The Cultural Heartbeat of Sri Vijaya Puram
Aberdeen Bazaar is the central marketplace of Port Blair (newly renamed Sri Vijaya Puram). Known for its chaotic energy, narrow lanes, and colorful storefronts, it is the place where travelers and locals meet.
From historical monuments to modern commercial storefronts, the bazaar houses everything from hand-carved wooden artifacts and pearl jewelry to traditional vegetarian eateries and organic spice markets.
Handicrafts & Souvenir Shopping
If you are looking for genuine Andamanese souvenirs, Aberdeen Bazaar offers the best selection of authentic local items:
1. Sagarika Government Emporium
Run by the local administration, Sagarika is the safest place to purchase legal, certified sea-shell ornaments, mother-of-pearl jewelry, coconut-shell lamps, and padauk wood carvings.
2. Local Organic Spice Stalls
Andaman boasts excellent local plantations. Stalls in the bazaar sell freshly harvested black pepper, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg sourced directly from South Andaman farms.
3. Shell Jewelry & Handicrafts
Stalls along Babu Lane display beautifully crafted shell accessories, wall hangings, and customized keychains. *Tip: Remember to keep government receipts for shell items, as airport customs may verify them.*
Where to Eat: Traditional Dining
Annapurna Cafeteria (South Indian Specialty)
Located in the heart of Aberdeen Bazaar, Annapurna Cafeteria is the most famous pure-vegetarian restaurant in Port Blair. Known for its clean environment and authentic taste, it is a must-visit for delicious masala dosas, idlis, variety rice meals, and hot filter coffee.
Annapurna Hotel Sweets & Chat Corners
Near the bazaar crossroads, local sweet shops offer traditional Indian sweets, hot samosas, and chat items, making it the perfect spot for an evening snack after a long day of sightseeing.
Lighthouse Galley & Seafood Dining
For non-vegetarian travelers, restaurants within a 5-10 minute walk serve freshly caught local seafood, including butter prawns, crab curries, and tandoori fish.
Practical Visitor Tips
Timings & Holidays
Shops open from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM. **Sunday is the weekly holiday** when many major shops are closed.
Local Transit
Auto-rickshaws are available directly outside Babu Lane. Taxis can also be hired for airport transfers or trips to attractions like Cellular Jail.
Stay at Hotel Sunrise in Babu Lane
Why travel back and forth when you can stay right in the center of the action? Hotel Sunrise is located at Babu Lane in Aberdeen Bazaar, placing shopping, traditional vegetarian dining (Annapurna Cafeteria), and local transit links right at your doorstep.
At a Glance
Free Port Blair Travel Support
Need help booking local ferries, arranging auto transits to Annapurna cafeteria, or planning a trip to Cellular Jail? Our concierge desk is here to help!
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