Forest Museum at Andaman Islands

–Tracing the Natural Legacy of the Andamans

Located within the premises of the historic Chatham Saw Mill in Port Blair, the Chatham Forest Museum offers a fascinating look into the rich forest resources, woodcraft traditions, and biodiversity of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Managed by the Forest Department, the museum forms a vital part of any visit to the Chatham Island, an area known for being home to one of Asia’s oldest and largest sawmills. Far from a typical tourist stop, this museum gives visitors a deeper appreciation for the islands’ ecological wealth and the role of sustainable forestry in preserving it.

The exhibits here cover a broad range of topics from various tropical tree species found across the archipelago to rare wood samples, forest-based handicrafts, and conservation projects. Display panels explain the evolution of forestry operations in the Andamans and how the colonial-era Chatham Saw Mill played a role in both the exploitation and eventual regulation of timber use. Visitors can also see finished wood products, detailed cross-sections of trees, and models demonstrating logging and milling practices. This museum is particularly insightful for those curious about how natural resources have been managed over the decades and how forest conservation remains critical to the region’s future.

Combined with a visit to the sawmill itself, the Chatham Forest Museum adds both historical and environmental value to a Port Blair itinerary. Its peaceful setting, informative layout, and short visit time make it ideal for travellers seeking a meaningful cultural stop. Whether you're interested in environmental studies, craftsmanship, or colonial-era infrastructure, this museum highlights a unique intersection of nature, industry, and sustainability an often-overlooked dimension of the Andaman experience.