Ross Island

The History Of Ross Island

Named after the British Raj marine surveyor Daniel Ross, Ross Island (renamed as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island) used to be the administrative headquarters of the Indian Penal Settlement for close to a century. The now deserted Ross island was once called “Paris of the East”. It had all the modern amenities in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands – from bazaars and bakeries to churches, tennis courts, ballrooms, and printing presses but were all later abandoned after an earthquake in 1941.

Not just the British but the Japanese forces occupation during World War II also left its mark on the island. The ruins of these old buildings, on the island, made by Indian prisoners are a perpetual reminder of the terrorizing past of Ross Island. At the same time, they are a reflection of a colorful era-long gone but not forgotten.

The island also has remnants of homes and other infrastructure built by freedom fighters who were then turned into Indian prisoners and sent to Cellular Jail in Port Blair. This happened because Ross Island was the seat of the Indian Penal settlement and the penal settlement period which began in 1858 was the reason behind their imprisonment. One can only imagine the hardships faced by these prisoners. All this changed after the Andaman administration took over.

How to reach Ross Island?

• Ross island Andaman is one of Port Blair city’s closest islands and can be easily reached via a short (15-minute) boat ride from the Aberdeen Jetty (inside the water sports complex).
• You can reach the jetty by renting a Taxi or auto-rickshaw.  
• Ross Island is easily visible from the east coast or the water sports complex of Port Blair.
• You might need to sign in your entry into Ross Island since the area is controlled by the Indian Navy.
• Do remember that you need to purchase a boat ticket and Sound and Light show ticket (if interested) in advance from Port Blair. Procedure for ticket purchase changes often (either online, at the IP&T counter, or the jetty), so ask your hotel/travel agent for updated information.

Ross Island Must-Visit Attractions

1. The Ruins – The stunning architectural ruins are one of the major attractions of Ross Island including the remnants of a Presbyterian church, the government house or chief commissioner’s house, a printing press, a hospital, and a cemetery to name a few. Walking through these structures is like walking back in time to experience island life.

2. Light and Sound Show – The chance to watch the entire Ross island in Andaman and Nicobar Islands come back to life just like the olden days is by witnessing the Light and Sound show. The show features the work of renowned artists like Gulzar, Shabana Azmi, Shankar Ehsan Loy, Resul Pookutty, and more. The island drenched in light will make you appreciate its beauty even more than before. The light and sound show has a fixed schedule and is held on specific days. Be sure to contact your hotel helpdesk or the show’s ticket counter for details.

3. Museum – The Smritika Museum in Ross Island Andaman falls under the administration of the Indian Navy. The museum holds an exquisite collection of antique pieces and photographs that unfold the eventful history of Ross Island Andaman.

4. Japanese bunkers– Using Ross Island as a war camp during World War II, the Japanese built these bunkers as watch points along with plenty of cannons and spread these across the island. These relics still stand strong on Ross Island, and remain a symbol of Japanese occupation.

5. Wildlife Sanctuary– The Island is home to many friendly animals and birds like deer and peacocks who roam freely and are protected by the administration. A perfect addition for those who love animals. The Andaman Islands, in general, are home to many exotic plant and animal species.

6. Ferrar Beach – This pristine beach is the most popular beach on Ross Island. It’s a small beach and is secluded. Head here after asking locals for the right direction. You can head here during the low tide and dip your feet into the cool waters.

Note:  Ross Island pays homage to the vibrant history of the Andamans. Yet if you want to dive into the waters and not just the local history then take a ‘Two Island Tour’’. This tour will take you on the adventurorus side of North Bay. While here you can try water sports like Scuba Diving, Sea Walking, and Snorkeling.

Useful to Know:

• Cost: Entry cost is Rs 50 for adults (above 9 years) and Rs 25 for children.
• Timing: The ticket counter (at Port Blair) is open from 9.00 AM to 3.00 PM. The first ferry to ply is at 8.30 AM.
• The light and sound show on Ross Island begins at 5.30 PM. Tickets need to be bought three days in advance and you need to produce photo IDs at the time of purchase.
• There is no accommodation available so it’s not possible to stay overnight on Ross Island.

G2A Tips: Exploring Ross Island

Exploring Ross Island can take around 3-4 hours. So, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothing as there is plenty of walking to be done to truly soak into the history of the place. There is also a swimming pool and tennis court but don’t look for the best hotels here since the government has banned overnight stays. So only short trips are possible, and the last boat leaves the island at 3:00 PM.

With all that walking, don’t forget to walk to the highest point which is a watch point to get an amazing aerial view of the terrain and Port Blair. Also, feel free to spend some quality time with the friendly deers and other animals on Ross Island Andaman but remember, you’re not supposed to feed them. There are no indigenous tribes here but if you encounter them anywhere in the Andamans then be respectful.