Viper Island

The Interesting History of Viper Island

In 1789, a British vessel called H.M.S Viper. Onboard the ship was Lt. Archibald Blair and it is believed that the vessel met with an accident. Its wreckage was found near the island. Viper Island derives its name from this incident.

The island was eventually turned into a British Penal Colony under the British authority and a prison and gallows was built here. The British used to imprison convicts and political prisoners in the Viper Jail. The construction of the prison was supervised by Col. Barnet Ford between 1864-1867.

• At first the prison staff included a police inspector, a head constable, two sergeants, four class I constables and 30 class II constables. With time though this number increased as did the number of inmates. 
• The prison was closed during the 19th century but was later reopened to imprison brave hearts who fought during the freedom struggle. 
• Solitary cells, lock-ups, stocks and whipping stands – all these display the horrors of the times.   
• The prison also got an infamous nickname of Viper Chain Gang Jail. This is because the freedom fighters were tied together at night with chains binding their feet.  
• The prison and the gallows were completely abandoned in 1906 and Viper Island Jail’s importance declined when the cellular jail was constructed in Port Blair. 
• In 1979,  the Indian Navy took over the area to restore and maintain the relics. 
• While the prison wasn’t as well known as Cellular Jail, tourists gradually began discovering its historical significance. Today the island finds frequent mentions in Andaman travel itineraries.

How to Reach Viper Island

When tourists could visit Viper Island they would lounge at one of the most mesmerising picnic spots. The idyllic setting offset by the ruins made it a quiet zone to reflect and pause. After the Tsunami these spots were damaged, so it was closed for tourism and visitors.

While you can’t currently set foot on the Island, you can still observe at it from a distance. How? You can rent a boat from Phoenix Bay Jetty and Viper Island Jetty. Earlier the Harbour Cruise, a tourist vessel, would ply between the route but is currently non-operational. For instance the red brick courtroom is visible from the jetty.

Things To Do Around Viper Island, Port Blair

Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a serene and beautiful tourist destination. After your visit to the Island, you can explore the many attractions of Port Blair.

1. To start with, head to the major attraction and national monument of Port Blair – Cellular Jail. This jail too was used to imprison political prisoners.
2. Next is to explore the many Museums of Port Blair. The Anthropological Museum, Chatham Saw Mill and Forest Museum also give you a deep understanding of the rich geographical history, marine resources and tribal culture of the Andaman Islands.
3. The Marina Park and Aquarium is another great spot for you to explore with kids and family.
4. If you want a jolt of adrenaline then the Water Sports Complex in North Bay Island, short ferry ride from Port Blair offers a range of fun water sports.You can try these with the help of certified instructors. If diving is not your thing you can ride on glass bottom boats for a glimpse of the sea.
5. Also if you are at the Marina park, then hop on a ferry and head to the quaint and beautiful Ross Island.