Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Rangat in February: Weather and Why Visit
- Must-Visit Places in February
- Local Culture and Food
- Nearby Getaways
- How to Reach Rangat
- Where to Stay and Estimated Costs
- Sea Conditions and February Packing List
- Seasonal Activities and Events
- Shopping in Rangat
- Travel Tips and Safety
- Tips for Families, Honeymooners, and Friends
- Suggested 3-Day February Itinerary
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Rangat, set in Middle Andaman, is the quiet, nature-forward side of the Andaman Islands. In February, calm seas, clear skies, and nesting sea turtles transform this laid-back town into a superb eco-travel base. Think mangrove boardwalks, empty beaches, and village life, with wildlife sightings as your reward.
Rangat in February: Weather and Why Visit
February sits squarely in Rangat’s dry season. Days are warm, nights pleasant, and the sea is generally calm—excellent for boat rides and coastal walks.
- Temperature: 23–29°C (mornings and evenings are comfortable).
- Rainfall: Low; brief showers possible.
- Humidity: Moderate to high but manageable with sea breeze.
- Visibility/Sea: Typically good; fewer swells than monsoon months.
- Why February: Peak sea turtle nesting at Cuthbert Bay, best conditions for mangrove walks (no slippery boards), and clear travel days on the Andaman Trunk Road.
Must-Visit Places in February
- Amkunj Beach and Eco Park: Driftwood seating, rocky shoreline, sunrise views, and a relaxed picnic vibe.
- Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway: A scenic wooden boardwalk through dense mangroves leading to a serene beach; best enjoyed in the dry months.
- Morrice Dera Beach: Black rock formations and the famed twin rock; photogenic during low tide.
- Cuthbert Bay Wildlife Sanctuary: A major nesting site for Olive Ridley, Green, and Leatherback turtles. Night viewing is possible with forest permits and a guide.
- Yerrata Mangrove Park and Viewpoint: Interpretive mangrove trails and a tower with sweeping views over creeks and forest.
- Panchavati Hills and Water Streams: Gentle countryside, plantations, and seasonal streams (good for a countryside drive).
Local Culture and Food
Rangat blends settler cultures from mainland India with Andaman’s coastal rhythms. You’ll notice Bengali, South Indian, and island influences in food and language.
What to Eat
- Fish curry and rice, crab masala, and grilled catch of the day.
- Simple South Indian breakfasts (idli, dosa) and island-style fish fry.
- Tropical fruit when in season: bananas, pineapples, and coconut water.
Food is homely and affordable; expect small, family-run dhabas rather than upscale restaurants.
Nearby Getaways
- Long Island: Access by boat from Yerrata Jetty; gateway to Lalaji Bay’s pearly sands and snorkel spots.
- Baratang Island: Limestone Caves and Mud Volcano; often visited en route from Port Blair.
- Mayabunder: Karmatang Beach (another turtle nesting area) and calm creeks for boat rides.
- Diglipur: For Ross and Smith twin islands (day trips from the north if you extend your route).
How to Reach Rangat
From Port Blair
- By Road (Andaman Trunk Road): 6.5–8.5 hours, via Jirkatang and Baratang. Buses, shared jeeps, and private cars operate. Parts of the ATR run through protected areas; photography is prohibited and convoys/timed crossings may apply.
- By Government Ferry: Limited sailings to Rangat (Yerrata/nearby jetties), often via intermediate islands. Duration 6–8+ hours depending on route and sea conditions. Check schedules locally a few days in advance.
From Havelock/Neil or Mayabunder
- Inter-island ferries and local boats operate seasonally and on limited schedules. Confirm on-ground.
- Road from Mayabunder: 1.5–2 hours by bus or car.
Carry a government-issued ID. Schedules, routes, and road rules change occasionally; verify one day prior to travel.
Where to Stay and Estimated Costs
Accommodation Options
- Government guesthouses and eco-cottages (including turtle-viewing lodges near Cuthbert Bay where available).
- Simple hotels and lodges in Rangat bazaar area.
- Homestays and basic beachside cottages near Amkunj or Dhani Nallah.
Typical Price Range (per night)
- Budget: INR 800–1,500
- Mid-range: INR 1,500–3,500
- Eco-lodges near sanctuaries: INR 2,500–4,500 (limited inventory)
Daily Trip Budget (per person)
- Budget: INR 2,000–3,500 (bus, simple stays, local meals)
- Comfort: INR 3,500–7,000 (private transfers, guided activities)
Sample Costs
- Port Blair–Rangat bus/shared jeep: INR 400–900
- Private car one-way: INR 6,000–9,000 depending on model and season
- Government ferry (when available): INR 600–1,200
- Cuthbert Bay permit/guide: approx. INR 50–300 per person; camera fees may apply
Prices are indicative and vary by season and availability.
Sea Conditions and February Packing List
- Sea state: Generally calm; good for boat transfers and shoreline walks. Always check local advisories.
- Sun exposure: High UV; minimal cloud cover.
- Packing essentials:
- Light cotton clothing, hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+).
- Insect repellent and after-bite cream.
- Reusable water bottle; hydration salts.
- Light rain jacket (for brief showers) and quick-dry footwear.
- Red-filtered headlamp for turtle watching (no white light).
- Cash in small denominations; ATMs and card acceptance are limited.
Seasonal Activities and Events
- Turtle Nesting at Cuthbert Bay: Peak sightings typically December–February. Night patrols and viewing from hides with permits and guides.
- Mangrove Interpretation Walks: Dhani Nallah and Yerrata are at their best in dry months; look for mudskippers, crabs, and birdlife.
- Beach-hopping and Picnics: Amkunj, Morrice Dera, and quiet coves are pristine with minimal crowds.
- Birdwatching: Early mornings around creeks and plantations; carry binoculars.
- Snorkeling and Boat Excursions: Best arranged from Long Island (nearby) where coral flats are more accessible.
Shopping in Rangat
- Local produce: Spices, coconuts, and seasonal fruits from village markets.
- Handicrafts: Bamboo and wood crafts from cooperatives where available.
- Eco-note: Do not buy coral, seashells, or turtle-derived items; it is illegal and harms marine ecosystems.
Travel Tips and Safety
- Permits: Turtle watching requires permission; arrange through Forest Department or locally recommended guides.
- ATR Etiquette: No photography in protected stretches; comply with convoy rules and timings.
- Connectivity: Mobile network can be patchy; BSNL often works best. Download offline maps.
- Health: Stay hydrated; carry basic meds and motion-sickness tablets for ferries.
- Cash: Limited ATMs; carry sufficient cash for remote areas.
- Wildlife Ethics: No flash, maintain distance from nesting sites, and follow guide instructions.
Tips for Families, Honeymooners, and Friends
Families
- Choose accommodations near Amkunj or town for easier meals and supplies.
- Boardwalks (Dhani Nallah) are stroller-friendly for short sections; supervise children on uneven planks.
- Plan night turtle viewing only with older kids able to keep quiet and still.
Honeymooners
- Pick eco-cottages or sea-view rooms; plan a quiet sunset at Morrice Dera.
- Combine with a day trip to Long Island for secluded beaches.
- Carry a red-light headlamp for responsible night walks.
Friends/Backpackers
- Use shared jeeps and buses to cut costs; check first and last departures.
- Early morning markets for budget eats; pack snacks for longer rides.
- Consider multi-stop route: Port Blair → Baratang → Rangat → Mayabunder → Diglipur.
Suggested 3-Day February Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive from Port Blair by ATR. Sunset at Amkunj Eco Park. Local seafood dinner.
- Day 2: Morning Dhani Nallah boardwalk. Afternoon Yerrata Mangrove Park and viewpoint. Post-dinner permitted night visit to Cuthbert Bay for turtle nesting (with guide).
- Day 3: Half-day trip to Morrice Dera (tide-dependent). Option to boat to Long Island if schedules allow. Depart to Mayabunder or return to Port Blair.
FAQs
Q: Is February a good month to visit Rangat?
A: Yes. It is dry, usually sunny, and coincides with peak sea turtle nesting at Cuthbert Bay, plus calm seas for inter-island travel.
Q: Do I need a permit for turtle watching?
A: A local Forest Department permit and guide are typically required for night viewing at Cuthbert Bay. Flash photography and white lights are prohibited.
Q: How long is the road journey from Port Blair to Rangat?
A: Around 6.5–8.5 hours depending on convoy timings, traffic, and ferry crossings along the Andaman Trunk Road.
Q: Are ATMs and mobile networks reliable in Rangat?
A: Coverage and ATM availability are limited. Carry sufficient cash and expect patchy mobile data; BSNL often has the broadest reach.
Q: Can I snorkel in Rangat?
A: The immediate Rangat beaches are more rocky; better snorkeling is usually arranged from nearby Long Island and Lalaji Bay, weather permitting.
Conclusion
February showcases Rangat at its most rewarding: stable weather, calm waters, and rare wildlife encounters. With mangrove boardwalks, quiet beaches, and the spectacle of nesting turtles, this Middle Andaman town offers a tranquil, eco-conscious escape that pairs well with onward journeys to Long Island, Mayabunder, or Diglipur.
