Viper Island

About Viper Island

Built during 1864-67, the walls of Viper Island Jail echo the cries of Indian freedom fighters. The ruins of the jail, worsened by the 2006 Tsunami destruction, can barely depict the saga that unfolded there.

Viper Island in Port Blair named so after the vessel in which Lt. Archibald Blair came to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, houses two main buildings today. The gallows, where most prisoners were hanged, are perched atop a small hill and contrasts the haunting silence of the island with tales of valiant efforts put forth by the freedom fighters. The red building of the courtroom can clearly be seen in front of the Viper Island jetty and like the gallows, sits on the silent island, telling the world its story. Viper Island, earlier one of the most popular picnic spots, has lost a bit of its sheen post Tsunami.

The ruins offer an interesting story to the visitors and make for a great one-time visit. However, if you’re short on time, you can give it a miss. The history, the culture, and tales of the British colonial rule on the islands can still be seen in the ruins, but only as a distant cry. So do give it a try if you have time on your hands and a desire to see some of the most beautiful building ruins in the vicinity.

After all, the island does add to the quintessential Andaman Experience.