The Forest Museum, on the outskirts of the capital city of Port Blair, is well-known for its diorama, remnants and adorning pieces carved out of oak, timber, sandalwood, satinwood, padauk and gurjan. It features an enchanting collection which shows the vivid varieties of flora and fauna found in the Andaman forests. Popular for its wooden souvenirs related to the first and wildlife, this museum is managed by the Forest Adela of Andaman and Nicobar Islands besides the Saw Mill. It is a must-visit place to witness the beauty of Andaman and its high-skilled artists. To make it more eventful for the visitors, the museum has a small zoological garden and a zoo.
About The Forest Museum
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The Forest Museum is located on Chatham Island, Foreshore Road, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The museum presents the most spectacular combination of flora and fauna along with the ancient Chatham Saw Mill and is preserved by the Forest Department of Andaman. It houses an attractive collection of wood carvings, artefacts, art pieces and paintings created by the labourers of the Saw Mill, which is enough to showcase their talent.
Every corner of this museum displays the indifferent species of flora and fauna found on this island. Alongside a tourist destination, the Museum is a great spot for nature enthusiasts as well. It is very convenient for tourists to explore the museum by following its various sign boards. However, if you want to gain insights about the artefacts showcased here you can also hire a local guide who will provide you knowledge about the historical pieces as you come across them.
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Highlights Of The Forest Museum
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While you explore the Forest Museum, knowing a few essential highlights you will most likely explore beforehand will enrich your session. We have tried to compile a list of must-to-know things about this museum here.
- There’s a miniature zoo and a Zoological Garden inside the Museum; both places are the Forest Museum’s major attractions. In the zoo, several species of small birds and animals are exclusive to the Andaman forest. On the other hand, there are some indifferent species of endangered, endemic and live plants that you will find in the garden.
- The Museum within the Chatham Saw Mill Complex is located in the Haddo region, which is 29 km from Port Blair, the capital of Andaman.
- The artefacts displayed at the museum are made of rare wood and are maintained regularly by the forest department staff. The various kinds of artefacts you will find mostly depict wildlife and plantations. Some went extinct, while some are still a part of Andaman’s forest ecosystem.
- Having plenty of time to explore the entire Forest Museum is essential. A brief tour will distract you from many important things and the education the museum aims to provide about the importance of forests and their thriving life.
Best Time To Visit
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The best time to visit the Forest Museum Andaman and Nicobar Islands is from October to May. This season’s weather here is quite pleasant, suitable for roaming around the museum and nearby areas. The temperature during these months ranges from 20 to 30 degrees C.’ Before visiting this place, you must know that this region has a tropical climate. Throughout the monsoon season (June-September), you’ll find plenty of greenery on and around the island. Sometimes, it may also cause heavy rainfalls that may restrict outdoor activities.
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Timings And Entrance Fees
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Before you visit the Forest Museum, it is advised to learn its operating hours, as they change all year round. The museum remains open on weekdays and is closed on Sundays and public holidays. However, the standard Forest Museum Port Blair hours are 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and then 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM. The entrance fee of the Museum is INR 2.
How To Reach
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There are two ways to reach the Forest Museum.
From Havelock Island: You can reach Port Blair via inter-island boat facilities once you’re there. Then, you can take a bus to the museum or book a private cab.
From Port Blair: The Museum is situated near the outskirts of Port Blair town and is well connected to all parts of the city. Veer Savarkar Airport is located at a walking distance from here. It is just 10 km away from the main city of Port Blair and can be reached via bus or taxi. The most convenient way to reach here is to choose the road bridge which leads straight to the museum. You can also get the museum by booking a cab from any other part of Port Blair town.
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Places To Visit Nearby Forest Museum Port Blair
Once you’re done exploring the forest museum, you can visit the nearby places to add more value to your trip. Let’s explore some of the tourist destinations located close to the Museum:
1. Mount Manipur National Park
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Mount Manipur National Park is located in the South of the Andamans and is the centre of the natural heritage and wealth. It features many rare bird species exclusive to Anadams, including endangered animal species and a wide variety of fauna. As the island’s highest peak, reaching the top will bless you with a picturesque view of the island.
Distance from the Forest Museum: 14.8 Km
2. Cellular Jail National Memorial
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The Cellular Jail National Memorial is a subdued memoir of India’s fight for independence. Built during the British colonial period, it was used to imprison Indian political leaders and punish them harshly for participating in India’s independence. This jail is also named Kala Pani, signifying isolation.
Distance from the Forest Museum: 15 Km
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3. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
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Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is 18 km from Port Blair. It is a sanctuary featuring diverse marine species and coral reefs. Tourists often visit to experience scuba diving and snorkelling at the Red Skin and Jolly Buoy Islands, two very popular destinations in Andaman.
Distance from the Forest Museum: 18 Km
4. Corbyn’s Cove Beach
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Corbyn’s Cove Beach, located 8 km from Port Blair, is a calm, less frequented sandy beach. Its bluish-green waters, white sand, and coconut palms swinging in the direction of the tropical winds make it ideal for sunbathing, relaxing, and enjoying water sports.
Distance from the Forest Museum: 8 Km
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5. Viper Island
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Viper Island, nearly 23 km away from Port Blair, is a beautiful and serene island in the Andamans. It is blessed with endless tranquillity and natural beauty. Besides its natural beauty, this place also has a lot of historical importance, as the British used it to detain political prisoners during the colonial period.
Distance from the Forest Museum: 23 Km
Further Read: Scuba Diving In Andaman
Forest Museum showcases thousands of wooden souvenirs and artefacts that take you through the Andaman forests at a glance. What makes this museum special is the handcrafting, skill and artistry of the artisans who’ve contributed their efforts to its construction. If you’re planning a trip to Andaman and Nicobar Islands, don’t forget to include Forest Museum Andaman on your bucket list to get the most out of your trip!
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Cover Image Credit: Romil Lehakra for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Forest Museum
What are the times to visit the Forest Museum?
The Forest Museum Port Blair timings are from 8:00 AM to noon before it closes for a lunch break. Post lunch break, it is again open for visitors from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
What is the ticket price to visit the Forest Museum?
The Museum Port Blair ticket price is INR 2 per person.
Does the Forest Museum remain open on all days including the weekend?
The Forest Museum remains open from Monday to Saturday and is closed only on Sundays.
Is it worth visiting the Forest Museum Andaman?
Visiting the Forest Museum Andaman is worth it as you get to experience the vintage beauty of this place through the lens of high-skilled artisans.
Are there any other places to visit near the Forest Museum?
There are multiple places near the Museum that you can visit like Mount Manipur National Park, Cellular Jail National Memorial, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Island, Viper Island and more.
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