Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Best Honeymoon Resorts in Rangat
- Must-Visit Places in and around Rangat
- Local Culture and Food
- Nearby Getaways
- How to Reach Rangat
- Accommodation & Estimated Costs
- Best Time to Visit
- Travel Tips (Families, Honeymooners, Friends)
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Rangat, set in the heart of Middle Andaman Island, is an offbeat, nature-forward stop between Port Blair and Diglipur. Think quiet beaches, mangrove boardwalks, and turtle nesting shores—perfect for couples who prefer privacy and raw coastal beauty over high-rise resorts. This guide highlights the best honeymoon-friendly places to stay in Rangat and nearby, plus what to see, how to get there, budgets, and practical tips.
Best Honeymoon Resorts in Rangat
Rangat is simple and serene; accommodation skews to government-run lodges and modest guesthouses. If you want a “full-service resort” vibe, consider nearby Long Island, Mayabunder, or Diglipur while using Rangat as a day-trip base.
In Rangat (Quiet, nature-first stays)
Hawksbill Nest, Rangat (Cutbert Bay)
- Vibe: Government-run beachfront lodge by the turtle-nesting Cutbert Bay Beach—tranquil, minimal, and steps from nature.
- Why honeymooners like it: Seclusion, long empty beach walks, and seasonal turtle sightings (with proper guidelines).
- Good to know: Facilities are basic; service is straightforward; book early in peak months.
- Approximate tariff: Typically budget to mid-range; verify current rates with Andaman Tourism locally.
Rangat Bazaar Area Guesthouses
- Vibe: Clean, no-frills stays near shops and eateries; easy transit for day trips to Dhaninallah, Amkunj, and Yerrata.
- Why honeymooners like it: Budget-friendly base with flexibility to explore beaches and mangrove parks by day.
- Good to know: Limited amenities; check room photos and recent reviews before booking.
Note: Exact, up-to-date property names and contact details beyond Hawksbill Nest vary and may change frequently. Information not available.
Near Rangat (for a resort feel within 1–3 hours)
Long Island Eco-Stays (via ferry from Yerrata Jetty)
- Vibe: Forested island with powdery beaches (Lalaji Bay), rustic eco-lodges, and a back-to-nature atmosphere.
- Why honeymooners like it: Island seclusion, starry nights, and scenic hikes to dreamy bays.
- Good to know: Ferries are limited; book seats early and carry cash. Facilities are earthy rather than luxurious.
Mayabunder & Karmatang Area
- Vibe: Quiet beaches and mangrove-framed bays; a shade more developed than Long Island, still low-key.
- Why honeymooners like it: Fewer crowds, coastal drives, and day trips to nearby creeks and viewpoints.
- Good to know: Options range from simple hotels to better-equipped lodges; check availability ahead.
Diglipur (Ross & Smith Gateway)
- Vibe: North Andaman’s more established base for beach resorts and the famous sandbar connecting Ross & Smith Islands.
- Why honeymooners like it: Turquoise lagoons, day trips to twin islands, and improved resort amenities.
- Good to know: It’s a longer drive from Rangat (3–4 hours), but worth it if you want a classic resort experience.
Booking & Honeymoon Tips
- Book early for Dec–Feb; carry cash as ATMs and card machines can be unreliable.
- Ask about electricity backup, hot water, and Wi‑Fi before confirming.
- If turtle watching at Cutbert Bay, follow ranger guidelines—no flashes, loud noises, or bright lights on the beach.
Must-Visit Places in and around Rangat
- Dhaninallah Mangrove Walkway & Beach: A picturesque boardwalk through mangroves leading to a long, windswept beach—great for sunrise strolls.
- Cutbert Bay Beach & Turtle Hatchery: Seasonal nesting (typically Dec–Mar). Visit with a trained guide or ranger for ethical viewing.
- Amkunj Beach & Eco Park: Driftwood art, quiet picnic corners, and a stony shoreline with moody seas.
- Yerrata Mangrove Park & Viewpoint: Elevated walkways and a lookout over emerald creeks and mangrove labyrinths.
- Panchavati Waterfall (seasonal): Short nature interlude during/after monsoon; check flow before visiting.
Local Culture and Food
Rangat’s community blends influences from across mainland India—Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, and North Indian settlers—alongside indigenous Andaman heritage. Life is unhurried, markets are small, and evenings are quiet.
- Food to try: Fish curry and rice, crab masala, simple thalis, hot pakoras in the rain, coconuts and seasonal fruits.
- Vegetarian options: South Indian plates, North Indian thalis, and basic Chinese-style stir-fries at local dhabas.
- Shopping: Modest—pick up handicrafts, sarongs, spices, and shell souvenirs from small stalls; avoid buying coral or wildlife products.
Nearby Getaways
- Long Island: Ferry-access island with Lalaji Bay and forest walks; rustic stays and serene beaches.
- Mayabunder & Karmatang Beach: Mangrove channels, quiet sands, and village life.
- Diglipur: Base for Ross & Smith Islands, Saddle Peak trek, and clear-water boat trips.
- Baratang Island (south of Rangat): Limestone caves and mangrove creeks (check boat/permit schedules).
How to Reach Rangat
- By Air + Road: Fly to Port Blair (IXZ), then drive or take a bus along the Andaman Trunk Road to Rangat (approx. 6.5–8 hours). Private cabs are faster and more flexible.
- By Government Ferry: Limited services connect Port Blair, Rangat, Mayabunder, Long Island, and Diglipur. Schedules change often; check locally with the Directorate of Shipping Services.
- From Havelock/Neil: Connect via Port Blair or Long Island ferries (when available), then continue by road/ferry.
- Permits & Regulations: Foreign nationals obtain the Restricted Area Permit on arrival in Port Blair (subject to prevailing rules). Travel through protected reserves follows local regulations and timings.
Accommodation & Estimated Costs
- Stays in Rangat: Simple guesthouses and government lodges; expect roughly INR 1,500–3,500 per night for standard rooms; INR 3,500–6,000 for better-appointed options where available.
- Nearby Island Resorts:
- Long Island eco-lodges: Approx. INR 3,000–7,000+ per night depending on season and amenities.
- Diglipur beach resorts: Approx. INR 5,000–9,000+ per night for mid-range resort rooms.
- Food: Local meals INR 150–350 per person; seafood plates INR 300–700+ depending on catch.
- Transport: Shared bus Port Blair–Rangat approx. INR 400–800; private cab one-way INR 7,000–11,000 (size/season dependent).
- Activities & Ferries: Inter-island ferries generally INR 100–800 per person (route-dependent). Guide/boat fees for caves/islands vary; verify on the ground.
Sample 3-day honeymoon (Rangat + Long Island)
- Stay: INR 7,000–18,000 total (2 nights Rangat + 1 night Long Island, mid-range choices)
- Food: INR 2,000–4,000 total for two
- Transport: INR 8,000–15,000 (cabs/buses + ferries)
- Misc/Activities: INR 1,000–3,000
- Estimated total: INR 18,000–40,000 for two (excluding flights)
Best Time to Visit
- November–April: Best weather, calmer seas; peak honeymoon season Dec–Feb.
- Dec–Mar: Turtle nesting at Cutbert Bay (subject to nature and local guidelines).
- May–September: Monsoon showers; lush landscapes but rough seas and occasional disruption to ferries/activities.
Travel Tips (Families, Honeymooners, Friends)
Pack Smart
- Light cottons, a rain layer (even in dry season), reef-safe sunscreen, hat, and sturdy sandals for boardwalks.
- Power bank and torch; backup copies of IDs; basic meds and mosquito repellent.
Money & Connectivity
- Carry sufficient cash; ATMs may be limited or offline.
- Mobile data can be patchy; confirm Wi‑Fi before booking if you need to stay connected.
Safety & Environment
- Swim only where locals indicate it’s safe; currents can be strong and beaches are unsupervised.
- No night swimming; avoid bright lights on turtle beaches; never touch nests or hatchlings.
- Respect tribal reserves and posted regulations; do not buy coral, shells with live organisms, or wildlife products.
Tips by Traveler Type
- Honeymooners: Choose quieter weekdays, verify hot water and power backup, request a corner room for privacy, and plan one island-hop (Long Island or Diglipur) for a resort-style night.
- Families: Book rooms with extra beds in advance; carry snacks for long drives; pick beaches with easy access like Amkunj and Dhaninallah.
- Friends/Backpackers: Use shared buses to cut costs, base in Rangat Bazaar for food options, and day-trip out to mangrove parks and beaches.
FAQs
Q: Is Rangat a good honeymoon destination?
A: Yes—if you value privacy, nature walks, and quiet beaches over nightlife and luxury. For resort-style amenities, pair Rangat with nearby Long Island or Diglipur.
Q: Which is the best honeymoon resort in Rangat?
A: Hawksbill Nest at Cutbert Bay is the most recognized beachfront lodge in Rangat. For more plush stays, look to resorts in Diglipur or eco-lodges on Long Island.
Q: How many days should couples spend in Rangat?
A: Two nights in Rangat works well for Dhaninallah, Cutbert Bay, and Amkunj, plus one extra night on Long Island or in Diglipur for a resort experience.
Q: Can you swim at Rangat’s beaches?
A: Conditions vary and beaches are unsupervised; ask locals about currents and safe entry points. Many couples opt for walks and picnics rather than swimming.
Q: Do resorts in Rangat have reliable Wi‑Fi?
A: Connectivity can be inconsistent. Confirm Wi‑Fi and mobile signal with the property before booking, and plan for limited internet in remote areas.
Conclusion
Rangat offers slow travel at its best—mangrove walks, empty beaches, and the chance to witness turtle nesting in season. While accommodation is modest, pairing a Rangat stay with nearby Long Island or Diglipur delivers a balanced honeymoon: secluded nature, island-day adventures, and at least one night with resort-level comfort. With thoughtful planning, couples can craft a serene, memorable Andaman escape centered on Rangat’s unspoiled charm.
