Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, formerly known as Ross Island, is a historic island located near Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Once the administrative headquarters of the British in the Andaman Islands, the island was considered the "Paris of the East" during the colonial period because of its beautiful buildings, gardens, churches, and luxurious facilities built for British officers.

Today, the island is a fascinating heritage destination known for its abandoned colonial ruins, old government buildings, a church, bakery, swimming pool, water treatment plant, and remnants of British-era architecture that have been reclaimed by nature. Giant trees, roots covering old structures, and peaceful surroundings create a unique atmosphere where history and nature exist together.

The island is managed as a protected heritage site and is a popular day-trip destination from Port Blair. Visitors can explore the ruins through walking trails, enjoy scenic views of the surrounding sea, observe friendly deer and peacocks, and learn about the island's important role during British rule and World War II. The island was renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island in 2018 in honor of the Indian freedom fighter.

Ross Island was selected by the British administration in the mid-19th century as the headquarters for governing the Andaman Islands. Development began after the establishment of the British penal colony following the Revolt of 1857. The island became the residence of British officials, and extensive infrastructure was constructed, including administrative offices, churches, residential quarters, a bakery, hospital, printing press, swimming pool, and entertainment facilities.

During its peak period, Ross Island functioned as the center of British power in the Andamans. The island housed senior officers and their families, while Indian freedom fighters imprisoned in Cellular Jail experienced a completely different reality of colonial rule.

The island suffered major damage during the earthquake of 1941 and was later occupied by Japanese forces during World War II (1942–1945). After Japan's surrender, British control returned briefly, but the island gradually lost its administrative importance as the headquarters shifted to Port Blair.

After independence, Ross Island was abandoned and nature slowly reclaimed the structures. The Indian Navy took control of the island in 1979 and preserved it as a historical site. In 2018, the island was officially renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island to honor Netaji's connection with the Andaman Islands, where he hoisted the Indian national flag in 1943.

By Air:

The nearest airport is Veer Savarkar International Airport, located approximately 7 km from the ferry boarding point.

By Rail:

There is no railway network in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

By Road:

Reach Aberdeen Jetty / Water Sports Complex Jetty in Port Blair by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local transport.

By Ferry/Boat:

Regular boats operate from Aberdeen Jetty, Port Blair to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island. The ferry journey takes around 15–20 minutes.