Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Must-Visit Places in Rangat
- Local Culture, Food, and Shopping
- Nearby Getaways
- How to Reach Rangat
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Backpacking Costs
- Best Time to Visit
- Suggested 2–3 Day Backpacking Itinerary
- Activities and Experiences
- Travel Tips for Rangat
- Tips for Different Travelers
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Rangat, set in Middle Andaman, is a quiet, eco-conscious base for backpackers who want mangrove walks, turtle nesting beaches, and offbeat island life without the crowds of Havelock. With wooden boardwalks through creeks, black-rock shores, and boats to Long Island, Rangat rewards slow travelers who like nature and simple coastal living.
Must-Visit Places in Rangat
Aamkunj Beach & Eco Park
A serene grey-sand beach with driftwood eco-seating and huts crafted from recycled materials. Great for sunrise, picnics, and gentle wave-watching. Swimming conditions vary; follow local advisories.
Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway (near Betapur)
A 1-km+ elevated wooden boardwalk through dense mangroves leading to a quiet beach. Ideal for birdwatching and learning about coastal ecology. Carry water; limited shops.
Yeratta Mangrove Park & Viewpoint
Interpretation boards, canopy views, and a calm jetty area showcase the island’s mangrove diversity. Sometimes boats depart from nearby jetties for Long Island; schedules change seasonally.
Cuthbert Bay Beach (Turtle Sanctuary)
Known for seasonal nesting of Olive Ridley, Green, and Leatherback turtles (typically Dec–Feb for peak). Night visits may require permissions/guides; respect red-light rules and distance.
Moricedera Beach
Dramatic layered rock formations meet the sea. Best for photography and tide-pooling at low tide; not recommended for swimming.
Panchavati Hills & Waterfall (Seasonal)
Lush greenery with a small waterfall that’s most active during/just after the monsoon. Trails can be slippery; wear sturdy footwear.
Rangat Bazaar
The practical heart of town: ATMs, pharmacies, simple eateries, and bus connections for onward travel.
Local Culture, Food, and Shopping
Culture
- Rangat reflects a mix of communities—Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Ranchi—creating a multi-lingual, coastal-settler vibe.
- Eco-conservation is visible at Aamkunj and mangrove parks; responsible travel is appreciated.
Food
- Seafood thalis: try fish curry, prawn masala, and fried fish with local spices and coconut.
- Breakfast staples: idli-dosa, puri-bhaji, omelet buns; fresh coconuts and seasonal fruits.
- Tea stalls and bakeries provide budget-friendly snacks for day trips.
Shopping
- Basic gear and groceries in Rangat Bazaar.
- Ethical reminder: avoid buying corals, shells, or turtle products—it’s illegal and harms marine life.
Nearby Getaways
- Long Island (by local boat when available): laid-back village vibes, forest walks, access to beaches like Lalaji Bay (boat/trek from Long Island). Basic stays; great for a night or two.
- Mayabunder (~2 hrs): Karmatang Beach and seasonal turtle sightings; Avis Island access varies by permit/season.
- Diglipur (~4–5 hrs): Ross & Smith Twin Islands (permits required), Saddle Peak trek, Kalipur turtle beach.
- Baratang (~2–3 hrs south): Limestone Caves by boat through mangroves, Mud Volcano; Parrot Island at dusk (seasonal boat trips).
How to Reach Rangat
From Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport)
- By Road (ATR/NH4): 170–190 km, typically 6–8 hours by government bus, private bus, or shared jeep. The route passes the Jarawa Reserve with regulated convoys and fixed timings; schedules can change—confirm locally.
- By Government Ferry: Occasional sailings connect Port Blair and Rangat (sometimes via intermediate islands). Frequency is limited; book in advance at the ferry counters in Port Blair. Weather and season affect operations.
From North Andaman
- Diglipur/Mayabunder → Rangat: Frequent buses and shared jeeps (2–5 hours depending on origin). Useful when traveling southbound.
Accommodation Options
- Budget guesthouses (Rangat Bazaar): Simple rooms, fan/AC options, INR 800–1,500 per night.
- Mid-range lodges: Larger rooms with AC and hot water, INR 1,800–3,000 per night.
- Eco huts / Government lodges: Near Aamkunj or within forest premises in some seasons; book via local Forest/Administration offices when available.
- Camping: Wild camping on beaches is generally not permitted. Seek written permissions where applicable.
Tip: Carry cash for smaller properties; card acceptance is limited.
Estimated Backpacking Costs
- Stay: INR 800–2,500 per night (budget to mid-range).
- Food: INR 250–600 per day (local eateries and snacks).
- Local transport: INR 50–200 per bus ride; shared jeep Port Blair–Rangat INR 800–1,200; government bus INR 400–700; private cab Port Blair–Rangat typically INR 7,000–9,000 per vehicle.
- Activities/entries: Most beaches are free; eco parks may have nominal fees (carry small change). Guided turtle watch/boat trips are extra.
Daily backpacker estimate: INR 1,200–2,500 per person (excluding long-distance taxis and special boat trips).
Best Time to Visit
- November to April: Dry, calmer seas, best for beaches and boats.
- December to February: Peak turtle nesting at Cuthbert Bay (follow guidelines and permit rules).
- May to September: Monsoon; lush landscapes and active waterfalls, but rough seas, heavy rain, and possible transport disruptions.
Suggested 2–3 Day Backpacking Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive and Unwind
- Morning: Arrive from Port Blair by bus/jeep; check in near Rangat Bazaar.
- Afternoon: Aamkunj Beach & Eco Park.
- Evening: Moricedera Beach for sunset.
- Night (seasonal): Guided turtle watch at Cuthbert Bay (if open and permitted).
Day 2: Mangroves and Boardwalks
- Morning: Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway.
- Midday: Lunch in town; rest.
- Afternoon: Yeratta Mangrove Park & Viewpoint; inquire about boat schedules for Long Island.
- Evening: Street snacks in Bazaar; plan onward travel.
Day 3 (Optional): Long Island or Hills
- Option A: Boat to Long Island; short forest walk and beach time; return or stay overnight.
- Option B: Panchavati Hills & seasonal waterfall; easy nature day.
Activities and Experiences
- Mangrove walks: Educational boards and birdlife at Dhani Nallah and Yeratta.
- Turtle watching: Seasonal at Cuthbert Bay with guides; keep distance, no flashes, red-light only.
- Photography: Rock textures at Moricedera, sunrise at Aamkunj, misty hills around Panchavati.
- Island hop: Use Rangat as a mid-way base for Long Island, Mayabunder, and Baratang trips.
Travel Tips for Rangat
- Cash & Connectivity: A few ATMs exist but can run dry; carry sufficient cash. Mobile data is patchy; BSNL has the widest reach, others vary.
- Convoy rules: For ATR travel, adhere to convoy timings and regulations through the Jarawa Reserve. No photography in protected stretches.
- Safety: Some creeks/beaches may have saltwater crocodile advisories; obey signage. Swim only where locals say it’s safe.
- Health: Use reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent; carry a basic first-aid kit. During monsoon, pack a rain cover and quick-dry clothing.
- Environment: Avoid single-use plastics; take back all trash. Do not collect shells/corals.
- Permits & Boats: Local boat schedules and access (e.g., Long Island, turtle watch) change with weather; confirm a day prior.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families
- Pick stays near Rangat Bazaar for easy access to food and transport.
- Focus on short outings: Aamkunj, Dhani Nallah boardwalk.
- Carry snacks, hats, and plenty of water; heat can be intense.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Choose eco-cottages near Aamkunj for quiet evenings.
- Plan a sunset shoot at Moricedera and a day trip/overnight to Long Island.
- Book private transfers if convoy timings feel restrictive.
Friends/Backpackers
- Use shared jeeps and government buses to keep costs low.
- Carry a dry bag, headlamp (red mode for turtle season), and snorkel mask if heading onward to Long Island.
- Start early to maximize convoy windows and daylight.
FAQs
Q: Is Rangat worth visiting for backpackers?
A: Yes—Rangat offers quiet beaches, mangrove walks, and seasonal turtle nesting with budget stays and good connections to Long Island, Mayabunder, and Baratang.
Q: How many days should I spend in Rangat?
A: Two days cover the highlights; add a third if you plan a Long Island day trip or overnight.
Q: Can I see turtles at Cuthbert Bay?
A: Peak nesting is typically December to February. Night visits may require guides/permissions; follow all wildlife regulations and avoid lights/flash.
Q: Are ATMs and mobile networks reliable?
A: ATMs exist but can run out of cash; carry backup. Mobile coverage is inconsistent—voice works better than data; BSNL usually has the widest reach.
Q: What’s the cheapest way to reach Rangat from Port Blair?
A: Government buses are the most economical, followed by shared jeeps. Both use the ATR with convoy timings.
Conclusion
Rangat is a low-key, nature-forward stop in Middle Andaman, perfect for backpackers who enjoy mangroves, turtle beaches, and easy-going coastal life. With affordable stays, simple food, and strategic connections to Long Island and the North Andamans, it fits naturally into an Andaman overland itinerary between Port Blair and Diglipur.
