigenous people, and the sustainable use of natural resources. Its location, combined with the historical significance of the Chatham Saw Mill, makes it a must-visit site for history buffs, nature lovers, and those interested in local craftsmanship.
The museum is a wonderful blend of education, history, and artistry, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting Port Blair.
The Chatham Saw Mill, located on Chatham Island near Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is one of the oldest and largest sawmills in Asia. Established by the British in 1883, it has significant historical, economic, and industrial importance. Here’s why the Chatham Saw Mill is a key landmark in the region:"
Raghava Velagaleti
"The Forest Museum, located in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a treasure trove of information on the islands' lush forests and rich biodiversity. The museum showcases an impressive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and displays that highlight the unique characteristics of the Andaman forests, including their flora, fauna, and geological features. Visitors can explore the various sections of the museum, which include a mini-zoo, a botanical garden, and a display of indigenous forest products, offering a comprehensive insight into the natural wonders of the Andaman Islands."
Debrupa Marick
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Forest Museum is located on Chatham Island, accessible via a causeway from Port Blair. You can take a taxi or local bus to reach the island. Many visitors combine this with other Port Blair attractions.
Yes, there is parking available at the Chatham Saw Mill complex for visitors arriving by private vehicle.
A taxi is a convenient option, or you can take a local bus from Port Blair. The causeway makes it easily accessible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is typically open from morning to evening, but it's advisable to check the latest timings before your visit as they can vary.
There is usually a nominal entry fee for the museum. It's recommended to confirm the current ticket prices upon arrival.
Tickets are generally purchased at the venue. Advance booking is usually not required for this attraction.
Often, access to the Saw Mill area is free, and a separate ticket is required for the museum. Inquire at the site for any package deals.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You'll find exhibits on Andaman's flora, fauna, forest products, and the history of timber milling. There are also displays of impressive wooden artwork.
While it's a historic site, parts of the Chatham Saw Mill are preserved as a museum. You can see old machinery and learn about its past operations.
Information on guided tours may be limited. Exploring independently allows you to take your time with the exhibits.
Yes, children can find the exhibits on wildlife and wooden art engaging. It's an educational experience for all ages.
Take your time to read the information panels and admire the craftsmanship of the wooden exhibits.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Yes, there are shops selling beautiful wooden handicrafts and souvenirs made from local timber.
You can find wooden sculptures, decorative items, and other crafts showcasing the artistry of the region.
While there might not be extensive dining options directly within the museum, there are likely eateries in Port Blair or on Chatham Island.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in most areas, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits.
The old sawmill machinery, the wooden artwork, and the general ambiance of the historic site offer great photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in sensitive areas and historical sites. It's best to avoid flying drones without explicit permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider dedicating a good portion of your visit to exploring the museum's displays, as they are quite informative. The open spaces around the sawmill can also be fun for children to explore, though supervision is key. Pack some snacks and water, as dining options might be limited directly at the site.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the chance to see the Japanese bunkers nearby, remnants from World War II, which add another layer to the island's historical narrative. The combination of industrial history and wartime relics makes Chatham Island a rich destination for those interested in the past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Chatham Saw Mill
Today, parts of the mill have been transformed into the Forest Museum, preserving its heritage while educating visitors. The museum showcases the evolution of timber milling techniques and the importance of forest resources. Exploring the mill complex provides a unique perspective on the economic and historical development of the Andaman Islands, making it a compelling stop for history enthusiasts.
During World War II, the mill also served strategic purposes, and remnants of Japanese bunkers can still be found nearby, adding another layer to its complex history. This blend of industrial might and historical events makes the Chatham Saw Mill a truly fascinating site.
Exploring the Forest Museum's Treasures
A significant highlight of the museum is the display of wooden artwork. Skilled artisans transform local timber into intricate sculptures, decorative pieces, and functional items, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship. These exhibits not only demonstrate artistic talent but also the sustainable use of forest resources.
Beyond the static displays, the museum aims to educate visitors on the importance of forest conservation and the traditional practices associated with forest resource management. It's an engaging experience that fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural heritage of the Andamans.
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