Cellular Jail, also known as Kālā Pānī, is a colonial-era prison located in Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India. The jail was built by the British in the late 19th century and was used to house Indian freedom fighters during the Indian independence movement. Today, the Cellular Jail has been converted into a national memorial, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In this article, we will discuss the top 10 travel destinations in the Cellular Jail.
1.The Cellular Jail Museum – The first stop for any visitor to the Cellular Jail should be the museum, which provides an insight into the history of the jail and the stories of the Indian freedom fighters who were imprisoned there. The museum has a collection of photographs, artifacts, and documents related to the history of the jail.
2.The Light and Sound Show – The light and sound show is one of the most popular attractions at the Cellular Jail. The show takes place in the evening and provides a dramatic retelling of the history of the jail, complete with sound effects and music.
3.The Watch Tower – The watch tower is located at the highest point of the Cellular Jail and provides a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and take in the breathtaking view of Port Blair.
4.The Swatantrya Jyot – The Swatantrya Jyot is a flame of freedom that burns in the Cellular Jail in memory of the Indian freedom fighters who were imprisoned there. The flame is a symbol of the struggle for independence and a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for India’s freedom.
5.The Martyrs Memorial – The Martyrs Memorial is a tribute to the Indian freedom fighters who were hanged at the Cellular Jail. The memorial has a list of the names of the freedom fighters who were hanged, and visitors can pay their respects to the martyrs.
6.The Solitary Confinement Cells – The solitary confinement cells were used to punish prisoners who were deemed to be troublesome or who had attempted to escape. Visitors can see the cells where prisoners were kept in isolation, often for months or even years.
7.The Library – The library at the Cellular Jail is home to a collection of books and documents related to the history of the jail and the Indian independence movement. Visitors can browse the collection and learn more about the history of the jail and the struggle for independence.
8.The Veer Savarkar Park – The Veer Savarkar Park is located near the Cellular Jail and is dedicated to the memory of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, an Indian freedom fighter who was imprisoned at the jail. The park has a statue of Savarkar and a memorial plaque in his honor.
9.The Art Gallery – The art gallery at the Cellular Jail has a collection of paintings and sculptures by local artists. The artworks depict scenes from the history of the jail and the struggle for independence.
10.The Open Air Theatre – The open air theatre is used for cultural performances and events. Visitors can watch traditional Indian dances and music performances in the theatre, which has a capacity of around 500 people.
In conclusion, the Cellular Jail is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of India’s struggle for independence. The jail has a rich history and provides a fascinating insight into the lives of the Indian freedom fighters who were imprisoned there. Visitors can explore the various attractions at the jail and learn more about the history of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
