Rutland Island,Andaman
Rutland Island (officially Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island) is a small island south of Port Blair in the Andaman archipelago. It is important primarily for its natural marine and coastal ecosystems — coral reefs, clear waters and mangrove fringes — which support diverse marine life and bird species. The island illustrates the quieter, less-developed side of the Andamans compared with Port Blair and Havelock, offering a glimpse of island ecology and coastal landscapes rather than dense tourism infrastructure.
Places to visit
- Secluded sandy beaches and shoreline viewpoints
- Shallow coral reefs and snorkeling spots
- Mangrove patches and coastal birdwatching areas
- Scenic boat approaches and photo viewpoints
- Opportunities for small-boat fishing and glass-bottom boat rides
Unique Aspects
- Clear, turquoise waters with healthy reef pockets ideal for snorkeling
- Relatively undeveloped — quieter and more solitary than major tourist islands
- Good visibility for underwater photography and glass‑bottom boat viewing
- Coastal vegetation and mangrove-lined creeks supporting local birdlife
Things to do
- Snorkeling and shallow reef exploration
- Day cruises and glass-bottom boat rides
- Beachcombing, picnicking and photography
- Recreational fishing with local operators
- Birdwatching along mangrove fringes
- Scuba diving (via licensed operators from Port Blair to nearby dive sites)
Best Time to Visit
October to May — drier weather, calmer seas and good visibility for snorkeling and boat trips. Monsoon months (June–September) bring heavy rain, rough seas and poor visibility.
Weather Conditions
Tropical maritime climate: warm and humid year-round. Day temperatures typically range from about 24–32°C (75–90°F) outside the monsoon. Expect sudden showers in the shoulder seasons.
Accessibility
Access is by boat from Port Blair (private launches, charter boats or day-cruise operators). Travel time depends on vessel type and sea conditions (commonly up to a couple of hours). There is limited or no permanent tourist infrastructure on the island, so trips are usually organized from Port Blair with a return the same day.
Recommended Duration
Half-day to full-day for a visit focused on beaches and snorkeling. Combine with other nearby island excursions or a longer diving itinerary if you want more underwater exploration (2–3 days for a diving-focused stay).
Clothing & Gear Tips
Light, breathable clothing; swimwear; reef-safe sunscreen; hat and polarized sunglasses; water shoes or reef shoes for rocky/reefy landings; a light waterproof jacket in shoulder seasons; basic first-aid and seasickness remedies.
Local Food & Souvenirs
On-island food options are limited; most trips include packed meals or return to Port Blair for fresh seafood. Recommended local tastes in the region include seafood curries, coconut-based dishes and smoked fish. Souvenirs available in Port Blair include shell crafts, local honey, handwoven textiles and tribal-inspired handicrafts.
