Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What to Buy in Rangat: Best Souvenirs
- Where to Buy in Rangat
- Must-Visit Places in and around Rangat
- Local Culture and Food
- Nearby Getaways
- How to Reach Rangat
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Shopping and Ethical Guidelines
- Tips for Travelers
- Suggested 1–2 Day Souvenir-Focused Itinerary
- FAQs about Souvenirs from Rangat, Andaman
- Conclusion
Introduction
Rangat, located in the heart of the Middle Andaman Islands, feels raw, green, and wonderfully local. Beyond its mangrove walks and quiet beaches, the town is a great place to pick up eco-friendly, handmade souvenirs that reflect island life—think coconut shell crafts, cane and bamboo weaves, and small-batch spices grown in the humid, emerald hinterland. This guide covers the best souvenirs from Rangat, practical shopping advice, and everything you need to plan a short, soulful stop on your Andaman itinerary.
What to Buy in Rangat: Best Souvenirs
Rangat’s souvenirs are simple, sustainable, and rooted in everyday island living. Here are the top picks and what to expect.
Coconut Shell Crafts
- What they are: Bowls, ladles, tea-light holders, bangles, keychains fashioned from polished coconut shells.
- Why buy: Durable, biodegradable, and uniquely island-made.
- Price range (indicative): ₹100–₹1,200 depending on size and finish.
- Packing tip: Wrap in clothes; avoid pressure on thin edges.
Cane and Bamboo Weaves
- Items: Baskets, coasters, lightweight trays, planters, lamp shades.
- Look for: Tight weaving, smooth edges, and even color.
- Price range: ₹150–₹2,500.
- Packing tip: Stuff baskets with soft items; place on top in luggage.
Island Spices and Farm Produce
- What to look for: Black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, turmeric, arecanut (supari) from small farms in North & Middle Andaman.
- How to buy: Prefer sealed, labeled packets from cooperatives/SHGs.
- Price range: ₹120–₹600 per 100–250g (varies by spice and season).
- Carry-on tip: Keep spice packs in original sealed pouches with bill.
Local Honey
- Type: Multi-floral honey collected by licensed groups; flavor can have a subtle mangrove note.
- Where: SHG counters, verified stores in Rangat Bazaar.
- Price range: ₹250–₹600 per 250–500g.
- Packing: Double-bag; keep upright in check-in luggage.
Shell Jewelry and Decor (Buy Responsibly)
- Items: Earrings, pendants, small decor.
- Important: Do not buy coral, turtle-shell, or giant clam items. Choose only items sold legally with bills; avoid beach-collected shells.
- Price range: ₹100–₹1,000.
Handloom, Coir, and Island-Themed Keepsakes
- Find: Coir doormats, cotton totes with island motifs, simple handloom stoles, postcards, and photo prints.
- Price range: ₹150–₹1,500.
What Not to Buy
- Items made from coral, sea fans, turtle shell, or any protected marine life.
- Artifacts sourced from protected tribes. Respect all tribal and ecological protections.
Where to Buy in Rangat
- Rangat Bazaar (Main Market): Core cluster of general stores, small handicraft stalls, and SHG products. Best for everyday souvenirs and snacks.
- Dhaninallah Mangrove Walkway Stalls: Seasonal kiosks selling coconut shell crafts, bamboo items, and refreshments near the eco-huts.
- Yerrata Area and Jetty Side Shops: Small vendors sometimes stock bamboo crafts and local spice packets.
- SHG/Cooperative Counters: Look for Panchayat or NGO-backed outlets selling labeled, community-made products.
- Passing via Port Blair: Sagarika Government Emporium outlets in Port Blair offer a wider, certified range if your route includes the capital.
Must-Visit Places in and around Rangat
- Dhaninallah Mangrove Walkway & Beach: A scenic boardwalk through dense mangroves ending at a quiet beach. Great for morning light and birding.
- Amkunj Beach (Eco Park): Driftwood installations, benches, and a long pebbly shoreline. Lovely sunsets.
- Yerrata Mangrove Park & Watchtower: Elevated views over creeks and mangrove canopies.
- Panchavati Waterfall (seasonal): Small cascade in the monsoon/post-monsoon months; check current flow before visiting.
- Moricedera: Rocky shoreline with natural formations; calm, photo-worthy stop.
Local Culture and Food
Rangat’s community is a mix of settlers from mainland India—Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Odia, and Ranchi families—who brought their food traditions to the islands. The result is simple home-style thalis with a coastal twist.
- Try: Fish curry thali, crab masala, prawn fry, banana flower curry, daal-chawal, dosa-idli breakfasts, and bakery puffs.
- Drinks: Tender coconut, lemon soda, seasonal fruit juices.
- Dining vibe: Local eateries close early; plan dinners before 9 pm.
Nearby Getaways
- Long Island: Accessed by local ferry from Rangat region; launch point for Lalaji Bay and Merk Bay boat trips (conditions and permits apply).
- Baratang: Limestone caves and mud volcano (south of Rangat along the ATR). Often visited en route to/from Port Blair.
- Diglipur: Further north for Ross & Smith twin islands and Saddle Peak treks.
How to Reach Rangat
- By Road (ATR): 6.5–9 hours from Port Blair via the Andaman Trunk Road, with regulated crossings through protected areas. Shared buses and private cabs operate; timings can change.
- By Ferry: Inter-island ferries connect Port Blair, Rangat, Long Island, and other ports on select days. Seats are limited; check schedules locally and book early.
- By Air/Seaplane: No commercial airport in Rangat. All flights land in Port Blair.
Accommodation Options
- Government Tourist Lodges: Limited rooms in and around Rangat (e.g., tourism-run lodges; availability varies).
- Guesthouses near Rangat Bazaar: Budget and mid-range rooms with basic amenities and easy market access.
- Eco Huts: Simple stays near beaches like Amkunj/Dhaninallah; great for quiet mornings and walks.
Estimated Costs
- Souvenirs: Small trinkets ₹100–₹400; coconut/cane decor ₹300–₹1,500; spice packs (100–250g) ₹120–₹600; honey (250–500g) ₹250–₹600.
- Meals: Local thali ₹150–₹300; seafood dishes ₹250–₹600.
- Transport: Port Blair–Rangat bus ₹300–₹700; private cab one-way ₹6,000–₹9,500 (vehicle type/season); local ferries ₹100–₹600 per leg.
- Stays: Budget ₹1,000–₹2,000; mid-range ₹2,000–₹4,000 per night.
- Daily budget (per person): Backpacker ₹1,500–₹3,000; Comfort ₹3,000–₹6,000.
Shopping and Ethical Guidelines
- Legal essentials: Do not buy or carry coral, sea fans, turtle-shell items, or beach-collected shells. These are protected under Indian law.
- Receipts matter: Purchase only from authorized shops/SHGs and keep bills for all souvenirs.
- Airport rules: Sand, live or dead coral, and large shells are typically disallowed. Sealed spices and labeled honey are usually fine.
- Respect communities: Do not engage in any trade linked to protected tribes or restricted areas.
- Sustainability: Prefer plant-based crafts (coconut, bamboo, cane), cloth totes, and long-lasting items.
Tips for Travelers
General Tips
- Best months: November to April for calm seas and dry days.
- Cash and connectivity: Carry enough cash; ATMs exist but can run out; mobile data may be patchy.
- Market hours: Most shops close early evening; shop before dinner time.
- Weather: Humid year-round; sudden showers possible—carry a light rain jacket.
For Families
- Choose stays near Rangat Bazaar for easier meals and essentials.
- Pick lightweight souvenirs (bamboo coasters, small spice packets).
- Walkways like Dhaninallah are stroller-friendly but bring a sun hat and water.
For Honeymooners
- Time sunset at Amkunj Beach; shop for a matching set of coconut-shell bowls as a keepsake.
- Opt for quieter eco stays; confirm power backup and hot water.
For Friends/Backpackers
- Use local buses and shared jeeps to save costs.
- Hunt for SHG pop-ups near eco sites; haggle politely.
- Pack foldable duffel to carry extra souvenirs on the way back.
Packing Checklist
- Reusable tote bags, zip pouches, bubble wrap.
- Sun protection: hat, SPF 50+, sunglasses.
- Insect repellent, basic meds, ORS.
- Portable power bank; offline maps.
Safety Notes
- Swim only where allowed; currents can be strong.
- Respect signages on the ATR and protected zones; photography may be restricted in certain stretches.
Suggested 1–2 Day Souvenir-Focused Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive and Explore
- Arrive by ATR bus/cab; check in near Rangat Bazaar.
- Evening at Amkunj Beach Eco Park for sunset.
- Shop in Rangat Bazaar: pick up spices, bamboo coasters, coconut-shell keychains.
Day 2: Eco Walks and Handicrafts
- Morning at Dhaninallah Mangrove Walkway; look for SHG stalls near the entrance.
- Head to Yerrata Mangrove Park and watchtower; pause at small vendors.
- Optional: Check ferry timings for Long Island if planning an extra day.
FAQs about Souvenirs from Rangat, Andaman
Q: What are the best souvenirs to buy in Rangat?
A: Coconut-shell crafts, cane/bamboo weaves, locally packed spices (pepper, clove, cinnamon), and labeled island honey are top choices.
Q: Are sea shells and corals allowed in my luggage?
A: Coral, sea fans, and turtle-shell items are prohibited. Avoid beach-collected shells. If you buy small shell items from authorized shops, keep the receipt; final decision rests with airport security.
Q: Where can I find authentic, ethical crafts?
A: Look in Rangat Bazaar for SHG/cooperative counters and seasonal stalls at eco-sites like Dhaninallah. If you pass through Port Blair, Sagarika Government Emporium outlets stock certified items.
Q: What is a reasonable budget for souvenirs?
A: ₹800–₹2,500 per person buys a mix of small crafts, spices, and honey. Larger decor items may cost more.
Q: Do shops accept cards or UPI?
A: Many small vendors prefer cash. UPI is increasingly accepted but data can be spotty—carry cash as backup.
Conclusion
Rangat’s souvenirs are modest, meaningful, and mindful—crafted from coconut shell, bamboo, and island-grown produce. Shop in the bazaar and eco-site stalls, keep receipts, and avoid restricted items. Between mangrove walks and quiet beaches, you’ll find simple keepsakes that carry the spirit of the Middle Andamans home with you.
