Cellular Jail

Cellular Jail in Port Blair is a colonial-era prison built in the early 20th century by British authorities to detain political prisoners from across India. The complex is characterised by seven radial wings of cells arranged around a central observation tower, a design intended to isolate inmates.

The site now functions as a national memorial and museum, with preserved cell blocks, exhibits on notable detainees, and displays about life in detention under the penal system. Visitors typically walk through the radial galleries and view interpretive material about the jail’s role in the independence movement.

The jail stands within Port Blair on South Andaman Island and is one of the primary historic sites in the city.

• Colonial-era prison: Constructed in the early 20th century by British colonial authorities and used to house political prisoners and freedom fighters during the colonial period.
• Location and present use: Located in Port Blair on South Andaman Island and commonly presented today as a national memorial with exhibits on the independence movement.

What to See #

• Radial cell blocks: Seven radial wings of individual prison cells extend from a central watch tower, forming the jail's characteristic spoke-and-hub layout.
• Museum and memorial galleries: A museum and preserved cell galleries present exhibits on inmates, daily life under confinement, and the jail's role in the independence movement.
• Central tower and courtyard: The central tower and the cell wings together form the main architectural ensemble that visitors walk through when touring the site.