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When most people think of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and adventure sports come to mind. But beyond the coastline lies a lesser-known spiritual trail: temples that carry centuries of tradition and cultural harmony. From ancient Lord Shiva temples in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to vibrant shrines dedicated to Lord Murugan, these temples are more than just religious sites; they are windows into the islands’ rich Tamil, Bengali, and North Indian heritage. Many travellers find that exploring these cultural gems adds a unique dimension to their journey, especially when booked through thoughtfully planned Andaman tour packages.
If you’re visiting Port Blair or exploring nearby islands, setting aside time for temple visits can make your journey both peaceful and culturally enriching. Let’s explore the famous temples of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, their timings, how to reach them, and what makes them special.
Famous Temples in Port Blair
1. Sri Vetrimalai Murugan Temple
One of the most famous temples in Port Blair, Sri Vetrimalai Murugan Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, revered as the God of War and Wisdom. Built in classic Dravidian style, its towering gopuram and intricate carvings reflect Tamil architecture. The temple becomes vibrant during festivals, with rituals, music, and colorful decorations filling the premises. Devotees from across Andaman visit here for blessings, spiritual solace, and to witness the rich Tamil cultural heritage alive in the temple’s practices.
Best Time to Visit – December to January (during Thaipusam festival)
Temple Timings – 5:00 am to 12:00 pm & 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm
How to Reach – Located in Port Blair, easily accessible via auto-rickshaw or cab
Nearest Airport – Veer Savarkar International Airport (4 km)
Nearest Bus Stand – Central Bus Terminus, Mohanpura
2. Om Saravana Bhawan
Originally constructed on Ross Island in 1926, Om Saravana Bhawan was later relocated to Port Blair. Dedicated to Lord Murugan, it stands as a testament to the faith of the Tamil community brought to the islands during British colonial times. The temple preserves traditional rituals and architecture, with devotees often participating in music, prayers, and festivals. Its peaceful ambiance, coupled with historical significance, makes it a must-visit spiritual site for both locals and tourists exploring Port Blair’s religious landmarks.
Best Time to Visit- November to February
Temple Timings- 5:30 am to 11:00 am & 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm
How to Reach- Located in Port Blair, accessible by road
Nearest Airport- Veer Savarkar International Airport (5 km)
Nearest Bus Stand- Aberdeen Bazaar Bus Stand
3. Sri Lakshmi Narayan Temple
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, Sri Lakshmi Narayan Temple is a center of devotion and celebration. The temple is known for its vibrant festivities during Janmashtami and Diwali, where elaborate rituals, bhajans, and prayers are performed. Its serene environment encourages meditation and reflection, attracting devotees seeking spiritual guidance and blessings. The temple’s architecture, with traditional carvings and sacred icons, creates a sacred atmosphere that resonates with the faithful throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit- October to March
Temple Timings- 6:00 am to 12:00 pm & 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm
How to Reach- Centrally located in Port Blair, reachable by auto or cab
Nearest Airport- Veer Savarkar International Airport
Nearest Bus Stand- Garacharma Bus Station
4. Radha Krishna Temple
Radha Krishna Temple in Port Blair beautifully illustrates the divine love of Krishna and Radha through detailed paintings and carvings depicting various scenes from Krishna’s life. Devotees gather here to chant “Radhe-Krishna” and participate in bhajans, seeking blessings for love, harmony, and prosperity. The temple’s calm and colorful setting creates a spiritual retreat in the city, making it a favored place for meditation, reflection, and religious gatherings during festivals like Janmashtami.
Best Time to Visit- October to March
Temple Timings- 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
How to Reach- Accessible by road in Port Blair
Nearest Airport- Veer Savarkar International Airport
Nearest Bus Stand- Garacharma Bus Station
5. Selva Vinayakar Temple
Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Selva Vinayakar Temple is among the busiest religious sites in Andaman. Devotees believe that offering prayers here brings fulfillment of wishes and removes obstacles. The temple hosts regular rituals, special ceremonies, and Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, drawing large crowds. Its vibrant atmosphere, combined with the spiritual energy of devotees, makes it a significant center for worship. The temple also serves as a cultural hub, connecting the local community through faith and devotion.
Best Time to Visit- October to March
Temple Timings- 5:00 am to 12:00 pm & 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm
How to Reach- Located in Golghar, Port Blair
Nearest Airport- Veer Savarkar International Airport
Nearest Bus Stand- Central Bus Stand
6. Shri Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
Located in Austinabad, Shri Shirdi Sai Baba Temple offers a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. Thursdays see the highest footfall, with devotees participating in chanting, prayers, and aarti. The temple’s serene ambiance and devotional activities create a calming effect, drawing those seeking solace, guidance, and blessings. It is also a space for community gatherings and religious discussions, making it an important spiritual landmark for both residents and visitors in Port Blair.
Best Time to Visit- October to February
Temple Timings- 6:00 am to 9:30 pm
How to Reach- Situated in Austinabad, Port Blair, accessible by taxi or bus
Nearest Airport- Veer Savarkar International Airport
Nearest Bus Stand- Austinabad Bus Station
7. Naval Kali Temple, Junglighat
Naval Kali Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and is particularly lively during Navratri and Kali Puja celebrations. The temple known for its divine energy, with devotees offering prayers and participating in rituals that honor the powerful feminine force. Its vibrant ceremonies and sacred iconography attract locals and tourists alike, creating a spiritual and cultural experience. The temple’s architecture and religious significance highlight the reverence for Goddess Kali in Andaman, making it a must-visit for those interested in divine traditions.
Best Time to Visit- October to November
Temple Timings- 5:00 am to 7:00 am & 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm
How to Reach- Located in Junglighat, Port Blair
Nearest Airport- Veer Savarkar International Airport
Nearest Bus Stand- Aberdeen Bazaar Bus Stations
8. Shree Munisuvrat Swami Jain Temple
This newly built Jain temple honors Munisuvrat Swami, the 20th Tirthankara, and features detailed Navagraha sculptures. The temple reflects Jain principles of peace, discipline, and simplicity through its architectural design and serene surroundings. Devotees visit for meditation, prayers, and to participate in Jain rituals and festivals. Its calm environment, coupled with intricate carvings and spiritual symbolism, offers a glimpse into Jain traditions in Andaman, making it a unique addition to Port Blair’s diverse religious landscape.
Best Time to Visit- November to February
Temple Timings- 5:30 am to 11:30 am & 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm
How to Reach- Located in Shadipur, Port Blair
Nearest Airport- Veer Savarkar International Airport
Nearest Bus Stand- Central Bus Stand
9. ISKCON Temple, Brichgunj
Dedicated to Lord Krishna, ISKCON Temple in Brichgunj is a hub for bhajans, kirtans, and spiritual gatherings. Its walls are adorned with vibrant paintings from the Bhagavad Gita and Mahabharata, creating a visually and spiritually engaging experience. Devotees participate in daily prayers, devotional music, and community events, enhancing the sense of devotion and learning. The temple is not only a spiritual center but also a place for cultural and educational activities related to Krishna consciousness in Andaman.
Best Time to Visit- November to March
Temple Timings- 5:00 am to 8:00 pm
How to Reach- Located in Brichgunj, Port Blair
Nearest Airport- Veer Savarkar International Airport
Nearest Bus Stand- Garacharma Bus Station
Visiting the famous temples in Andaman and Nicobar Islands is more than a spiritual journey; it is a chance to immerse yourself in the rich cultural and religious heritage of the islands. From the majestic Sri Vetrimalai Murugan Temple and Om Saravana Bhawan to the serene Shri Shirdi Sai Baba Temple and vibrant Naval Kali Temple, each shrine reflects devotion, tradition, and artistry unique to the region.
These religious places in Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer experiences ranging from peaceful meditation to colourful festival celebrations, connecting visitors with the local community and history. Whether you seek blessings, tranquility, or wish to explore architectural beauty and cultural practices, these temples provide meaningful insights into island life.
Including them in your travel itinerary ensures a spiritual and cultural journey that complements the natural beauty and adventure the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are famous for.
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