Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do
- Nearby Attractions
- How to Reach
- Where to Stay (Accommodation)
- Estimated Costs & Budget
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Suggested Itineraries
- Essential Tips for Long Island, Andaman
- Tips by Traveler Type
- FAQs about Long Island, Andaman
- Conclusion
Introduction
Long Island in the Andaman Islands is a small, serene world of emerald creeks, tropical forests, and quiet, powdery beaches. Far less commercial than Havelock or Neil, it rewards those who seek slow travel—think mangrove boat rides, snorkeling in clear water, and unhurried village life. Use this complete guide to plan your trip, figure out boats and stays, and experience highlights like Lalaji Bay, Guitar Island, and Merk Bay.
History & Importance
Long Island has long been a low-key settlement in Middle Andaman, historically linked to forestry and small-scale timber-related activity. Today, its importance lies in conservation-minded, community-driven travel. The island’s lagoons, evergreen forests, and nearby uninhabited islets shelter rich marine life, making it a quiet alternative to the busier Andaman hubs.
Best Time to Visit
- November to April (Peak/Best): Calm seas, good underwater visibility, pleasant weather for trekking and boat trips.
- October and May (Shoulder): Fewer visitors; warmer days. Seas can be choppy in May afternoons.
- June to September (Monsoon): Heavy rain, rough seas, possible ferry cancellations. Limited activities.
Tip: For the smoothest boat rides to Lalaji Bay and nearby islets, plan morning departures when winds are typically lighter.
Top Things to Do
1) Trek or boat to Lalaji Bay Beach
- Why go: A long arc of white sand with turquoise water and minimal crowds.
- How: Boat via mangrove creeks (fast and scenic) or forest trek (moderate; check trail condition locally).
- Good to know: Shade is limited; carry water, snacks, and sun protection.
2) Day trip to Guitar Island sandbar
- Why go: Narrow, photogenic sandbar in crystal-clear water; excellent for lazing and beachcombing.
- How: Hire a local boat from Long Island jetty; combine with Merk Bay if seas permit.
3) Snorkel at Merk Bay (North Passage Island)
- Why go: Calm, clear waters with coral patches and reef fish; great for beginners.
- How: Boat excursion; sea conditions and permissions apply. Carry your own mask if possible.
4) Mangrove creeks and village walks
- Why go: Quiet waterways, birdlife, and a glimpse of island life without traffic.
- How: Short guided boat rides; self-guided strolls through the village lanes.
5) Sunset at the jetty
- Why go: Soft light over glassy water, silhouettes of fishing boats, and uninterrupted horizons.
6) Scuba, kayaking, and free-diving (when available)
- Notes: Operators on Long Island can be seasonal or limited. Check availability in Rangat/Havelock for possible arrangements, or bring snorkel gear for DIY sessions at calm beaches.
Nearby Attractions
- Rangat (Middle Andaman): Amkunj Beach, Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway, Morrice Dera. Good for a stopover en route.
- North Passage Island: Merk Bay Beach (via boat from Long Island).
- Guitar Island: Photogenic sandbar; often paired with Merk Bay.
- Baratang region: Limestone Caves and Parrot Island (best from Baratang but doable as part of a longer Middle Andaman circuit).
- Swaraj Dweep (Havelock): For diving and beaches if you’re continuing south.
How to Reach
By road + boat via Rangat (most reliable)
- Port Blair to Rangat by road: 6–7 hours by government/private bus or hired car, crossing the Andaman Trunk Road (permit-controlled stretch). Check latest road timings.
- Rangat (Yerrata Jetty) to Long Island: Government boats and shared/private charters (about 45–75 minutes, weather-dependent). Schedules vary; confirm at the DSS (Directorate of Shipping Services) counters.
By ferry (limited/seasonal)
- Occasional government ferries may run Port Blair–Rangat–Long Island or services from Havelock. These are infrequent and subject to change. Always verify at DSS, Port Blair.
Practical notes
- Services can be canceled due to weather; build buffer days.
- Carry cash for tickets and charters; digital payments may not work reliably.
- Foreign visitors and drone users should check current permit rules on arrival in Port Blair.
Where to Stay (Accommodation)
- Homestays/Guesthouses (Budget): Simple rooms in the main village; fan rooms, basic amenities, and home-style meals on request.
- Eco-stays/Mid-range (when operational): Small, rustic properties. Advance phone confirmation recommended.
- Forest Rest Houses: Occasionally available; require advance booking/permission via local forestry offices.
There are no large resorts or luxury hotels on Long Island. Book ahead, especially Nov–Mar. Power cuts are possible; many stays provide limited generator backup.
Estimated Costs & Budget
- Ferry/Boat: Government boat INR 100–500 per person (route-dependent); private charters INR 6,000–10,000+ per boat for day trips to Guitar/Merk Bay.
- Stay: Budget INR 800–1,800 per night; mid-range INR 2,500–4,500 per night (when available).
- Meals: INR 200–450 per person per meal for simple eateries or homestay meals.
- Activities: Snorkel gear rental INR 300–600; guided boat to Lalaji Bay INR 1,000–2,500 depending on group size and season.
Daily ballpark: Budget travelers INR 1,500–2,500; mid-range INR 3,500–6,000 (excluding private boat charters).
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Expect simple island fare: fish curry, rice, dal, egg dishes, seasonal vegetables.
- Pre-order meals at homestays; walk-in eateries have limited menus and timings.
- Carry snacks, fruits, and drinking water for beach days.
Shopping
- Minimal shopping on Long Island itself.
- For souvenirs (shell bans apply), consider handicrafts in Rangat or Port Blair.
Culture
- Settler communities (Bengali, Hindi-speaking, and others) and fishing families shape the island’s rhythm.
- Evenings are quiet; respect local routines and dress modestly away from beaches.
Suggested Itineraries
2 Days on Long Island
- Day 1: Arrive from Rangat; village walk; sunset at jetty.
- Day 2: Boat/trek to Lalaji Bay; optional snorkel; return by late afternoon.
3–4 Days including nearby islets
- Day 1: Arrive; settle in; evening jetty.
- Day 2: Guitar Island + Merk Bay boat trip (weather/permissions permitting).
- Day 3: Lalaji Bay; slow afternoon; stargazing.
- Day 4: Depart to Rangat; continue to Baratang or south to Havelock.
Essential Tips for Long Island, Andaman
- Cash & Connectivity: No reliable ATMs; carry sufficient cash. Mobile signal is patchy (often BSNL only). Wi-Fi rare.
- Permits & Rules: Indian nationals typically do not need special permits for Long Island. Foreign visitor rules can change; confirm current regulations and any local registrations in Port Blair. Drone use requires permission.
- Safety in Water: Ask locals about currents and any saltwater crocodile advisories, especially around creeks and after heavy rain. Avoid swimming at dawn/dusk.
- Packing: Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, insect repellent, dry bag, quick-dry shoes, refillable bottle, basic first aid, power bank, personal snorkel mask if you have one.
- Waste: Carry back all trash; there’s limited waste management.
- Weather Buffers: Build buffers for ferries; monsoon can disrupt plans.
Tips by Traveler Type
Families
- Choose calm, shallow sections of Lalaji Bay; keep children within arm’s reach.
- Carry snacks, ORS, and sun protection; shade is limited on beaches.
- Confirm life jackets for all on boat rides.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Pick shoulder months (Oct, early Dec, late Feb–Apr) for quieter stays and clearer seas.
- Plan a private charter for Guitar/Merk Bay early morning.
- Book a stay with ensuite and backup power for comfort.
Friends/Backpackers
- Share boat hires to cut costs; ask other travelers at the jetty.
- Carry a lightweight hammock/sheet and headlamp; power cuts are common.
- Check if camping is currently permitted; follow forest guidelines strictly.
FAQs about Long Island, Andaman
Q: How many days do I need on Long Island?
A: Two full days cover Lalaji Bay and a village/mangrove experience. Add an extra day if you want Guitar Island and Merk Bay.
Q: Are there ATMs or card payments?
A: ATMs are unreliable or absent on Long Island, and card machines seldom work. Carry enough cash from Port Blair or Rangat.
Q: Do I need a permit to visit?
A: Indian nationals usually do not require special permits. Rules for foreign nationals can change; confirm at arrival in Port Blair and follow any local registration requirements.
Q: Is snorkeling good for beginners?
A: Yes—on calm days, Lalaji Bay and Merk Bay offer gentle conditions with basic coral and fish life. Always check currents and go with a boatman/guide.
Q: Can I camp at Lalaji Bay?
A: Camping regulations vary and may require forest permissions. Check locally; when allowed, practice strict Leave No Trace and avoid turtle nesting zones.
Conclusion
Long Island is the Andamans at their unhurried best—quiet beaches, intimate boat rides, and a simple village rhythm. Plan around boats and weather, carry cash and essentials, and keep your days flexible. With Lalaji Bay, Guitar Island, and Merk Bay on your list, you’ll experience the archipelago’s wild side without the crowds.
