Andaman and Nicobar Islands is intriguing place full of adventure and fun. A visit to the Anthropological Museum in Port Blair throws light on the life and times of the tribes of the islands. As tourists are not allowed into any of the region occupied by the tribes, the best way to take a peek is to visit the museum.
The islands are home to four main tribes and two Mangoloid tribes. The four main tribes Jarawas, Sentinelese, Great Andamanese and the Onges, which are part of the Negrito Tribes of Andaman. The Mongoloid Tribes of the Nicobar are Nicobarese and the Shompens. These tribes are considered to be one of the oldest in the world.
Anthropological Museum in Port Blair was established in 1975 near Bengali Club. On display are various handicrafts, tools used, weapons, implements, photographs, model houses, boats, photographs, jewelry, utensils, musical instruments, and clothes used by the native tribes.
Most attractive in this museum are an ancient Jarawa chest guard, a skull discovered from the Sentinelese, and the Shamanic sculptures created by the Nicobarese.
After touring the museum, you can understand the tribes’ religious sentiments and god-fearing nature, modes of travel and communication, their relationship with the sea, and their preparedness for self-defense.
The museum has a well-stocked library, which is a source of unending knowledge about the culture, tribes, and lifestyle of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Place statistics:
Type of place: Museum
Situated: Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Address: Opposite Bengali Club, Middle Point, Port Blair
Transport: Well connected by road
Facilities: Rest room available
Timings: 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Closed on Mondays and all national holidays
