Have you ever asked yourself where goliath-sized trees go for their facelift? Let’s visit Asia’s tree spa, Chatham Saw Mill, which is actually located on a separate island linked to Port Blair by a bridge. This noisy wooden factory has been chopping, slicing, and dicing wood for longer than the great-grandfathers of people alive today.When planning your Andaman Tour Packages with us, do not miss this woodworking wonderland. Among the top Things to Do in Port Blair is watch in awe as massive logs transform into neat planks – it’s like a magic show, but with sawdust! The air is filled with the sweet, earthy perfume of fresh-cut timber, and the rhythmic hum of machinery creates nature’s industrial symphony.
Drop by the quiet mini-museum where retired machines have tales to tell about timber times. During your excursion to Places to Visit in Port Blair, combine your visit to the sawmill with excursions to Cellular Jail and Ross Island. The mill is open to wood enthusiasts on weekdays between 8 am and 2:30 pm. Pro Tip: Visit during the morning and catch the crew of the sawmill in action, transforming those forest giants into furniture-ready beauties. The good news? Your entry ticket is less than what you would spend on your morning coffee!
What is Chatham Saw Mill?
Chatham Saw Mill is one of the most visited historical places in Andaman. Located in Port Blair, this sawmill was constructed by the British in 1883. It played a significant role in supplying wood to the entire Indian subcontinent and beyond. It is not a regular sawmill; it has historical importance and is a part of Andaman’s heritage.Today, the sawmill is operational and also has the feature of a museum where the history of this important place is portrayed and one learns about its important role in the development of this region.
Why You Should Visit Chatham Saw Mill
Chatham Saw Mill is a place that directly relates to traveling through time. You get to see how the British utilized the mill to process wooden products, which they would then send out to other parts of India. The wooden artifacts and structures are intact, making it a valuable educational activity for those interested in history and culture.Chatham Saw Mill tour would give an excellent chance to see old machinery and products made of wood. The mill is located at Chatham Island, which has a bridge connected to Port Blair, so easy access is facilitated.
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How to Reach Chatham Saw Mill
Chatham Saw Mill is approximately 11 km from Port Blair City. There is a bridge connecting the island to Port Blair. Hence, it is easy to access the island through the road from Port Blair.1. By Air: Arrival in Port Blair: Travelers can fly into Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, which is well-connected to major Indian cities.
2. By Road: From Port Blair to Chatham Island:
- Private Transport: Hiring a private cab or auto-rickshaw is a convenient option. The journey from central Port Blair to Chatham Saw Mill takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Public Transport: Regular bus services operate from Port Blair to Chatham Island. Buses can be boarded from the Port Blair Bus Terminus (STS Bus Stand) near Aberdeen Bazaar. The distance is about 6 kilometers, and the bus ride offers an economical means of reaching the mill.
3. By Sea: While Chatham Island is connected by a bridge, some visitors may prefer a short ferry ride for the experience. Ferries operate from the Aberdeen Jetty in Port Blair to Chatham Island, with the journey lasting around 10-15 minutes.
Additional Tips:
- Navigation: The route to Chatham Saw Mill is straightforward, with clear signage along the way. Residents are also helpful in providing directions if needed.
- Travel Time: It’s advisable to start your journey early in the day to avoid peak traffic hours and to ensure ample time for exploration.
- Entry Formalities: Upon arrival, visitors may need to register at the entrance. Carrying a valid ID and being aware of the mill’s operating hours (typically 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, closed on Sundays and public holidays) will facilitate a smooth visit.
By following these guidelines, visitors can enjoy a hassle-free journey to Chatham Saw Mill and immerse themselves in its historical and cultural significance.
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What to Expect on a Chatham Saw Mill Tour
This will show you a short tour through the history of the spectacular Chatham Saw Mill site, including the presence of old still-operational machinery and wood crafts made here decades ago. It’s also an educational type of tour giving a special touch of how this used to look.Key Highlights of the Tour
- The Mill Machinery: The mill still operates with machinery from the British era. It is a fascinating experience to see these old machines working.
- The Forest Department Museum: Inside the mill compound, you can find a museum that features different types of wood, artifacts, and photographs that depict the history of the mill.
- Chatham Island: The mill is situated on a small island that connects the mainland. The island itself is beautiful, and exploring it adds another layer to the experience.
Timings and Entry Fee of Chatham Saw Mill
Before going to Chatham Saw Mill, one should know its Timings and Entry Fee. Chatham Saw Mill is open for visits every day of the week except on Sundays and all public holidays.- Timings: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Entry fees are small amounts at 10 INR, 50 INR for a guided fee; hence, a visit here will not cost a lot and is accessible to everyone. Other charges may include guided tours and photography.
Early morning visits are recommended since one can avoid crowds and take enough time to visit the sawmill as well as other nearby attractions.
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Historical Importance of Chatham Saw Mill
The Chatham Saw Mill has been integral to the development of the Andaman Islands. It provided timber for construction and development not just in Andaman but on the mainland as well. The mill also assisted in restoring parts of the Andaman Islands, which was ravaged during World War II.It is the oldest industrial building in Andaman and is regarded as an integral part of the island’s cultural as well as historical fabric. Coming to see the oldest Asian sawmill is a connection one can make with India’s colonial past and appreciate the tremendous role this played in the development of islands in the form one understands them today.
Travel Tips for Visiting Chatham Saw Mill
Here are some Andaman travel tips you would do well to remember when you visit Chatham Saw Mill:- Plan ahead: The mill runs from Monday to Friday, so try to visit early during work hours. The best would be very early in the morning so that the crowds are avoided.
- Bring a Camera: There are many photogenic spots at the mill, especially if you’re interested in capturing the old machinery and wooden structures.
- Remain hydrated: Port Blair can get hot and humid very quickly, so carry a bottle of water along while roaming.
- Guided Tour: You can hire an Andaman tour guide to give you more in-depth information about the history and importance of the mill. This will increase your experience at the mill.
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Things to Do in and Around Chatham Saw Mill
Visiting Chatham Saw Mill is not only a learning process that provides an overview of how timber is processed. There are so many activities and sights in and around the area that have to make the trip even more interesting.1. Visit the Sawmill and Museum
You can walk through the sawmill where you can see logs being cut and polished. You get first-hand experience in the timber industry. The museum is a good place to know the history of the mill and the Andaman Islands.
2. Purchase Wooden Souvenirs
Inside the sawmill, there is a gift shop where beautifully crafted wooden items are available made from quality Andaman wood. This ranges from small decorative pieces to keychains and many other wooden handicrafts.
3. Enjoy the Natural Beauty of Surroundings
The area surrounding Chatham Island is peaceful and beautiful. If you are a photography buff, then you will have an opportunity to capture some great views, ancient structures, and the rustic character of the sawmill. It is a popular photography Spot in Port Blair.
Tourist attractions near Chatham Saw Mill
While you are in Port Blair, there are several other Tourist attractions near Chatham Saw Mill that you should add to your itinerary.The Cellular Jail, also termed Kala Pani, stands as one of the most famous historical landmarks of India. Commissioned by the British in 1906, the prison was one where freedom fighters were exiled during India’s struggle for independence. Today it stands as a national memorial.Why Visit?
- Light and Sound Show: This evening show brings the past to life with stories of India’s freedom struggle.
- Museum & Galleries: Learn jail history and review old photographs documents and pieces of evidence.
- View from the Top: Climb up to the top of the jail for a fantastic view of the sea and islands nearby.
If you love beaches, then Radhanagar Beach is a must not miss. It’s one of the best beaches in Asia: clean white sand, blue waters, and greenery, and absolutely perfect for relaxation and enjoyment of nature. Why Visit?
- Perfect for Swimming & Sunbathing: It is great for swimming and sunbathing since the waters are quiet, and the sand is soft.
- Stunning Sunsets: Amazing sunsets over the Andaman Sea.
- Ideal for Photography: The landscape is amazing and very beautiful.
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island is now the name given to Ross Island. The place seems to have been left behind in time. It was deserted after the earthquake in 1941 and after the Japanese occupied it during World War II. Now, the island is a historic place of great beauty and ruins. Why Visit?
- Explore British Ruins: Walk through old British buildings, including a church, bakery, and bungalows.
- Meet the Island’s Wildlife: The island is home to friendly deer, peacocks, and rabbits.
- Historical Significance: Learn about its role during British rule and World War II.
The most visited island of Andaman is Havelock Island. Some of the interesting beaches, excellent resorts, and some thrilling water sports make it an ideal destination for any traveler to spend hours on the beaches or jump right into the waters.Why Visit?
If you want to have something really different, then the destination for you would be Baratang Island. This place accommodates mangrove forests, limestone caves, and mud volcanoes which are unique in India. The trip to Baratang Island is quite adventurous since it crosses the Jarawa Tribal Reserve and sometimes one catches glimpses of members of the Jarawa tribe.Why Visit?
- Limestone Caves: Stunning natural rock formations created over thousands of years.
- Mud Volcanoes: The only known mud volcanoes in India.
- Boat Rides: Travel through dense mangrove forests on a small boat.
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Chatham Saw Mill is much more than an industrial site; it carries within itself the rich history of Andaman. Right from its very inception in the colonial era, through destruction during wartime and revival, the sawmill has been a part of the region’s heritage.Visitors come here to explore a functional sawmill, trace the history of the islands, gain insights into Andaman Islander culture, and appreciate the vast natural resources there. History fans, nature lovers, and simply curious explorers can feel educated and amused by this beautiful experience.
Considering the historical importance, easy accessibility, affordable entry, and exciting nearby attractions, a visit to Chatham Saw Mill is something you should not miss when in Port Blair.
