Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Best Time to Visit
- Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Rangat
- Local Culture, Food, and Shopping
- Nearby Getaways
- How to Reach Rangat
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Trip Costs
- Travel Tips and Practical Info
- Tips for Different Travelers
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Rangat, tucked into the heart of Middle Andaman, is the island chain’s slow-travel sweetheart. It trades big crowds for mangrove boardwalks, turtle-nesting beaches, rock pools, and forest-fringed roads. If you’re chasing Andaman’s quieter side, Rangat’s hidden gems—many managed by the Forest Department and local communities—deliver serene scenery, eco-parks, and authentic island life.
Best Time to Visit
- October to April: Dry season, calm seas, best for beaches, walks, and boat rides.
- December to February: Peak chance to witness turtle nesting at Cutbert Bay (with ranger guidance).
- May to September (monsoon): Lush and beautiful, but seas can be rough; boardwalks may be slippery; intermittent closures possible.
Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Rangat
Amkunj Beach Eco Park
A shore lined with driftwood sculptures, log benches, and picnic shelters—an exemplary eco-park built from reclaimed timber. The beach itself is pebbly and rocky, great for sunrise walks and photography rather than swimming.
- Why go: Quiet, scenic, eco-design details, bird calls in the casuarina belt.
- Good to know: Basic facilities; carry drinking water. Tread carefully on rocks.
- Approx. distance: A short drive south of Rangat town.
Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway
One of Andaman’s loveliest mangrove boardwalks, threading through thickets of mangrove roots to a quiet beach near Betapur. Interpretive signboards help you spot fiddler crabs, mudskippers, and mangrove species.
- Why go: Easy, family-friendly nature walk; great for golden-hour photos.
- Best time: Early morning or late afternoon for wildlife and softer light.
- Fees: Usually nominal/none; check at the gate.
- Approx. distance: A short drive from Rangat (around 10–20 km depending on your base).
Yeratta Mangrove Park and Watchtower
A serene park showcasing diverse mangrove species, with a watchtower overlooking tidal creeks and distant hills. Quiet, educational, and photogenic.
- Why go: Elevated views, mangrove education trails, chance to spot birdlife.
- Tip: Carry binoculars; mornings are most rewarding.
- Approx. distance: Near Yeratta Jetty, a short drive from Rangat.
Morrice Dera (Morice Dera) Beach
A rugged, less-visited rocky shoreline with natural rock formations and tiny tidal pools. It’s a place for quiet contemplation and moody seascapes rather than swims.
- Why go: Dramatic rocks, tide pools, minimal crowds.
- Safety: Watch footing on algae-covered rocks; avoid high-tide edges.
Cutbert Bay (Turtle) Beach
A conservation-focused beach known for turtle nesting (olive ridley, green sea turtles) in season. There’s often a Forest Department hatchery and guided night patrolling opportunities when conditions allow.
- Why go: Responsible wildlife experiences; learn about marine conservation.
- Best season: Typically December–February for nesting; sightings are not guaranteed.
- Etiquette: Red filters for lights, no flash, follow ranger instructions strictly.
Panchavati Hills and Waterfall (seasonal)
A countryside detour to small cascades and boulder-strewn streams amid plantation villages. Best post-monsoon when the flow is healthy.
- Why go: Village scenery, cool stream dips when safe and permitted.
- When: Late monsoon to early winter; may be dry in summer.
Gateway to Long Island
Rangat’s Yeratta Jetty is the practical jump-off to Long Island—a true hideaway with Lalaji Bay and forest trails. Even if you’re Rangat-based, a day trip or overnight to Long Island feels like a private island escape.
- Boat time: Roughly 45–90 minutes depending on boat and schedule.
- Plan: Check ferry timings a day in advance at Yeratta/DSC office; limited seats.
Local Culture, Food, and Shopping
Rangat blends influences from settlers across mainland India. Expect simple island life—early mornings, friendly hellos, and seafood-forward meals.
Food to Try
- Fish thali: Rice, fish curry, veg sides, papad—hearty and affordable.
- Crab and fried fish: Fresh, local catch at basic eateries and dhabas.
- Snacks: Samosas, pakoras, and coconut water in the bazaar area.
Where to Eat
- Small eateries in Rangat bazaar for thalis and quick plates.
- Occasional tourist lodges/ANIIDCO properties with simple menus.
Shopping
- What’s available: Local produce, spices, basic souvenirs from self-help groups.
- What to avoid: Coral, seashells, turtle-shell products—collection and trade are illegal and harmful to reefs.
Nearby Getaways
- Long Island: White-sand Lalaji Bay, mangrove creeks, and a laid-back village vibe. Accessible by ferry from Yeratta Jetty.
- Baratang Island: Day-trip feasible for limestone caves and mangrove creek boat ride; movement through Jarawa Reserve is regulated.
- Mayabunder: Quieter northward base with Karmatang Beach and Rampur; about 70–80 km from Rangat by road.
- Diglipur (longer trip): Saddle Peak treks and Ross & Smith twin-island sandbar; best as an overnight from Rangat.
How to Reach Rangat
From Port Blair
- By road (NH4/ATR): About 170 km; 6–8 hours by bus, shared cab, or private car. Movement through the Jarawa Reserve occurs at regulated times; no photography or stopping.
- By ferry (limited schedules): Government/inter-island ferries operate on select days; confirm at DSS counters in Port Blair. Weather and demand affect operations.
From Havelock/Neil
- Occasional inter-island connections exist, but most travelers route via Port Blair or via boat to Rangat/Long Island when available. Always verify current schedules locally.
Local Transport
- Auto-rickshaws and hired cars for short hops to beaches and parks.
- State buses run along the trunk road; timings can be sparse—start early.
- Two-wheeler rentals are limited; ask your stay for leads.
Accommodation Options
- Budget guesthouses: Simple rooms, fan/AC options, INR 800–1,500 per night.
- Mid-range lodges/ANIIDCO: Cleaner rooms, on-site dining when available, INR 2,000–4,000 per night.
- Eco stays/Forest huts: Near beaches like Amkunj or around Long Island (book locally), roughly INR 1,000–3,000 per night.
Book flexible stays in peak months (Dec–Feb). Card acceptance is limited—carry sufficient cash.
Estimated Trip Costs
- Port Blair ↔ Rangat transport: Bus/shared cab INR 400–1,200 per person; private car INR 7,000–10,000 one-way (vehicle and season dependent).
- Local sightseeing: Hired car/auto INR 1,500–3,500 per day depending on distance.
- Boats/ferries: Yeratta ↔ Long Island roughly INR 100–300 per person (govt boat); charters cost more.
- Meals: INR 200–500 per person per meal at basic eateries.
- Entry fees: Parks/boardwalks may charge nominal fees (generally under INR 50).
Indicative 2–3 day budget (per person): Shoestring INR 4,000–7,000; Comfortable INR 8,000–15,000; Upgraded car+better stays INR 15,000–25,000. Actuals vary by season and group size.
Travel Tips and Practical Info
- Safety at sea: Beaches like Amkunj and Morrice Dera are rocky; currents can be strong; swimming is generally not advised unless locals confirm it’s safe.
- Turtle ethics: At Cutbert Bay, always go with rangers; no white lights or flash; keep distance; silence is essential.
- Connectivity: Mobile data can be patchy outside town; download offline maps and carry cash.
- Jarawa Reserve rules: No stopping, no photography, no interaction; follow regulated travel timings.
- Health: Carry personal meds, sun protection, ORS; use insect repellent for mangrove areas.
- Waste: Take your trash back to town; bins are limited at remote sites.
- Drones: Require prior permissions; check local regulations.
- Tides: For rock pools and photography, mid-to-low tide is best; check daily tide charts.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families
- Pick boardwalks (Dhani Nallah, Yeratta) and eco-parks (Amkunj) for easy, stroller-friendly time.
- Pack snacks, water, hats; toilets may be basic or far apart.
Honeymooners
- Time a sunset at Amkunj or a quiet morning at Morrice Dera for crowd-free moments.
- Consider an overnight on Long Island for Lalaji Bay’s serene sands.
Friends and Backpackers
- Use state buses and shared cabs to cut costs; start early to fit more stops.
- Try the Yeratta–Long Island boat plus a forest trail to Lalaji Bay (check route status and permits if required).
Packing Essentials
- Sports sandals/shoes with grip, rain jacket (if monsoon), quick-dry wear.
- Power bank, headlamp with red filter (for turtle season), dry bags for cameras.
FAQs
Q: Is Rangat worth visiting if I’m already going to Havelock and Neil?
A: Yes—Rangat offers a quieter, mangrove-and-eco-park experience you won’t find on the busier tourist islands. It’s ideal for slow travel, nature walks, and turtle conservation visits.
Q: Can I swim at Amkunj or Morrice Dera?
A: These beaches are mostly rocky and not ideal for swimming. Ask locals about safer sandy stretches or plan a swim during a Long Island day trip when conditions are calm.
Q: Do I need a permit to visit Rangat?
A: Indian nationals do not require special permits to visit Middle Andaman’s tourist areas. Foreign nationals should carry valid ID and confirm current guidelines; tribal reserves remain strictly off-limits.
Q: How do I see turtle nesting at Cutbert Bay?
A: Visit in season (roughly Dec–Feb) and check with the Forest Department for guided night patrols. Sightings depend on nature; follow strict no-flash, no-touch, no-noise rules.
Q: Are ATMs and networks reliable in Rangat?
A: There are a few ATMs in town, but outages happen. Mobile data can be patchy outside the center—carry cash and download offline maps.
Conclusion
Rangat’s charm lies in its gentle pace—wooden boardwalks over mangroves, wave-worn rocks, and conservation-minded beaches. Base yourself here to meet a quieter Andaman and use Yeratta as your door to Long Island. With mindful travel and an early start, these hidden corners reward you with calm creeks, turtle tales, and island days that linger.
