Top Things To Do In Ross Island In Andaman In 2026

Located amidst the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, Ross Island (officially renamed Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island) stands as a captivating testament to India’s colonial past and a haven for nature enthusiasts. Located a mere 3 kilometers from Port Blair, the island’s history is as rich as the surrounding vegetation. Once the administrative heart of the British Raj in the Andamans, Ross Island is now a treasure trove of ruins, remnants of a bygone era, intertwined with lush greenery and a tranquil atmosphere. There are many things to do in Ross Island Andaman offers its visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past along with an opportunity to enjoy the serene beauty of nature.

Things To Do In Ross Island – History And Overview

Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India are steeped in history and Ross Island’s documented history goes back to the late 18th century. The first notable mention of the island came in 1782 when the British colonists built a sanatorium on the island for their troops stationed in Port Blair. However, the British couldn’t sustain that particular establishment since they were getting attacked by the nearby Jarawa tribe.

Fast forward to the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny, that’s when the Britishers returned to Ross Island with a more ambitious vision. Given the strategic location of the island, especially one so close to Port Blair, the Britishers decided to turn it into their administrative headquarters for the entirety of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Under the reign of the British power, the island flourished. However fast forward to 1941, the island was hit with a devastating earthquake, which destroyed a lot of the island’s infrastructure. This further pushed the British administration to relocate their operations to Port Blair.

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Best Time To Visit Ross Island

The best time to visit Ross Island is generally considered to be during the dry season, which falls between November and April. Since most of the activities and things to do in Ross Island involve nature and the outdoors, you must visit when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. However, pleasant weather equals extensive crowds since tourists visit from across the world. Also, keep in mind, that there are no hotels in Ross Island Andaman so you will have to make the booking on any nearby island.

Top Things To Do In Ross Island

With so many different attractions on Ross Island, planning your itinerary ahead of time is crucial. This ensures that you cover all the popular sightseeing spots without fail. Here are some of the best things to do in Ross Island Andaman.

1. Explore The Ruins Of British-Era Buildings

Ross Island’s most captivating attraction is undoubtedly its collection of historical ruins. Needless to mention, one of the most popular spots is to witness the grand arches of the Chief Commissioner’s residence. It gives an in-depth look into the opulence of the lifestyle of the British colonists. The dilapidated structures of the bakery, jail, and other administrative buildings paint a vivid picture of the island’s colonial past. Since there are a few different historical spots, you can explore the area at your own pace.

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2. Witness The Serenity Of The Japanese Cemetery

A complete 360 from the British-era buildings, the Japanese cemetery is another popular sightseeing spot worth including in your itinerary. When discussing what is Ross Island famous for, this happens to be one of the historical sites that serve as a somber reminder of World War II. The island served as a base for the Japanese troops from 1942-1945 and the remains of the soldiers now lie in the cemetery.

3. Delve Into History At The Smritika Museum

Established by the Indian Navy, the Smritika Museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that narrate the history of Ross Island. This is perfect for history buffs often intrigued by the allure and the Ross Island Andaman history. The exhibits inside the museum display the tools used by the British occupation. The museum also has remnants of the indigenous Jarawa tribe and photographs depicting life on the island during the colonial era.

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4. Relax On The Beach

While Ross Island doesn’t boast pristine beaches like some other Andaman destinations, there are a couple of small, secluded beaches where visitors can unwind for a while. However, unlike most of the beaches in Andaman, the ones available on Ross Islands are not suitable for swimming due to heavy currents and the jellyfish population as well. The beaches are usually ideal for beachcombing or for enjoying the views around.

5. Visit The Anthropological Museum

Located within the confines of the Indian Navy base on Ross Island, the Anthropological Museum houses a collection of artifacts related to the indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. You can explore more about the culture and traditions and the way of life of the communities that reside there. You do need permission from the Indian Navy to be able to visit and explore the museum.

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6. Immerse Yourself In Nature

Besides all the popular historical spots, Ross Island is known for its stunning natural beauty. The majority of the island is covered in lush greenery and the remainder is covered in British ruins. You can consider taking strolls along the island, and spot exotic birds too. The serene environment of the island provides tourists a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Places To Visit Near Ross Island

Ross Island is surrounded by popular sightseeing spots and tourist attractions that need to be part of your Andaman trip. Here is a list of places to visit:

1. Port Blair

The Port Blair to Ross Island distance is around 17.8 km. So, you can comfortably plan a day trip from Port Blair to Ross Island. While in Port Blair, you can explore the Cellular Jail, which is a historical monument that served as a British prison during colonial rule. Some of the other attractions include the Anthropological Museum and the Natural Bridge as well. You can indulge in local food and dining experiences trying the local Andaman cuisine in the restaurants there. Its distance from Ross Island is 19 Km.
Distance from Ross Island: 44.6 Km

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2. Havelock Island

Another popular island worth exploring in the Andamans is Havelock Island. Radhanagar Beach, consistently ranked among Asia’s best beaches, offers crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. One of the main attractions on the island lies in its vibrant and precious coral reefs that are abundant underwater.
Distance from Ross Island: 62.5 Km

3. Neil Island

Given the popularity of islands in Andaman, don’t miss out on visiting Neil Island. It is a popular tourist destination that offers a tranquil escape amidst nature. Some of the popular beaches worth exploring are Laxmanpur Beach and Bharatpur Beach. From swimming to water sports like snorkelling and scuba diving, there’s so much to explore. There are bicycle and motorbike rentals available to explore the island.
Distance from Ross Island: 44.6 Km

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4. North Bay Island

Often underrated, North Bay Island is a popular destination among water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can partake in activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and sea walking, exploring the vibrant coral reefs and marine life. North Bay Island also boasts a coral museum showcasing the diverse marine life of the Andamans. It is 2 km away from Ross Island.
Distance from Ross Island: 3.4 Km

How To Reach Ross Island?

Reaching Ross Island is a relatively straightforward process. Visitors can take a ferry from Port Blair’s Phoenix Bay Jetty. Government ferries operate throughout the day, with the journey taking approximately 15-20 minutes.
Private ferries might also be available, offering a slightly faster option. It’s advisable to check ferry timings and availability beforehand, especially during peak tourist season. You can also experience the beauty of the Ross Island weather while on the ferry ride.

Further Read: Ross Island In Andaman

Ross Island Andaman presents a unique blend of history, nature, and serenity. From the evocative ruins of British structures to the captivating light and sound show, the island offers visitors a glimpse into the past. The island’s natural beauty, with its lush forests and secluded beaches, provides a welcome respite from the historical significance. The next time you plan a trip to Andaman, be sure to include Ross Islands on your itinerary as well.

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Cover Image Credit: Biswarup Ganguly for Wikimedia Commons

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Mamonti Barman

We all have to begin somewhere. This is where I start and I hope that my writings encourage you to begin. To new beginnings and conquering new places!