Things to Do at Ross & Smith Twin Islands, North Andaman (Diglipur) – A Complete Tourism Guide

Overview

Ross & Smith are two pristine, palm-fringed islands in North Andaman connected by a dazzling, crescent-shaped sandbar that appears and disappears with the tides. Located off Diglipur’s Aerial Bay, this postcard-perfect spot offers serene lagoons for swimming, soft white sands for long beach walks, and clear waters for snorkeling. Protected as a sensitive marine and forest zone, the islands are typically open for day visits only, making them an ideal half-day or full-day excursion from Diglipur.

What Makes Ross & Smith Special

• Natural sandbar: A rare and ever-changing sand strip linking two islands, perfect for leisurely strolls and photography.
• Calm, clear waters: Shallow lagoons on the sandbar side are great for families and beginner snorkelers.
• Low crowds: Compared to southern Andaman beaches, Ross & Smith sees fewer visitors, preserving a tranquil vibe.
• Protected habitat: Mangroves and coastal forests shelter birds and marine life—an excellent spot for responsible nature watching.

Top Things to Do

1) Walk the Sandbar

The signature experience is a barefoot walk across the powdery sandbar between Ross and Smith. At high tide, parts of the bar can submerge, creating a surreal two-tone sea. Wear light water shoes if you have sensitive feet.

2) Swim and Snorkel in the Lagoon

On calmer days, visibility can be excellent around the reef patches and seagrass beds. Expect to see reef fish, sea cucumbers, and sometimes rays in the deeper blue. Bring your own snorkel set; rentals are not guaranteed on-site.

• Tip: Swim on the lagoon-facing side where currents are gentler. Follow lifeguard/boatman advice and stay within designated areas.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching corals.

3) Beach Picnics and Hammock Time

Smith Island has shady casuarina and palm groves perfect for a picnic. There are basic benches and huts in designated zones. Carry water and snacks; facilities are minimal.

4) Short Forest Walks on Smith Island

Wander along signed trails under tropical canopy to quiet beaches and viewpoints. Birders can spot sunbirds, kingfishers, and Andaman endemics; early mornings are best.

5) Photography and Drone Etiquette

The symmetry of twin islands, glassy lagoons, and shifting tides make this a dream for photographers. Drones may be restricted in protected zones and often require prior permission—check rules before flying.

6) Beachcombing and Tidepooling

Explore shells and tidal pools on the edges of the sandbar. Do not collect shells, corals, or marine life; leave everything as you find it.

7) Relaxed Nature Watching

Look for hermit crabs, shorebirds, and schools of fish weaving along the sandbar’s edge. Keep distance from wildlife and avoid feeding any animals.

Planning Your Visit

Permits and Entry Rules

• Forest Permit: Day visits require an entry permit, usually issued at Aerial Bay Jetty (Diglipur) or the local Forest/Range office. Carry a government ID; foreign nationals should carry passports and valid permits.
• Day Visits Only: Overnight stay and camping on the islands are not allowed.
• Environmental Rules: No alcohol, bonfires, loud music, littering, or extraction (no shells/corals).

Timings and Tides

• Typical visiting window: Morning to early afternoon. Boats often return by mid- to late-afternoon to respect tides and regulations.
• Tide-aware planning: The sandbar’s width and swimmability depend on tides. Aim for a mid-to-low tide window for the classic “white ribbon” look.

How to Reach

Getting to Diglipur

• By road from Port Blair: 12–14 hours via the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR), with scenic stretches through reserve forests. Private cabs and government/private buses operate; start pre-dawn for better roads and timing.
• By sea (inter-island ferries): Services operate on select routes/schedules; check current availability and book ahead.
• By helicopter: Limited government helicopter services may operate to Diglipur; seats are few and weather-dependent.

From Diglipur to Ross & Smith

• Jetty: Aerial Bay Jetty (approx. 20–30 minutes by speedboat to the islands, sea state dependent).
• Boats: Register at the jetty, obtain permits, and hire an authorized boat. Life jackets are mandatory.

Indicative Costs

• Entry/permit fee: A nominal forest entry fee per person; camera fees may apply. Rates change—confirm at the jetty.
• Boat hire: Pricing varies by season, boat size, and group split. Share boats to reduce costs; confirm round-trip inclusions and waiting time.

Note: All fees, schedules, and rules can change without notice. Always verify locally before travel.

Best Time to Visit

• Peak season: November to April (dry, calmer seas, better visibility).
• Shoulder months: October and May can be good but hotter; carry extra water.
• Monsoon (June–September): Rough seas, frequent rain; sandbar may submerge and boat services can be curtailed.

Facilities on the Island

• Available: Basic changing huts, shade shelters, and limited toilets (maintenance varies).
• Not available: Restaurants or reliable drinking water kiosks. Carry your own supplies and take back all trash.
• Connectivity: Mobile signal is patchy to nil; inform your boatman of your planned return time.

What to Pack

• Reusable water bottle (carry enough drinking water)
• Snacks / light picnic (no single-use plastics if possible)
• Snorkel mask, fins, and water shoes
• Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, light cover-up
• Quick-dry towel, dry bag, spare clothes
• Cash for permits/boat (cards seldom accepted)

Safety Tips

• Swim within designated zones; heed boatman/guard instructions.
• Watch for changing tides; parts of the sandbar can vanish quickly.
• Jellyfish may appear seasonally—ask locals before entering the water.
• Stay hydrated and avoid heat stress; there’s limited shade at midday on the sandbar.

Suggested Itineraries

Half-Day (Morning Focus)

• 06:30–07:00: Depart Diglipur for Aerial Bay Jetty; complete permits.
• 08:00: Boat to Ross & Smith; settle under shade on Smith.
• 08:30–10:30: Sandbar walk and snorkeling at lagoon side.
• 10:30–11:30: Picnic and short forest walk.
• 12:00–13:00: Return boat and ride back to Diglipur.

Full-Day (Leisurely Pace)

• Morning: Early start to catch low tide; extended snorkeling, photography.
• Midday: Rest under shade; second swim post-lunch if tides permit.
• Early afternoon: Gentle amble to quieter coves on Smith; depart before sea gets choppy.

Responsible Travel and Etiquette

• Leave no trace: Pack out all trash; avoid single-use plastics.
• Respect wildlife: No feeding, touching corals, or collecting shells.
• Cultural respect: Dress modestly outside beach zones; be courteous to staff and fishermen at the jetty.
• Noise control: Keep volumes low; enjoy the natural soundscape.

Nearby Attractions to Combine

• Saddle Peak National Park: Highest point in the Andamans; full-day trek for experienced hikers.
• Kalipur Beach: Known for seasonal turtle nesting (access and timings vary; follow local guidelines).
• Lamiya Bay and Ramnagar Beach: Quiet beaches for sunset strolls.
• Alfred Caves (seasonal): Limestone cave systems; go with a guide and check access conditions.
• Mud Volcano (Shyamnagar): A short, offbeat stop en route within North Andaman.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stay overnight on Ross & Smith?

No. Only day trips are permitted. Stay in Diglipur or other nearby accommodations.

Is it suitable for children and seniors?

Yes—especially the gentle lagoon side. Avoid strong currents and peak sun. The sandbar walk is easy on flat sand.

Are there lifeguards?

Presence varies. Always follow the crew’s instructions and stay within safe zones.

Do I need to pre-book boats?

In peak season, it helps to arrange a boat via your hotel or a local operator a day in advance. Walk-in options may be available on quieter days.

Is snorkeling equipment available on-site?

Not reliably. Bring your own gear for the best experience.

Quick Checklist Before You Go

• Check tide timings for the day you plan to visit.
• Confirm boat availability, costs, and return time at Aerial Bay Jetty.
• Carry sufficient water, sun protection, and your snorkel kit.
• Bring valid ID/passport; verify current permit rules and fees.
• Start early to enjoy calmer seas and softer light.

Final Word

Ross & Smith Twin Islands offer a rare meeting of simplicity and spectacle—a luminous sandbar, calm lagoons, and quiet forests in perfect balance. Plan with the tides, travel light, and tread gently, and you’ll take home the best kind of souvenir: a sense of serene, salt-laced wonder.