Latest Information on Travelling to Andaman Islands?

Runway Status for Port Blair Airport From October,22 to February, 23

Updated: 19 Sep 2022

From	To	Status
18-Oct	21-Oct	Closed
22-Oct	31-Oct	Operational
01-Nov	04-Nov	Closed
05-Nov	14-Nov	Operational
15-Nov	18-Nov	Closed
19-Nov	28-Nov	Operational
29-Nov	02-Dec	Closed
03-Dec	12-Dec	Operational
13-Dec	16-Dec	Closed
17-Dec	26-Dec	Operational
27-Dec	30-Dec	Closed
31-Dec	09-Jan	Operational
10-Jan	13-Jan	Closed
14-Jan	23-Jan	Operational
24-Jan	27-Jan	Closed
28-Jan	06-Feb	Operational
07-Feb	10-Feb	Closed
11-Feb	20-Feb	Operational

Andaman Tourism Opens
Updated: 14 Aug 2021

Andaman Tourism Opens: The Andaman & Nicobar administration has announced that all tourist spots in the South Andaman district will be opened for tourism activities with immediate effect 8 Feb 2022.
RT PCR report on arrival
Updated: 14 Aug 2021

A negative RT PCR report has to be presented by all passengers on arrival.
What is the advisory to travel to North & Middle Andaman District?
Updated: 14 Aug 2021

The tourists are allowed to visit Baratang/North & Middle Andaman on production of double dose covid certificate/ All other passengers viz. unvaccinated and partially vaccinated passengers (those who have taken only 1S1 dose of COVID vaccine) shall have to produce RT-PCR negative test report

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All asymptomatic fully vaccinated persons coming to these islands from mainland are exempted from the requirement of carrying RT-PCR negative test report,irrespective of the type of vaccine received and country of origin. Such fullyvaccinated individuals shall produce the final vaccination certificate at the origin airport, sea port in the mainland and at Port Blair Airport / sea port.
Alt asymptomatic children below 5 years of age are exempted from carrying RT-PCR negative test report and further RT-PCR testing at Port Blair Airport.
All other passengers viz. unvaccinated and partially vaccinated passengers (those who have taken only 1S1 dose of COVID vaccine) shall have to produce RT-PCR negative test report to travel to Port Blair from the mainland, as is the practice now. Such an RT-PCR test should have been taken within 48 hours prior to commencement of journey from the origin airport connecting Port Blair. Such passengers will also have to undergo additional RT-PCR test on arrival at Port Blair. Such passengers shall remain in self-quarantine till the arrival of the test report.
If a passenger on arrival is tested positive then, the prescribed quarantine protocol is to be followed.
All Airlines shall ensure strict compliance of this order and observance of COVID Appropriate Behaviour. Any non-compliance shall invite action under Disaster Management Act and other applicable laws.

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General Guidelines defined for traveling to Andaman Islands during COVID :

The Tourism Activities are permitted only in South Andaman & North & Middle Andaman District except Nicobar District.
Persons above 65 years of age, persons with home co-morbidities, pregnant women and children below the age of 10 years advised not to travel for tourism purposes.
Tourists/Visitors who are at higher risk due to some medical history are advised to take extra precautions.
Tourists/visitors shall minimize contact with other staff and visitors as far as possible and zero contact policy should be followed at all tourist destinations.
All tourists/visitors shall be briefed by the hotel concerned about do’s & don’ts to be mandatorily followed during their stay and movements.
While travelling tourists/visitors should wear a face mask and carry their own sanitizer and wet wipes for personal use.
At all tourist destinations, staff must wear face masks and wash/sanitize hands regularly while performing their duties.
Arogya Setu App shall be mandatory for all incoming tourists/visitors.
Respiratory etiquettes to be strictly followed. This involves strict practice of covering one’s mouth and nose while coughing/sneezing with a tissue handkerchief/flexed elbow and disposing off used tissues properly after use.
The tourists/visitors on arrival at Port Blair airport have to undergo mandatory Covid-19 screening with RTPCR test free of cost. Thereafter the tourists/ visitors are allowed to move to their respective hotels. However, they will have to be under quarantine at Port Blair in their hotel rooms until the result of RTPCR tests are received. In case of RTPCR positive test results, the tourists/visitors shall remain in institutional quarantine in hotels notified by the Hoteliers Association in consent with the A&%N Administration, on rate as specified or to the designated hospital/ Covid 19 care centre on case to case basis.

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What are the guidelines for testing for tourists coming to Andaman after August 03 2021?

On arrival at Port Blair :

1. The tourists need to carry COVID-19 negative test report from mainland based 1CMR approved lab using Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RTPCR). However, the sample for RTPCR test should have been taken within 48 hours prior to starting the journey from the origin station. (For e.g. if the tourist takes a flight from Delhi at 0600 hrs. on 1st September, 2021, the sample for RTPCR test should have been taken not before 0600 hrs. on 30th August, 2021).

2. The tourists/visitors on arrival at Port Blair airport have to undergo mandatory Covid-19 screening with RTPCR test free of cost. Thereafter the tourists/visitors are allowed to move to their respective hotels. However, they will have to be under quarantine at Port Blair in their hotel rooms until the result of RTPCR tests are received. In case of RTPCR positive test results, the tourists/visitors shall remain in
institutional quarantine in hotels notified by the Hoteliers Association in consent with the A&N Administration, on rates as specified or to the designated hospital/ Covid-19 care centre on case-to-case basis.

3. Tourists may also have to undergo random Rapid Antigen Test conducted from time to time on payment basis as prescribed by A8N Administration.

What if the tourists test positive after arriving at the Andaman Islands?

If the tourists tests positive during their stay in the Islands, he/she will need to undergo institutional isolation as per existing health protocols. The
cost of such isolation for govt. facility will be paid by the tourists as fixed by the administration from time to time.

If the patient wants to stay at hotels, he/she can stay in the hotels if all the conditions below are met:

a) Patients are not symptomatic and not more than 60 years old.
b) Request/ undertaking is made by patient in writing.
c)lf allowed by doctors.

Hotels will make necessary arrangements to designate a part of their rooms for institutional isolation for this purpose.

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Regular flights to Port Blair (the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands) are operational now.
There are direct flights from Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Delhi.
Public transports like cabs, taxis, and bus services are also functional.

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Travellers should carefully follow social distancing norms and wear masks as well. Also, before making any booking, they should refer to the latest travel news on the government website of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

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About Ross & Smith Islands

Ross and Smith Islands, located in the stunning Andaman and Nicobar Islands, have become synonymous with paradise on Earth. Ross and Smith Islands, also known as the "Twin Islands, " are in the Bay of Bengal. It is also regarded as the hidden gem of the Bay of Bengal, which not just offers peace but also breathtaking viewpoints which are perfect for anyone coming here to escape from the chaos of the everyday routine.

Ross & Smith Islands offers white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. Due to these offerings, Ross & Smith Islands have gained immense popularity among travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. So, if you are a nature enthusiast searching for a secluded beach paradise or an adventure freak, this Island is absolutely for your escape.

Join us as we delve deeper into this blog to understand everything about Ross & Smith Islands in detail.

Geographical Location of Ross & Smith Islands

As discussed above, Ross & Smith Islands are in the Andaman Islands, part of India. To be more specific, Ross & Smith Islands are mainly situated in North Andaman in the administrative district of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This Island is positioned in the Bay of Bengal, approximately kilometers southwest of Diglipur town.

Size, Shape, and Topography of the Islands

Ross & Smith Islands are two separate islands connected by a natural sandbar called "Twin Island". Ross Island, which is spread across a distance of 0.6 square kilometers, is the smaller Island among the two. Smith Island, which has an area of 1.5 square kilometers, is the largest compared to Ross Island. Tourists can enjoy lush greenery, tropical and dense forests, and white sandy beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters when in Ross & Smith Islands.

Flora and Fauna Diversity on the Islands

Ross & Smith Island boasts a rich biodiversity as it has a wide variety of flora and fauna species. Moreover, as this Island is tropical and dense, it is home to various endemic and rare plant species. The surrounding marine ecosystem supports a diverse range of marine life, including colorful fish species and coral reefs. Moreover, tourists can even encounter unique bird species, reptiles, butterflies, and many others while exploring the islands' natural habitats.

Historical Background of Ross and Smith Islands

Earlier, Ross & Smith Island was named Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island. It also served as the administrative headquarters of the British during their colonial rule. Additionally, the British established a settlement on Ross Island in the late 19th century, developing it as a key administrative center.

There are many facilities with which the Island flourished, such as a hospital, a church, a baker,y and a tennis court. However, during World War II, Ross Island was occupied by the Japanese, leading to its abandonment by the British. This Island suffered a massive loss during the World War.

Attractions and Activities in Ross & Smith Islands

Presbyterian Church
If you want to experience the historical depths of Ross & Smith Islands, then no other destination would serve you as better as Presbyterian Church. Its weathered walls and serene surroundings offer a tranquil atmosphere.
Lush Tropical Forests
As discussed above, Ross Island is mainly covered in dense tropical forests. It offers nature enthusiasts an opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity and makes them discover unique plant species.
Indigenous Plant Species
Ross & Smith Island is home to various indigenous plant species, including towering trees, vibrant flowers, and some medicinal plants. Experiencing the Island's flora would be a delightful experience for botany enthusiasts.
Birdwatching opportunities
Ross Island provides a habitat for a diverse range of bird species. Tourists can spot various colorful birds like mynas, parakeets, and pigeons. This Island is surrounded by lush greens, making it a paradise for bird watchers.
Jet Skiing
If you are an adventure freak looking for great islands to explore various adventurous activities like jet skiing, Ross & Smith Islands is just for you. Not only can you enjoy the thrill of jet skiing here, but you also enjoy the unique panoramic perspective of the Island.
Relaxation and Leisure Activities
Are you searching for peace and a serene environment where you can unwind with your loved one's away from the everyday hustle and bustle? If yes, then Ross & Smith Islands would be your perfect escape. Tourists like you can enjoy leisure walks here along the beach, enjoy picnic moments, or bask in the tranquility of the Island's untouched beauty.

How to Reach Ross & Smith Islands?

The nearest airport to Ross & Smith Islands is Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, the capital city of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
From here, you can take a taxi or some pre-arranged transportation to reach the Aerial Bay Jetty, the starting point to reach Ross & Bay Islands.
Furthermore, Ferry Services operate from Aerial Bay Jetty, which is another option that would help you reach Ross & Smith Island. Depending on the weather conditions, it would take around 20-30 minutes to get to Ross & Smith Island.

Best Time to Visit Ross & Smith Islands

The best time to visit Ross & Smith Islands depends on weather conditions. Let's understand it in detail below:

November to April is considered the best time to visit Ross & Smith Island as during these months; this Island experiences a dry season. The weather feels pleasant during this time, with no or less rainfall.
December to February is considered the peak season in which this Island experiences a lot of tourists. The weather remains in pleasant condition during this period.
From November to March/April, this Island experiences fewer crowds with a balance of favorable weather conditions.
May to October are the months during which the Island experiences heavy rainfall and occasional storms. It is what makes this Island an off-peak season for the tourists visiting it.

Ross & Smith Islands: Where History Meets Paradise!

Ross & Smith Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands offers all visitors a captivating and unique experience. With their geographical beauty, historical relevance, and diverse attractions, these islands have something for almost everyone. From exploring the ruins of Ross Island's colonial past to immersing oneself in the natural wonders of Smith Island's pristine beaches and coral reefs, there is much to discover and appreciate.

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