Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island) Travel Guide: A Walk Through History

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island) Travel Guide

Just a short boat ride away from the bustling jetties of Port Blair lies a place where time has stood still. Ross Island Andaman, now officially renamed Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island, is perhaps the most unique destination in the entire archipelago. It is not a place of sprawling beaches or coral reefs, but a living museum of colonial ambition and the eventual triumph of nature.

Walking through the island today feels like stepping into a post-apocalyptic version of Victorian England. Grand ballrooms, high-ceilinged churches, and massive printing presses are now cradled by the giant roots of Ficus trees, creating a landscape that is both eerie and incredibly beautiful.

1. The Rise and Fall: A History of the "Paris of the East"

In the mid-19th century, this tiny island was chosen by the British to be the administrative headquarters of the Andaman Islands. For decades, it was known as the "Paris of the East," boasting luxuries that were unheard of in the rest of India at the time—swimming pools, tennis courts, a grand ballroom, and a sanitized water filtration plant.

However, the island’s fate changed during World War II when the Japanese occupied the archipelago in 1942. They converted the island into a defensive site, building the strategic Japanese bunkers that still stand today. After the war and a massive earthquake in 1941, the British abandoned the site, leaving it to be reclaimed by the jungle.

In 2018, the island was renamed Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island to honor the legendary freedom fighter who first hoisted the Indian flag in Port Blair in 1943.

2. Top Things to See on the Island

The ruins of the island are its main attraction, each telling a story of a bygone era:

• The Church and Bakery: The skeletal remains of the stone church and the once-bustling bakery are the most photographed spots on the island.

• Chief Commissioner’s House: Located at the highest point of the island, the ruins of this palatial home offer a glimpse into the lifestyle of the British elite.

• Japanese Bunkers: These reinforced concrete structures are reminders of the island's strategic importance during the Second World War.

• Light and Sound Show: Held in the evenings, this show narrates the gripping history of the island, from its colonial peak to its role in the freedom struggle.

3. Wildlife and Nature: The Island’s New Residents

While humans have long since left, the island is now home to a thriving population of friendly spotted deer and peacocks. These animals are remarkably comfortable around humans and often walk right up to travelers. Watching a peacock spread its feathers against the backdrop of a ruined colonial ballroom is a sight you won't find anywhere else in the Andaman Islands.

4. Logistics: How to Reach the Island

Since the island is located just 3 kilometers from Port Blair, it serves as the perfect half-day trip. Ferries usually depart from the Water Sports Complex or Haddo Wharf in Port Blair.

While the transit to this specific island is short, your broader Andaman journey involves longer distances. To ensure your inter-island travel is as premium as your history tours, Nautika provides high-speed connections to the major hubs of Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep. Arriving at the capital city via Nautika ensures you stay in the "Victory City" with speed, style, and luxury, leaving you with plenty of energy to explore the ruins of the past.

5. Smart Travel Tips for History Seekers

• Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be exploring the island on foot through uneven terrain and forest paths.

• Timing: The island is generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on Wednesdays.

• Respect the Ruins: Do not climb on the ancient structures or pull at the tree roots, as they are fragile and protected.

• Deer Protocol: While the deer are friendly, avoid feeding them processed food, as it is harmful to their health.