Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Must-Visit Places in Rangat
- Best Time to Visit
- Local Culture, Food & Shopping
- Nearby Getaways from Rangat
- How to Reach Rangat
- Getting Around Rangat
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Trip Costs
- Activities & Experiences
- Suggested Itineraries
- Travel Tips by Traveler Type
- Responsible Travel & Safety
- FAQs about Rangat, Andaman
- Conclusion
Introduction
Rangat is the quiet soul of Middle Andaman—raw beaches, winding mangrove creeks, turtle nesting shores, and slow-travel rhythms. Set roughly midway between Port Blair and Diglipur along the Andaman Trunk Road, it’s a perfect pause on a North Andaman circuit or a base for exploring Long Island, mangrove parks, and eco-friendly beaches. This guide covers the best places to visit in Rangat, how to get there, where to stay, costs, and smart tips for different types of travelers.
Must-Visit Places in Rangat
Aamkunj Beach & Eco Park
A beloved eco-beach with driftwood benches and minimal footprint facilities. Great for sunrise walks and beachcombing.
- Highlights: Clean shore, eco-park seating, sea views.
- Good to know: Currents can be strong; swim only if locals advise safe conditions.
- Entry: Free.
Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway
A scenic wooden boardwalk (approx. 700 m) through dense mangroves leading to a tranquil beach. Interpretive signboards explain the ecosystem.
- Best time: Early morning or late afternoon for birds and softer light.
- Carry: Insect repellent; it can be buggy after rains.
- Entry: Usually free or nominal community fee (if applicable).
Cuthbert Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (Turtle Nesting)
One of the Andamans’ key turtle nesting beaches, with sightings (in season) of Olive Ridley, Green, and Hawksbill turtles.
- Season: Typically December–February for peak nesting; hatching follows.
- Etiquette: No lights, no flash, keep distance, follow forest staff instructions.
- Permits: Night visits may require permission/guide; check locally.
Morrice Dera Beach (Twin Rock)
Dramatic rock formations and a small bridge/steps make this a photogenic stop near Rangat.
- Best for: Photography, coastal views, sunset.
- Not for: Swimming (rocky, strong surges).
Yeratta Mangrove Park & Watchtower
An interpretation park with a watchtower offering panoramic views over creeks and mangrove belts.
- Great for: Birdwatching and learning mangrove species.
- Entry: Nominal fee may apply.
Panchavati Hills & Seasonal Waterfall
A green pocket near Rangat known for a small monsoon-fed waterfall.
- Season: Best just after monsoon (Oct–Dec), flow reduces later.
- Footwear: Grippy sandals for wet rocks.
Rangat Bazaar
The town center for simple eateries, fruit stalls, bakeries, and a window into daily island life.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak pleasant season: October to April (dry, breezy, calmer seas).
- Monsoon: May to September (heavy showers, choppy seas, leeches on forest trails; lush landscapes).
- For turtles: December to February (Cuthbert Bay).
Local Culture, Food & Shopping
Rangat’s community reflects settlers from Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Ranchi belt, and elsewhere—expect a blend of languages (Bengali, Hindi, Tamil) and home-style island hospitality.
Food to Try
- Seafood thalis: Fish curry, fried fish, prawn dishes with steamed rice.
- South-Indian staples: Idli, dosa, filtered coffee at basic eateries.
- Snacks: Fresh coconuts, pakoras, simple bakery items in Rangat Bazaar.
Where to Eat
- Rangat Bazaar: Local dhabas and canteens for budget-friendly meals.
- Highway stops: Small eateries on the ATR for tea and quick bites.
Shopping
- What to buy: Coconut and bamboo handicrafts, local spices, handmade soaps.
- What to avoid: Coral, shells from protected species, or any wildlife products.
Nearby Getaways from Rangat
- Long Island (by ferry from Rangat/Yeratta): Quiet village vibe, access to Lalaji Bay (trek/boat), Guitar Island sandbar at low tide. Limited shops—carry essentials.
- Baratang Island (south of Rangat): Limestone Caves (boat through mangroves) and the Mud Volcano. Typically done en route to/from Port Blair.
- Mayabunder (approx. 70 km north): Karmatang Beach (turtle nesting), Avis Island (clear, calm waters; local permits/boats).
- Diglipur (farther north): Ross & Smith Twin Islands—best as a separate overnight excursion.
How to Reach Rangat
From Port Blair
- By Road (ATR): 170–180 km, 6–8 hours depending on road and convoy timings through the Jarawa Reserve. Options include:
- Government/Private Bus: Approx. INR 400–700 per person.
- Shared Jeep: Approx. INR 800–1,200 per person.
- Private Cab: Approx. INR 7,000–10,000 one way per vehicle.
- By Ferry: Occasional government ferries operate (weather and schedule dependent), sometimes via intermediate islands. Duration approx. 6–8 hours. Check the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) counter in Port Blair; fares typically budget-friendly.
From North Andaman
- From Diglipur/Mayabunder: Regular buses and shared jeeps down the ATR to Rangat.
Permits & Rules
- Indian nationals: No special permit to visit Rangat.
- Foreign nationals: RAP formalities for most islands have been eased; carry passport and follow current advisories.
- Jarawa Reserve section: Strict no-stopping zone, no photography, follow convoy/escort instructions.
Getting Around Rangat
- Auto-rickshaws: Convenient for short hops around town and nearby beaches.
- Local buses/shared vans: Connect Rangat with Aamkunj, Yerrata, and nearby villages.
- Two-wheeler rentals: Limited; check with guesthouses for availability.
- Boats/Ferry: For Long Island and nearby islets—confirm timings a day prior.
Accommodation Options
- Budget guesthouses (Rangat Bazaar area): INR 800–1,500 per night; simple rooms, basic amenities.
- Mid-range hotels/lodges: INR 2,000–4,000 per night; AC rooms where available, in-house dining.
- Eco stays/Forest rest houses: Rustic setups near beaches/mangrove parks; advance permission/booking may be needed.
Tips: Book early in peak season, confirm power backup and hot water, and ask about proximity to your planned sights (Aamkunj, Dhani Nallah, etc.).
Estimated Trip Costs
- Daily budget (per person):
- Backpacker: INR 1,200–2,000 (shared transport, simple meals, budget room).
- Mid-range: INR 3,000–5,000 (private transfers, better rooms, guided activities).
- Transfers:
- Port Blair–Rangat bus: INR 400–700 per person.
- Private cab same route: INR 7,000–10,000 per vehicle.
- Local autos within town: INR 50–200 per ride (distance-based).
- Activities:
- Mangrove parks/Watchtowers: Often free or nominal fees.
- Boat rides (e.g., to caves or island hops, where available): INR 500–1,500+ per person depending on route.
Activities & Experiences
- Mangrove boardwalks: Dhani Nallah and Yeratta for flora, birdlife, and creek views.
- Turtle watching: Seasonal evenings at Cuthbert Bay with a guide.
- Beach time: Quiet hours at Aamkunj and sunset at Morrice Dera.
- Photography: Rock formations, canopy light through mangroves, village life.
- Island hop: Day trip to Long Island; trek to Lalaji Bay if time allows.
Suggested Itineraries
One Day in Rangat
- Morning: Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway and beach.
- Late Morning: Aamkunj Beach & Eco Park.
- Afternoon: Yeratta Mangrove Park & Watchtower.
- Evening: Sunset at Morrice Dera; in season, guided turtle watch at Cuthbert Bay.
Two Days in Rangat
- Day 1: Dhani Nallah, Aamkunj, Morrice Dera, Cuthbert Bay (in season).
- Day 2: Early ferry to Long Island; explore village and trek/boat to Lalaji Bay. Return by evening.
- Alternative Day 2 (monsoon): Panchavati Hills waterfall + leisurely bazaar walk and local meals.
Travel Tips by Traveler Type
For Families
- Pick stays near Rangat Bazaar or Aamkunj for easy meals and shorter commutes.
- Carry snacks, ORS, and mosquito repellent; shade umbrellas for mid-day sun.
- Avoid rough-sea swims; choose boardwalks and watchtowers for safe nature time.
For Honeymooners & Couples
- Time your visit for December–April for calmer seas and sunsets.
- Consider a Long Island overnight for seclusion (book well in advance).
- Pack light linens, a dry bag, and reef-safe sunscreen for long beach days.
For Friends & Backpackers
- Use shared jeeps/buses on the ATR to cut costs.
- Start early to catch ferries/boats and make the most of daylight.
- ATMs and network can be patchy—carry sufficient cash and offline maps.
Packing Essentials
- Quick-dry clothes, hat, sunglasses.
- Insect repellent, basic first-aid, personal meds.
- Reusable water bottle, small trash bag, waterproof phone pouch.
- Light rain jacket (May–Sep), sturdy sandals/shoes for walks.
Responsible Travel & Safety
- Eco-ethic: Avoid single-use plastics; use designated bins; leave no trace.
- Turtle etiquette: No white lights/flash, maintain distance, heed forest staff.
- ATR rules: No stopping or photography in tribal reserve stretches; respect guidelines.
- Sea safety: Many beaches lack lifeguards; currents can be strong; check with locals.
- Health & connectivity: Sun is intense; hydrate. Mobile data is intermittent (BSNL/Airtel more common); carry cash as ATMs may be limited.
FAQs about Rangat, Andaman
Q: How many days are enough for Rangat?
A: One full day covers key sights (Aamkunj, Dhani Nallah, Morrice Dera). Add a second day for Long Island or a slower, nature-focused pace.
Q: Is swimming safe at Rangat’s beaches?
A: Many spots have strong currents and rocky beds. Swim only where locals deem it safe and conditions are calm; otherwise enjoy shoreline walks.
Q: When can I see turtles at Cuthbert Bay?
A: Peak nesting is usually December to February at night. Join only with authorized guides and follow no-light, no-disturbance rules.
Q: Are ferries to Long Island regular from Rangat?
A: Services are limited and schedule-dependent. Check locally at the jetty or DSS office a day in advance and plan buffer time.
Q: Can foreigners visit Rangat without special permits?
A: Yes, visitors can travel to Rangat; carry your passport and follow current advisories. Always comply with ATR convoy and reserve rules.
Conclusion
Rangat rewards unhurried travelers with mangrove walks, quiet beaches, seasonal turtle spectacles, and links to less-visited islands. With sensible planning for transport, cash, and connectivity—and respect for its fragile ecosystems—you’ll find Rangat to be one of the Andamans’ most authentic and restorative stops.
