Smith and Ross Islands Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Smith and Ross Islands with this travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.
- Introduction to Smith and Ross Islands
- List of Places to Visit in Smith and Ross Islands
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Smith and Ross Islands
- Best Things to Do in Smith and Ross Islands: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Smith and Ross Islands
- Food and Drink Scene of Smith and Ross Islands
- Where to Stay in Smith and Ross Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Smith and Ross Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Smith and Ross Islands
- Best Time to Visit Smith and Ross Islands
- Do’s and Don’ts of Smith and Ross Islands
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Smith and Ross Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Smith and Ross Islands
- Where to Go Next from Smith and Ross Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Smith and Ross Islands
Smith and Ross Islands are two picturesque small islands located in North and Middle Andaman in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The islands are popular tourist destinations, thanks to their natural beauty, pristine beaches, and clear blue waters. In this travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Smith and Ross Islands.
List of Places to Visit in Smith and Ross Islands
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Ross Island: Once the administrative headquarters during the British Raj, Ross Island is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to several historical ruins, including the old Church, Chief Commissioner’s House, and the Cellular Jail.
- Anthropological Museum: This museum is dedicated to showcasing the history and culture of the indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Samudrika Marine Museum: This museum is run by the Indian Navy and offers an insight into the marine life, geography, and history of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Natural Attractions of Smith and Ross Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- North Bay Island: This small island is an absolute paradise for water sports enthusiasts, with activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and jet skiing.
- Corbyn’s Cove Beach: Located in Port Blair, this is one of the most popular beaches in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and watching beautiful sunsets.
- Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park: This park is located on Wandoor Beach and is one of the best places to snorkel in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The park is home to a rich variety of marine life, including corals, fishes, and turtles.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Smith and Ross Islands
- Mount Harriet National Park: This park is located in the southern part of Andaman Island, and offers beautiful hiking trails, breathtaking views, and a chance to spot rare birds and wildlife.
- Chidiya Tapu: Located on the southern tip of South Andaman Island, Chidiya Tapu is a popular spot for bird watching, sunset viewing, and cycling.
Best Things to Do in Smith and Ross Islands: Activities and Tours
- The Ross Island Tour: Take a guided tour of Ross Island and discover the history and culture of the British Raj in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Glass Bottom Boat Ride: Take a glass bottom boat ride to explore the magnificent marine life and coral reefs of Smith and Ross Islands.
- Sea Walking: Experience the thrill of walking on the seabed and interacting with the underwater world with sea walking tours.
Week-Long Itinerary for Smith and Ross Islands
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Anthropological Museum, Corbyn’s Cove Beach |
| Day 2 | Ross Island Tour, Light and Sound Show at Cellular Jail |
| Day 3 | Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, North Bay Island |
| Day 4 | Mount Harriet National Park, Chidiya Tapu |
| Day 5 | Sea Walking, Glass Bottom Boat Ride |
| Day 6 | Relax on Radhanagar Beach |
| Day 7 | Buy souvenirs and explore local markets |
Food and Drink Scene of Smith and Ross Islands
Must-Try Dishes
- Fish Curry: A simple yet delicious dish made with fresh catch from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Coconut Prawn Curry: A traditional dish made with prawns and coconut milk, perfect for seafood lovers.
- Biryani: A widely popular rice-based dish that is served with different types of meat, vegetables, and spices.
Local Beverages
- Tender Coconut Water: A refreshing and healthy drink made from the sap of tender green coconuts.
- Palm Wine: A local alcoholic beverage made from palm tree sap.
Where to Stay in Smith and Ross Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Sea Shell Resort: Located on Havelock Island, this resort offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a private beach.
- Barefoot at Havelock: This eco-resort is located on the serene Radhanagar Beach and offers cottages made from eco-friendly materials.
- Budget Guesthouse: There are several budget guesthouses available in Port Blair and around Smith and Ross Islands.
What to Buy in Smith and Ross Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Shell Crafts: Andaman and Nicobar Islands are famous for their beautiful shell crafts, which are made from seashells and other natural materials.
- Wooden Crafts: The indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are known for their intricate wooden crafts made from locally sourced wood.
Local Culture and Customs of Smith and Ross Islands
The local people of Smith and Ross Islands belong to different tribes, with the majority being the Nicobarese and the Shompen. They have their own unique customs, traditions, and languages. Visitors should respect their culture and avoid taking photographs or videos without permission.
Best Time to Visit Smith and Ross Islands
The best time to visit Smith and Ross Islands is from November to May, when the weather is dry, pleasant, and ideal for outdoor activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Smith and Ross Islands
Do:
- Respect local culture and customs.
- Carry sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- Carry your own water bottle and avoid using plastics.
Don’t:
- Litter the surroundings or disturb the marine life.
- Touch, remove or disturb corals, shells, or other marine life.
- Carry any kind of drugs.
Safety and Health
Safety in Smith and Ross Islands
The islands are generally safe and peaceful, but visitors are advised to take precautions like carrying a copy of necessary documents and avoiding traveling alone at night.
Health in Smith and Ross Islands
Visitors should drink bottled water and avoid consuming street food to avoid any chance of food-borne diseases. It is also recommended to carry basic medicines and a first-aid kit.
Getting to Smith and Ross Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Smith and Ross Islands
The Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair is the nearest airport to Smith and Ross Islands, located at a distance of 11 km.
Bus Stations Near Smith and Ross Islands
There are no bus stations on the islands, but taxis and private cars are available for hire.
Other Options
Ferries and catamarans also operate between Port Blair and Smith and Ross Islands. Visitors can also book tour packages with local travel agents.
How to Get Around in Smith and Ross Islands
The islands are small, and visitors can get around on foot, bicycles, or hired taxis.
Where to Go Next from Smith and Ross Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Neil Island: Located 42 km from Port Blair, the island is known for its stunning beaches and coral reefs.
- Baratang Island: Located 100 km from Port Blair, the island is famous for its mangrove forests and limestone caves.
Conclusion
With its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and outdoor activities, Smith and Ross Islands are a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing vacation. Plan your trip today and explore the unspoiled natural beauty of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
