Chatham Saw Mill In Andaman

Chatham Saw Mill, located in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a historic and iconic attraction with great significance in the region's industrial and cultural heritage. Established in the late 19th century, it is one of Asia's oldest and largest sawmills, serving as a testament to the Island's rich history and contribution to the timber industry.

The Chatham Saw Mill is nestled on Chatham Island, connected to Port Blair by a bridge, making it easily accessible for visitors. As you approach the mill, you are greeted by the sight of tall, rusted machinery and towering stacks of timber logs, showcasing the industrial prowess of the bygone era.

The sawmill's history dates back to 1883 when the British initially set it up to process timber from the vast forest reserves of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The mill played a crucial role in supporting the region's economy and meeting the timber demands of various industries. Over the years, it has witnessed numerous changes and modernizations, but it still retains its historical charm.

The Chatham Saw Mill offers a glimpse into the timber processing techniques of the past. The mill showcases a range of vintage machinery and equipment, including gigantic circular saws, planers, and conveyor belts. Walking through the mill's premises, you can observe the intricate processes involved in converting logs into timber planks, providing an insight into the Island's timber industry.

The sawmill is a small museum that provides detailed information about the mill's history, the types of timber processed, and the machinery used. The museum also exhibits diverse wooden artefacts, including intricately carved furniture, sculptures, and handicrafts, showcasing the region's craftsmanship. It offers visitors a deeper understanding of the Island's cultural heritage and the significance of the timber industry.

Chatham Saw Mill is its location amidst lush greenery and serene surroundings. Dense forests, mangrove swamps, and the sparkling blue waters of the Andaman Sea surround the mill. The tranquil ambience adds to the place's charm, providing a serene escape from the bustling city.

Chatham Saw Mill and its surroundings offer more than just a glimpse into the Island's industrial heritage. Visitors can also enjoy leisurely walks along the nearby trails, offering opportunities to spot various bird species, butterflies, and even deer in the nearby deer park.

The best time to visit the Chatham Saw Mill is during the winter months, from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for exploration. The mill is open to visitors on all days except Sundays, and an entry fee is charged.

Chatham Saw Mill is a fascinating experience that takes you back in time and allows you to appreciate the Island's industrial legacy. It is a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those interested in understanding the Island's cultural heritage. Explore the mill, learn about its history, and marvel at the remarkable machinery and craftsmanship that played a crucial role in shaping the Andaman and Nicobar Islands' timber industry.
 

The Islands are used as a raw material in the mill. Chatham saw mill in Andaman Island processes many types of ornamental wood for making furniture and handicrafts. The mill at present gives direct employment to about 750 local people. The primary objective is to meet the local requirements of saw and timber for the construction works.

History of Chatham saw mill :

During the Second World War, the Japanese bombarded and destroyed the Chatham saw mill in Andaman and Nicobar Island in 1942, in which many workers succumbed to death. Later on, after the year 1945, the Japanese occupied the islands, and the mill was revived again. During the 1950s and 1960s, people from Sri Lanka, East Pakistan, Burma, and different states of India settled in the Chatham saw mill in the Andaman islands. The Department of Environment & Forests established a modern Museum in September 2006 in the Chatham Saw Mill Complex. The museum exhibits beautiful photographs of historical importance and about the general Department of Environment & Forests. It also exhibits souvenirs and various handicrafts of timber and wood. The products are distinct from the workers' intricate carving, polishing, designing, and skilled craftsmanship.

Facts about Chatham saw mill in Andaman and Nicobar Island:

The Chatham saw mill in Andaman Island is Asia's oldest and largest sawmill. The Chatham saw mill is taken care of by the Forest Department, which also set up the Forest Museum within the compound of this mill. The Japanese left the Island by 1946, after the end of the second world war. The Chatham saw mill processes various types of wood for handicrafts like marble, satin, and padauk. It took almost three years to regain and stand in its place after the Japanese bombarded the Chatham sawmill. The Forest Museum has exhibits and photographs showing the various phases that the Chatham sawmill had undergone. The mill at present gives direct employment to about 750 Local people. The Chatham saw mill produces about 20,000 logs per year. The entry fee of a person is Rs. 10 per Person & Rs—50 for Guide. 

Places to Visit Near Chatham Saw Mill  :

Cellular Jail:

Located in Port Blair, the Cellular Jail is a historic landmark that played a significant role during India's struggle for independence. Also known as Kala Pani, it was used as a colonial prison to detain political prisoners. Visit the Jail to learn about its dark history, witness the Light and Sound Show that depicts the hardships faced by prisoners, and explore the museum dedicated to freedom fighters.

Corbyn's Cove Beach:

Situated near Port Blair, Corbyn's Cove Beach is a tranquil and scenic spot known for its clear turquoise waters and soft sandy shores. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water sports like jet skiing and banana boat rides. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery, making it perfect for a relaxing day out.

Ross Island:

Located near Port Blair, Ross Island, a former British administrative headquarters now in ruins. Take a short boat ride to the Island and explore the remnants of colonial-era buildings, including the Chief Commissioner's House, church, bakery, and barracks. Enjoy the peaceful ambience, spot deer and peacocks, and take in the panoramic views of the Andaman Sea.

Anthropological Museum:

Situated in Port Blair, the Anthropological Museum provides insights into the rich tribal culture and history of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The museum houses a collection of artefacts, photographs, and models depicting the lifestyle, tools, and crafts of the indigenous tribes. Learn about the Jarawa, Sentinelese, Onge, and other tribes that inhabit the islands.

Mount Harriet National Park:

Located on the outskirts of Port Blair, Mount Harriet National Park is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Trek to the highest peak in the South Andaman Islands, enjoy panoramic views from the viewpoint and spot various bird species and animals like Andaman wild pigs and reptiles. The park offers scenic trails amidst dense forests and is an ideal destination for a day hike.

Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park:

Situated near Wandoor Beach, the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a protected area known for its diverse marine life and coral reefs. Explore the park's underwater world through snorkelling or glass-bottom boat rides, and witness the vibrant coral formations, colourful fish, and other marine species. The park comprises several islands, including Jolly Buoy and Red Skin Island, popular among tourists.

Wandoor Beach:

Located about 30 kilometres from Port Blair, Wandoor Beach is a picturesque beach known for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling, and witness the stunning marine life and corals near the shore. The beach is also a gateway to the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.

Things to do at the Chatham saw mill in Andaman and Nicobar Island:

Explore the various manufacturing processes inside the Chatham saw mill to transform those huge logs into smaller chunks of wood. Buy some local handicrafts from the timber processed by the Chatham saw mill. Loon into the display of the plants and the fauna exhibited in the Forest Museum. Witness the nearby sites to know about the historical war effect on them.

Best time to visit the Chatham saw mill :

Port Blair is a place that can be visited throughout the year. The summer months of April to July and those from November to March are great times to visit Chatham saw mill in Andaman and Nicobar Island.

How to visit the Chatham saw mill in Port Blair :

The Chatham Saw Mill is situated at the Chatham Islands, near Port Blair, i.e. 11 km from the capital's centre. Public transport is widely available to reach this location as it is connected to the main areas by road. 

Nearby attractions to the Chatham saw mill :

Cellular Jail 

It is 7km from the Chatham sawmill. The Cellular Jail, called kala pain, was made for culprits and constructed by the Britishers during their colonial rule in India.

Viper island

It is 25km from the Chatham saw mill in Port Blair. Viper Island is an extremely peaceful Island in Andaman and Nicobar. It has featured in the pages of Indian history many times due to the Jail on the Island built by the British a hundred years ago. This Island is frequented regularly by Indian and International tourists due to the striking amalgamation of history and nature.

North bay island

 It is 45km away from the Chatham sawmill in Port Blair. The Island is as peaceful as heaven as we can imagine. You can enjoy water sports like scuba diving and snorkelling; if you are an adventure freak, click seawatersport.com and experience the safest water adventure with the cheapest packages.

Rose and smith island 

Ross & Smith Islands are two twin islands – Ross & Smith joined together by a sandbar to make it a single group of islands. The entry/ permission costs Rs 50 for Indian tourists and Rs 500 for foreign tourists and can be obtained on all days (except Sundays). It is about 90km from the Chatham saw mill in Port Blair. You can enjoy adventures like scuba diving and snorkelling on the Island by booking the best services from seawatersport.com; the water of this beach is crystal clear.