Visit Ross and Smith Island from Port Blair, Havelock – Updated Guide

Explore the stunning Ross and Smith Twin Islands from Port Blair and Havelock.
Discover how to reach these idyllic beaches and enjoy snorkelling in the Andaman Islands!

Explore the Stunning serenity of Ross and Smith Island for a Memorable Trip

Ross and Smith Twin Island is one of the exotic vacation destinations where you can create lovable and memorable moments with your loved ones. Ross Island is located in Andaman and Nicobar Island of India which holds significant historical and archaeological importance. Located in the Bay of Bengal, Smith Island is well-known for its pristine beaches, lush greenery, and rich biodiversity.

Ross and Smith Island are connected by sandbars surrounded by crystal clear open sea waters known to be an aerial view of the islands. When you visit the place during the low tides, you can see a sandbar connecting the two islands on which you can walk to reach from one island to the other.

If you are an adventure lover or nature beauty lover, Ross and Smith Island is a perfect vacation plan because it remains relatively untouched by human activities making you feel surrounded by scenic beauty. The best time to visit the Ross and Smith twin Island is between October and mid-June as the weather remains pleasant.

How to Reach Ross and Smith Island?

Bus From Port Blair to Diglipur:

Diglipur is located at a distance of about 300 kilometres from Port Blair which means if you have to reach Ross and Smith Island, you need to first reach Diglipur and then take a boat for Aerial Bay to reach Ross and Smith Island. It takes about 25 minutes to reach Ross and Smith Islands.

No train facilities are available to Andaman and Nicobar Island. Regular bus services are available both private and government accessible from Port Blair to Diglipur via ATR.

You can visit Diglipur by government-operated bus that departs from Port Blair at various times. The most preferred bus runs around 4.30 AM which takes around 10 hours to reach Diglipur from Port Blair. The buses are not air-conditioned and you can purchase the bus ticket from the government Bus depot at Aberdeen Bazar, Port Blair. The boarding point is located at Aberdeen Bus Depot and has multiple other pick-up points on the ATR. However, make sure to enquire at the ticket counter for your nearest pick-up point.

You can choose among the number of early morning buses running daily from Port Blair to Diglipur however tickets need to be purchased in advance a day before the journey. Moreover, you can choose private AC buses available providing more comfort which are available at INR 2000 and start at 4.00 A.M.

Passengers Can book private bus tickets online for Port Blair to Diglipur on these websites:

https://www.anandtransports.com/
https://www.geetanjalitransport.com/index
https://www.krajalakshmitransport.in/index

Port Blair to Diglipur Private Cabs

If you plan to hire a cab for your Diglipur tour, you will need to book at least a 2-night, 3-day package. This typically includes visits to all the sightseeing in Baratang, Rangat, Mayabunder, and then Diglipur. The total cost is around INR 18,000 for a round trip, which covers fuel, driver charges, and maintenance fees. However, tourists will need to cover the boat fare separately for the Limestone Cave and Ross & Smith Island trips.

Book Private Cab Service Contact Number

Andaman Cabs: 09933263867
Andaman Cabs Booking: 09933259998

Port Blair to Diglipur Govt Ferry Information:

The government ferry from Port Blair to Diglipur operates once a week, currently served by the MV Nalanda on this route. The journey takes approximately 12 hours and 30 minutes, covering a distance of around 130 nautical miles.

Particulars	Government Ferry
Departure	Phoenix Bay Jetty
Departure timing	21:00
Journey time to Diglipur	12 hrs 30 min
Port Blair to Diglipur Ferry Fare	₹ 1455, ₹ 1140, ₹ 835, ₹ 680, ₹ 330
Arrival Time	09:30
Name of ships	MV NALANDA
Seats Classes	DELUXE, First, Second, Bunk, Seat

From Havelock Island to Diglipur Govt. Ferry:

There is no direct ferry service from Swaraj Dweep to Diglipur. First, you need to travel to Rangat from Havelock Island. From Rangat, you can take a private bus to Diglipur, passing through Mayabunder. Here are a few Govt. ferry available from Havelock to Rangat Island:

Particulars	Government Ferry
Departure	Phoenix Bay Jetty
Departure timing	08:00, 10:15
Journey time to Diglipur	3 hrs 45 min
Port Blair to Diglipur Ferry Fare	₹ 945, ₹ 680
Arrival Time	11:45, 14:00
Name of ships	MV JOLLYBOUY, M V STRAIT ISLAND, MV PILOMILLOW
Seats Classes	CHAIR, Seat

From Diglipur Aerial Bay Jetty to Ross & Smith Island:

To visit Ross and Smith Island, you have to get a forest permit from the Forest Office located at Diglipur. The pricing is predefined by the competent department and Ross and Island experts will inform you with the appropriate amount chargeable. However, the entry fee imposed for granting the permit is 500 INR for foreigners, 50 INR for Indian adults, and 25 INR for children. Permits can be obtained daily from 6 AM to 2 PM, except Sundays.

Travellers need to take either a fishermen’s boat or a speedboat to reach Ross & Smith Twin Islands from Aerial Bay Jetty. The speedboat takes around 25 minutes and costs approximately INR 5,000 for a round trip.

Tips for Visiting Ross and Smith Island:

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit the Island is between the months of October and mid-June

Packing List:

Beachwear
Water
Food and drinks
Sandals
Slippers
Medical kit
Hats/ Caps

Accommodation Options:

Turtle Resort
Saddle Peak View Resort
Pristine Beach Resort
APWD Guest House

Activities and Attractions:

Bird watching
Nature walks
Kayaking
Turtle Nesting

ü Sunset-watching Camping

Permit Required (if any)

Forest permit from the Forest Office at Diglipur

Medical Facilities

Hospitals, nursing homes, or medical shops are available nearby in case of emergency.

Accommodations Nearby

Ramnagar beach
Little Andaman
Mud volcanoes at Shyam Nagar

Things to Do on Ross and Smith Island:

Ross and Smith Islands are steeped in history and have a unique sandbar phenomenon which means if you are planning your visit these things and activities must be a part of your itinerary listed below

To receive a glimpse into the history of the Island, you have to stop to witness the light and sound show. You will get a closer look into the penal settlement period at how the Britishers landed in Andaman and their settlement. The area is surrounded by palm and coconut trees to introduce respite to the animals.
Moreover, if you are an adventure lover, set out to explore the man caves that are recognized as a predominant attraction available on Ross Island. These caves were built during the British era and served as an escape spot for the officers when attacked.
You can go about exploring the islands and spot the ruins of a church.
Smith Island offers opportunities for activities such as scuba diving, and snorkeling facilitating the visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Andaman Island.
Upon entering the Ross and Smith Twin Island you can discover ruins of giant water distillation plants, a tennis court, and a swimming pool.
Ross and Smith Twin Islands are home to the Olive Ridley turtles, where you can witness the turtle nesting.

We’re Official Ferry Ticket Partner

We are an MSME listed local travel agency in Port Blair, South Andaman, providing fast and convenient ferry ticket booking through Andaman Ferry Ticket. Our unique guarantee ensures confirmed ferry tickets within minutes, coupled with a straightforward cancellation and refund policy.