Chatham Saw Mill is India's and Asia's oldest and biggest sawmill. Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar Island is home to this historical treasure. The forest department owns the mill, which is a must-see attraction in the Andaman Islands.
Only a few sawmills across the world provide wood to furniture manufacturers and other businesses. The mill uses Chatham Island's forest as a source of raw materials to produce the most lumber. Inside the mill, there is a museum that educates visitors about Chatham Island's history and its rich wildlife. It also has a fascinating collection of woodwork and sculptures that demonstrate the high quality of artistry.
History of Chatham Saw Mill
Chatham Saw Mill was built in 1883 by the colonial government to supply local demand for lumber for building projects. Large amounts of lumber were later exported by the British to suit the needs of places like London and New York. However, the authorities of Japan eventually invaded the islands and attacked the mill, causing it to collapse in 1942 under their administration.
Chatham Saw Mill had a revival after World War II when the island was recovered. Many countries have made settlements on the islands in the Indian Ocean, including Sri Lanka, Burma, and East Pakistan, as well as other Indian states. A wood storage facility such as Chatham Saw Mill is still in operation today, and it may be the largest of its kind. It serves as one of the most important sources of wood for both public and private sector organizations.
Information About Entry Fees And Visiting Hours
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The mill is available to the public for tours in the first part of the day, from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on all days except Sundays and public holidays.
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Tourists should plan on spending an hour or two on tour within.
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Entry fees are INR 10 per person and INR 50 for a guided tour.
How To Reach Chatham Saw Mill?
From Port Blair - Chatham Saw Mill is about 11 kilometers away from Port Blair. Public transportation, primarily buses, is accessible at regular intervals from Port Blair. Tourists may simply rent two-wheelers or a taxi if they want to travel by private vehicle.
From Havelock Island - ferries sail between Havelock Island and Port Blair, both government and private. Tourists may take any of these ferries to Port Blair and then hire a local taxi to go to Chatham Saw Mill. In Port Blair, you may rent two-wheelers for local commuting.
Things to do in and around Chatham Saw Mill
Following a visit to Chatham Saw Mill, visitors may partake in a variety of activities in and around the mill's vicinity. Visiting Cellular Jail and learning about its history, followed by witnessing the amusing light display there, and animal viewing at Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park are just a few of the activities to do near Chatham Saw Mill. Relaxing, swimming, or having a few beers at Corbyn's Cove Beach, or just visiting Port Blair's iconic church, the Roman Catholic Church. Furthermore, there are several museums around Chatham Saw Mill where history buffs and students are sure to have a fantastic time!
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Restaurants in the area of Chatham Saw Mill
Chatham Saw Mill is centrally positioned, making it convenient to a variety of additional attractions, including eateries that cater to hungry tummies. Amaya, which serves Indian, Seafood, and Asian cuisine and is located 2.2 kilometers away, Milkyway, which serves Indian and fast food and is located 1.4 kilometers away, Annapurna, which serves Indian and Asian cuisine, is located 3 kilometers away. The New Lighthouse restaurant, located 3 kilometers away and recommended for seafood, is one of the best places to eat near Chatham Saw Mill. Cafe Rebel, 2.2 kilometers from Chatham Saw Mill, is a good option for ethnic cuisine such as American cuisine.
Accommodations in the area of Chatham Saw Mill
There are a plethora of alternatives near Chatham Saw Mill for every kind of tourist. Aashiaanaa Residency Inn, Jazeera Resort, Ripple Resort, V-Knot Residency, Hotel King Safire, and Dev Mahal are some of the alternatives for budget vacationers. Peerless Resort, Hotel Exotica Squares, Symphony Palms Beach Resort, Hornbill Nest Resort, and Hotel Hilltop International are beautiful options for travelers on a budget. Hotel Mansha Regency, Hotel Sentinel, Sinclairs Bay View, and Hotel Comfort in Blue Whales are all options for luxury accommodations near Chatham Saw Mill.
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Tips for Travelers:
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From the pages of history, the Chatham Saw Mill has a great deal of importance. Tourists are recommended to see it not simply as another tourist attraction but to learn about its significance.
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Because the mill is only available to visitors for the first part of the day, it is best to arrive early to make the most of your visit.
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Because the production process here includes wood, guests should bring a handkerchief to protect themselves from wood dust. People who have respiratory problems should take extra care if necessary.
