The administration has revised the evening timings of the Sound and Light Show at the National Memorial Cellular Jail, one of the most visited heritage attractions in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with the new schedule set to take effect from December 17 .
According to the revised programme, the first show will begin at 5.30 pm and conclude at 6.15 pm. The second show is scheduled from 6.30 pm to 7.15 pm, followed by the third show from 7.30 pm to 8.15 pm. The fourth and final show of the evening will be held between 8.30 pm and 9.15 pm.
The revision formalises a staggered evening schedule, allowing four shows to be conducted nightly within a fixed time window. The Sound and Light Show at Cellular Jail is a major draw for tourists and local visitors, offering a narrated presentation of the history of the freedom struggle and the role of the colonial-era prison.
Adjustments to show timings are typically undertaken to manage visitor flow, seasonal demand and operational considerations. The revised schedule is expected to help streamline entry and exit, particularly during peak tourist periods when attendance tends to be high.
Cellular Jail remains a central pillar of the Islands’ tourism and heritage landscape. Any changes to its programming directly affect tour operators, visitors and local residents who plan evening visits around the show timings. Advance intimation of revised schedules is therefore crucial for itinerary planning.
The Sound and Light Show is conducted in multiple languages and relies on coordinated lighting, narration and seating arrangements. A structured schedule with adequate gaps between shows is intended to ensure smooth turnover of audiences and minimise overcrowding within the premises.
Officials have not indicated any changes to ticketing procedures or capacity limits alongside the revised timings. Visitors are generally advised to arrive early to secure entry, especially during weekends and holiday periods when demand is high.
The implementation of the revised schedule from December 17 provides a transition window for tourism stakeholders to adjust bookings and visitor guidance. For local residents, the updated timings offer greater clarity on evening access to the memorial.
Cellular Jail, designated as a national memorial, continues to balance its dual role as a site of remembrance and a public tourist attraction. Operational adjustments such as revised show timings form part of ongoing efforts to manage visitor experience while preserving the sanctity of the historic site.
With the holiday season approaching, the revised schedule is expected to play a role in accommodating increased visitor numbers without compromising the quality of the presentation or visitor safety.
