About Viper Island
Viper Island is a small historic island in the Andaman archipelago, located inside Port Blair harbour, about 4 km west of central Port Blair. It is notable as the site of the first British convict jail in the Andamans, the Viper Chain Gang Jail built in 1867, predating the Cellular Jail. The island features ruins of the jail, gallows hill and abandoned structures set amid forested surroundings and harbour views.
Visitors guide
Visitors reach Viper Island by a 20-30 minute boat ride from Phoenix Bay Jetty or Junglighat Jetty in Port Blair. On the island, visitors can explore the roofless ruins of the former Viper Chain Gang Jail, the gallows site on a small hilltop, old walls, and overgrown colonial structures. The island is quiet and forested with coastal views of Port Blair harbour and surrounding islands. There are no shops or habitation, and the visit is primarily a short sightseeing and photography walk through historic ruins.
Key highlights
- 01
Ruins of Viper Chain Gang Jail built in 1867 - the first British jail in Andaman
- 02
Historic gallows hill where convicts were executed
- 03
Panoramic views of Port Blair harbour and nearby islands
- 04
Abandoned British-era structures including jail walls and administrative remains
- 05
Peaceful forested island accessible only by boat