Ross Island, now called Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island (NSCB Island), is a famous tourist spot near Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Just 2 km away by sea, this small island was once the British capital of Andaman during colonial times. It is now a quiet, green, and historical place, perfect for sightseeing and short trips.
Visitors can walk through the ruins of old British buildings like the church, bakery, and officer’s homes. The island is filled with deer, peacocks, and tall trees. The roots of the trees have slowly covered the old buildings, giving it a magical feel. It is now managed by the Indian Navy and is a must-visit place for history lovers, photographers, and nature seekers.
The island is famous for its British-era ruins, now covered by tree roots, which makes it look like a natural museum. You can see spotted deer, peacocks, and old buildings along the walking trails. The highlight is the light and sound show, which tells the story of India’s freedom fighters, especially Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, who visited this island during World War II and hoisted the Indian flag.
You can reach Ross Island easily by taking a ferry from the Water Sports Complex in Port Blair. The boat ride takes just 15 minutes and offers a lovely view of the sea. The ferry runs daily, and tickets can be booked at the counter or online. Return ferry timings should be checked to plan your visit smoothly.
Ross Island is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the morning or early afternoon, when it is cool and quiet. The best travel season is from October to April, when the sea is calm and weather is pleasant. Avoid monsoon season, as ferries may not operate due to rough sea conditions.
Walk through British ruins like church and bakery
Watch deer and peacocks walking freely
Take scenic photos of nature-covered ruins
Enjoy forest walks under tall trees
Relax by the beachside benches and enjoy sea breeze
Enjoy the short ferry ride from Port Blair
Attend the light and sound show (usually in the evening)
The Light and Sound Show at Ross Island, now officially called Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, is one of the top evening attractions in Port Blair, Andaman. This open-air show takes place among the ruins of British colonial buildings and uses lights, music, and narration to present the history of the island and its connection to India’s freedom movement.
The show usually begins between 5:30 PM and 6:00 PM, depending on the season and sunset time.
Current schedule includes:
5 :30 PM show in Hindi or English
The show runs daily except public holidays.
Boats depart for Ross Island from Aberdeen Jetty or the Water Sports Complex in Port Blair.
Most ferry services leave around 4:00 PM.
The boat ride takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Return boats usually reach Port Blair by around 7:30 PM.
Ticket costs range from ₹300 – 500 per adult, depending on the ferry operator and seat type.
Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season.
A valid government-issued photo ID is required at the time of booking and entry
The Andaman Islands, an archipelago of 572 emerald islands in the Bay of Bengal, offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience.