How to Reach Rangat, Andaman: A Complete Tourist Guide

Rangat is a laid-back hub in Middle Andaman, known for its mangrove boardwalks, turtle nesting sites at Cuthbert Bay, and quiet beaches like Amkunj and Morrice Dera. Because there’s no direct flight into Rangat, travelers typically route via Port Blair and then continue by road or sea. Here’s a clear, practical guide to every way you can get there—plus timings, tips, and things to know before you go.

At a Glance

• Gateway: Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport, IXZ)
• Port Blair → Rangat by road: ~170–180 km, 6–8 hours via Andaman Trunk Road (ATR/NH-4)
• Port Blair → Rangat by ferry: ~5–7 hours (government ferries, limited frequency)
• Best travel window: October to May (calmer seas, more reliable schedules)

Step 1: Reach Port Blair (The Usual First Stop)

By Air (Most Common)

• Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), Port Blair.
• Connections: Multiple daily flights from Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi (non-stop and one-stop).
• Tips: Window seats on approach offer superb views; in monsoon, allow buffer time for weather-related delays.

By Sea (For Slow Travel Enthusiasts)

• Origins: Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam.
• Duration: About 2–3 days depending on ship and sea conditions.
• Booking: Through the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS)/Shipping Corporation offices; schedules are infrequent and seasonal—plan well ahead.

Step 2: Port Blair to Rangat

Option A: By Road via ATR (NH-4)

This is the most flexible and frequent option. The route runs Port Blair → Ferrargunj → Baratang → Kadamtala → Rangat, traversing rainforest stretches and creeks. Historically, short vehicle-ferry crossings were used; bridges and operations evolve—check the current status locally.

How to Travel by Road

• Government (STS) Buses: Budget-friendly, basic seating. Early departures are common. Buy tickets at the STS bus terminus in Port Blair (Aberdeen Bazaar area) a day in advance if possible. Travel time: ~7–8 hours.
• Private Buses: Slightly costlier, sometimes more comfortable seating and air-conditioning. Early morning departures; book through agents or at counters.
• Taxi/Private Car: Fastest and most convenient door-to-door option. Typical travel time ~6–7 hours depending on road/queue conditions. Expect broad one-way rates in the range of several thousand rupees (varies by season, vehicle type, inclusions). Prebook the day before.
• Self-Drive: Self-drive cars are uncommon for visitors; two-wheelers aren’t practical for the long ATR run. Most travelers hire a car with a driver who knows the route and rules.

Important Road Rules and Realities

• Jarawa Tribal Reserve Transit: No stopping, photography, drone flying, or interaction. Fines and legal action apply for violations.
• Check-Posts: Carry original photo ID; expect spot checks and regulated movement timings along parts of the ATR.
• Fuel and Food: Fuel stations and eateries are sparse en route; tank up in Port Blair and carry water/snacks.
• Weather: Heavy rain (Jun–Sep) can cause delays due to fallen trees or localized flooding—start early and keep buffers.

Option B: By Government Ferry

Government ferries connect Port Blair with Rangat on select days, sometimes with intermediate stops (e.g., Long Island or Mayabunder). It’s scenic and can be smoother in good weather, but schedules are limited.

• Duration: ~5–7 hours depending on vessel and stops.
• Booking: Tickets open a few days in advance. Book at DSS counters in Port Blair (e.g., Phoenix Bay/near Water Sports Complex) or via the DSS e-ticketing portal. Carry a government ID.
• Arrival: Ferries usually berth at Rangat (Yerrata/Yeratta) Jetty. Local autos/taxis are limited; pre-arrange pickup with your hotel when possible.
• Sea Conditions: Services may be canceled in rough weather; keep alternative plans ready.

Option C: Helicopter (Limited, Priority for Locals)

Inter-island helicopter services sometimes operate between Port Blair and Rangat. These are capacity-constrained, weather-sensitive, and prioritize residents/medical travel.

• Booking: Through the Civil Aviation office in Port Blair; tourists generally get standby seats if available.
• Baggage: Very limited; carry only essentials.
• Use Case: Emergency or special situations; not a mainstream tourist option.

Alternate Island-to-Island Routes

• From Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)/Neil (Shaheed Dweep): There is no regular direct link to Rangat. Most travelers return to Port Blair and continue by road/ferry. Occasionally, boats via Long Island operate—verify locally.
• From Long Island: Short boat rides (~30–45 minutes) connect Long Island and Rangat (Yerrata Jetty) on select days. Check the local jetty noticeboard or DSS office for timings.
• From Mayabunder/Diglipur: Frequent road connectivity via ATR. Mayabunder → Rangat is ~70–90 km (~1.5–3 hours); Diglipur → Rangat is roughly ~130–150 km (~3–4.5 hours). STS buses and taxis are available.

When to Travel

• October–May: Best bet for calmer seas and more reliable transport. Peak tourist months are December–February.
• June–September (Monsoon): Expect choppy seas, rain, and occasional cancellations/road delays. Keep extra buffer days.
• Wildlife Season: Turtle nesting at Cuthbert Bay generally peaks around December–February—time your visit if that’s a priority.

Permits, IDs, and Regulations

• Indian Nationals: No entry permit needed for notified tourist areas like Rangat. Carry government photo ID.
• Foreign Nationals: Valid Indian visa required. Restricted Area Permit (RAP) norms have been relaxed for many islands but can change; confirm with the Andaman authorities or your embassy. Registration at arrival may be required.
• Jarawa Reserve: Strict transit rules apply—no stopping, no photography, no interaction. Respect privacy and the law.
• Drones/Plastics: Drone usage needs permissions; single-use plastics are restricted—carry reusable bottles/bags.

On Arrival in Rangat

• Where you arrive: By road to Rangat Bazaar/Bus Stand; by ferry to Yerrata Jetty. Local transport is limited—prebook pickups with your hotel/driver.
• Cash & Connectivity: ATMs exist but can run low; carry some cash. Mobile data is improving but patchy—BSNL has widest coverage; Airtel/Vi vary by pocket.
• Local Links: Boats connect to Long Island; road links continue to Mayabunder and Diglipur.

Sample Ways to Plan Your Journey

• Fastest Same-Day: Morning flight to Port Blair → prebooked taxi → arrive Rangat by evening.
• Budget & Scenic: Fly into Port Blair → overnight stay → morning government ferry to Rangat.
• Northern Loop: Port Blair → Rangat → Mayabunder → Diglipur → return by road or break journey by ferry where available.

Time & Cost Cheatsheet (Indicative)

• Road (Bus): ~7–8 hours; economical (buy tickets a day early in season).
• Road (Taxi): ~6–7 hours; cost varies widely by season/vehicle—preconfirm all inclusions.
• Ferry: ~5–7 hours; limited frequency—book as soon as sales open.
• Helicopter: ~1 hour; very limited seats; priority passengers first.

Booking Pointers & Where to Check Schedules

• Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS): Check the official e-ticketing portal and Port Blair ticket counters for ferry timetables and seats.
• State Transport Service (STS) Buses: Buy at the Port Blair STS bus terminus (Aberdeen Bazaar area) or via local agents/hotel desks.
• Local Updates: Schedules and ATR regulations can change; confirm with your hotel, a trusted local operator, or official counters the day before travel.

Practical Tips

• Start early: Whether by road or ferry, early starts help you avoid queues and reach Rangat in daylight.
• Pack smart: Lightweight rain jacket (year-round showers possible), seasickness meds for ferries, snacks, and water.
• Respect and conserve: Follow no-stop rules in the Jarawa zone, dispose of waste responsibly, and avoid plastics.
• Keep buffers: Weather can disrupt plans—build at least half to one spare day into your itinerary.

Bottom Line

The simplest route to Rangat is to fly into Port Blair and continue the same day by road on the ATR. If you have time and want a scenic journey, government ferries offer a beautiful alternative. In peak season, prebook everything; in monsoon, keep plans flexible. With the logistics sorted, you’ll be set to enjoy Rangat’s mangroves, beaches, and tranquil pace.