The Complete Guide to Sri Vijaya Puram: Exploring the New Identity of Port Blair (2026)

Out with the old, in with the "Vijaya."

If you’ve been looking for "Port Blair" on your recent travel searches and noticed a new name popping up everywhere, don't worry—you haven't accidentally booked a flight to the wrong island. The capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands has officially been renamed Sri Vijaya Puram.

This isn't just a change on the maps; it’s a tribute to the "Victory" (Vijaya) that these islands represent in Indian history. But for a traveler, a new name often means new questions. Where is the jetty? Is the airport still in the same place? How do I get to Havelock from Sri Vijaya Puram?

I’m here to cut through the confusion. Whether you call it the capital, Port Blair, or its proud new name, Sri Vijaya Puram, the logistics of paradise remain the same—and I’ve got the ultimate "speed-demon" guide to navigating it.

1. The Entry Point: Veer Savarkar International Airport

Your journey begins at the airport in Sri Vijaya Puram. While the city's name has changed, the airport code remains IXZ.

• The Location: Right in the heart of the city.

• The Logistics: Once you land, you are just a 20-minute drive away from the major hotels and the ferry terminals.

• Pro-Tip: If you are heading straight to Havelock or Neil, make sure your taxi driver knows you are going to Haddo Wharf—the main hub for the Andamans' youngest and newest high-speed cruise fleet.

2. The Jetties: Haddo Wharf vs. Phoenix Bay

Navigating the waterfront of Sri Vijaya Puram is where most travelers get lost.

• Haddo Wharf: This is the primary jetty for private luxury ferries. If you have booked your tickets on Nautika, this is where you need to be. It’s cleaner, more organized, and built for the high-speed catamaran experience.

• Phoenix Bay Jetty: Primarily used for government-run ferries and local transit.

3. Must-Visit Spots in Sri Vijaya Puram

Don't just use the capital as a transit point. Sri Vijaya Puram holds the soul of the islands' history.

• Cellular Jail: A 10-minute drive from the city center. The Light and Sound show is non-negotiable.

• Corbyn’s Cove Beach: The closest beach to the city, perfect for a quick jet-ski session or a quiet evening walk.

• Chidiya Tapu: Located at the southern tip of Sri Vijaya Puram, it is famous for its sunset and birdwatching trails.

4. Why Nautika is the Best Way to Exit Sri Vijaya Puram

When it’s time to trade the history of the capital for the beaches of Havelock, you want to do it in style.

• The Youngest Fleet: Nautika is the Andamans' youngest and newest high-speed catamaran. In a city transitioning to a new identity, we represent the modern future of island travel.

• Efficiency: We’ve optimized our schedules to ensure you can explore Sri Vijaya Puram in the morning and be on a 90-minute high-speed craft to Havelock by the afternoon.

• Seamless Booking: Head over to GoNautika.com to lock in your seats. Our instant confirmation and interactive seat maps mean you spend zero time in ticket lines and maximum time exploring the "City of Victory."

5. The 10-Second Summary

• The Name: Port Blair is now Sri Vijaya Puram.

• The Hub: Haddo Wharf is your gateway to the other islands.

• The Boat: Choose Nautika for the youngest, newest, and fastest ferry experience.

• The Advice: Spend at least one day in Sri Vijaya Puram to experience the Cellular Jail before heading to the beaches.