Jail at Viper Island at Andaman Islands
– A Forgotten Chapter of Colonial Punishment
Before the construction of the Cellular Jail, this small island served as the first penal settlement established by the British in the Andaman Islands. The Viper Island Jail, completed in 1867, was used to confine prisoners and convicts under harsh and often brutal conditions. Though smaller in scale, Viper Island Jail became infamous for its use of chain gangs, public flogging, and executions, including the gallows that once stood at its summit.
Today, the remnants of the jail and gallows lie in ruins, overgrown by vegetation and surrounded by views of the calm sea, creating a striking contrast between the island’s natural beauty and its grim past. Unlike the larger and more structured Cellular Jail, Viper Island unveils an unfiltered and raw glimpse into the early days of colonial punishment in the archipelago. The sense of isolation here is powerful, echoing the experience of the prisoners who were banished to this lonely outpost.
The gallows site at the top offers panoramic views of the surrounding waters and a solemn reminder of those who once stood at its edge. Viper Island Jail is a place where history was both written and erased—an essential point to understand the foundations of India’s penal legacy in the Andamans.
Basic Information
Historic ruins of the first British jail in the Andamans, execution site, and early penal settlement architecture.
Included in boat tour package (check with operator)
October to March
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed on national holidays and rough sea days)
1.5–2 hours, generally as part of a combined boat tour with nearby attractions.
Things to DO
- Walk through the ruins of the original British jail
- Hike up to the hilltop gallows for panoramic views
- Reflect on the harsh colonial justice system
- Take photographs of the overgrown stone walls and natural surroundings
Traveller Tips
- Carry water, as there are limited facilities on the island
- Wear walking shoes—the terrain involves a short uphill climb
- Join a guided boat tour to get historical context during your visit
- Check weather conditions, as ferry services may be suspended during rough seas
Nearby Attractions
North Bay Beach
Mount Harriet National Park
North Bay Beach
Located just 15 minutes away from the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, the North Bay Beach offers one of the easiest water sports—Sea-walking—in Andaman and Nicobar. Walking barefoot on the base of the sea offers you an exquisite view of rich marine-life and the corals. If you’re heading to Andaman and Nicobar, don’t miss this. Skilled life guards accompany you underwater, to ensure maximum safety.North Bay Andaman, is best known for its extensive water activities. Weather it is your first water adventure or you have done it before, the activities here will leave you refreshed and wanting more. Activities here are also designed for all age groups, which mean you can visit North Bay as a family including children and elders and still find something for everyone.
Mount Harriet National Park
Mount Harriet is the height point in South Andaman stands at a height of 365. Mount Harriet in Andaman and Nicobar Islands is located at such an altitude that it provides a fascinating view of the entire cluster of islands.. During the British rule in India, Mount Harriet was the summer headquarters for the Chief Commissioner. At Mount Harriet, the National Park, the one can spend time by taking a wildlife tour. The major attraction for tourists visiting Mount Harriet is the natural trek up to Madhuban. Along the trek, the tourist can feast their eyes with the sights of the various birds, animals and butterflies that are found in this region. The walk along the natural trail is one of the most exotic experiences for any traveler coming to tour the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Barren Island
Barren Island is an island located in the Andaman Sea. It is the only confirmed active volcano in South Asia, and the only active volcano along a chain of volcanoes from Sumatra to Myanmar. Barren Island volcano in Andaman Sea could be at least 1.8 million years old--A group of scientists at Ahmedabad-based Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) and the Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay have determined.
Restaurants Facility
- Lighthouse Restaurant
- Adi Bengali
- Brewberrys
- Paradise Cafe
- Mandalay Restaurant
- Golden Dragon
Places to stay near Cellular Jail
- A R Pride Residency
- Hotel Islander Inn
- Hotel Guru International
- Coral Cove
- Andaman Galley Resort
- Hotel Hilltop International
Frequently Asked Questions
Mount Harriet National Park
Barren Island
- Lighthouse Restaurant
- Adi Bengali
- Brewberrys
- Paradise Cafe
- Mandalay Restaurant
- Golden Dragon