The Forest Museum in Port Blair is a small, interesting museum that tells the story of the Andaman Islands through their trees. The islands are covered in dense tropical forest, and for more than a century that forest has shaped their economy, their culture and their landscape. This museum, set inside the historic Chatham Saw Mill complex, shows the timber, tools, crafts and information that bring that story to life. It is quick, inexpensive and a good stop for anyone curious about the natural side of the islands.
The museum is on Chatham Island, a short drive from the centre of Port Blair. This guide covers what you will see, the usual timings, how long to allow, how to reach it and how to combine it with nearby attractions. If you would rather have your sightseeing and transfers arranged for you, explore our Andaman tour packages, planned by Andaman Emerald Travels, a travel team based in Port Blair.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Chatham Island (Haddo area), within the Chatham Saw Mill complex, Port Blair |
| Distance from city | Roughly 10 km from the city centre, a short drive across a bridge |
| Type | Government museum run by the forest department |
| Focus | Island forests, timber, wooden artefacts and forest heritage |
| Usual timings | Morning and afternoon sessions; commonly reported as closed on Sundays |
| Suggested time | 30 to 60 minutes |
| Best for | Families, students, nature lovers, curious travellers |
The Forest Museum is part of the Chatham Saw Mill complex and is looked after by the forest department. It was set up to show visitors how important the forests of the Andamans are and to explain the different types of timber found here. The collection is modest in size, but it is carefully arranged and easy to enjoy in a short visit.
Because it shares a site with the mill, the museum works well as the second half of a single visit. You can watch timber being cut at the Chatham Saw Mill, then walk a short distance to see the finished wood, crafts and displays that explain where it comes from and how it is used.
Exhibits change over time, but visitors typically see the following:
| Exhibit | What You Can Learn |
|---|---|
| Timber specimens | Different island hardwoods, including padauk and gurjan, with their colours and grains |
| Wooden artefacts and furniture | Carved and finished pieces that show how island timber is used |
| Forest products | Items and materials that come from the forest besides wood |
| Photographs and models | Forestry work, tools and the history of the timber industry |
| Information boards | How the forests are managed and why conservation matters |
| Large displays | Some visitors mention a big skeleton display near the entrance; ask what is on show during your visit |
Take time to look closely at the wood samples. The difference in colour, weight and grain between species is surprising, and the labels explain which woods are valued and why. There is also a small shop where you can buy wooden handicrafts, which makes an easy souvenir stop.
The museum is about 10 km from central Port Blair, on Chatham Island, which is connected to the main island by a bridge. Cabs and autos are the easiest way to get there, and the drive takes roughly 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. If you are on one of our packages, your private cab will take you directly and wait while you visit.
The museum usually opens in the morning, closes for a lunch break and reopens in the afternoon. It is commonly reported as closed on Sundays, and it may also close on public holidays. Tickets are typically very inexpensive, with a small extra charge sometimes applying for cameras. Because these details can change, always confirm the current days, hours and entry rules before you go, or ask our team to check for you.
Most visitors spend 30 to 60 minutes. Allow longer if you also plan to see the saw mill in operation.
The museum is open throughout the year, so you can visit in any season. It works especially well on a hot or rainy day. The best season for general sightseeing is October to May. For planning, see our guides to October, December and February weather. Because the mill and museum are linked, visit on a working day so that both are open.
The Forest Museum is close to several attractions, so it is easy to build a half-day:
| Attraction | Why Pair It | Approx. Time Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Samudrika Museum | Covers the islands’ marine life and ocean ecosystems | 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Japanese Bunker | A relic of the Second World War occupation | 20 to 30 minutes |
| Anthropological Museum | Introduces the indigenous communities of the islands | 1 to 1.5 hours |
Timings are approximate and vary with season and crowds.
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| Morning | Visit the Chatham Saw Mill while the machines are running |
| Late morning | Walk through the Forest Museum and look at the timber displays |
| Afternoon | Lunch in the city, then the Samudrika Museum or another museum |
| Evening | Attend the Light and Sound Show at the Cellular Jail |
Looking for a ready-made plan that includes Port Blair city sightseeing? See our 3 nights 4 days and 4 nights 5 days Andaman packages.
Port Blair city sightseeing, including the museums, is included in many of our packages. Every traveller has different needs, so we offer a package for each:
| Traveller Type | Package | What It Offers |
|---|---|---|
| Couples | Andaman honeymoon packages | Romantic stays, private transfers and relaxed sightseeing |
| Families | Andaman family packages | Comfortable, child-friendly plans |
| Friends and colleagues | Andaman group packages | Shared planning for large parties |
| Value-focused travellers | Andaman budget packages | Affordable trips that cover the highlights |
| Government employees | Andaman LTC packages | Plans designed for LTC travel |
| Thrill seekers | Andaman adventure packages | Water sports and active excursions |
Not sure which suits you? Reach out through our contact page for a customised itinerary. You can also browse all Andaman destinations on our site.
See what travellers say about us on Andaman Emerald Travels on Google, then call +91 9933245630 or send an enquiry for a free quote on your Andaman tour packages.
It is a small government museum inside the Chatham Saw Mill complex that shows the timber, wooden artefacts and forest heritage of the Andaman Islands.
It is on Chatham Island, linked to central Port Blair by a bridge. It is roughly 10 km from the city centre.
Most visitors spend 30 to 60 minutes. Allow more time if you also visit the saw mill.
Yes, especially if you are interested in nature and history, or travelling with children. It works well as a quick stop alongside the saw mill.
The museum is commonly open in the morning and the afternoon, with a lunch break, and is reported as closed on Sundays. Check current timings before you visit, or ask our team to confirm.
Entry is typically very low cost. Rules and prices can change, so check before you go.
There is a small shop selling wooden handicrafts. Ask about the wood used, and avoid anything made from protected species.
Port Blair sightseeing can include it on request. Couples often choose a honeymoon package, families a family package and budget travellers a budget package. Our team can customise any plan.
C-43 WARD NO. 12, DIGNABAD, PORT BLAIR, South Andaman, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, 744101
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