Emerging from the emerald waters of the Andaman Sea like a whisper of forgotten empires, Ross Island, now Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep, captivates as a historic jewel near Port Blair, blending colonial ruins with tropical splendor. Located at sea level, just 2 km from Port Blair, this tiny island was the British administrative headquarters until 1941, renowned for its crumbling churches, ballrooms, and bungalows overtaken by nature. A historical haven akin to the coastal allure of Bharatpur Beach, Ross Island enchants with its eerie yet beautiful ruins and serene trails. For visitors to indiatourisminfo.com, Ross Island offers an immersive journey, whether you’re exploring its colonial past, spotting deer, or enjoying Andaman’s island charm. This historic island, fusing history with natural beauty, is an unmissable destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and travelers seeking a unique Andaman experience.
Key Attractions
British Ruins: Crumbling remains of colonial structures like the Chief Commissioner’s Bungalow and bakery, overtaken by banyan trees.
Presbyterian Church: A dilapidated 19th-century church with stained-glass windows, a symbol of colonial architecture.
Ferrar’s Folly: A ruined observation tower offering panoramic views of the Andaman Sea.
Japanese Bunkers: World War II-era concrete bunkers built during Japanese occupation (1942–1945).
Ross Island Museum (Smritika): A small museum showcasing photographs and artifacts of the island’s colonial history.
Deer Sanctuary: A natural habitat home to spotted deer and peacocks, roaming freely across the island.
Light and Sound Show: An evening spectacle narrating the island’s history and its role in India’s freedom struggle.
Things to Do
Explore British Ruins: Wander through the overgrown remains of colonial buildings and banyan-rooted structures.
Visit Presbyterian Church: Admire the architectural remnants and serene ambiance of the historic church.
Climb Ferrar’s Folly: Hike to the ruined tower for stunning sea and island views.
Tour Japanese Bunkers: Learn about the island’s World War II history at these wartime relics.
Discover Ross Island Museum: View colonial-era photographs and artifacts in the Smritika Museum.
Spot Wildlife: Observe spotted deer and peacocks in the island’s lush sanctuary.
Attend Light and Sound Show: Experience the island’s history through an evening multimedia presentation (check 2025 schedules).
Celebrate Republic Day: Join patriotic events in nearby Port Blair (January 26, 2025).
Local Culture and History
Ross Island served as the British administrative capital of the Andamans from 1858 until 1941, earning the nickname “Paris of the East” for its lavish colonial lifestyle. Abandoned after an earthquake and Japanese occupation during World War II (1942–1945), the island was reclaimed by nature, with ruins now entwined with banyan roots. Renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep in 2018, it honors the Indian National Army’s brief control in 1943. The Andaman’s culture blends indigenous tribal traditions with mainland influences, featuring seafood-heavy cuisine like fish curry, coconut prawns, and bamboo shoot dishes, and crafts such as shell jewelry and wood carvings, echoing Surajkund’s artisanal vibe. Festivals like Republic Day and Diwali bring vibrant celebrations with flag-hoisting and cultural performances, akin to Cellular Jail’s patriotic allure. Ross Island’s colonial legacy and Andaman’s tropical charm offer a unique historical experience.
Best Time to Visit
Ross Island is a year-round destination, with November to March (winter, 20–30°C) ideal for exploring ruins, trails, and the light and sound show, thanks to pleasant weather and calm seas. January 26, 2025, is vibrant with Republic Day events in Port Blair, a short ferry ride away. April to May (summer, 25–35°C) suits early morning (8–11 AM) or evening visits (post-4 PM) to avoid heat; shaded ruins provide relief. The monsoon (June–October) brings heavy rain and choppy seas, limiting ferry access; carry umbrellas and waterproof gear. Mornings offer serene exploration, while evenings are ideal for the light and sound show. Book ferry tickets and accommodations early for peak seasons (November–March) to secure spots in Port Blair’s Aberdeen Bazaar or Haddo.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Veer Savarkar International Airport (Port Blair, 2 km from Ross Island by ferry, ~10-minute ferry ride), with flights from Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai. Taxis from the airport to Port Blair’s jetty cost ~₹100–300.
By Ferry: From Port Blair’s Phoenix Bay or Aberdeen Jetty, take a government or private ferry (10–15 minutes) to Ross Island. Ferries cost ~₹100–300 round trip. Ferries run frequently (8 AM–3 PM, subject to 2025 schedules).
By Sea: Ships from Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam (3–4 days) arrive at Port Blair, followed by a ferry to Ross Island. No direct sea access to Ross Island.
Local Transport: Ross Island is pedestrian-only; explore on foot or via battery-operated golf carts (~₹50–100). Taxis or auto-rickshaws (~₹50–150) connect Port Blair’s jetty to the city center.
Travel Tips
Booking: Book ferry tickets to Ross Island in advance, especially during peak seasons; purchase light and sound show tickets at the jetty; reserve accommodations early in Port Blair.
Cost: Ross Island entry ~₹30 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners; light and sound show ~₹50–200; ferry ~₹100–300 (as of 2023; verify 2025 rates).
Dress: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for walking; carry hats, sunglasses, or umbrellas for sun or rain; modest attire for memorial sites.
Safety: Secure valuables during ferry rides; follow guide instructions; avoid touching fragile ruins; be cautious on uneven paths.
Respect Local Culture: Maintain silence during the light and sound show; avoid disturbing wildlife; respect indigenous tribal areas nearby.
Connectivity: Mobile networks are reliable in Port Blair; limited signal on Ross Island; Wi-Fi is available at Port Blair hotels; carry cash for ferries and carts.
Environment: Avoid littering to preserve the ecosystem; use designated bins; avoid plastic use to support eco-friendly practices.
Accessibility: Main ruins and trails are accessible; some paths are uneven; golf carts aid mobility; inform ferry operators for assistance.
Nearby Attractions
Cellular Jail (2 km by ferry): Port Blair’s historic prison, a monument to India’s freedom struggle.
Corbyn’s Cove Beach (7 km by ferry): A serene beach in Port Blair for swimming and water sports.
Radhanagar Beach (70 km by ferry): Havelock Island’s iconic beach with white sands and turquoise waters.
Bharatpur Beach (40 km by ferry): Neil Island’s vibrant coral beach, ideal for snorkeling.
Samudrika Marine Museum (2 km by ferry): A Port Blair museum showcasing Andaman’s marine life.
Explore More
Discover other Andaman treasures like the historic Cellular Jail or pristine Radhanagar Beach on our Andaman and Nicobar destinations page. Plan your historical and coastal journey with indiatourisminfo.com today!
