Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do
- How to Reach
- Where to Stay & Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Nearby Attractions
- Travel Tips & Practical Info
- Tips for Families, Couples & Friends
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Threading through a living cathedral of mangroves, the Dhaninallah (Dhani Nallah) Mangrove Walkway near Rangat is one of the most serene nature experiences in the Andaman Islands. This long, eco-friendly boardwalk meanders over creeks and under dense canopies before opening onto the quiet Dhaninallah Beach—an important turtle nesting site on Middle Andaman. Expect birdsong, filtered sunlight, and interpretive signboards that make the landscape come alive.
History & Importance
- Eco-conservation showcase: Built and maintained by the Forest Department as a low-impact boardwalk, the trail protects delicate mangrove roots while allowing visitors to explore without disturbing the habitat.
- Among India’s longest mangrove boardwalks: The walkway spans approximately 1.4 km (one way), connecting the Andaman Trunk Road to Dhaninallah Beach.
- Turtle nesting significance: The adjoining beach is known for Olive Ridley turtle nesting (seasonal), supporting conservation awareness and regulated viewing.
- Education in the wild: Interpretation panels highlight mangrove species (Rhizophora, Avicennia, Bruguiera, Sonneratia), estuarine life, and coastal protection.
Best Time to Visit
- Dry season (November to April): Ideal weather, calmer seas, and peak turtle nesting months (roughly December to February) make this the most rewarding time.
- Time of day: Early morning and late afternoon offer cooler temperatures, softer light for photography, and better bird activity.
- Monsoon (May to September): Expect rain, slippery boards, and occasional closures; leeches and mosquitoes are common. Visits are less comfortable.
Top Things to Do
- Walk the boardwalk: Stroll through multiple mangrove zones with resting shelters and scenic creek views.
- Birdwatching: Spot kingfishers, herons, egrets, and mangrove specialists at dawn or dusk.
- Photography: Capture arching roots, reflections in tidal creeks, and the golden light at the beach.
- Dhaninallah Beach: Relax on a quiet shoreline; swimming is not recommended due to currents and possible crocodile presence.
- Turtle conservation (seasonal): With Forest Department guidance, observe hatchlings/releases when permitted during nesting season.
- Nature learning: Read interpretive boards and identify mangrove species along the route.
How to Reach
- Location: About 12–15 km north of Rangat town on the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR), near Betapur, Middle Andaman.
- From Port Blair (≈170–180 km by road):
- By road: 6–8 hours via ATR with regulated convoys through forested stretches. Buses and shared jeeps run daily; private cabs are possible.
- By ferry: Inter-island ferries operate (schedule-dependent) from Port Blair to Rangat; onward by taxi/bus to the walkway.
- From Havelock/Neil: Ferry to Rangat or to Long Island/Yeratta (subject to schedules), then road transfer.
- From Mayabunder (≈70 km) or Diglipur (≈150 km): Regular buses/shared jeeps southbound on ATR.
- Local transport: Auto-rickshaws and taxis from Rangat; buses toward Betapur may stop nearby—confirm the drop-off point with the conductor.
- Important: Stopping and photography are restricted in notified tribal reserve sections of the ATR. Follow all convoy and forest regulations.
Where to Stay & Estimated Costs
Accommodation in and around Rangat
- Budget guesthouses & lodges: Simple rooms in Rangat market area; approximately INR 800–2,500 per night.
- Mid-range stays: Government-run and private properties (e.g., near Cuthbert Bay); approximately INR 2,500–5,000 per night.
- Homestays: Limited but growing; expect INR 1,200–3,000 depending on amenities.
- Note: Options are basic compared to Port Blair or Havelock; pre-book in peak season.
Estimated Trip Costs (per person, indicative)
- Port Blair → Rangat road transfer: Bus INR 500–900; shared jeep INR 800–1,200; private cab INR 8,000–12,000 per vehicle (one-way).
- Ferry (if available): Approximately INR 400–1,200 depending on route/class.
- Entry/parking at walkway: Nominal or free; may vary by season. Carry small change.
- Meals: Local eateries INR 150–350 per meal; seafood thalis INR 250–600.
- Guides/activities: Self-guided; turtle-viewing (when permitted) is coordinated by Forest Department at no/nominal fee.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food & Drinks
- Seafood thalis: Fresh fish curry, fried fish, rice, dal, and seasonal veggies.
- Island flavors: Coconut-based gravies, banana flower fry, and simple tiffin (idli, dosa) in town.
- Where: Small restaurants and dhabas in Rangat Bazaar; limited options near the walkway—carry water and snacks.
Shopping
- Local handicrafts: Coconut-shell and wood crafts, seashell souvenirs (buy only ethically sourced items).
- Everyday markets: Rangat’s main market for basic supplies; this is not a heavy shopping destination.
Culture & Etiquette
- Communities: A mix of settlers (Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Ranchi) with Hindi, Bengali, and Tamil commonly spoken.
- Etiquette: Dress modestly, avoid littering, and respect all forest and beach regulations, especially during turtle season.
Nearby Attractions
- Amkunj Beach & Eco Park (≈8–10 km south): Pebble-strewn shore with a forest-backed park and eco huts.
- Yerrata Mangrove Interpretation Centre (≈8–12 km): Exhibits on mangroves with a shorter boardwalk and a viewpoint.
- Cuthbert Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (≈12–15 km): A key turtle nesting site; seasonal, regulated visits only.
- Morice Dera Beach (≈25–30 km): Rocky formations and quiet shoreline.
- Long Island (via Yeratta Jetty): Boat connectivity to Long Island, gateway to Lalaji Bay (requires additional boat/trek).
Travel Tips & Practical Info
- Timings: Daylight hours are best; confirm local opening/closure times with the Forest Department or at the gate.
- Safety: Stay on the boardwalk; do not venture into creeks. Avoid swimming at Dhaninallah Beach due to strong currents and potential saltwater crocodiles.
- Packing: Water, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, light rain jacket (monsoon), and a small first-aid kit.
- Footwear: Closed-toe shoes with good grip; boards can be damp or slippery.
- Photography: Respect no-flash rules during turtle season; red filters for night use if allowed by authorities.
- Facilities: Basic shelters/benches along the path; toilets may be available near the entrance or beach but are not guaranteed year-round.
- Connectivity: Mobile network is patchy; BSNL/Airtel may work intermittently.
- Accessibility: The boardwalk is flat but long; some sections may include steps or uneven planks—partial accessibility for wheelchairs/strollers with assistance.
- Environment: Carry back all waste; avoid plastics; do not disturb wildlife.
Tips for Families, Couples & Friends
For Families
- Keep children close on narrow sections; brief them on staying on the path.
- Plan snacks and water; shaded shelters make good rest stops.
For Honeymooners/Couples
- Visit near golden hour for softer light and fewer crowds.
- Combine with a quiet picnic at permitted zones near the beach; avoid late-night beach walks during turtle season unless authorized.
For Friends/Backpackers
- Start early, then continue to Amkunj or Yerrata for a full eco-day in Rangat.
- Use public buses/shared jeeps to keep costs low; check last-bus timings back to town.
FAQs
Q: How long is the Dhaninallah Mangrove Walkway?
A: The boardwalk is approximately 1.4 km one way, leading from the ATR to Dhaninallah Beach.
Q: What are the opening hours and entry fees?
A: Visits are generally during daylight hours. Entry/parking is nominal or free, but terms can change—confirm locally before you go.
Q: Can I see turtles at Dhaninallah Beach?
A: Turtle nesting typically occurs between December and February (varies yearly). Viewing, when allowed, is regulated by the Forest Department. Flash photography and disturbance are strictly prohibited.
Q: Is the walkway suitable for kids and elderly travelers?
A: Yes, the trail is flat and shaded with resting shelters, but it’s long. Plan breaks and avoid the midday heat.
Q: Are there food stalls or toilets on-site?
A: Facilities are basic and seasonal. Carry water and snacks, and do not rely on on-site eateries.
Conclusion
Dhaninallah Mangrove Walkway distills the quiet magic of Middle Andaman into a single, scenic trail. With its long, eco-sensitive boardwalk, rich mangrove habitat, and access to a turtle-nesting beach, it pairs gentle adventure with conservation learning. Visit in the dry months, plan simple logistics from Rangat, and take your time—this is a place best enjoyed at the pace of the forest.
