Viper Island Port Blair
Viper Island: A historic British prison site with haunting ruins and a somber past, accessible by a scenic boat ride.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Viper Island Port Blair
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Viper Island: A historic British prison site with haunting ruins and a somber past, accessible by a scenic boat ride.
"This tiny serene, beautiful island is situated inside the portblair harbor 20 minutes boat journey."
Book boat tickets early
Secure your boat tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.
Wear comfortable shoes
The island has uneven terrain and ruins; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Prison Ruins
Viper Island
Explore the haunting ruins of the British-era prison, a stark reminder of the island's penal past.
Gallows Hilltop
Viper Island
Ascend to the hilltop ruins of the gallows, offering a somber perspective on the island's history.
Scenic Boat Journey
Port Blair Harbor to Viper Island
Enjoy a picturesque 20-minute boat ride offering lovely views of Port Blair harbor.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand Viper Island's History
Getting to Viper Island
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book boat tickets early
Secure your boat tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.
Wear comfortable shoes
The island has uneven terrain and ruins; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Bring water & snacks
Limited food options are available, and prices are higher. Carry your own refreshments.
Respect the history
This is a historical site with a somber past; approach with respect and mindfulness.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book boat tickets early
Secure your boat tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.
Wear comfortable shoes
The island has uneven terrain and ruins; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Bring water & snacks
Limited food options are available, and prices are higher. Carry your own refreshments.
Respect the history
This is a historical site with a somber past; approach with respect and mindfulness.
Drone photography banned
Be aware that drone photography is not permitted on the island.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Viper Island is praised for its fascinating and poignant historical significance, offering a stark look at British colonial cruelty. Visitors appreciate the boat journey and the chance to connect with a darker chapter of India's past. However, some find it less of a typical 'beach and island' experience and more of a historical site with limited tourist amenities.
"As Epic as everyone said : These place perfectly shows how cruel the British government is. How they tortured the Indian people.
I liked these place because it has very fascinating. This tiny serene, beautiful island is situated inside the portblair harbor 20 minutes boat journey. The island derives it's name from the vessel "viper" in which Lt. Archibald Blair came to these island in 1789 with the purpose of penal settlement.the vessel it is believed met with an accident and it is wreckage was found near these island .
viper island witnesses the untold suffering of the freedom fighter head to undergo.convicts who are found guilty of violating the rules of The penal settlement....riddle I am always thrilled to know the dark history of our country so I like this place very much.
So I recommend you guys whenever u came to portblair just visit these place it will definitely overwhelmed u
Hope my review helps u lot !!!👍👍👍"
Jayanta Mitra
"Not beach and island . Viper means to bring prisoners to hang here.
Awesome place.best of couple.
Food not available."
kaneecka sharrma
"Viper Island derives its name from the vessel H.M.S. Viper in which Lt. Archibald Blair came to Andaman and Nicobar Islands in 1789. The vessel, it is believed, met with an accident and its wreckage was found near the island. This small island was the site of the jail where the British used to imprison convicts and political prisoners. It has the ruins of a gallows atop a hillock. 🏚"
Mubashir Abdulla
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Viper Island is accessible by a 20-minute boat journey from Port Blair harbor. Boat services are typically available, and it's recommended to inquire about schedules and book tickets in advance.
The boat trip to Viper Island from Port Blair harbor usually takes around 20 minutes, offering scenic views along the way.
Yes, regular boat services operate from Port Blair to Viper Island. It's best to check the latest timings and availability with local tour operators or the tourism department.
While public boat services are common, private boat hire might be an option, though likely more expensive. Confirm availability with local boat operators.
The most common and recommended way to visit Viper Island for a day trip is by taking a scheduled boat from Port Blair harbor.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Viper Island itself is generally free, but you will need to pay for the boat ride to get there. Prices can vary, so confirm with boat operators.
It is highly recommended to book your boat tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
Viper Island is typically open for visitors during daylight hours. Boat services will dictate the available visiting times.
While the island itself doesn't have an entry fee, the historical prison ruins are part of the attraction. Specific fees for accessing certain structures are unlikely, but boat fare is the primary cost.
While some tickets might be available on the spot, booking in advance is safer to guarantee your spot on the boat.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Viper Island features the ruins of a historic British prison, a gallows atop a hillock, and offers a glimpse into the island's penal past. It's a place for historical reflection rather than typical tourist activities.
While historically significant, the island's somber past and ruins might be more suited for older children or adults interested in history. It's not a typical beach or amusement destination.
Guides may be available to share the history of the island, though their availability can vary. It's advisable to inquire locally.
The terrain includes jungle paths and uneven ground around the ruins. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the island.
The historical ruins offer unique photographic opportunities, but drone photography is prohibited.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are a few local shops on Viper Island selling packaged snacks, soft drinks, and water. However, prices are often higher than MRP due to the transport costs.
There are no proper restaurants or dining facilities on Viper Island. It's best to eat before or after your visit in Port Blair.
Dining options are primarily in Port Blair. You'll find a variety of restaurants and eateries there offering local and international cuisine.
Yes, it's highly recommended to bring your own water and snacks, as options on the island are limited and more expensive.
Viper Island has a couple of local shops that offer packaged snacks and drinks, but not full-service cafes or bars.
📸 📸 Photography
The historical prison ruins and the gallows on the hilltop offer dramatic and atmospheric photographic opportunities.
No, drone photography is strictly prohibited on Viper Island.
A versatile camera with a good lens for capturing both landscapes and architectural details would be ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for the ruins.
Yes, you can take photos of the historical structures, but always be mindful of the site's historical significance and avoid intrusive photography.
The main restriction is on drone photography. Otherwise, general photography is permitted, but respect the solemn nature of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If visiting, focus on the historical aspect as a learning opportunity about India's past. Ensure children wear comfortable shoes for exploring the ruins and uneven terrain. It's advisable to bring plenty of water and snacks, as on-island facilities are limited and pricier.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take your time to absorb the atmosphere and imagine the lives of those imprisoned here. Consider researching the history of Viper Island and its role in the Indian independence movement before your visit to enhance your understanding and appreciation of the site.
couples
While not a romantic beach destination, the island's quiet and reflective nature can be appealing for couples interested in history and a more profound travel experience. Remember to bring comfortable shoes and water, and be prepared for a site that evokes a sense of the past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dark History of Viper Island
Visitors can explore the remnants of this past, including the ruins of the prison and the gallows situated atop a hillock. The island's atmosphere is often described as haunting, offering a stark contrast to the usual tropical island paradises. It's a destination for those interested in understanding the deeper historical context of the Andaman Islands beyond their natural beauty.
It's important to note that Viper Island predates the more famous Cellular Jail and was operational before its construction in 1906. The stories of suffering and endurance associated with Viper Island are a crucial part of India's freedom struggle narrative.
Navigating Your Visit to Viper Island
Once on the island, the terrain can be a bit challenging. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes as there are jungle paths and uneven ground to navigate. The main attractions are the historical ruins, including the prison and the gallows. While there are a couple of local shops selling packaged snacks and drinks, it's a good idea to carry your own water and refreshments, as these items are often sold at a premium.
Remember that Viper Island is primarily a historical site, not a typical tourist beach. Drone photography is prohibited, so focus on capturing the atmospheric ruins and the island's unique character with your regular camera. The experience is more about historical immersion and reflection than leisure activities.
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