Sir Hugh Rose Island, commonly known as Rose Island and sometimes referred to as Little Neill Island, is a small and uninhabited island in the Andaman Islands. It falls under the South Andaman district and is part of the Indian Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Located about 40 kilometres northeast of Port Blair, the island remains untouched by permanent human settlement. Its quiet atmosphere, natural greenery, and peaceful surroundings make it a unique part of the Andaman region. Rose Island is known for its calm environment and unspoiled charm, offering a glimpse of nature in its purest form.
The island is especially famous for endangered turtle species, which often use the surrounding waters and shores for nesting. Apart from turtles, the coral ecosystem supports a wide variety of marine organisms, fish species, and coastal flora.Due to this fragile ecosystem, strict rules are enforced to prevent disturbance to wildlife and marine habitats.
A prominent landmark on the island is the Sir Hugh Rose Lighthouse, which serves as a navigational aid in the surrounding waters.The Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships manage the lighthouse. It can be accessed only via sea. Landing on the island is usually done through departmental or chartered vessels. Entry near the lighthouse area is regulated and permission-based
Reaching Sir Hugh Rose Island requires careful planning due to its protected status.
- Reach Port Blair by flight from major Indian cities.
- Travel from Port Blair to Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) by government ferry or private cruise.
- From Neil Island, arrange a boat ride through authorised operators.
- Obtain a mandatory permit from the Forest Department office on Neil Island.
- Entry without permission is strictly prohibited.
Permit & Visiting Information
- Permit: Mandatory for all visitors
- Issued By: Forest Department, Neil Island
- Purpose: Wildlife protection and conservation
- Visitor Limit: Controlled and restricted
- Visitors must strictly follow guidelines laid down by the authorities.
Things to Do at Sir Hugh Rose Island
- Tourist activities are minimal and nature-focused:
- Turtle watching (seasonal & from a safe distance)
- Quiet nature walks under supervision
- Picnicking (only if permitted and eco-friendly)
- Photography of landscapes and marine surroundings
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The Andaman Islands, an archipelago of 572 emerald islands in the Bay of Bengal, offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
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