Ross and Smith Islands offer a mesmerizing escape in the Andamans. Connected by a sandbar, they boast crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine beaches. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling, these islands are also home to lush forests and vibrant marine life. The Ross and Smith islands are perfect for having a tranquil as well as an adventurous experience amidst nature's untouched beauty.
Activities: Snorkeling and swimming are the most suitable and well acknowledged activities on both the islands. Adventure lovers find the space marvelous to do scuba diving tours as well.
Distance from Port Blair: By road, about 191 kms are there from Port Blair to Ross and Smith Islands, Aerial Jetty is the right spot to take a private boat from and travel to the island.
Ross and Smith Islands are twin islands nestled in the Bay of Bengal. They are two separate islands connected by a sandbar, which makes them a unique spectacle in the Andaman archipelago. Located near Diglipur, these twin islands are famous for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush green forests. The journey to these islands starts with a short boat ride from Ariel Bay Jetty, introducing you to the breathtaking beauty of the Andaman Sea. The islands offer a serene escape with their unspoiled natural beauty, making them a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The sandbar that links Ross and Smith Islands disappears under the water during high tide and reappears during low tide. It is during this time when you can enjoy magnificent views of these islands as well as the surrounding ocean. The islands are a haven for diverse marine life housed within the Marine Sanctuary. This is where you can enjoy snorkelling and diving, while witness vibrant coral reefs and colourful fishes. Moreover, the presence of the Olive Ridley turtles adds to the island's charm, offering the chance to witness turtle nesting. The surrounding tropical forests also provide ample opportunities for trekking and trail hiking. All of this makes the Ross and Smith Islands a must-visit destination in the Andaman.
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Highlights
• Walk across the unique sandbar connecting Ross and Smith Islands during low tide for a magical experience.
• Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters to discover vibrant coral reefs and colourful marine life in the Marine Sanctuary.
• Enjoy sunbathing on the white sandy beaches, feeling the warmth of the sun in a tranquil setting.
• Witness the rare sight of Olive Ridley turtles nesting, an unforgettable moment in nature's calendar.
• Explore the lush tropical forests surrounding the beaches, perfect for hiking and encountering diverse wildlife.
How To Reach
To visit Ross and Smith Islands, you must first reach Port Blair, the gateway to the Andaman Islands. It is located 313.2 kilometres from the islands.
By Air
The most convenient route is flying into Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair. Major cities like Kolkata, Chennai, and New Delhi have direct flights to Port Blair. From the airport, you can take a cab to the Aberdeen Jetty in Port Blair. You can cover this 4-kilometre journey in around 15 minutes. From Aberdeen Jetty, take another boat to Aerial Bay Jetty in Diglipur. This 304-kilometre journey takes around 12 hours. In Diglipur, you will have to take another boat ride to reach the Twin Islands. This 18-kilometre distance typically takes around 15 to 30 minutes.
By Sea
Port Blair to Diglipur: From Port Blair, you can catch a government-operated ferry or private boat to Diglipur. This is a journey of 10 to 12 hours, covering around 304 kilometres. Ferries usually run once or twice a week, so plan accordingly. Alternatively, you can also reach Diglipur from Port Blair via the NH4 or ATR (Andaman Trunk Road). This 297.5-kilometre journey typically can take up to 12 hours.
Diglipur to Ross and Smith Islands: From Diglipur, Ross and Smith Islands are accessible via a short boat ride from the Aerial Bay Jetty. These boats operate every day between 08:00 a.m. and 02:00 p.m.. The total distance between the two destinations is 18 kilometres, and the boat journey takes roughly 15 to 30 minutes.
Best Time To Visit
You can visit the Ross and Smith Islands all year round. The islands are known for offering stunning landscapes and clear waters whenever you decide to visit.
Best Season
November to March is ideal for a visit owing to dry weather conditions. With the sea being calm, you can enjoy snorkelling and swimming with ease during this time.
Best Day
You can visit the islands all through the week as it is always open for visits till 02:00 p.m.
Best Time of the Day
Take the early morning boats (between 08:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.) to visit the islands. The boats to the islands typically operate between 08:00 a.m. to 02:00 p.m. every day. During the morning, the sandbar is fully visible due to low tide, and the sea is at its calmest.
Other Essential Information
Tips to Visit Ross and Smith Island
1. Obtain the necessary permits from the Forest Office at Diglipur before visiting the islands.
2. Wear comfortable shoes since you will be required to walk a lot as you explore the island.
3. Carry essentials like food, water, and sunscreen since there are limited facilities on the islands.
4. Check weather conditions before planning your visit and ensure that the sea is calm.
5. Mobile connectivity is limited, so be prepared for no network and inform someone of your plans.
6. Stay hydrated and carry enough water, as the tropical climate can be dehydrating.
7. Arrive early and ensure that you have at least 3 to 4 hours on hand.
Walk on the Sandbar Beach
Experience the magic of walking between Ross and Smith Islands over a natural sandbar. This unique phenomenon allows you to stroll on a stretch of sand that appears only during low tide, connecting the twin islands. Feel the soft sand beneath your feet and watch as the water surrounds you from both sides, creating a memorable walkway in the middle of the sea. As you enjoy your walk, you can also come across small marine creatures and shells scattered along the natural pathway. With the ocean water gently lapping at your feet, this is guaranteed to be a memorable experience.
Snorkel in the Marine Sanctuary
Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Marine Sanctuary during your visit to the twin islands. This underwater paradise, nestled around Ross and Smith Islands, is a haven for adventurers. Here, you can find vibrant coral reefs and a wide array of marine life waiting to be discovered. In addition to anemones, colourful fishes, and different types of sharks, you might even spot an Olive Ridley turtle here. This protected area is a snorkeller’s dream and is a great place to witness the wonderful underwater world.
Trek through Tropical Forests
Surrounding the pristine beaches of the Ross and Smith Islands are lush tropical forests, a perfect place for nature enthusiasts. These forests are a part of the Saddle Peak National Park. Here, you can set out on a trekking journey through the dense woods on either of the islands. The trek takes you to the highest point of Ross Island, from where you can enjoy stunning views of the nearby islands. These tropical forests are also home to a variety of indigenous plants and wildlife species. As you trek through, you might come across rare animals like the Andaman Wild Pigs and Water Monitor. You may even get the chance to come across wild elephants, along with birds like herons, kingfishers, parrots, and others.
Sunbathe on Virgin Beaches
Seize the opportunity to sunbathe on the untouched, powdery white sands of Ross and Smith Islands. These serene beaches are known for their turquoise waters and peaceful environment. Here, you can soak up the sun, listen to the gentle waves, and rejuvenate your soul. These unspoiled beaches are free from the hustle and bustle of busy cities and serve as a great retreat for anyone looking to unwind and rejuvenate. Also, don’t forget to capture views of the panoramic sunsets while you are here.
Explore Underwater Life through Scuba Diving
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, scuba diving around Ross and Smith Islands offers an unparalleled adventure experience. Discover the hidden beauty of the Andaman Sea's depths, where the clear waters reveal mesmerising coral reefs. The waters here are warm and home to numerous marine species. As you dive below the water’s surface, you can see coral formations, sea fans as well as rays, reef sharks, and colourful schools of fish. Remember to bring your diving gear, as this brilliant natural beauty provides a remarkable sight that can soothe your mind, body, and soul.
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