Chatham Saw Mill, Andaman The Chatham Saw Mill is one of the oldest and largest sawmills in Asia, located on Chatham Island in Port Blair, Andaman. Established in 1883 by the British, this historic sawmill played a crucial role in supplying timber for various construction projects during the colonial era. Today, ...
it stands as a prominent tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich history and its once-thriving timber industry. The sawmill is still operational and processes different varieties of wood, including the famous Padauk wood, known for its durability and deep red color. Visitors can witness the large-scale cutting, seasoning, and processing of logs, giving them a firsthand experience of the working of a traditional sawmill. One of the key attractions of Chatham Saw Mill is its Forest Museum, which displays an impressive collection of wooden artifacts, furniture, and carvings made from indigenous Andaman timber. The museum also showcases historical photographs and models that depict the rich biodiversity and forest conservation efforts in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Another important historical aspect of the mill is its role during World War II. Chatham Island was heavily bombed by the Japanese in 1942, causing significant damage to the sawmill. A section of the bombed site has been preserved to remind visitors of the island’s wartime history.
Easily accessible from Port Blair via a small bridge connecting Chatham Island to the main city, the Chatham Saw Mill is a must-visit destination for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning about Andaman’s forestry and woodcraft heritage.
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Chatham Saw Mill is one of Asia’s oldest sawmills, established in 1883 in Port Blair, Andaman. It is still operational and processes timber for local and commercial purposes.
It is located on Chatham Island, just a short distance from Port Blair, connected by a small bridge.
The sawmill is open from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM, except on Sundays and public holidays. The entry fee is usually around ₹10 per person, with extra charges for guided tours.
Yes, visitors can witness the timber processing operations, including the cutting, seasoning, and treatment of various woods like Padauk and Gurjan.
Yes, the sawmill is still operational, processing various types of wood, including those unique to the Andaman Islands.
Established during the British era, the sawmill was a key supplier of timber for construction. It also holds historical importance for its role in World War II, when it was bombed by the Japanese in 1942.
Chatham Saw Mill processes various species of timber, including Padauk, Gurjan, and Satinwood, which are native to the Andaman Islands.
Yes, there is a Forest Museum at the sawmill, displaying wooden artifacts, furniture, and carvings made from indigenous Andaman wood, along with historical photographs and models.
Visitors typically spend around 45 minutes to 1 hour exploring the sawmill, its operations, and the Forest Museum.
Yes, there is a small shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs made from Andaman timber, such as handicrafts and small wooden items.