Guide to Local Bus Services in Port Blair

1: Hopping on a Bus in Port Blair: Your Adventure Starts Here!

Welcome to Port Blair, the vibrant capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands! This city, steeped in history and surrounded by stunning natural beauty, serves as the main entry point for exploring these captivating islands. While there are several ways to get around, from taxis to auto-rickshaws , hopping on a local bus offers a truly unique and rewarding experience.  

Using the local bus services in Port Blair is not just about getting from one place to another; it’s an adventure in itself. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to explore, allowing travellers to stretch their budget further. More than that, it provides an authentic glimpse into the daily life of the islanders. Sharing a ride with locals, observing the everyday hustle and bustle, and seeing parts of the city that might be missed on a typical tourist trail – these are the experiences that make bus travel here so special. It’s a chance to immerse oneself in the local culture in a way that more structured transport options might not allow. While convenient, navigating the bus system might occasionally require a bit of initiative, like asking for directions, which can be part of the charm of exploring a new place like a local rather than just a visitor.  

2: Getting to Know Port Blair’s Bus Network

Understanding the local bus network is the first step to confidently navigating Port Blair and its surroundings. The system is a mix of government-run and privately-operated services, offering various options to suit different needs and preferences.

2.1: Who Runs the Buses? Government and Private Players

In Port Blair, bus services are primarily managed by two types of entities:

• Government Buses (State Transport Service – STS): These services fall under the purview of the Directorate of Transport, Andaman and Nicobar Administration. STS buses are a common sight on the roads and are generally known for being the most budget-friendly option available. They form the backbone of public transport, connecting various parts of the city and extending to more remote areas of the islands. The Directorate of Transport is the key authority overseeing these services, including setting schedules and fares for government-operated routes.
  
• Private Buses: Alongside the government services, numerous private bus operators also ply various routes in and around Port Blair. These private services can sometimes offer a different level of comfort, such as air-conditioning or potentially more direct routes to certain destinations, though this often comes at a slightly higher price point compared to the STS buses.  

Both government and private buses cater to the transportation needs of local residents and tourists alike, creating a comprehensive network that reaches many corners of Port Blair and beyond. This dual system provides travellers with choices that can align with their budget and comfort preferences. For instance, those prioritizing cost savings might opt for the basic government buses, while others looking for a bit more comfort, especially on longer journeys, might find private AC buses a more suitable option.  

2.2: What Kind of Buses Will You See?

Travellers in Port Blair will encounter a few different types of buses, and knowing what to look for can be helpful:

• Ordinary/Local Buses: These are the standard buses most commonly used for travel within the city and to nearby areas. They are the workhorses of the local transport system.
  
• Express Buses: Typically used for longer routes connecting Port Blair with other towns in the Andamans, these buses may have fewer stops compared to ordinary local buses, making the journey quicker.
  
• AC and Non-AC Buses: Air-conditioned buses are available, particularly on some private routes and certain longer-distance government routes. However, it’s good to note that terms like “Deluxe” or “Semi-Deluxe” might be used by operators, but these don’t always equate to international standards of luxury. Often, “Deluxe” might simply mean slightly more comfortable seating than a basic government bus, and not all “Deluxe” buses are air-conditioned. Managing expectations regarding these labels is key.  

Bus sizes can also vary, with minibuses serving some routes, while larger coaches are used for others, especially those covering greater distances. Since bus route numbers are not commonly used in Port Blair, visual identification becomes important. Travellers will need to rely on reading the destination boards displayed on the front of the buses to find the right one. These boards are usually in English, which is helpful for visitors.  

3: Mohanpura Central Bus Terminus: The Hub of Your Travels

The primary nerve centre for bus travel in Port Blair is the Mohanpura Central Bus Terminus, often referred to simply as the Mohanpura Bus Stand. This terminus is strategically located and serves as the main departure and arrival point for a vast majority of bus services in the region.  

Its location is quite convenient for travellers. It’s situated near the well-known Aberdeen Bazaar, a major commercial area in Port Blair. For those arriving by air, Veer Savarkar International Airport is approximately 3.6 km from the Central Bus Stand at Mohanpura. Moreover, key tourist attractions like the Cellular Jail are also close by, with the jail being just 1.3 km from the terminus. A notable landmark opposite the terminus is the large statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Gandhi Chowk, making the area easily recognizable.  

The Mohanpura Bus Terminus is crucial because most inter-city (long-distance) and intra-city (local) buses, especially the government-operated State Transport Service (STS) buses, either originate from here or include it as a major stop on their routes. This makes it an essential point for anyone planning to use buses to explore Port Blair or travel to other parts of the Andaman Islands connected by road.  

While detailed information on all facilities is not extensively documented, travellers can generally expect to find basic amenities such as enquiry counters. The Andaman Nicobar State Transport Services (ANTS) maintains an enquiry service at the “Bus Terminus, Port Blair,” which is invaluable for getting up-to-date information on routes, timings, and fares directly from the source. Given that bus information can sometimes be dynamic, this on-the-spot enquiry option is a highly recommended resource. Waiting areas are also typically available for passengers. The central role of Mohanpura Terminus makes it not just a transport hub but also a key navigational point for visitors in Port Blair.  

4: Popular Bus Routes for Sightseeing

Local buses in Port Blair offer an affordable and convenient way to reach many of the city’s main tourist attractions and popular spots in the surrounding areas. While official schedules for every single local route might not always be readily available online or strictly adhered to, a bit of on-the-spot inquiry at the Mohanpura Bus Terminus or with bus conductors can usually get travellers where they need to go. Conductors and drivers are often quite helpful to tourists.  

Here’s a guide to some popular routes:

Buses to Key City Attractions:

• Cellular Jail: This historic landmark is very accessible by local buses from various parts of Port Blair. Being only 1.3 km from the Mohanpura Central Bus Terminus, many buses pass near it.
  
• Corbyn’s Cove Beach: Regular local buses operate from Port Blair to Corbyn’s Cove Beach, which is about 7-8 km from the city centre. The journey typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes. There has also been mention of a “GOGO AC Bus” service to Corbyn’s Cove for a fare of around Rs 30.
  
• Aberdeen Bazaar: As a central commercial hub, Aberdeen Bazaar is extremely well-connected by local buses from almost all parts of Port Blair. For those arriving at the airport, buses to Aberdeen Bazaar are available from the main road just outside the airport, with a fare of around Rs 7.
  
• Samudrika Naval Marine Museum (Haddo): To visit this museum, travellers can look for local buses heading towards Haddo or Chatham, as the museum is located in the Haddo area.
  
• Anthropological Museum (MG Road, Middle Point): This museum is situated at Middle Point on MG Road and can be reached by taking a local bus that services MG Road.  

Buses for Popular Outskirts/Day Trips:

• Chidiya Tapu (Bird Island) & Munda Pahar Beach (approx. 25 km): Government buses, both non-AC (around Rs 30) and AC (around Rs 50-60), are available for Chidiya Tapu. However, their frequency might be limited, and services can be less frequent on Sundays and public holidays. For more flexibility, private vehicles are often recommended for this trip.
  
• Wandoor Beach & Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (approx. 30 km): Wandoor is the gateway to Jolly Buoy and Redskin Islands. There are reportedly four daily buses from the Port Blair bus stand to Wandoor, with a fare mentioned as Rs 8. Local STS buses are also said to be available, departing roughly every hour and taking over an hour for the journey. Given the distance, the Rs 8 fare seems quite low compared to official stage-carriage fare structures, so it’s wise to confirm this locally.
  
• Mount Harriet (via Bamboo Flat – 48 km by road): Buses heading to Bamboo Flat and Mount Harriet are available from Port Blair, with departures mentioned at 8:15 am and 4:00 pm, and a fare of Rs 15.  

Buses for Connecting to Other Islands (Longer Journeys from Port Blair): These routes primarily use the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR), and bus timings, especially for government services, can be influenced by convoy schedules for passing through the Jarawa Tribal Reserve.  

• Baratang (approx. 100 km): Government (STS) buses depart from Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) for Baratang at 6:00 am and 11:45 am. Tickets for government buses can often be bought at the Aberdeen Bazaar Bus Terminus counter. The indicative fare for an ordinary government bus is around Rs 80. The journey involves passing through a reserved forest area in a convoy.
  
• Rangat (approx. 172-175 km): STS buses leave Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) for Rangat at 6:00 am. Older information suggests departures from the Port Blair bus stand at 5:45 am and 10:50 am with a fare of Rs 65. The government bus fare is likely around Rs 145 , while private buses might charge between Rs 400 and Rs 600. The journey takes approximately 7 to 9 hours.
  
• Mayabunder (approx. 240 km): STS buses from Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) depart at 6:00 am. Other sources mention direct buses from Port Blair at 5:00 am and 10:30 am for a fare of Rs 95. The ordinary government bus fare is likely around Rs 200 , with private bus fares ranging from Rs 600 to Rs 2800 depending on the service type (e.g., AC, sleeper). This journey typically takes about 10 hours.
  
• Diglipur (approx. 310-325 km): Several STS (government) buses run on this route. Departures from Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) are scheduled at 6:00 am. Other ATR buses from Port Blair to Diglipur are listed with departure times at 4:15 am, 7:00 am, 10:00 am, and 12:45 pm. An early morning bus at 4:30 am with a fare of Rs 120 has also been mentioned. The government bus fare is generally in the range of Rs 255 to Rs 285 , while private operators may charge between Rs 600 and Rs 800. The journey is a long one, taking 10 to 13 hours.  

It is important for travellers to note that fares can vary, and information from unofficial guides might sometimes be outdated. For instance, the Rs 8 fare to Wandoor (28 km) appears inconsistent with the official stage-carriage fare structure which suggests a higher price for that distance. Therefore, confirming current fares at the bus stand or with the conductor is always the best approach.  

Table 1: Port Blair Bus Routes to Top Tourist Spots

5: Bus Timings and How Often They Run

Navigating Port Blair by bus requires some understanding of their operational timings and frequency. For local routes within the city, buses are generally frequent, providing a fairly regular service throughout the day. This often means travellers can head to a main bus stop or route and not have to wait excessively long for a bus to their desired area. However, it’s also noted by some sources that precise adherence to published schedules for all local routes might not always be the case, and some flexibility is advisable.  

For long-distance buses, particularly those travelling along the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR) to destinations like Baratang, Rangat, Mayabunder, and Diglipur, the frequency is much lower. These services usually have specific departure times, often concentrated in the early morning hours. Given the limited number of services on these routes and the long journey times, it is highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure a seat.  

Official sources do provide information on bus timings. The Directorate of Transport’s website is indicated as a resource for schedules of both Government (STS) and private local buses, as well as the ATR buses. Specifically, the Andaman Nicobar State Transport Services (ANTS) website (ants.andaman.gov.in) features a “Routes” section that lists departure times for STS buses from Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) to various inter-island destinations.  

Despite the availability of official schedules, practical advice often emphasizes the importance of confirming timings locally, especially for routes to specific tourist attractions or for less frequent services. The Mohanpura Bus Terminus is the best place for such on-the-ground verification. It’s also worth noting that bus service frequencies can be reduced on Sundays and public holidays, as has been observed for routes like the one to Chidiya Tapu. Furthermore, unforeseen circumstances can impact schedules; for example, public health situations have previously led to curtailed bus frequencies , highlighting that timetables can be dynamic. This distinction between officially published information and the on-ground reality means that while planning can be done using official sources, a final local check is always a prudent step for a smooth journey.  

6: How Much Will It Cost? Fares and Buying Tickets

One of the most attractive aspects of using local buses in Port Blair is their affordability. It is widely acknowledged as a very economical mode of transport, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers.  

Bus fares are typically determined by the distance of travel, often calculated in stages. The Directorate of Transport is responsible for publishing official fare charts for local routes operated by government buses. According to these official notifications, fares for ordinary local buses are quite reasonable. For instance, a journey of 0-2 km could cost as little as Rs 6, a 2-4 km trip Rs 7, and so on, with fares increasing incrementally with distance. Air-conditioned (AC) buses, where available, will naturally have higher fares compared to these ordinary, non-AC services. It is important to note that some very low fares mentioned in older online guides (for example, a Rs 8 fare to Wandoor, which is approximately 28 km away ) should be approached with caution, as they may be outdated or refer to specific subsidized services; current fares should always be verified locally.  

The process of buying tickets varies depending on the type of bus and route:

• Local City Buses: For most short-distance journeys within Port Blair on government buses, tickets are commonly purchased directly on board from the bus conductor after boarding.
  
• Long-Distance (ATR) Government Buses: For longer routes, such as those to Baratang, Rangat, Mayabunder, or Diglipur, tickets often need to be purchased in advance from the designated ticket counter at the main bus terminus, like the one at Mohanpura (Aberdeen Bazaar). Advance booking is strongly advised for these popular and less frequent services to ensure a seat.
  
• Private Buses: Tickets for private buses, especially for long-distance routes, can usually be bought from their respective agents or dedicated kiosks. These may be located near the main bus station or in other commercial areas. Some private bus operators are also listed on online booking platforms like Redbus, which can be a convenient way to check availability and book tickets for certain routes. The ticketing process for private buses can sometimes be informal; for example, one account describes purchasing tickets for the Diglipur route from an individual operating from a simple setup across the road from the state bus station.  

Information regarding fares is supposed to be displayed at the bus stands for passengers’ reference. However, confirming the fare with the conductor before starting the journey or at the ticket counter is always a good practice.  

Table 2: Sample Local Bus Fares in Port Blair (Ordinary Government Buses – Based on Official Notification)

Note: These fares are for ordinary buses. AC, Deluxe, or private bus fares will be higher. Always confirm current fares locally.

7: Smart Tips for Riding the Bus in Port Blair

Travelling by local bus in Port Blair can be a smooth and enjoyable experience with a few helpful tips in mind. Since the system relies more on direct communication and observation than on rigid, easily accessible digital information for all routes, being proactive is key.

• How to Spot Your Bus: Local buses in Port Blair typically do not use route numbers for identification. Instead, they display destination boards on the front of the bus, which are usually written in English. Pay close attention to these boards to find the bus going your way.  
• Don’t Be Shy: Asking for Help: This is perhaps the most crucial tip. If unsure about a route, a bus stop, or which bus to take, do not hesitate to ask. Bus conductors and drivers are generally found to be very helpful to tourists. Local residents are also often willing to guide visitors. Knowing some basic Hindi or English will be beneficial for these interactions.  
• Boarding and Alighting: If attempting to board a bus at a point that isn’t a major designated stop, it might be necessary to signal clearly to the driver. Once on board, it’s a good idea to inform the conductor of your intended destination, especially if it’s not a major terminus, so they can let you know when to get off.
• Peak Hours: Like in any city, buses can become crowded during peak commuting hours (usually morning and late afternoon/early evening). If a less crowded journey is preferred, try to travel during off-peak times.
• Carry Small Change: When purchasing tickets on board from the conductor, having smaller denominations of Indian Rupees will make the transaction easier and quicker for everyone.
• Be Aware of Your Belongings: While Port Blair is generally safe, it’s always wise to practice standard travel safety by keeping an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded buses.  
• Flexibility is Key: Embrace the local way of travel. Buses may not always adhere strictly to a minute-by-minute timetable. A little patience and flexibility will go a long way in making the bus journey a pleasant part of the Andaman adventure. This slightly more relaxed approach to schedules can be seen as part of the “island time” experience.  
• Landmarks for Navigation: Port Blair has some hilly terrain, and many areas can look quite similar. Remembering key landmarks near one’s accommodation or destination can be very helpful for orientation, especially if exploring new routes.  

By following these simple tips, travellers can confidently use the local bus system and enjoy an authentic and budget-friendly way to see Port Blair. The need for proactive communication, stemming from the lack of route numbers and sometimes fluid schedules, means that passengers play an active role in their journey, which can itself be a memorable part of the travel experience.

8: Exploring Port Blair After Dark: Night Bus Services

Information regarding extensive local city bus services operating late into the night within Port Blair for general commuting or sightseeing is somewhat limited. The primary focus of available transport discussions tends to be on daytime operations.

However, there is evidence of inter-district night bus services on long-distance routes. For instance, private operators like SSV Transport Lines initiated a night bus service between Diglipur and Port Blair back in 2015. The main purpose of such services is often to facilitate connectivity for passengers needing to reach Port Blair for early morning flights or those arriving late and needing to travel to farther islands. Contact details for such private operators are available if this specific type of service is required.  

For intra-city night travel within Port Blair itself, the availability of regular, scheduled public buses appears to be less common. While online platforms like Redbus list various bus operators serving Port Blair , and some business listings mention “24 Hours Bus Ticketing Agents” , these do not explicitly confirm a widespread network of local buses running throughout the night within the city limits for general public use. The ticketing agents are primarily for booking, not necessarily for services that operate 24/7 locally.  

Therefore, for travellers needing to move around Port Blair city late at night, relying on local buses might not be the most predictable option. It is more likely that auto-rickshaws or taxis would be the primary modes of transport available after standard bus operating hours. It is always advisable to make local enquiries if a specific late-night bus route is needed, but it’s best to have alternative transport plans for late-evening or night-time travel within the city. The existing night bus services seem tailored for specific long-haul connectivity rather than general urban mobility after dark.

9: Accessibility on Port Blair Buses

Information regarding accessibility features specifically on Port Blair’s local public buses for persons with disabilities is not extensively detailed in the available material. However, there are some indicators of awareness and services for travellers with special needs in the broader Andaman context.

The State Transport Service (STS) in Andaman and Nicobar Islands is noted to issue various types of bus passes, including a “Physically Handicapped Pass”. This indicates an administrative acknowledgment of the needs of persons with disabilities, although specific details regarding the procurement process or the exact benefits of this pass are not provided.  

Regarding on-bus accessibility features – such as ramps for wheelchair access, designated wheelchair spaces, or audio announcements for visually impaired passengers – there is no specific information confirming their widespread availability on the local bus fleet in Port Blair. General discussions about accessibility in the Andaman Islands highlight that some tourist sites like Cellular Jail and Radhanagar Beach have made efforts to be accessible with ramps, and Veer Savarkar International Airport also offers assistance services for passengers with disabilities. Furthermore, accessible taxis equipped with ramps are mentioned as being available in Port Blair and Havelock Island, though pre-booking is recommended. Government-operated ferry services between islands are also stated to offer wheelchair access. The focus in these accounts is more on specific locations, taxis, and ferries rather than the public bus system’s inherent accessibility features.  

Given this, travellers with mobility challenges or other disabilities planning to use local buses in Port Blair should be prepared to make direct inquiries. Contacting the Directorate of Transport or the Andaman Nicobar State Transport Services (ANTS) ahead of travel or upon arrival would be crucial to understand if any specific routes are operated by accessible buses or if any form of assistance can be provided. Pre-planning and direct communication are vital. For those requiring guaranteed accessible transport, exploring options like the accessible taxis mentioned might be a more reliable approach. While efforts towards making the islands more accessible are evident in certain areas, comprehensive accessibility across the entire public bus fleet may not yet be fully realized.

10: Need Help? Important Transport Contacts

Having the right contact information can be very helpful when navigating a new place. For queries related to local bus services or other transport matters in Port Blair, here are some important contacts:

This list provides various points of contact, from direct bus service enquiries to broader administrative offices and emergency contacts, ensuring travellers can reach out to the appropriate authority depending on their needs. The ANTS enquiry number is likely the most direct line for specific government bus schedule and route questions.

Table 3: Key Transport Contact Information

Your Port Blair Bus Adventure Awaits

Exploring Port Blair and its surrounding wonders by local bus is an experience that offers a unique blend of affordability, authenticity, and adventure. The network, comprising both government (STS) and private operators, connects the main Mohanpura Central Bus Terminus to key city attractions like Cellular Jail and Corbyn’s Cove, as well as to gateways for further exploration such as Wandoor and even far-flung destinations like Diglipur via the Andaman Trunk Road.

While official schedules and fare charts are available through the Directorate of Transport, the real charm and sometimes the challenge of bus travel here lies in its more organic nature. Timings can be flexible, and information is often best confirmed on the ground by speaking with helpful conductors, drivers, or fellow passengers. This proactive engagement, coupled with the use of destination boards rather than route numbers, makes each bus journey a small discovery in itself.

Fares are undeniably economical, making buses an excellent choice for budget travellers. Ticketing is straightforward for local rides (pay on board) but may require advance purchase at counters for longer inter-district journeys. While night bus services exist primarily for long-haul connectivity, and comprehensive accessibility features on all buses are still an evolving aspect, the system generally serves as a reliable means for daytime exploration.

Ultimately, choosing to travel by local bus in Port Blair is to choose a more immersive way to see the islands. It requires a spirit of inquiry and a little patience but rewards with genuine interactions and a deeper connection to the place and its people. So, arm yourself with a bit of information, be ready to ask questions, and hop on for a memorable ride!

Exploring Port Blair and its nearby areas can be both budget-friendly and rewarding if you take advantage of the city’s local bus services. Although buses aren’t as fast or convenient as taxis or scooters, they provide a great way to experience local life while covering popular routes at a fraction of the cost. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Port Blair’s bus services, including routes, fares, schedules, and travel tips.

1. Overview of Bus Services in Port Blair

Port Blair’s bus services are primarily operated by the Andaman and Nicobar Administration. The buses are used by both locals and budget-conscious travelers to get around the city and to nearby beaches, parks, and villages. The service covers key tourist spots and residential areas, though it can be limited in terms of frequency and timings.

• Types of Buses: Government-run standard buses (no AC)
• Main Bus Stations:
  • Aberdeen Bazaar Bus Stand (City center)
  • Phoenix Bay Jetty Area (near ferry terminals)

2. Popular Bus Routes and Destinations

Here are some of the key routes you can use to explore Port Blair and its surroundings.

Route 1: Port Blair City Tour (Aberdeen Bazaar Loop)

• Stops: Aberdeen Bazaar → Cellular Jail → Samudrika Naval Museum → Marina Park → Corbyn’s Cove Beach → Back to Aberdeen Bazaar
• Highlights:
  • Visit iconic landmarks like Cellular Jail and Marina Park.
  • Relax at Corbyn’s Cove Beach and enjoy water sports.
• Fare: ₹10 – ₹20
• Frequency: Every 30 – 45 minutes

Route 2: Port Blair to Chidiya Tapu

• Stops: Aberdeen Bazaar → Sippighat → Chidiya Tapu Biological Park → Munda Pahad Beach (Chidiya Tapu)
• Highlights:
  • Scenic drive through lush mangroves and forests.
  • Enjoy birdwatching and spectacular sunset views at Chidiya Tapu.
• Fare: ₹20 – ₹40
• Distance: 25 km
• Travel Time: ~45 minutes to 1 hour
• Frequency: 1 – 2 buses per hour

Route 3: Port Blair to Wandoor Beach

• Stops: Aberdeen Bazaar → Sippighat → Wandoor Village → Wandoor Beach (Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park)
• Highlights:
  • Explore Wandoor Beach and take boat trips to Jolly Buoy Island and Red Skin Island.
• Fare: ₹25 – ₹50
• Distance: 28 km
• Travel Time: ~1 hour
• Frequency: Limited service; check schedules in advance

Route 4: Port Blair to North Bay and Ross Island Jetty

• Stops: Aberdeen Bazaar → Phoenix Bay Jetty → Haddo Jetty
• Highlights:
  • Connect to ferries for Ross Island and North Bay.
  • Explore colonial ruins on Ross Island and enjoy snorkeling at North Bay.
• Fare: ₹10 – ₹20
• Travel Time: ~15 minutes
• Frequency: Frequent (every 20 – 30 minutes)

Route 5: Port Blair to Mount Harriet National Park

• Stops: Aberdeen Bazaar → Ferrargunj → Mount Harriet Base Camp
• Highlights:
  • Experience scenic mountain roads and panoramic views from Mount Harriet, the highest peak on South Andaman Island.
• Fare: ₹40 – ₹60
• Travel Time: ~1.5 hours
• Frequency: Limited; check schedules in advance

3. Bus Fares and Tickets

Port Blair’s local buses are highly affordable, making them ideal for budget travelers. The fares depend on the distance traveled and are generally between ₹10 and ₹60.

• Short Distance Rides: ₹10 – ₹20 (within the city)
• Longer Routes (e.g., to Chidiya Tapu or Wandoor): ₹25 – ₹60
• Payment: Tickets are issued by conductors on the bus. Payment is accepted in cash only, so carry small denominations.

4. Schedule and Timings

Bus services in Port Blair typically operate from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. However, the frequency and timing of buses can vary depending on the route and time of day.

• Peak Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (buses can be crowded)
• Off-Peak Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (more relaxed travel experience)
• Frequency:
  • Urban routes: Every 20 – 45 minutes
  • Remote routes (e.g., Chidiya Tapu, Wandoor): Every 1 – 2 hours

Tip: It’s best to confirm bus timings in advance, especially for remote destinations. Local hotels or travel agencies can provide updated schedules.

5. Pros and Cons of Using Local Buses

Pros:

• Budget-Friendly: Buses are the most economical way to travel around Port Blair.
• Local Experience: You’ll get a glimpse of daily life and interact with local residents.
• Eco-Friendly: Buses have a lower carbon footprint compared to taxis or rental cars.

Cons:

• Limited Coverage: Buses may not reach all tourist spots, and schedules can be infrequent for some routes.
• Overcrowding: Buses can get crowded during peak hours, making the journey less comfortable.
• No Online Booking: Tickets must be purchased on the bus, and there are no real-time tracking services.

6. Tips for Traveling by Bus in Port Blair

1. Plan Ahead: Check the bus schedule in advance, especially for longer routes like Chidiya Tapu or Wandoor Beach.
2. Carry Small Change: Buses only accept cash, and conductors may not have change for large bills.
3. Avoid Peak Hours: If you prefer a more relaxed experience, travel during off-peak hours.
4. Be Patient: Buses may run behind schedule, particularly on routes with limited frequency.
5. Ask for Directions: Locals and bus conductors are usually friendly and willing to help if you’re unsure about stops or routes.

7. Alternatives to Local Buses

If buses don’t fit your schedule or travel style, here are some alternatives to consider:

• Auto-Rickshaws: Quick and convenient for short trips; fares range from ₹100 to ₹300.
• Taxis: Best for comfort and longer distances; expect to pay ₹2,500 – ₹4,000 for full-day hire.
• Scooter Rentals: Ideal for independent travelers; rentals cost ₹500 – ₹800 per day.
• Ferries: Essential for visiting nearby islands like Havelock and Neil; fares range from ₹200 to ₹2,000 depending on the ferry type.

If you’re on a budget and want to experience Port Blair like a local, taking the bus is definitely worth it. While the service may not be as fast or convenient as other transport options, it provides an affordable way to reach key attractions around the city. With a little planning and patience, you can explore much of what Port Blair has to offer while keeping your travel costs low.