Cellular Jail Light and Sound Show: Timings, Tickets and Tips
Cellular Jail light and sound show in Port Blair: show timings and languages, tickets, how to book, what the show covers and how to plan the evening.
The Cellular Jail light and sound show tells the story of the freedom struggle and the prisoners held in the colonial jail at Port Blair. It runs in the open courtyard each evening, and it is the best way to understand the place after you have seen it by day.
This guide covers the timings, the tickets and how to plan around it.
Cell windows lit for the show.
At a glance | |
|---|---|
Where | Cellular Jail, Atlanta Point, Port Blair |
What | A light and sound show on the jail's history |
Shows | Usually two evening shows, one in Hindi and one in English |
Length | About 45 to 60 minutes |
Tickets | Bought at the counter or online; prices are modest |
Note | Shows can be cancelled in rain, so check the same day |
What it covers
The show narrates the history of the jail, built by the British in the early 20th century to hold political prisoners, and the stories of the people sent there. The jail's arms radiate from a central tower, and the lights play across the cells, the courtyard and the old banyan tree.
It is a sombre, moving programme, with a narration that includes the voices of historical figures.
Timings and languages
Typically there are two shows each evening, with the first in Hindi and the second in English. Exact times shift with the season and with the sunset, and the schedule on any given day can change. Check the programme and the language on the same day.
Come early for good seats. The seating is in an open-air courtyard.
Tickets and booking
Tickets are sold at the counter, and an online option has been offered in the past. Prices are low and there are different rates for Indian and foreign visitors. Check the current rates and confirm the show language when you buy.
Combine it with a daytime visit
The jail's museum and the cells are open in the daytime, with a separate ticket. A good plan is to visit in the afternoon, when the light is soft, then stay for the evening show.
Afternoon: the cells, the museum and the memorial.
Evening: the light and sound show.
The jail lawn before the show.
Practical tips
Check the weather. Rain can cancel the show.
Wear mosquito repellent. The courtyard is open-air.
Carry a light layer. The evenings can be breezy.
Arrive 30 minutes early to get a seat.
Be respectful. The site is a memorial.
Where it fits
It is an ideal activity for the first or last night in Port Blair. See our Port Blair half-day guide and the Cellular Jail and Ross Island guide.
Frequently asked questions
What are the show timings?
Usually two shows each evening, in Hindi and English. Check the same day.
How long is the show?
About 45 to 60 minutes.
Is it open in rain?
It can be cancelled, so check the weather.
How much are tickets?
A modest price, with different rates for Indian and foreign visitors.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, though the content is sombre.
Plan your Andaman days with us
We schedule the jail, the museum and the show on the right evening. Explore the Andaman destination page or talk to a trip designer.
Photo credits
Cell windows: Sohini bhanj, CC BY-SA 4.0. Jail lawn: Ankur P from Pune, CC BY-SA 2.0. Both via Wikimedia Commons.
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