Introduction to Ross Island

If you love marine life and love every drop of life, then Ross Island is the right place for you. To this day, this piece of land is one of the favorites among local tourists due to its beautiful blend of history and nature.

If you are one of the 690, 11499841, 6783548386911, 1709498761742244823 O of Ross Island

Ross Island has a history as fascinating as the island itself. The island is named after a marine surveyor, Sir Daniel Ross, and was the seat of the British power in the Andamans between 1858 and 1941. During this time, the island was developed into a self-sustaining settlement, featuring:

• Lavish bungalows
• Churches
• Hospitals
• Clubs
• Swimming pools

The island’s fate would change dramatically during World War II when Japanese forces occupied it temporarily. After India became independent, the island was vacated and nature began covering its territory again.

Discover the History of the Andaman Islands

Ross Island Travel GuideTourism in Ross Island

Today, it has been renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island in tribute to the Indian freedom fighter. Though its name has changed, people continue to know it as Ross Island. This island has many good things to offer tourists. It combines:

• Historical exploration
• Nature walks
• Beach relaxation
• Wildlife spotting

Visitors can walk through the remains of British-era buildings, overtaken by massive roots and vines, giving the scene a surreal, almost magical ambiance.

How to Plan Your Excursion: Tours of Ross Island

Ross Island Tour Package Tour Operators in Port Blair Many tour operators in Port Blair provide Ross Island tour packages, generally including:

PORT BLAIR-FERRY TRANSFERS

Boat tours of the island’s historic sites

Beach and nature strolls

Light refreshments

When selecting a package, think about the following:

• Half-day and full-day options available
• Inclusions (entry fees, guides, meals)
• Size of the group (private or shared tours)
• Info on Ross Island tour packages
• Things You Could Do On The Island

Ross Island is known for its ruins from the past and its natural beauty. Some attractions you can’t miss include:

And don’t miss: the Chief Commissioner’s House The crumbling remains of this palatial home of the erstwhile rulers provide insight into colonial-era architecture.

St. Marys Church: Although now a ruin, this Presbyterian church is a reminder of the island’s past

Ferar Beach: An idyllic beach to kick back and take a dip.

Japanese Bunkers: These World War II-era bunkers offer a haunting look into the island’s wartime history.

Ross Island Lighthouse: providing sweeping vistas of the surrounding sea and islands.

Wildlife Spotting: Look for peacocks, deer, and many bird species that now inhabit the island.

How to Reach Ross Island

Ross Island is about 2 km east of the city of Port Blair, the capital of the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. To reach the island:

1. Fly to Port Blair – Veer Savarkar International Airport
2. Ride a ferry from Phoenix Bay Jetty or Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex
3. The ferry ride is about 15-20 min
4. Ross Island Ferry Timings:
5. First ferry: 8:30 AM
6. Last ferry: 2:00 PM
7. There are return ferries until 5:00 PM

All times, except as noted, are approximate; consult current schedules before visiting.

Best Time to Visit

Best time to visit: Ross Island should preferably be visited from October to May, as the months would be pleasant and there would not be much rainfall. However, keep in mind:

High season: December – February

Monsoon sandy season: June-September (ferry services could also be Malayalam limited)

FAQs About Ross Island

01.Is Ross Island open today?

Ross Island is open to visitors throughout the year except on national holidays and severe weather conditions. As always, check local authorities or tour operators for up-to-date information.

02.Where is Ross Island located?

Ross Island lies 2 km east of Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India, in the Andaman Sea.

03.How many people live in Ross Island?

But presently, Ross Island is uninhabited. It is purely a tourist site and a historic site.

04.Why is Ross Island famous?

Ross Island is also known for its history as the erstwhile British administrative headquarters in the Andaman Islands, its beautiful ruins, and its scenic location.

05.What was the reason behind Ross Island being deserted?

After a major earthquake in 1941 and the German occupation of the island during World War II, Ross Island was abandoned. The island did not repopulate after India’s independence.

06.Does anybody actually live on Ross Island?

Ross Island does not have any permanent residents. The island is managed by the Andaman administration for tourism, and staff members are present during visitor hours.

07.What is Subhash Chandra Bose Island?

It is now officially christened Subhash Chandra Bose Island instead of Ross Island. It’s the same place, now renamed for the Indian independence fighter Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.

 

 

Things to do in Ross Island: Why Ross Island?

Ross Island is a rare mix of history, nature, and peace that is difficult to find anywhere else. The journey of this flourishing colonial settlement metamorphosing into a peaceful, vine-encrusted paradise reflects the timeless tale of progress and reclamation of nature. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or just a traveler seeking some quiet retreat, Ross Island is sure to leave you with beautiful memories.

It is only when you walk around in its ruins, feel the soft sea breeze on your face, and soak in the scenic beauty that you will realize why Ross Island is a favorite among travelers across the globe. So, when you are thinking of your trips to the Andaman, definitely include this hidden gem in your itinerary. Its mysteries and beauty, too, wait to be explored by those who set their feet on its shores.

But nothing even compares to a weekend getaway to Ross Island.