Explore Andaman Historic Just a short 15-minute ferry ride from Port Blair, Ross Island (officially Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island) is a place where nature meets history. Once the British administrative headquarters of the Andaman Islands, today it’s a peaceful, green island filled with ruins, wildlife, sea views, and stories from the past.
It’s a perfect day trip for families, couples, and history enthusiasts visiting the Andamans.
Best Activities & Attractions on Ross Island
Explore British Colonial Ruins
Ross Island was once known as the “Paris of the East.” You can still see the remains of its church, bakery, barracks, officer’s quarters, and hospital, beautifully intertwined with banyan trees.
These tree roots wrapping around old walls make Ross Island look like a natural museum of time.
Don’t Miss: The Presbyterian Church ruins and Chief Commissioner’s bungalow offer the best views of Port Blair’s coastline.
Meet the Friendly Deer and Peacocks
One of the most delightful parts of Ross Island is seeing hundreds of deer, rabbits, and peacocks roaming freely.
They’re friendly and used to tourists perfect for photos and family fun.
Tip: Avoid feeding them packaged food. Natural snacks like fruits are best.
Visit Japanese Bunkers and Tunnels
During World War II, the Japanese army occupied the Andaman Islands and built several bunkers and defense tunnels on Ross Island. You can still explore these wartime structures and imagine what life was like during those turbulent years.
Interesting Fact: The cannons placed here once guarded the entrance of Port Blair harbor.
Watch the Light and Sound Show (Evening Highlight)
The Light and Sound Show on Ross Island is a must-see attraction. Using lights, narration, and music, it beautifully narrates the island’s rise and fall during British rule.
As the ruins glow under the evening lights, it feels like history comes alive.
Show Timings: 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM (October-March) / 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM (April-September)
Tickets: ₹150-₹200 per person
Nature Walk & Photography
Ross Island is perfect for a slow walk through lush green trails, surrounded by banyan, palm, and coconut trees. The sound of the sea and chirping birds make it relaxing and scenic.
Photography Spots: The old church, jetty area, and southern viewpoint near the lighthouse.
Combine with North Bay Island Adventure
After exploring Ross, most visitors continue to North Bay Island, which is just 10 minutes away by ferry. North Bay is famous for water sports like:
- Scuba Diving
- Snorkeling
- Sea Walk
- Glass Bottom Boat Ride
- Semi-Submarine Tour
- Jet Ski & Parasailing
- Dolphin Boat Rides
- Kayaking
Combo Tip: Book your Ross Island + North Bay Island package together on FindAFerry.com for seamless transfers and discounted pricing.
Relax and Refresh
Before you board the return ferry, grab a quick bite or coconut water from the canteen near the entry gate. The view of the sea and breeze makes it a perfect spot to unwind.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Route | Port Blair → Ross Island → North Bay Island |
| Departure Jetty | Water Sports Complex Jetty (Aberdeen Jetty) |
| Ferry Duration | 15-20 minutes (each way) |
| First Ferry Timing | 8:30 AM |
| Last Return Ferry | 4:30 PM |
| Entry Fee | ₹50 (Adults), ₹25 (Children) |
| Camera Fee | ₹25 (Handycam ₹100) |
| Light & Sound Show Fee | ₹150-₹200 |
| Closed Day | Wednesday (Maintenance) |
| Best Visiting Hours | 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
Booking Tip: Ferries fill fast during tourist season (Dec-Feb). Pre-book online with FindAFerry.com for guaranteed seats and instant e-ticket.
Suggested Day Plan
Morning:
Depart from Port Blair around 8:30 AM → Explore Ross Island (walk, ruins, deer)
Late Morning:
Take a ferry to North Bay Island → Enjoy snorkeling, scuba, or glass boat ride
Afternoon:
Have lunch at North Bay and relax by the shore
Evening:
Return to Port Blair → Attend the Light & Sound Show at Ross Island (optional)
Travel Tips from Locals
- Wear comfortable shoes (there’s a lot of walking).
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Bring cash (no ATMs or digital payments on the island).
- Avoid plastic bottles; carry reusable ones.
- Network signal is weak – perfect for an offline day.
- Keep your ferry tickets safe for return trips.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Ross Island is October to May, when the weather is dry and the sea is calm.
Avoid the monsoon season (June-September), as ferry services may be canceled due to rough seas.
How to Book Your Ferry Online
- Visit FindAFerry.com
- Go to Ferry Result or the Home Page search box
- Enter travel date, passenger count, and time
- Click “Book Now” and fill traveler details (names, age, contact info)
- Click “Review & Checkout” to confirm details
- Pay securely using card, UPI, or net banking
- Receive instant e-ticket on email and WhatsApp
Support: FindAFerry’s customer care team helps you modify or cancel tickets easily if your travel plan changes.