Chatham Saw Mill
Highlights of Chatham Saw Mill
📍 Distance: From Port Blair Airport – 4.5 Km
⏰ Visiting Time: 08:30 AM to 02:30 PM
🚫 Closed On: Sundays & Public Holidays
🎟 Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
📸 Camera Charges: ₹50 for still camera, ₹100 for video camera
🛍 Tourist Attractions: Museum showcasing timber history, Japanese bunkers, and a souvenir shop with wooden artifacts
🚻 Toilet Facilities: Available
🍽 Food Availability: Not Available
Plan your visit accordingly to explore Asia’s oldest and largest sawmill! 🌲🏝✨
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About Chatham Saw Mill
Located on Chatham Island in Port Blair, Chatham Saw Mill is Asia’s oldest and largest sawmill, established by the British in 1883. Originally built to process the Andaman Islands’ rich timber resources, it remains an active sawmill and a historical landmark.
A Glimpse into History
- British-Era Legacy: Built during the British rule, the mill played a key role in supplying teak, padauk, and other premium hardwoods for shipbuilding and construction.
- World War II Impact: The sawmill was bombed by Japanese forces in 1942 but was later restored. Visitors can still see Japanese bunkers near the site.
- Current Operations: The mill continues to process timber and has a dedicated museum showcasing rare wooden artifacts and forestry history.
How to Reach Chatham Saw Mill
🚖 By Road: Easily accessible from Port Blair city center via taxis or auto-rickshaws.
🚢 By Ferry: Located on Chatham Island, connected to Port Blair by a narrow bridge, requiring a short drive.
🚌 By Public Transport: Local buses and shared auto-rickshaws are available from major points in Port Blair.
Best Time to Visit Chatham Saw Mill
🌤 October to May: The ideal time to visit, with pleasant weather and clear skies.
☔ Monsoon Season (June to September): Rain may affect travel, but the mill remains open.
Things to Do at Chatham Saw Mill
🔹 Explore the Sawmill Operations – Witness the timber processing of premium wood like teak, padauk, and satinwood, which are used for construction and furniture.
🔹 Visit the Timber Museum – Learn about Andaman’s rich forestry history, rare wood species, and the British-era significance of the mill through informative displays and exhibits.
🔹 See the Japanese Bunkers – Discover World War II-era Japanese bunkers, a reminder of the 1942 bombing during the Japanese occupation of the Andaman Islands.
🔹 Shop for Wooden Handicrafts – Browse the handicraft stores near the sawmill offering beautifully carved wooden souvenirs, furniture, and artifacts made from local timber.
🔹 Photography & Sightseeing – Capture the historic charm of the mill, its massive logs, old machinery, and scenic surroundings. Ideal for history buffs and photography enthusiasts.
🔹 Learn About Sustainable Forestry – Understand how the Forest Department manages sustainable logging and conservation efforts in the Andaman Islands.
Travel Tips for Chatham Saw Mill
✅ Do’s:
✔️ Carry ID Proof – Entry to the sawmill may require valid identification.
✔️ Wear Comfortable Footwear – The site involves walking on wooden platforms and sawdust-covered areas.
✔️ Follow Safety Instructions – It’s an active mill, so stay within designated areas and follow guide instructions.
✔️ Visit the Timber Museum – Gain insights into Andaman’s forestry and history.
✔️ Shop for Wooden Souvenirs – Support local artisans by purchasing eco-friendly handicrafts.
✔️ Check Visiting Hours – Arrive within operational hours to ensure a smooth visit.
❌ Don’ts:
🚫 Avoid Touching Machinery & Logs – The equipment and saws are operational and can be hazardous.
🚫 Do Not Litter – Help maintain the cleanliness of the historic site.
🚫 No Smoking or Open Flames – The presence of wood and sawdust makes the area fire-sensitive.
🚫 Avoid Loud Noises – It’s a working mill, so maintain a respectful noise level.
🚫 Do Not Disturb Workers – Observe from a safe distance and do not interfere with ongoing work.
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