Ross & Smith Islands - Diglipur, Andaman Islands - Timings, Water Sports, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 20 km from Diglipur and 320 km from Port Blair, Smith & Ross Islands are the twin islands situated in the Andaman Islands of India. This is one of the most beautiful places in Andamans.

Ross & Smith Islands are joined by a sandbar that is visible during low tide but gets submerged during high tide. The sand bar in the form of a crescent is the main attraction of the place. Water is crystal clear and gem green in color. The Smith Island is best suited for island camping and is perfect for enjoying village life. Moreover, tourists can also find accommodation facilities at this island. There is a Marine Sanctuary on the island which makes it an ideal place for spotting beautiful coral reefs and colorful species from the underwater.

The beach is surrounded by tropical forests and is a preferred place for trekking and trail hiking by many tourists. One can also opt for activities like Scuba Diving & Snorkeling. Ross & Smith Islands are home to the Olive Ridley turtles, one can even witness the turtle nesting in the season. Sun bathing in Ross & Smith Islands is a wonderful experience.

It ensures that one side of the sand bar, where the boats approaches, has absolutely calm waters thus making it ideal for swimming for children and even for adults who are not too sure about venturing into the sea. The depths are also shallow to a large distance away from the sand bar so kids can really enjoy themselves completely. For the more adventurous kinds, the other side of the sandbar has waves which are not too fierce and easily manageable. Ross Island is accessible by the sand bar, a short ten minute walk. The beach along Ross is also rocky and unfit for swimming.

Ross & Smith Islands requires forest permit from the Forest Office at Diglipur. The twin islands can be reached from Diglipur. No public boats are available. A fisherman's boat (dongie) or a speed boat can be hired and the ride would take around 25 minutes from the Ariel Bay Jetty in Diglipur. Even while travelling directly from Port Blair, one will have to first halt at Diglipur and then hire a dongie to the islands.

Entry Fee: Rs. 50 for Indians, Rs. 25 for Child & Rs. 500 for Foreigners

Boat: Rs. 2000 for 6 Persons

Timings: 6 AM to 2 PM o all days except Sunday