Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do on a Day Trip
- How to Reach Long Island
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs for a Day Trip
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Nearby Attractions
- Tips for Travelers
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Long Island in the Andaman Islands is an offbeat tropical escape known for its emerald mangroves, powdery beaches like Lalaji Bay, and boat trips to uninhabited islets. It’s perfect for a serene day trip if you’re based in Rangat (Middle Andaman) or traveling overland between Port Blair and North Andaman. Expect quiet trails, coral-fringed waters, and a slow island rhythm with minimal crowds.
History and Importance
Long Island has long been a small forestry and fishing settlement in the Middle Andaman region. While nearby islands became mainstream tourist hubs, Long Island stayed low-key—valued by nature lovers for its mangrove creeks, old forest paths, and access to stunning beaches and reef systems. Today, it’s a gateway to Lalaji Bay and boat excursions to pristine, uninhabited beaches like Merk Bay and Guitar Island, making it one of the Andamans’ most tranquil day-trip destinations.
Best Time to Visit
- November–April: Best weather and calm seas; ideal for boat trips, snorkeling, and hiking.
- October and May: Shoulder months; occasional showers and choppy seas possible.
- June–September (Monsoon): Frequent rain and rough seas; many boat services may be suspended.
Tip: Sea conditions dictate boat availability. Always check the local forecast and ferry schedules a day before your trip.
Top Things to Do on a Day Trip
Lalaji Bay Beach
- Trek: A scenic forest trail of roughly 5–6 km (one way) from Long Island village to Lalaji Bay. Allow 1.5–2 hours each way; carry water and snacks.
- Boat drop: Hire a local boat from the jetty to a point near Lalaji Bay, followed by a short walk. Saves time on a day trip.
- What to expect: Wide, quiet beach; turquoise shallows; minimal facilities. Swim only if seas are calm and locals deem it safe.
Boat Excursion to Guitar Island and Merk Bay (North Passage Island)
- Duration: 3–5 hours round trip, depending on sea state and stops.
- Highlights: Sandbars, gin-clear water, excellent beach strolls, and photo-worthy views.
- Notes: Boat availability depends on weather and permits. Confirm at the Long Island jetty the day prior.
Snorkeling and Beach Time
- Carry your own mask and snorkel; rentals are limited or unavailable.
- Only snorkel over sand or with a certified guide; avoid standing on coral.
Mangrove Creeks and Jetty Sunset
- Stroll around the jetty area for quiet mangrove views and golden sunsets.
- Occasional short boat rides in the creeks may be available via local boatmen.
Village Walk
- Explore the laid-back settlement: simple homes, small shops, and a slow island rhythm. It’s a window into everyday life in the Middle Andamans.
How to Reach Long Island
From Port Blair
- By road to Rangat: 6–8 hours via the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR). From Rangat, drive 25–30 minutes to Yerrata Jetty.
- Ferry to Long Island: Government boats from Yerrata Jetty take about 45–60 minutes. Schedules vary; check at the DSS counter in Rangat or Port Blair.
- Direct ferries: Occasional inter-island services may connect Port Blair/Havelock to Long Island. Timings change seasonally.
From Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) or Neil (Shaheed Dweep)
- Seasonal ferries or charter boats may operate to Long Island or Rangat. Always verify current routes locally.
Permits and ID
- Indian citizens: Carry a valid photo ID.
- Foreign nationals: Carry passport; island access rules change periodically—verify current regulations and any area-specific permissions (especially for nearby uninhabited islets).
Accommodation Options
For day trips, many travelers base themselves in Rangat and visit Long Island by morning ferry.
- On Long Island: Limited, basic guesthouses or eco-stays may be available; electricity and connectivity can be intermittent. Book in advance if you plan to overnight.
- In Rangat: Wider choice of budget stays and government rest houses. Convenient for early ferries and onward road travel.
Note: Facilities at Lalaji Bay are minimal to non-existent. No lifeguards, limited shade, and no permanent eateries—plan accordingly.
Estimated Costs for a Day Trip
- Government ferry (Rangat–Long Island–Rangat): Approx. ₹120–₹300 per person each way.
- Private/local boat to Lalaji Bay (if available): ₹1,500–₹3,500 per boat (shared) one way, depending on distance and group size.
- Boat charter to Guitar Island/Merk Bay: ₹8,000–₹15,000 per boat (3–6 hours). Split among 4–8 travelers for value.
- Meals and water: ₹150–₹400 per person for simple thali/snacks; bring extra drinking water.
- Guide/permits (if applicable): ₹300–₹1,200 depending on local requirements.
These are indicative seasonal ranges; confirm current prices on the ground.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Simple eateries near the jetty serve rice plates, fish curry, dal, and omelets.
- Carry packed lunch for Lalaji Bay and plenty of water; waste bins are scarce.
Shopping
- Very limited shops. Carry sunscreen, reef-safe toiletries, cash, and snacks from Rangat.
Culture and Connectivity
- Languages: Hindi and Bengali widely spoken; English understood at ticket counters.
- Network: BSNL is most reliable; data is patchy. ATMs are in Rangat—carry cash.
Nearby Attractions
- Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walk (Rangat): Elevated boardwalk through mangroves, calm and scenic.
- Amkunj Beach (Rangat): Pebbly beach with eco-huts and driftwood art; good for a short stop.
- Cutbert Bay Turtle Nesting (seasonal): Night patrols may be arranged in season—check locally.
- Baratang Island: Limestone caves and mangrove boat ride; feasible as a separate day trip on the ATR corridor.
- Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) & Neil (Shaheed Dweep): Popular beaches and diving, often paired with longer Andaman itineraries.
Tips for Travelers
Essential Guidance
- Start early to catch the first ferry and maximize beach time.
- Check boat schedules and sea conditions a day in advance.
- Swim only when locals advise it’s safe; there are no lifeguards.
- Ask about any crocodile advisories, especially after heavy rains.
- Leave no trace: pack out all trash; avoid touching coral and marine life.
For Families
- Carry sun protection, hats, and extra water; limited shade at Lalaji Bay.
- Life jackets for boat rides; supervise kids near waves and rocky sections.
For Honeymooners
- Choose a boat drop to Lalaji Bay to save time and enjoy quieter stretches.
- Bring a lightweight beach mat and picnic; facilities are minimal.
For Friends/Backpackers
- Consider splitting a boat charter to Guitar Island/Merk Bay to cut costs.
- Carry snorkel gear and dry bags; weather can change quickly.
Packing List
- Reusable water bottle, snacks/packed lunch, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.
- Snorkel set, quick-dry towel, lightweight rain jacket (shoulder/monsoon).
- Cash, ID, basic first-aid, motion-sickness tablets for choppy seas.
FAQs
Q: Is Long Island suitable for a same-day trip from Rangat?
A: Yes. With early ferries, you can reach Long Island, visit Lalaji Bay or take a short boat excursion, and return by evening. Always confirm the last return ferry.
Q: How long is the trek to Lalaji Bay from the village?
A: About 5–6 km one way (1.5–2 hours). A boat drop near the bay can reduce walking time significantly.
Q: Do I need permits to visit Guitar Island or Merk Bay?
A: Permit requirements can vary by season and authority. Check at the jetty or with local boat operators; they’ll advise on current permissions and fees.
Q: Are there ATMs and mobile networks on Long Island?
A: ATMs are unreliable or absent on Long Island; withdraw cash in Rangat. BSNL has the best chance of working, but data is patchy.
Q: Is snorkeling gear available for rent?
A: Rentals are limited. For a smooth day trip, bring your own mask and snorkel.
Conclusion
Long Island offers a quiet, nature-forward day trip with forest trails, untouched beaches, and access to gorgeous islets. Base yourself in Rangat, start early, and plan around the ferries and weather. With simple preparation—water, snacks, and respect for the marine environment—you’ll experience one of the most peaceful corners of the Andaman Islands.
