Ross Island
The Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island- popularly and formerly known as Ross Island is situated in the South Andamans. The Island is just a few miles away from Port Blair and can be accessed by boats from Port Blair. Ross Island can be reached via ferry from water sports complex. These ferries sail daily to Ross Island. Usually the ferry ride covers both Ross Island and North Bay Island in a single-day tour.
This island was occupied by the British Colony during the pre-independence era and it was their Administrative Head Quarter until an earthquake rocked the islands in 1941, after which the British moved to Port Blair for settlement abandoning the Ross Island. The Japanese also had occupied Andamans in 1942 during World War II. The Japanese war bunkers and cannons still stand as a memorial on the island.
This elegant island which was deserted let nature take its toll slowly but steadily as banyan trees engulfed the buildings thus replacing the structures created by man. The Indian Navy has rebuilt some of the buildings like the bakery and local stores, where souvenirs are sold. At present, the Ross Island stands as a place of historical ruins and importance.
The British had built various structures back then which were rebuilt and are open for tourists. The island is well organized with barricades, pathways and proper signboards for directions. This charming little island gives you a feeling of nostalgia as you enter and it takes you back in time. The island is sure to get its visitors spellbound by its incredible ruins and work of nature on these abandoned buildings is remarkable and is a pleasure to history and nature buffs. Do not miss a visit to this quaint island as it is a different experience on the whole.
What to expect when at Ross Island?
Ross Island has very few amenities to offer the tourists. Drinking water and other refreshments are to be bought by the tourists as there is just one shop operated by the government and it only provides lunch. The tourists always have the option of taking lunch from North Bay Island which is the next destination they will visit after completing this trip. Plenty of coconut water is available on the island and it is advisable to carry water bottles always.
What are the things to see in Ross Island?
- Upon entering the island you can find ruins of a giant water distillation plant, a swimming pool, and a tennis court.
- The Island still has the remains of the famous printing press and secretariat office.
- Tourists can go about exploring the islands and spot ruins of a church, furthermore down and you can see a graveyard.
- The Farzand Ali Store was a famous store on the island and it is now maintained as a museum. This store has numerous pictures of the British period and their past activities.
- The island had community buildings like a church, tennis court, printing press, hospital, cemetery, secretariat, open-air theatre and much more to add.
- The Japanese bunkers and cannons brought in by the Japanese during World War II can also be seen along with the other historical remains.
Is there any specific activity done at Ross Island?
There are not many activities available on the island but there are few things that one can do. Take a walk to the other end of the island and experience the scenic view of an open beach and also take a moment to enjoy the cool breeze under the shady trees on the shore. While wandering on the island you can spot peacocks, eagles, and parrots moving around.
The island has a good population of deer, who are accustomed to seeing humans. Please avoid feeding the deer let nature grow and live on its own without human intervention as this is a policy followed in the Andaman Island. You can click some wonderful pictures of the historical places, birds and the beautiful scenery the island has to offer.
Can we stay at Ross Island?
Accommodation is not available on the island as night stay is prohibited here. The visitors are to exit the island on completing the trip and stay at Port Blair.