Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Port Blair lies Ross Island – a place where time has paused, and nature now claims what history once built. Though small in size, Ross Island packs a powerful mix of eerie colonial ruins, whispering coconut palms, and wild deer roaming freely. Once the British administrative headquarters of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, this tiny island has transformed into a scenic heritage escape that blends abandoned architecture with raw tropical charm.
Geographically, Ross Island is part of the South Andaman district and belongs to the vast Andaman Archipelago. Its close proximity to Port Blair makes it a perfect half-day trip for history lovers and photographers. Despite its modest size, the island is rich in natural beauty—fringed with clear blue waters, shaded walkways, and thick groves where spotted deer and peacocks roam untamed. With no vehicles allowed, it feels like a living museum surrounded by tropical wilderness, where every corner tells a story from a different era.
Ross Island, now officially called Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, served as the capital during British rule until an earthquake in 1941 and later a Japanese invasion led to its abandonment. What remains today are ivy-covered ruins of a church, a bakery, and officer quarters that are slowly being taken over by roots and vines. The air is still, the silence only interrupted by waves and bird calls—making it a surreal blend of history and nature. Whether you're a solo explorer, a history buff, or just looking to escape the city buzz of Port Blair, Ross Island is a must-visit chapter of the Andaman story that stays with you long after the trip ends.
Ross Island is famed for its hauntingly beautiful colonial ruins, untamed wildlife, and immersive heritage walkways. A former British capital, it offers a surreal blend of tropical wilderness, history, and abandoned architecture wrapped in silence and mystery.
Not Applicable
October to March
Ross Island is open for visitors from 9:00 A.M to 3:00 P.M. The last return boat departs at 3:00 P.M
Plan for a half-day trip. Visitors generally spend 2–3 hours exploring the ruins, sanctuary, and natural beauty of the island.
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Cellular Jail
Marina Park and Aquarium
Samudrika Naval Marine Museum
The Cellular Jail, also known as Kala Pani located at Port Blair, stood mute witness to the tortures meted out to the freedom fighters, who were incarcerated in this jail. The jail, completed in the year 1906 acquired the name Cellular because it is entirely made up of individual cells for solitary confinement. The saga of the heroic freedom struggle, brought alive in a moving Son-et-Lumiere, in the Cellular Jail, is very popular among tourists.
Samudrika Marine Museum is located at Delanipur near Port Blair. It is managed by the Indian Navy. The purpose was to create awareness about the natural resources and aquatic life in the Andaman Islands. Along with this, the museum gives a glance of the social and tribal life in the region.There are five sections that have been created over the years which include geographical information, archaeology, people information, history of Andaman Islands and marine life.Various miniature models of the different islands, the lifestyle of tribes and their pictures depicting their daily life and unknown facts, are displayed in the relevant sections. There are also the rarest of corals, shells and fish that are found in the water and beaches of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.In the Marine Museum there are large tanks which have been simulated with the natural sea water and house a lot of coral reefs and aquatic marine plant life, where some rare corals and animals could be found.
Samudrika Naval Marine Museum is a museum situated near the Andaman Teal House at Port Blair in India, designed to create awareness on various aspects of oceanic environment. The museum is run by the Indian Navy. This museum aims to generate awareness about the environment in the ocean and the marine life.
Discover heartfelt experiences travel tips, and candid moments from fellow explorers of this magical destination.
Delhi
I visited Ross Island with my family during our Andaman trip. It was such a peaceful experience. The ruins looked amazing, with trees growing all over them. The kids were super excited to see the deer and peacocks roaming around. We packed some snacks and water, which helped since there are no stalls inside. Beautiful place!
Tamil Naidu
The moment we stepped onto Ross Island, we felt like we went back in time. The old church, bakery, and other ruins are slowly being taken over by trees – it looks like something out of a film! Don’t forget your camera, the photos come out amazing.
Shimla
Very peaceful and unique place. You don’t find too many spots like this in India. The blend of colonial architecture and wild nature is amazing. I went with my parents and they really enjoyed the calm walk. Must visit for everyone going to Andaman.
Kerala
Felt very different from other tourist places. The whole island is like an open-air museum. Clean, silent, and full of greenery. I liked that there wasn’t too much commercial stuff. Just nature and history – perfect combo.
Rajasthan
Nice place for history lovers and nature lovers both. The island has a very calm vibe, and the walk through the ruins is lovely. But make sure to wear comfortable shoes – there’s quite a bit of walking. Go in the morning to avoid the heat.!
Mumbai
Went here with my college friends, and it was a really good break from city life. The boat ride from Port Blair was short and fun. We explored the island, clicked photos, and just enjoyed the silence. One suggestion: check ferry timings before planning.
Kolkata
Ross Island is a great half-day outing if you’re in Port Blair. It’s clean, green, and not too crowded. We saw so many peacocks and deer – it was like a small forest with history. Carry your own water and wear a cap.
Lucknow
Good place for a quiet walk and to click some memorable photos. The place is full of history – British-era buildings are now being covered by roots and trees. There are no guides, so we just walked around at our own pace.
Bhopal
We went in the afternoon and it was a bit hot, but totally worth it. The sea breeze helped a lot, and the place is full of beautiful spots. Good for couples, families, and solo travellers too. Just make sure to carry water.
Mumbai
There’s something very peaceful about this place. I sat under a big tree and just looked at the ruins – felt like I was in a different world. It’s not crowded and very relaxing. If you’re in Port Blair, do not skip Ross island
