A journey back in time

At just a short boat ride from Sri Vijaya Puram lies a unique gem, inviting travellers seeking both history and natural beauty to visit its shores. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island, formerly known as the Ross Island provides an intriguing window into India's colonial history as well as freedom struggle.

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, the leader of the Indian National Army, is believed to have visited the island in 1943, and many claim that he even hosted the tricolour over the Government House as a symbol of defiance against colonial rule. In December 2018, this island was renamed as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island as a fitting tribute to his contributions towards the Indian freedom struggle, honouring the indomitable spirit of the Indian freedom fighter.

A glimpse into its past

NSCB Island once thrived as an administrative hub of the British colonial government before suffering a catastrophic earthquake in 1941. Today, its remnants provide visitors with an opportunity to explore lush greenery, appreciate scenic vistas, and imagine its past vibrancy.

Today, you can get a glimpse into its colonial grandeur through a beautiful church, quaint bakery, tennis court, swimming pool, and golf course.

World War II saw an unfortunate chapter for the island when it fell under Japanese occupation and was converted into a prisoner-of-war camp, forcing prisoners through unimaginable hardships such as hard labour, torture and executions, which forever scarred its landscape. A Sound & Light show narrating the history of the Island can be seen on all days except Wednesday at 5.30 PM.

A confluence of nature and architecture

The island's charm lies in its blend of colonial-era architecture and the lush beauty of nature. Under British rule, Sri Vijaya Puram served as the administrative headquarters of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and boasts many colonial buildings, monuments and ruins that tell of an earlier time.

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Timings

Opening time - 09:00 AM

Closing time - 05:00 PM

A tribute to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose

One of the island's stand-out features is its memorial dedicated to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Commemorated for his life and legacy during India's fight for independence from British rule, this memorial helps you connect with the journey of India's quest for freedom.

Explore the island’s gems and beyond

Ferries from Sri Vijaya Puram will take you on a short yet enchanting voyage. The island's two museums, the Ross Island Museum and the Smritika Museum will help you dive deep into the island's fascinating past. Don't hesitate to take a stroll among the ruins of British-era structures like the Chief Commissioner's House and the Presbyterian Church, a peaceful deer park is also nearby.

If your spirit permits, step into the depths of the Japanese bunkers to catch a glimpse of the past. For adventurous souls, trails between the greenery are open as a means of escapade into the green and the wild. The Cellular Jail is not far away if you want to take a peek into the 'Kaala Paani'. To discover coral reefs and beaches that lie in tranquillity, head to the nearby Coral Island, accessible by boat.