Chatham Saw Mill - Andaman.
Asia's Oldest Largest & Operational Saw Mill

About Chatham Saw Mill of the Andaman Islands

Chatham Saw Mill is located on Chatham Island, a small island connected to Port Blair by a 100 metre bridge and approximately 4 kilometres from the city centre. Established by the British in 1883, the mill was built with the primary purpose of processing timber for use across the Andaman Islands and beyond.

What makes Chatham Saw Mill genuinely remarkable is that it is not a relic or a restored exhibit. It is a fully operational saw mill that has been running continuously for over 140 years. Visitors can watch the entire timber processing journey from raw logs brought in by boats to sorted, cut and warehoused timber. The sight and sound of massive colonial era machinery still functioning with precision after more than a century is an experience unlike any other in Andaman.

The mill complex also houses a Forest Museum managed by the Forest Department of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration which gives visitors a detailed and engaging insight into the timber history of the islands and sustainable forestry practices.

The History of Chatham Saw Mill
- From Colonial Industry to Living Heritage

The Chatham Saw Mill was established in 1883 during British colonial rule with a clear industrial purpose. The Andaman Islands were rich in valuable timber including the prized Andaman Padauk, a wood known for its exceptional quality and used in high end furniture and construction across India and beyond. The British recognised this resource and built the saw mill to process and supply this timber systematically.

For decades the mill operated as one of the most significant industrial facilities in the Andaman Islands supplying timber that shaped the economic and physical landscape of the islands. The mill employed large numbers of workers and became deeply woven into the social fabric of Port Blair.

During the Second World War when Japanese forces occupied the Andaman Islands from 1942 to 1945 the mill was bombed and parts of it suffered significant damage. The remnants of this wartime destruction are still visible within the complex today, serving as a physical reminder of the Japanese occupation and the turbulent wartime history of these islands.

After Indian independence the mill continued operations under the Forest Department of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration. Over 140 years after it was first built it remains one of the oldest continuously operational saw mills in Asia, a fact that makes it a truly remarkable industrial heritage landmark.

Chatham Saw Mill
- A Living Heritage of Andaman

Chatham Saw Mill is one of the oldest and largest sawmills in Asia, reflecting the rich industrial and maritime history of the Andaman Islands. Established during the British era, the mill showcases historic machinery, timber processing techniques, and exhibits that highlight the islands' forestry heritage.

Visitors can explore the mill's museum, view vintage equipment, and learn about the role of timber in the development of the Andaman Islands. The site also offers insights into local forestry practices and the historical significance of Chatham Island during the colonial period.

Most visitors spend 1 to 2 hours touring the saw mill and museum. The attraction is easily accessible from Port Blair and can be visited throughout the year. Morning hours are generally preferred for a comfortable visit and better exploration of the exhibits and surrounding area.

Tips for Visiting Chatham Saw Mill

• Visit during the morning hours for a more comfortable experience and to explore the mill before it gets busy.
• Wear comfortable footwear, as the visit involves walking through the saw mill complex, museum, and surrounding areas.
• Take time to visit the museum section to learn about the history of timber processing and the development of the Andaman Islands.
• Photography is allowed in most areas, so keep your camera ready to capture the historic machinery and heritage structures.
• Combine your visit with nearby attractions in Port Blair, such as the Forest Museum, Cellular Jail, and Marina Park for a well-rounded sightseeing experience.
• Our team at AndamanVacation.com can arrange your Port Blair sightseeing itinerary, including Chatham Saw Mill, transportation, and guided assistance for a seamless experience.

Include Cellular Jail in Your Andaman Itinerary

Chatham Saw Mill is one of Port Blair's most underrated and genuinely fascinating historical landmarks. Unlike the Cellular Jail and Ross Island which attract large numbers of visitors, the saw mill offers a quieter and more contemplative historical experience that rewards curious travelers who go beyond the obvious tourist trail.

Our team at Andaman Vacations India includes Chatham Saw Mill in Port Blair itineraries for travelers who want to experience the full depth of what this remarkable capital island has to offer. Tell us your travel dates and we will build a Port Blair day plan that does justice to every major landmark.