When you step onto Ross Island, also known as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island, it feels like entering a story frozen in time. Once the administrative headquarters of the British in Andaman, this island now stands as a hauntingly beautiful blend of history and nature. Walking through the ruins, you can almost hear whispers of the past – officials pacing corridors, children playing in open grounds, and the hum of colonial life long gone.

Ross Island is just a few miles from Port Blair and is easily accessible by boat. It is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, photographers, nature lovers, and anyone who enjoys quiet reflection amidst breathtaking scenery.

Why Visit Ross Island Andaman

Ross Island is often called the “Island of Memories” because it carries centuries of stories. Once occupied by the British and later by the Japanese during World War II, the island showcases ruins, bunkers, and cannons that remind visitors of its strategic importance. Today, nature has slowly reclaimed the structures – banyan trees twist around old walls, deer roam freely, and peacocks add life to the silent paths.

Visiting Ross Island is not just sightseeing – it is an emotional journey that takes you back in time while connecting you to the serene natural beauty of Andaman.

History of Ross Island

Ross Island served as the administrative headquarters for the British Colony in the South Andamans until 1941 when a devastating earthquake forced the British to move to Port Blair. In 1942, the Japanese occupied Andaman and brought war bunkers and cannons, some of which are still preserved as memorials.

The British had built several structures, including residences, a church, a hospital, a bakery, Farzand Ali Store, tennis court, printing press, secretariat office, open-air theatre, and cemetery. Over time, nature reclaimed these buildings, creating an extraordinary visual of ruins entwined with trees and vines.

Today, some structures, like the bakery and souvenir store, have been restored by the Indian Navy to accommodate tourists. Pathways, signboards, and barricades make the island visitor-friendly while preserving its historical charm.

How to Reach Ross Island

Ross Island is very close to Port Blair and can only be reached by boat.

• Distance from Port Blair – approximately 3 kilometers
• Travel time – 15 to 20 minutes by boat

Jetty Options

There are two jetties from which tourists can reach Ross Island and North Bay Island:

1. Water Sports Complex (Aberdeen Jetty) – This is the default departure point for most ferries. It is well-organized, with easy access to tickets, boat services, and information for Ross Island, North Bay, or combo tours.
2. Jungli Ghat Jetty – In certain cases, due to weather conditions, technical issues, or operational requirements, ferries may depart from Jungli Ghat Jetty instead. Visitors should always check the departure point before their trip to avoid confusion.

Ferry Booking Options

Tourists can choose from the following:

• Only Ross Island ferry
• Only North Bay Island ferry
• Ross Island + North Bay Island combo tour (most popular)

The combo tour is highly recommended as both islands are located close to each other and can be comfortably covered in a half-day trip.

Advance bookings can be made online at https://www.findaferry.com/. It is advisable to reach the jetty at least 30 minutes before departure.

Important Travel Tips

• Always confirm which jetty your ferry will depart from before the day of travel
• Carry valid ID proof for ferry tickets
• Boats may be cancelled during rough sea or heavy rain
• Return boats operate until early afternoon

Since there are no stay options on Ross Island, it is always visited as a half-day trip from Port Blair.

Best Time to Visit Ross Island

The ideal time to visit Ross Island is between October and May when the weather is pleasant and the sea is calm.

• Morning visits are best to avoid crowds and enjoy solitude
• Sunset views with ruins silhouetted against the sky are magical
• Avoid monsoon months (June to September) due to rough sea

Attractions on Ross Island

Historical Ruins

Explore the remains of the British-era structures – Farzand Ali Store (now a museum), secretariat office, church, printing press, hospital, open-air theatre, and tennis court. Japanese bunkers and cannons from World War II stand as reminders of the island’s turbulent past.

Nature and Wildlife

Ross Island is a haven for nature lovers. Banyan trees engulf the ruins, providing shady spots along the pathways. Visitors can spot peacocks, eagles, parrots, and a friendly population of deer roaming freely. Photography enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to capture the island’s beauty.

Scenic Walks

Take a leisurely walk to the other end of the island to enjoy the open beach, cool sea breeze, and peaceful environment. The combination of history and nature makes the walk meditative and deeply rewarding.

Ross Island Museum

The small museum inside Farzand Ali Store showcases photographs and artifacts from the British period, offering insights into the life and administration on the island.

Amenities on Ross Island

Ross Island has very limited facilities:

• One government-operated shop offering lunch and souvenirs
• Coconut water is available on the island
• Visitors are advised to carry water bottles and snacks
• No accommodation – visitors must return to Port Blair after the trip

Things to See on Ross Island

• Ruins of a giant water distillation plant
• Swimming pool and tennis court
• Church and cemetery
• Farzand Ali Store museum
• Japanese bunkers and cannons
• Secretariat office and printing press
• Open-air theatre

Activities on Ross Island

While the island doesn’t offer active water sports, there are plenty of engaging activities:

• Explore the historical ruins
• Nature photography and wildlife spotting
• Scenic walks and beach views
• Relax under shady trees and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere

Visitors are requested not to feed the deer or disturb the wildlife, respecting Andaman’s conservation policies.

Who Should Visit Ross Island

• History enthusiasts
• Nature lovers
• Couples seeking scenic and romantic spots
• Photographers
• Families visiting Port Blair

Who May Skip

• Those expecting water sports or swimming beaches
• Luxury resort experiences
• Visitors uncomfortable with short boat rides

Ross Island is about reflection, nostalgia, and serene exploration.

Travel Tips for Ross Island

• Carry water and light snacks
• Wear comfortable shoes for uneven pathways
• Protect yourself from sun with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses
• Respect the ruins and wildlife
• Carry a camera to capture historic sites and natural beauty

Is Ross Island Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Ross Island offers a unique blend of history, nature, and emotion. Walking among ruins entwined with banyan trees, spotting peacocks and deer, and listening to the waves is a memory you carry forever.

Whether you are exploring Andaman for adventure, beaches, or culture, Ross Island adds a reflective and emotional depth to your trip, making it an unforgettable experience.