Ross Island, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Overview

Ross Island, now known as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, is a historically significant island located near Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It was the administrative headquarters for the British during their colonial rule and is known for its historical ruins and natural beauty. The island offers a glimpse into the colonial past with its remnants of British architecture and lush green surroundings.

Historical and Cultural Significance

• British Headquarters: Ross Island served as the administrative headquarters for the British in the Andaman Islands until an earthquake in 1941 and the subsequent Japanese invasion during World War II.
• Colonial Ruins: The island is home to ruins of British-era buildings, including a church, hospital, bakery, barracks, and the Chief Commissioner's residence.
• Japanese Occupation: During World War II, the island was occupied by the Japanese, who also built bunkers and tunnels, remnants of which can still be seen today.

Activities and Attractions

• Exploring Ruins: Walk through the ruins of British colonial buildings, such as the church, hospital, and barracks, and imagine the island's bustling past.
• Historical Monuments: Visit the remains of the Chief Commissioner's residence and the old bakery, which reflect the architectural style of the British era.
• Japanese Bunkers: Discover the bunkers and tunnels built by the Japanese during their occupation in World War II.
• Flora and Fauna: The island is rich in natural beauty, with lush greenery and diverse wildlife, including deer and peacocks that roam freely.
• Museum: Visit the small museum maintained by the Indian Navy, which showcases the island's history and photographs from the colonial period.
• Lighthouse: Check out the lighthouse for panoramic views of the surrounding sea and nearby islands.
• Photography: The picturesque ruins and natural scenery provide excellent opportunities for photography.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Ross Island is during the winter and early summer months from November to April. During this period, the weather is pleasant, making it comfortable to explore the island and its historical sites.

• November to April (Winter and Early Summer): This is the ideal time to visit, with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 30°C. The weather is pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing and exploring the ruins.
• May to October (Monsoon): The monsoon season brings heavy rains, which can make exploring the island difficult and less enjoyable. It is advisable to avoid visiting during this period due to potential travel disruptions.

Visiting Tips and Preparation

• Clothing: Wear light, comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor activities. Bring along a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
• Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for exploring the ruins and walking on uneven terrain.
• Water and Snacks: Carry water and snacks, as there may be limited facilities on the island.
• Camera: Bring a camera to capture the historical ruins, scenic views, and wildlife.
• Respect the Environment: Help preserve the natural beauty and historical integrity of Ross Island by not littering and respecting the ruins and structures.

Key Attractions

• British Colonial Ruins: Explore the remnants of British-era buildings, such as the church, hospital, and barracks.
• Japanese Bunkers: Discover the bunkers and tunnels built during World War II.
• Flora and Fauna: Enjoy the lush greenery and spot wildlife like deer and peacocks.
• Museum: Learn about the island's history at the small museum maintained by the Indian Navy.
• Lighthouse: Visit the lighthouse for panoramic views of the sea and nearby islands.
• Photography: Capture stunning photographs of the historical ruins and natural beauty.

How to Reach

Port Blair is well-connected and can be reached by various means:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the Phoenix Bay Jetty.
• By Sea: Regular passenger ship services are available from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam to Port Blair. The journey by sea takes approximately 3-4 days.
• Local Transport: From Port Blair, you can take a boat from the Phoenix Bay Jetty to Ross Island. The boat ride takes about 15-20 minutes.

Visiting Ross Island offers a unique blend of historical exploration and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in the colonial history of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The serene environment and scenic views also provide a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and photographers