Ross Island Travel Guide 2025: Historic Capital of British Andamans Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island - Gateway to Colonial History
Explore the ruins of British colonial headquarters, historic buildings, and pristine nature on this fascinating heritage island just 2 km from Port Blair.
Heritage Value
British Colonial Capital
1858-1947 British rule
How to Reach
15 min boat from Port Blair
₹300-500 return trip
Visit Duration
3-4 hours perfect
Half-day exploration
Entry Fee
₹30 Indians, ₹300 Foreigners
Plus boat charges
What You'll Discover in This Ross Island Guide
Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island) - The Paris of the East
Ross Island, officially renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island in 2018, served as the administrative headquarters of the British Raj in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands from 1858 to 1947. This tiny 1.25 sq km island was once known as the "Paris of the East" for its grand colonial buildings and social life.
Why Visit Ross Island in 2025?
- ✅ Historic Colonial Ruins - Remnants of British grandeur and administrative buildings
- ✅ Light & Sound Show - Evening heritage experience telling island's story
- ✅ Wildlife & Nature - Spotted deer, peacocks, and exotic birds
- ✅ Photography Paradise - Ruins overgrown with nature create stunning visuals
- ✅ Educational Experience - Learn about Indian independence struggle
- ✅ Close to Port Blair - Perfect half-day trip from the capital
Quick Facts About Ross Island
Historical Information
- 📍 Location: 11.68°N, 92.76°E
- 🏛️ Era: British Capital (1858-1947)
- 🌊 Area: 1.25 square kilometers
- ⚰️ Cemetery: British & Japanese graves
- 🎯 Strategic: Naval & administrative base
Tourist Information
- 🎫 Entry Fee: ₹30 Indians, ₹300 Foreigners
- ⏰ Timings: 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM
- 🚢 Boat Ride: 15 minutes from Port Blair
- 🦌 Wildlife: Spotted deer, peacocks
- 📸 Photography: Allowed with fee
💡 Did You Know? Ross Island was completely evacuated during the 1941 earthquake and Japanese occupation. Nature has since reclaimed most buildings, creating a unique landscape where history meets wilderness!
Historic Buildings & Colonial Ruins - Architectural Heritage of Ross Island
Explore the remarkable remnants of British colonial architecture, now beautifully intertwined with tropical vegetation creating a unique historical landscape.
Chief Commissioner's House
Main AttractionThe grand residence of the Chief Commissioner was the center of British social life in the Andamans. Though now in ruins, the scale and architectural details still showcase the grandeur of colonial administration.
Key Features:
- ✅ Architecture: Victorian colonial style with wide verandas
- ✅ Gardens: Elaborate terraced gardens (now overgrown)
- ✅ Ballroom: Ruins of the grand social gathering space
- ✅ Photography: Iconic ivy-covered walls
- ✅ Historical Value: Administrative headquarters of British Raj
Historical Timeline
- 🏗️ 1858: Construction began
- 👑 1876: Peak of British grandeur
- 💥 1941: Earthquake damage
- 🎌 1942-45: Japanese occupation
- 🌿 1947+: Nature reclamation
Photography Tip: Best lighting is early morning (8:30-10 AM) when golden sunlight filters through the tree canopy onto the ruins.
Government House
Administrative CenterThe main administrative building housed the government offices and served as the nerve center of British operations in the Andamans.
- 🏛️ Style: Neo-classical architecture
- 📁 Function: Administrative offices
- 🌿 Current State: Partially intact walls
- 📸 Photo Spot: Arched doorways
Presbyterian Church
Spiritual CenterBuilt in 1878, this church served the spiritual needs of the British community. The building is remarkably well-preserved with its distinctive architecture.
- ⛪ Built: 1878
- 🎨 Style: Gothic Revival
- 🔔 Feature: Bell tower remains
- 📖 Legacy: Community gathering place
British Cemetery
Historical GravesThe cemetery contains graves of British officials and their families, along with Japanese soldiers from WWII, telling stories of different eras.
- ⚰️ Period: 1858-1947
- 📜 Graves: British & Japanese
- 🌸 Notable: Chief Commissioner graves
- 🙏 Respect: Maintain solemnity
Hospital Ruins
Medical FacilityThe hospital served the British community and was equipped with modern medical facilities for its time, showcasing British infrastructure development.
- 🏥 Purpose: Medical care facility
- ⚕️ Equipment: Advanced for the era
- 🧱 Structure: Stone foundation remains
- 📍 Location: Near government house
Officers Club
Social HubThe social center for British officers featuring a library, billiards room, and bar. It was the heart of colonial social life and entertainment.
- 🍸 Features: Bar, library, games room
- 🎯 Activities: Billiards, reading
- 🏛️ Architecture: Colonial clubhouse style
- 👥 Social: Officer gatherings
Government Bakery
Food SupplyThe bakery supplied fresh bread and baked goods to the British community, complete with brick ovens and storage facilities.
- 🍞 Purpose: Fresh bread production
- 🧱 Ovens: Brick oven remains visible
- 📦 Storage: Grain storage areas
- 🏭 Scale: Industrial bakery operation
Light & Sound Show - Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island Heritage Experience
An Immersive Journey Through History
The spectacular Light & Sound Show at Ross Island brings the colonial history to life through dramatic storytelling, synchronized lighting, and powerful narration. Experience the rise and fall of British rule in the Andamans.
Show Highlights
- 🎭 Story: British colonial era to independence
- 🎨 Technology: Advanced lighting & sound systems
- 🗣️ Languages: Hindi & English versions
- ⏱️ Duration: 45 minutes
- 🏛️ Venue: Chief Commissioner's House ruins
Show Schedule & Timings
Booking Information
- 💳 Cost: ₹100 per person
- 🎫 Booking: At Phoenix Bay Jetty
- ⏰ Advance: Book 2-3 hours prior
- 🪑 Seating: Limited capacity - 150 people
- 🌧️ Weather: Cancelled during heavy rain
Pro Tip: Arrive 30 minutes early to get the best seating. Carry a light jacket as evenings can be breezy on the island.
Things to Do in Ross Island - Heritage & Nature Activities
Combine historical exploration with nature watching on this unique island where colonial heritage meets tropical wilderness.
Heritage Walking Tour
Explore the island's colonial ruins on foot with guided tours that explain the historical significance of each building and area.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Guide: Available at entry point
Route: All major historic sites
Difficulty: Easy walking on paved paths
Best Time: Morning (8:30-11 AM)
Photography Tours
Ross Island offers unique photography opportunities with ruins overgrown by nature, creating dramatic contrast between history and wilderness.
Subjects: Colonial ruins, wildlife, nature
Best Spots: Chief Commissioner's House
Lighting: Golden hour ideal
Fee: Photography charges apply
Equipment: DSLR/mirrorless recommended
Wildlife Watching
The island is home to spotted deer, peacocks, and various bird species that have made the ruins their habitat, creating a unique eco-heritage experience.
Spotted Deer: Large population, friendly
Peacocks: Common sightings
Birds: 50+ species recorded
Best Time: Early morning & late afternoon
Tip: Maintain respectful distance
Mini Museum
A small museum near the jetty displays artifacts, photographs, and documents from the British era, providing context to your island exploration.
Exhibits: British era artifacts
Photos: Historical island pictures
Documents: Administrative records
Duration: 30 minutes
Location: Near entrance
Nature Trails
Well-maintained trails wind through the island's tropical vegetation, offering a peaceful walk among exotic trees and plants that have reclaimed the colonial structures.
Trail Length: 2-3 km total
Vegetation: Tropical rainforest
Trees: Coconut, bamboo, banyan
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Perfect for nature lovers
Coastal Exploration
The island's coastline offers beautiful views of Port Blair and the surrounding waters, with rocky shores and small beaches perfect for peaceful moments.
Views: Port Blair cityscape
Coastline: Rocky shores with beaches
Photography: Sunset views
Swimming: Not recommended
Best views from east coast
How to Reach Ross Island - Complete Transportation Guide
Ross Island is easily accessible by boat from Port Blair with regular ferry services throughout the day. Here's everything you need to know about reaching this historic island.
🚢 Government Ferry Service
Regular Ferry Schedule
- ⏰ Departure Times: 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM
- ⏱️ Duration: 15 minutes
- 💰 Round Trip Cost: ₹300-400 per person
- 📍 Departure Point: Phoenix Bay Jetty, Port Blair
- 🎫 Booking: At jetty counter or online
Return Schedule: Last return boat at 3:00 PM from Ross Island. Don't miss it!
⛵ Private Charter & Tour Packages
Charter Options
- 💰 Private Boat: ₹2,000-3,000 for group
- ⏰ Flexibility: Custom timing available
- 👥 Capacity: 8-12 people per boat
- 🎯 Combined Tours: Ross + North Bay packages
- 📞 Booking: Through tour operators
💡 Tip: Charter boats offer more flexibility for photography and extended island exploration.
🎫 Booking Tips & Important Travel Information
Before You Go
- 🆔 Carry valid photo ID (mandatory)
- 🎫 Book tickets in advance during peak season
- ⏰ Reach Phoenix Bay Jetty 30 mins early
- 🌦️ Check weather conditions
- 💧 Carry water & snacks (limited on island)
- 📱 Download offline maps
- 👟 Wear comfortable walking shoes
On the Island
- ⏰ Plan 3-4 hours for complete exploration
- 🚫 No accommodation available on island
- 🍽️ No restaurants - only small refreshment stall
- 🚻 Basic toilet facilities available
- 📶 Limited mobile network coverage
- ♿ Limited wheelchair accessibility
- 🌞 Carry sun protection
Important Timing Information
8:30 AM - 2:30 PM
2:00 PM
3:00 PM
Essential Ross Island Planning Tips & Local Insights
Make the most of your Ross Island visit with these practical tips and local recommendations for the perfect heritage experience.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Recommended Months:
- 🌟 October - March: Pleasant weather
- ☀️ December - February: Perfect conditions
- 🌤️ April - May: Hot but manageable
- 🌧️ June - September: Monsoon (avoid)
Daily Timing:
- 🌅 Early Morning: 8:30-11 AM (best lighting)
- 🌤️ Late Morning: 11 AM-1 PM (comfortable)
- 🌅 Afternoon: 1-3 PM (can be hot)
🎒 Essential Packing List
- 🆔 Valid photo ID (mandatory)
- ☀️ Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- 👟 Comfortable walking shoes
- 💧 Water bottle (1-2 liters)
- 🍪 Light snacks
- 📷 Camera with extra batteries
- 🧢 Hat and sunglasses
- 🦟 Mosquito repellent
- 📱 Portable charger
- 🌂 Light umbrella (if cloudy)
💡 Insider Tips
- ⏰ Duration: Plan 3-4 hours minimum
- 📸 Photography: Extra charges for cameras
- 🦌 Wildlife: Don't feed the deer
- 🌿 Respect: Don't climb on ruins
- 🚻 Facilities: Use restrooms before boat trip
- 📶 Network: Limited connectivity on island
- 🎫 Combo: Often combined with North Bay
- ☂️ Weather: Check before departure
🎯 Recommended Island Combinations
Half Day Package
- 🏛️ Ross Island: 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
- 🍽️ Lunch Break: 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
- 🐠 North Bay: 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM
- 💰 Total Cost: ₹1,200-1,500 per person
Full Day Heritage Tour
- 🏛️ Ross Island: 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM
- 🏛️ Cellular Jail: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- 🎭 Light & Sound: 6:15 PM - 8:00 PM
- 💰 Total Cost: ₹800-1,000 per person
Frequently Asked Questions About Ross Island
Get answers to common questions about visiting Ross Island to plan your heritage trip better.
How much time is needed to explore Ross Island?
3-4 hours is ideal for a comprehensive Ross Island exploration. This includes:
- • Heritage Tour: 2-2.5 hours visiting all historic ruins
- • Museum Visit: 30 minutes for artifacts and displays
- • Wildlife Spotting: 30-45 minutes for photography
- • Rest & Refreshments: 30 minutes
The last boat departs at 3:00 PM, so plan accordingly if taking the government ferry.
Is Ross Island worth visiting?
Absolutely yes! Ross Island offers a unique combination of:
- ✅ Rich colonial history and stunning architectural ruins
- ✅ Fascinating Light & Sound Show bringing history to life
- ✅ Wildlife photography opportunities with friendly deer
- ✅ Easy accessibility from Port Blair (only 15 minutes)
- ✅ Educational experience about Indian independence struggle
- ✅ Perfect half-day trip with manageable walking
It's particularly valuable for history enthusiasts and those interested in British colonial legacy.
What is the Light & Sound Show timing?
The Light & Sound Show runs daily in two language versions:
Hindi Show: 6:15 PM - 7:00 PM
English Show: 7:15 PM - 8:00 PM
Booking: Available at Phoenix Bay Jetty (book 2-3 hours in advance)
Cost: ₹100 per person
Note: Shows are cancelled during heavy rain
Can I stay overnight on Ross Island?
No, overnight stays are not permitted on Ross Island. The island is strictly a day-visit destination with:
- • Island Entry: 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM only
- • Last Boat: Departs at 3:00 PM
- • No Accommodation: No hotels or guesthouses available
- • Security Closure: Island closed after evening show
Plan to return to Port Blair for accommodation. The Light & Sound Show is the only evening activity allowed.
What wildlife can I see on Ross Island?
Ross Island has become a natural habitat for various species:
- 🦌 Spotted Deer: Large friendly population, excellent for photography
- 🦚 Peacocks: Commonly seen throughout the island
- 🐦 Exotic Birds: 50+ species including parrots and kingfishers
- 🦎 Monitor Lizards: Occasionally spotted near ruins
- 🐿️ Squirrels: Various species in the trees
Photography Tip: Best wildlife spotting is early morning (8:30-10 AM) when animals are most active.
Are there food options available on Ross Island?
Very limited food options are available on Ross Island:
- 🏪 Small Refreshment Stall: Basic snacks, cold drinks, tea
- 🥤 Beverages: Soft drinks, packaged juices, water bottles
- 🍪 Snacks: Chips, biscuits, basic items only
- 🚫 No Restaurant: No proper dining facility
Recommendation: Carry your own food and plenty of water. Consider having lunch in Port Blair before or after your visit.
Ready to Explore Ross Island's Colonial Heritage?
Step into history with our expertly crafted Ross Island tours. Experience British colonial legacy, historic ruins, and captivating heritage shows!
Ross Island Tour
Heritage exploration
per person
- ✓ Return boat transfers
- ✓ Entry tickets included
- ✓ Guided heritage tour
- ✓ Light & Sound Show
Ross + North Bay
Complete island combo
per person
- ✓ Ross Island heritage tour
- ✓ North Bay coral viewing
- ✓ All transfers included
- ✓ Light refreshments
Heritage Package
Complete historical tour
per person
- ✓ Ross Island + Cellular Jail
- ✓ Two Light & Sound Shows
- ✓ Museum visits
- ✓ Expert guide included
Heritage Explorers
Years Experience
Heritage Tour Rating
Support Available