Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- How to Reach from Port Blair
- Top Things to Do on Long Island
- Suggested 2N/3D Itinerary from Port Blair
- Nearby Attractions
- Accommodation Options
- Local Food & Culture
- Shopping
- Estimated Costs
- Travel Tips
- Tips by Traveler Type
- Safety & Responsible Travel
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Long Island is one of the Andamans’ most rewarding offbeat escapes, a quiet, forested isle in Middle Andaman known for powder-soft beaches, turquoise creeks, mangrove-lined channels, and slow island life. From Port Blair, travelers come here for Lalaji Bay, day trips to Merk Bay (North Passage Island) and Guitar Island, and unhurried walks through a charming settlement with an old-world, timber-era aura. If you’re considering Long Island tour packages from Port Blair, here’s a complete, on-the-ground guide to plan an unforgettable nature-first getaway.
History & Importance
Long Island has historically been a small settlement linked to the Andaman timber economy. Remnants of an old sawmill and worker housing echo that heritage. Today, the island prioritizes low-impact tourism and conservation: tranquil beaches, dense tropical forests, and rich marine life make it a prized spot for eco-travelers seeking less commercial Andaman experiences. Its location near North Passage Island opens access to pristine snorkeling grounds like Merk Bay.
Best Time to Visit
- October to April: Best overall weather and calmer seas; ideal for boat trips to Merk Bay and Guitar Island.
- May to September: Monsoon brings heavy showers, rough seas, and possible ferry disruptions; travel is still possible but less predictable.
- Sea conditions can change quickly; always reconfirm boat/ferry schedules a day before travel.
How to Reach from Port Blair
From Port Blair, most travelers reach Long Island via Rangat (Yeratta Jetty). Direct links may operate occasionally but are not guaranteed daily.
Option 1: Road to Rangat + Ferry to Long Island
- Port Blair to Rangat (170–180 km): 7–8 hours by government bus or private vehicle via the Andaman Trunk Road. Convoy timings and check-post procedures may apply.
- Rangat (Yeratta Jetty) to Long Island: 1–1.5 hours by government ferry (frequency varies). Buy tickets at the jetty counter; carry a valid ID.
Option 2: Inter-Island Ferry (When Available)
- Infrequent government ferries may connect Port Blair to Long Island or via intermediate stops. Check the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) latest schedule in Port Blair.
Tips:
- Schedules and routes change; reconfirm at the DSS ticket counter in Port Blair or Rangat a day prior.
- Carry cash for tickets; digital payments are not always available.
- Foreign nationals should carry passport and visa for ticketing and registration where required.
Top Things to Do on Long Island
- Lalaji Bay Beach: A serene, white-sand stretch ideal for a long, quiet day by the sea. Reach via a 5–6 km forest-mangrove walk from the village (around 1.5–2 hours one-way) or by hiring a local dinghy when seas are calm.
- Merk Bay (North Passage Island) Day Trip: Known for clear water, bright sand, and good snorkeling conditions in settled seas. Trips generally require boat permissions and a guide; book locally on Long Island.
- Guitar Island Sandbar: A postcard-perfect sandbar seen on the Merk Bay circuit; best during mid to low tide windows.
- Creek & Mangrove Explorations: Short boat rides reveal quiet channels and birdlife; ask locally about tidal timings.
- Village Walk: Explore the laid-back settlement, harbor area, and remnants of the old sawmill. Evenings are especially atmospheric.
- Snorkeling & Swimming: Only in calm conditions and within designated safe zones. Always check currents; use reef-safe sunscreen.
- Sunrise/Sunset Watching: Lalaji Bay and the village jetty areas offer superb golden-hour views.
Suggested 2N/3D Itinerary from Port Blair
- Day 1: Port Blair → Rangat → Long Island. Early morning bus/private transfer to Rangat; ferry to Long Island by afternoon. Sunset stroll around the jetty and village.
- Day 2: Lalaji Bay + Optional Boat to Merk Bay. Start early for Lalaji Bay trek (carry water/snacks). If seas are calm and permissions available, do the Merk Bay–Guitar Island boat excursion. Return by late afternoon.
- Day 3: Easy Morning + Ferry to Rangat → Port Blair. Enjoy a lazy morning, then head back. Keep buffer time for ferry/road schedule changes.
Nearby Attractions
- Rangat (en route): Amkunj Beach (eco-park vibe), Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway, Yeratta Mangrove Viewpoint.
- Baratang (en route from Port Blair): Limestone Caves and Mud Volcano (requires escorted travel and time management).
- North Passage Island: Accessed on day trips for Merk Bay; no overnight stays.
Accommodation Options
Long Island offers limited, simple stays prioritizing low-impact tourism. Expect basic rooms, intermittent power, and minimal frills.
- Government/Forest Rest Houses: Basic rooms in scenic, quiet locations. Advance permission/booking may be needed via local administration/forest department.
- Guesthouses/Homestays: A handful of small, family-run places in/near the main settlement. Book on the ground or via local agents in Rangat/Port Blair.
- Where to Book: On-island options may not be listed online; check locally in Rangat or with Port Blair tour desks for current contacts.
Note: ATMs are not available on Long Island. Carry sufficient cash for your stay, meals, and boat trips.
Local Food & Culture
- Food: Simple island fare—rice, dal, fresh fish, omelets, and seasonal vegetables. Expect small canteens and homestyle meals.
- Seafood: Fresh catch based on availability; inquire a meal in advance so hosts can source ingredients.
- Culture: A friendly, slow-paced settlement with settlers from different parts of mainland India; evenings are quiet and stargazing is lovely on clear nights.
- Alcohol: Availability is limited; rules vary. Do not drink on beaches, and respect local norms.
Shopping
There is no significant shopping scene on Long Island. Stock essentials (snacks, sunscreen, medicine, cash) in Port Blair or Rangat. Take back only memories—leave shells and corals undisturbed.
Estimated Costs
Indicative per-person costs from Port Blair for a 2N/3D Long Island plan (excluding flights). Prices vary by season and availability.
- Port Blair → Rangat by bus: INR 300–600
- Private vehicle Port Blair → Rangat (one-way): roughly INR 7,000–10,000 for the full car
- Ferry Rangat (Yeratta) → Long Island: approx. INR 50–200 per person
- Stay on Long Island (basic): INR 800–3,000 per room per night
- Meals (simple local): INR 150–350 per meal
- Boat to Merk Bay/Guitar Island (when operating): often INR 6,000–12,000 per boat, shared among passengers
- Local guide/permissions (if applicable): INR 500–1,000+
All rates are indicative and subject to change; always confirm the latest ferry schedules, permits, and boat tariffs on the ground.
Travel Tips
- Plan Around Ferries: Build buffers for weather or schedule shifts, especially in monsoon months.
- Cash & Connectivity: Carry adequate cash; network is patchy (often BSNL only) and ATMs are unavailable.
- Permissions: Some boat trips require permissions and a guide. Confirm with the local jetty office/forest ranger.
- Health & Safety: Pack a basic first-aid kit, motion-sickness tablets for boat rides, and reef-safe sunscreen.
- Packing: Quick-dry clothes, sturdy sandals for the Lalaji trek, hat, insect repellent, refillable water bottle, dry bags for electronics.
- Leave No Trace: Carry back all trash; avoid plastics; do not touch corals or shells.
Tips by Traveler Type
Families
- Choose calmer-sea days for boat trips; carry snacks, water, and sun protection.
- Opt for the dinghy to Lalaji Bay if kids are too young for the full trek (subject to conditions and availability).
Honeymooners
- Pick a stay close to the jetty or in quieter pockets for privacy.
- Target sunrise/sunset at Lalaji Bay; weekdays are usually quieter than weekends.
Friends/Backpackers
- Split private transfers and boat charters to lower costs.
- Confirm dorm/basic guesthouse availability on arrival; flexibility helps in peak months.
Safety & Responsible Travel
- Swim within safe, calm areas; heed local advice on currents and jellyfish seasons.
- Respect no-go zones and signage; drones typically require permissions.
- Wildlife & Reefs: Do not step on corals; keep respectful distances from marine life.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Ask before photographing locals; dress comfortably but modestly in the village.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a special permit to visit Long Island?
A: Indian nationals generally do not need special permits for Long Island. Foreign nationals must carry a valid passport/visa and may need to register at entry points. Boat trips to places like Merk Bay may require local permissions; confirm at the jetty or with the forest office.
Q: Can I do Long Island as a day trip from Port Blair?
A: It is not practical as a day trip due to long road travel and ferry timings. Plan at least 1 night, ideally 2, on Long Island or in Rangat.
Q: Is snorkeling good at Long Island?
A: Yes, especially around Merk Bay (North Passage Island) when seas are calm. Always use a life jacket if unsure, go with a guide, and avoid stepping on corals.
Q: Are ATMs and mobile networks available?
A: ATMs are not available on Long Island; carry cash. Mobile connectivity is patchy (often BSNL only). Download tickets and offline maps in advance.
Q: What’s the trek to Lalaji Bay like?
A: A scenic 5–6 km route through forest and mangroves, about 1.5–2 hours one way at an easy pace. Wear sturdy sandals/shoes and carry water.
Conclusion
Long Island rewards travelers who prefer nature, stillness, and simple island living. With Lalaji Bay’s white sands, day trips to Merk Bay and Guitar Island, and a mellow village atmosphere, it’s a standout offbeat destination reachable from Port Blair via Rangat. Plan around ferry schedules, carry cash, travel light, and leave no trace. The result is an Andaman experience that feels personal, unhurried, and beautifully wild.
