Aapravasi Ghat, the Immigration Depot of Mauritius

The Birthplace of a Multicultural Mauritius

The Aapravasi Ghat is perched on the Bay of Trou Fanfaron in Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius. This spot, however, is more than just a picturesque bay.

It marks a key chapter in the island's history, as it was used as an immigration depot by the British colonial government starting in 1849.

A Turning Point in Mauritius' History

The Aapravasi Ghat witnessed the arrival of indentured labourers, whose descendants now make up over 70% of Mauritius’ population. When slavery was abolished in 1834, the British sought new workers for their sugar plantations, and Mauritius was the first to adopt the indentured labour system.

Workers came from India, China, Africa and Southeast Asia, marking the beginning of a diverse and multicultural Mauritian society - one of the reasons we are familiar with multiple languages.

Read more about Mauritius’ history here.

Global Migration and the Indenture System

Indentureship wasn't unique to Mauritius. The system spread to other British, French, and Dutch colonies like Guyana, South Africa, and Reunion Island. In total, over 2 million workers participated in this global migration, with Mauritius alone receiving almost half a million.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 2006, the Aapravasi Ghat was recognized as the first indenture site globally to be added to the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage list. However, today, only 15% of the original buildings remain, preserving just a fraction of the immense history of this place.

Fun fact: Mauritius is home to another UNESCO World Heritage Site—Le Morne Brabant!

A Glimpse into the Past

At the Beekrumsing Ramlallah Interpretation Centre (BRIC), visitors can explore exhibits and archaeological finds such as pipes, medicine bottles from the hospital, and even remnants of gin and rum bottles (likely enjoyed by British officers). You can also marvel at a replica of the ship that once carried these labourers to the island.

Highlights of this site:

• Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Learn about the indentured labourers who contributed in Mauritius
• Learn about the History of Mauritius
• See the artefacts marking the history of the Island

Click here to book a visit.