Chatham Saw Mill, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Overview

Chatham Saw Mill, located on Chatham Island near Port Blair, is one of the oldest and largest sawmills in Asia. Established by the British in 1883, the mill played a crucial role in processing timber for construction and various other purposes. Today, it serves as a significant tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into the island's colonial past and its timber industry.

Historical and Cultural Significance

• Colonial Heritage: Chatham Saw Mill was established during the British colonial period and has a rich history associated with the development of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
• Industrial Importance: The mill was a vital source of timber for construction, especially for rebuilding Port Blair after it was destroyed in World War II.
• Museum and Interpretation Center: The sawmill houses a museum that showcases the history, machinery, and processes involved in timber production. It provides educational insights into the timber industry and the history of the region.

Activities and Attractions

• Museum Visit: Explore the museum at Chatham Saw Mill, which displays various artifacts, photographs, and machinery related to the timber industry and the history of the mill.
• Guided Tours: Take a guided tour of the sawmill to learn about its operations, the types of timber processed, and the historical significance of the mill.
• Timber Processing: Witness the timber processing operations and see how logs are converted into finished products. The mill processes different types of timber, including hardwood and softwood.
• Japanese Bomb Crater: Visit the site of the Japanese bomb crater from World War II, which serves as a reminder of the island's turbulent past.
• Photography: Capture photographs of the historic mill, the old machinery, and the scenic surroundings of Chatham Island.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Chatham Saw Mill is during the winter and early summer months from November to April. During this period, the weather is pleasant, making it comfortable for exploring the mill and the museum.

• November to April (Winter and Early Summer): This is the ideal time to visit, with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 30°C. The weather is pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing and exploring the mill.
• May to October (Monsoon): The monsoon season brings heavy rains, which can make exploring the mill and the outdoor areas less enjoyable. It is advisable to avoid visiting during this period due to potential travel disruptions and wet conditions.

Visiting Tips and Preparation

• Clothing: Wear light, comfortable clothing suitable for walking and exploring the mill and museum. Bring along a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
• Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for exploring the mill and museum.
• Safety: Follow safety guidelines provided by the tour guides, especially when observing the timber processing operations.
• Camera: Bring a camera to capture the historic mill, machinery, and scenic surroundings.
• Respect the Environment: Help preserve the historical and industrial heritage of Chatham Saw Mill by not littering and respecting the exhibits and machinery.

Key Attractions

• Museum Visit: Explore the museum showcasing the history, machinery, and processes involved in timber production.
• Guided Tours: Learn about the mill's operations and historical significance through guided tours.
• Timber Processing: Witness the timber processing operations and see the different types of timber processed.
• Japanese Bomb Crater: Visit the site of the Japanese bomb crater from World War II.
• Photography: Capture photographs of the historic mill, machinery, and scenic surroundings.

How to Reach

Port Blair is well-connected and can be reached by various means:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Chatham Island, where the sawmill is located.
• By Sea: Regular passenger ship services are available from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam to Port Blair. The journey by sea takes approximately 3-4 days.
• Local Transport: Once in Port Blair, you can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or take a local bus to reach Chatham Island and the sawmill.

Visiting Chatham Saw Mill offers a unique opportunity to explore the island's colonial history and industrial heritage. It is a must-visit destination for history buffs, industrial enthusiasts, and those interested in the timber industry. The serene environment and historical significance make it an enriching experience for visitors to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.