Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Average Cost of a Rangat Holiday (2025)
- Must-Visit Places in and around Rangat
- Local Culture and Food
- Shopping in Rangat
- Nearby Getaways
- How to Reach Rangat
- Accommodation Options
- Travel Tips and Practical Info
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Rangat, a quiet coastal town in Middle Andaman, is where mangrove-fringed creeks, turtle-nesting beaches, and slow island life meet. It’s less commercial than Port Blair or Havelock, making it ideal for travelers who want nature, birdlife, and local culture without crowds—and at a friendlier price point. This guide explains the average cost of a Rangat holiday, with budget breakdowns, must-see spots, and practical tips to plan smart.
Average Cost of a Rangat Holiday (2025)
Typical daily budget per person (excluding flights)
- Backpacker: ₹2,000–3,500 (simple guesthouse, bus/shared jeeps, local eateries, mostly free sights)
- Mid‑range: ₹3,500–6,000 (A/C rooms, private cabs for a day or two, guided day trips, seafood meals)
- Comfort: ₹6,000–10,000 (best available stays, private transfers, boat trips, higher-end dining where available)
Note: Peak season (December–February) can add 20–40% to room and transport rates. Monsoon (May–September) brings deals but choppy seas and intermittent rain.
Sample trip budgets (per person, excluding flights)
- 3 days: ₹6,000–18,000
- 5 days: ₹10,000–30,000
- 7 days: ₹14,000–42,000
Cost breakdown
Flights to Port Blair (IXZ)
- From major Indian cities: ₹8,000–20,000 round-trip economy (book 4–8 weeks ahead for better fares)
- From Southeast Asia/Middle East: ₹22,000–45,000+ round-trip (via Chennai, Kolkata, or Bengaluru)
Port Blair to Rangat transfers (one-way)
- Government/Private bus: ₹400–700; 6–8 hours via Andaman Trunk Road (ATR)
- Shared jeep: ₹800–1,200; faster than buses, limited baggage space
- Private cab: ₹7,000–10,000 per vehicle; most comfortable for families
- Ferry (limited schedules): ~₹400–1,000; check latest inter-island ferry timetable; weather-dependent
Stay (per room, per night)
- Budget guesthouses: ₹800–1,500 (fan rooms/simple A/C)
- Mid-range lodges: ₹2,000–4,000 (A/C, hot water, basic amenities)
- Best available/eco-stays: ₹4,000–7,000 (limited inventory; book early in peak months)
Food and drinks
- Local breakfast: ₹80–200 (poori bhaji, idli, chai)
- Lunch/dinner (local eateries): ₹150–350 per person; seafood thali ₹300–600
- Mid-range dinner for two: ₹600–1,200
- Bottled water: ₹20–40; coconuts ₹40–60
Activities and permits
- Beaches and viewpoints: Mostly free (Amkunj, Yerrata)
- Eco walkways/parks: ₹10–50 (Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway)
- Boat trips (e.g., Long Island day trip): ₹600–1,500 per person; permits ₹20–100
- Baratang limestone caves (from Baratang): ₹800–1,200 per person for shared boat + basic permits
Local transport, connectivity, misc.
- Auto-rickshaw: ₹80–300 for short hops
- Scooter rental: ₹500–800 per day (availability fluctuates; fuel ~₹110/L)
- SIM/internet: Prepaid data packs ₹200–600; BSNL coverage is widest; Airtel/Jio patchy
- Travel insurance: ₹300–600 per person per week (recommended)
Must-Visit Places in and around Rangat
- Amkunj Beach Eco Park: Driftwood benches, calm vibe, sunrise/sunset colours, turtle sightings in season.
- Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway: A scenic boardwalk over mangroves; great for birding and nature photos.
- Yerrata Mangrove Viewpoint: Panoramic view over creeks and mangrove forests; go early morning or late afternoon.
- Cuthbert Bay Beach: Known for turtle nesting (Dec–Feb). Visit with forest guidance to minimize disturbance.
- Panchavati Hills & Waterfall: Seasonal waterfall amid greenery; best in/after monsoon when trails are safe.
Most spots are free or have nominal entry fees. Carry water, sun protection, and cash for small kiosks.
Local Culture and Food
Rangat blends South and Southeast Asian influences with an islander rhythm. People are friendly, and English/Hindi are commonly understood alongside local tongues.
What to eat
- Seafood thali: Daily catch with rice, dal, veg sides, chutneys.
- Fry-ups and curries: Fish fry, crab masala, prawn curry with coconut notes.
- Breakfast staples: Idli, dosa, poori bhaji, buns with chai.
- Seasonal fruit: Bananas, papayas, pineapples; tender coconuts at beach stalls.
Expect simple, hearty meals; fine-dining is rare. Cash is preferred in smaller eateries.
Shopping in Rangat
- What to buy: Coconut and shell handicrafts (avoid live-shell products), spices, locally made pickles.
- Where: Rangat Bazaar and small roadside stalls near eco-parks.
- Tips: Carry cash; negotiate politely; avoid any products derived from protected species.
Nearby Getaways
- Long Island (via Yerrata/ Rangat jetty): Gateway to Lalaji Bay and mangrove creeks; great for a quiet day trip or overnight. Boat + permits required.
- Baratang Island: Famous for limestone caves and mangroves; typically done as a long day trip from Rangat or en route to/from Port Blair.
- Mayabunder: Karmatang Beach (turtle nesting), German Jetty, mangrove excursions; 1–2 hours north.
- Diglipur: Ross & Smith twin islands (long day or overnight from Rangat); pristine but farther north.
How to Reach Rangat
By air + road
- Fly to Port Blair (IXZ) from major Indian hubs.
- Road to Rangat: 170–180 km, 6–8 hours via ATR. Daily buses, shared jeeps, and private taxis run early morning.
By sea (limited schedules)
- Inter-island ferries occasionally connect Port Blair and Rangat/Long Island. Check the Directorate of Shipping Services schedule close to travel dates.
By helicopter (very limited)
- Occasional government helicopter seats connect islands; expensive, few seats, not guaranteed for tourists.
Permit note: As of recent guidance, Indian nationals do not need special permits for Rangat. Foreign nationals should carry passport/visa; no Restricted Area Permit is generally required for Rangat, but ID checks and local forest permits may apply for certain protected areas.
Accommodation Options
- Budget stays: Family-run guesthouses in/near Rangat Bazaar; fan/A‑C rooms, basic bathrooms.
- Mid-range lodges: A‑C rooms, hot water, simple in-house dining; limited inventory—book early in peak season.
- Eco/Scenic stays: Properties near beaches or mangroves; rustic charm, fewer rooms, peaceful settings.
Price guidance: ₹800–1,500 (budget), ₹2,000–4,000 (mid-range), ₹4,000–7,000 (best available). Cards are not always accepted—carry cash.
Travel Tips and Practical Info
Best time to visit
- October–April: Best weather, calmer seas, turtle nesting (Dec–Feb).
- May–September: Monsoon greenery, fewer travelers, but rough sea conditions and occasional road delays.
Safety, permits, and etiquette
- Respect protected areas and wildlife; no flash or close approach to nesting turtles.
- No interaction or photography in protected tribal reserve zones along ATR.
- Keep beaches plastic-free; carry back trash.
- ATMs exist but may be unreliable; keep small change for entries/food.
Packing list
- Light cottons, hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen
- Insect repellent, basic first-aid, motion-sickness tabs
- Waterproof phone pouch, dry bag in monsoon months
- ID copies, cash reserve, power bank
Tips by traveler type
Families
- Consider a private cab Port Blair–Rangat for comfort and flexible stops.
- Choose stays with onsite dining; carry snacks and extra water.
Honeymooners & couples
- Time sunsets at Amkunj; plan a quiet day on Long Island.
- Upgrade to a better room category—inventory is limited; book early.
Friends & solo travelers
- Use buses/shared jeeps to cut transit costs.
- Rent a scooter for day circuits if available and carry fuel cash.
Suggested 3-day outline
- Day 1: Arrive Rangat; Amkunj Beach, Yerrata Viewpoint.
- Day 2: Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway; optional Long Island boat (permits allowing).
- Day 3: Cuthbert Bay (seasonal turtle watch) or Panchavati Hills; depart.
FAQs
Q: What is the average cost of a 4-day Rangat trip for two?
A: Excluding flights, budget about ₹16,000–40,000 for two (₹2,000–5,000 per person per day, depending on stay and transport choices). Including round-trip flights from mainland India, total can be ₹32,000–80,000 for two.
Q: Is the bus or ferry cheaper from Port Blair to Rangat?
A: Buses are usually the cheapest (₹400–700 one way). Ferries, when available, can be similarly priced but are schedule- and weather-dependent. Shared jeeps cost a bit more but save time.
Q: When is the cheapest time to visit Rangat?
A: The monsoon months (May–September) have lower room rates and fewer visitors, but expect rain and occasional transport disruptions. For value with better weather, aim for October–November or March–April.
Q: Do foreigners need special permits for Rangat?
A: Generally, no special Restricted Area Permit is required for Rangat. Carry passport/visa, and obtain local forest permits where applicable (e.g., certain eco-sites or boat trips). Rules can change—check latest updates before travel.
Q: Are cards and ATMs reliable in Rangat?
A: Cash is king. ATMs exist but can be low on cash or offline. Many small stays and eateries accept only cash—carry a reserve and small denominations.
Conclusion
Rangat offers a slow, nature-first Andaman experience at a gentler cost than the headline islands. With budget-friendly stays, mostly free natural attractions, and simple, delicious meals, it’s easy to keep daily expenses in check. Plan transport around limited schedules, carry cash, and visit between October and April for the best conditions. For travelers seeking mangroves, turtles, and quiet beaches, Rangat delivers memorable value.
