Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Rangat in December: Weather & Why It’s Ideal
- Must-Visit Places in and around Rangat
- Local Culture & Food
- Shopping & Souvenirs
- Nearby Getaways
- How to Reach Rangat
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Essential Travel Tips
- Tips for Different Travelers
- Suggested 2-Day December Plan
- Responsible Travel, Permits & Safety
- FAQs about Rangat in December
- Conclusion
Introduction
Nestled in the heart of Middle Andaman, Rangat is a quiet, mangrove-fringed town that turns wonderfully pleasant in December. With cool mornings, calm seas, and the enchanting spectacle of sea turtles nesting along nearby shores, this is the month when nature lovers and slow travelers get the best of Andaman without crowds. Think eco-friendly beaches, wooden mangrove walkways, and low-key island life between Port Blair and Diglipur.
Rangat in December: Weather & Why It’s Ideal
- Temperature: ~23°C to 29°C; humidity manageable, sea generally calm.
- Rainfall: Low to occasional light showers; great for outdoor walks and ferries.
- Highlights: Turtle nesting season around Cuthbert Bay; lush mangroves; clear roads on the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR).
- Festive vibe: Christmas and New Year bring a mellow, community feel—simple, warm, and local.
Must-Visit Places in and around Rangat
Amkunj Beach (Eco Beach)
A beautiful, pebbly stretch developed with eco-friendly sit-outs and log benches. December offers breezy evenings and quieter mornings.
- Good for: Sunsets, photography, tidepooling.
- Note: Not ideal for swimming; watch for current advisories.
Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway
A scenic 700m+ wooden boardwalk through dense mangroves leading to a serene beach. In December, the air is crisp and birdlife active.
- Good for: Nature walks, birdwatching, learning about mangrove ecology.
- Tip: Go early morning or late afternoon for soft light.
Yerrata Mangrove Park & Watch Tower
A well-curated mangrove interpretation center with a tall watchtower for panoramic views of creeks and islands.
- Good for: Families, photographers, plant enthusiasts.
- Carry: Binoculars; you might spot kingfishers, herons, and raptors.
Moricedera Beach
Rocky seafront with natural shaded areas; a peaceful, less-visited corner perfect for a contemplative pause.
Cuthbert Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (Turtle Nesting)
Among Andaman’s famed nesting sites for olive ridley and green sea turtles. December is prime nesting season.
- Important: Night visits typically require Forest Department permission and a guide. Red-light torches only; maintain distance.
Panchavati Hills & Waterfall (seasonal)
Green slopes and a small stream/waterfall area near Rangat. December flows vary—ask locally about current conditions.
Local Culture & Food
Rangat’s culture reflects a mix of Bengali, South Indian, and local island communities. Life is unhurried and welcoming.
What to Eat
- Seafood curries: Fish (often tuna, snapper), prawns, and crab when available fresh.
- Bengali-style thalis: Rice, fish curry, dal, sautéed greens.
- South Indian staples: Dosa, idli, vada for hearty breakfasts.
- Fresh coconuts, bananas, and seasonal fruits.
Where to Eat
- Simple eateries around Rangat Bazaar and Dasharathpur market.
- Eco shacks near Amkunj/Dhani Nallah (hours may be limited; cash preferred).
Alcohol availability is limited; expect early closing hours.
Shopping & Souvenirs
- Coconut and bamboo handicrafts, handwoven baskets.
- Spices and island honey from local markets.
- Shell items only from permitted outlets—avoid buying protected species or live shells.
Rangat is not a major shopping hub; Port Blair has wider choices.
Nearby Getaways
- Long Island & Lalaji Bay: White-sand beaches and calm waters; day trips or overnights possible by local boat/ferry.
- Mayabunder: Karmatang Beach and mangrove creeks; about 1.5–2 hours by road.
- Baratang: Famous Limestone Caves and Mud Volcano; typically 2–3 hours towards Port Blair.
- Diglipur: Saddle Peak National Park, Ross & Smith Island; 3–4 hours north.
How to Reach Rangat
By Road
- From Port Blair: ~170–180 km via Andaman Trunk Road (ATR); 6–8 hours including Middle Strait vehicle ferry crossing.
- Options: Government buses, private buses, taxis, or self-drive with licensed rentals.
By Sea (Ferry)
- Inter-island government ferries occasionally connect Port Blair–Rangat–Mayabunder–Diglipur.
- Schedules are limited and change seasonally; book at the Directorate of Shipping Services counters.
By Air
No airport in Rangat. The nearest airport is Port Blair (IXZ); continue by road or ferry.
Accommodation Options
Rangat offers functional stays ideal for nature-focused trips rather than luxury vacations.
- Budget guesthouses: Near Rangat Bazaar and Dasharathpur. Approx. ₹800–1,800 per night.
- Mid-range lodges: Basic AC rooms with private baths. Approx. ₹2,000–3,500 per night.
- Eco-cottages: Limited options near beaches/mangroves. Approx. ₹2,500–4,000 per night.
- Government rest houses: APWD/Forest guest houses (advance permission/booking required).
Tip: December is popular; book early if relying on specific properties.
Estimated Costs
- Daily budget (per person): ₹1,800–3,500 (budget) | ₹3,500–7,000 (mid-range).
- Meals: ₹200–500 per simple meal.
- Local transport: Shared buses are economical; private cab for a day around Rangat typically ₹2,500–4,000.
- Port Blair → Rangat: Bus ₹400–700; private taxi one-way ₹7,000–10,000 (vehicle type dependent).
- Ferries: Government ferry ₹400–900 (class and sector dependent).
- Guided turtle watch (if permitted): Enquire locally; fees/permissions vary.
Essential Travel Tips
- Connectivity: BSNL has the widest coverage; Airtel/Jio improving but patchy. Download offline maps.
- Cash & ATMs: Carry sufficient cash; UPI works intermittently; ATMs are limited.
- Health & comfort: Carry reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, electrolytes, basic meds.
- Swimming: Follow signboards; some beaches have strong currents or crocodile advisories. Swim only where permitted.
- Turtle nesting: No flash photography; keep distance; follow Forest Department rules.
- Waste: Carry back all plastic; use refillable bottles.
- Timing: Start early to cover multiple spots and catch soft light for photos.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families
- Choose stays near Rangat Bazaar for easy access to food and essentials.
- Opt for Dhani Nallah and Yerrata for safe boardwalks and educational signages.
- Pack hats, quick-dry clothes, and snacks for kids.
Honeymooners
- Plan sunset strolls at Amkunj and a day trip to Long Island’s Lalaji Bay.
- Pick eco-cottages for quiet, nature-immersed stays.
- Carry a light shawl for breezy evenings in December.
Friends & Backpackers
- Use government buses to keep costs low; mix in short taxi hires for remote spots.
- Consider a northbound loop: Port Blair → Rangat → Mayabunder → Diglipur.
- Bring a dry bag, headlamp (red filter for turtle areas), and aqua shoes.
Suggested 2-Day December Plan
Day 1
- Morning: Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway and beach.
- Lunch: Simple thali in Rangat Bazaar.
- Afternoon: Yerrata Mangrove Park & Watch Tower.
- Sunset: Amkunj Beach eco sit-outs.
Day 2
- Morning: Moricedera Beach and Panchavati (check local water flow).
- Afternoon: Travel towards Cuthbert Bay area; meet Forest office to confirm protocols.
- Evening/Night (if permitted): Guided turtle nesting watch (strictly follow rules).
Responsible Travel, Permits & Safety
- Permits: Indian citizens do not need special permits for Rangat. Foreign nationals require a Restricted Area Permit (usually issued on arrival at Port Blair). Some protected zones need additional permissions.
- Turtle/Nesting areas: Entry may be restricted at night; go only with authorized guides.
- Tribal areas: No entry into tribal reserves; photography of tribal people is illegal.
- Wildlife & beaches: Respect signboards; avoid isolated swimming; heed crocodile advisories.
- Leave No Trace: Stick to paths, carry back trash, avoid single-use plastics.
FAQs about Rangat in December
Q: Is December a good time to visit Rangat?
A: Yes. Weather is pleasant (around 23–29°C), seas are generally calm, and it’s prime turtle nesting season near Cuthbert Bay.
Q: Can I watch turtle nesting in December?
A: Often yes, but only with Forest Department permission and a guide. No flashes, keep distance, and use red-light torches.
Q: How do I travel between Port Blair and Rangat in December?
A: The most reliable is by road via the ATR (6–8 hours). Government/private buses and taxis operate daily. Limited ferries may run; check DSS schedules.
Q: Are there luxury resorts in Rangat?
A: No. Expect budget to mid-range lodges and a few eco-cottages. Book early in December.
Q: Is snorkeling good around Rangat?
A: Snorkeling is limited near Rangat. For clearer waters, plan a side trip to Long Island (Lalaji Bay) or farther to Havelock/Neil via Port Blair connections.
Conclusion
December brings Rangat’s best: comfortable weather, calm creeks, and the chance to witness turtle nesting along Middle Andaman’s protected shores. With eco-beaches, mangrove walkways, and low-key markets, it suits travelers who prefer nature and quiet over crowds. Plan logistics around limited ferries, carry cash, and choose simple stays. The reward is an unhurried island experience at the heart of the Andamans.
