Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Importance
- Best Time to Visit for Sunsets
- Top Sunset Points in Rangat
- Nearby Attractions
- How to Reach Rangat
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Trip Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Tips for Different Travelers
- Essential Tips for Sunset Chasers
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Rangat, set in the heart of Middle Andaman, is a quiet gateway to mangroves, rock-studded shores, and creeks that glow amber at dusk. If you’re chasing the best sunsets between Port Blair and Diglipur, Rangat surprises with dramatic silhouettes at Morrice Dera, mirrored skies above Yeratta’s mangroves, and mellow golden hours along eco-developed beaches. This guide pinpoints the best sunset points in Rangat, plus practical travel details to plan your timings, transport, and stay with ease.
History and Importance
Once a modest settlement on the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR), Rangat has evolved into an eco-tourism hub thanks to community and Forest Department initiatives. Facilities such as the Aamkunj Eco Park, the Dhani Nallah Mangrove Boardwalk, and Yeratta Mangrove Viewpoint were developed to showcase fragile coastal and mangrove ecosystems while spreading visitor pressure beyond the south Andamans. Morrice Dera’s intertidal rock formations and the mangrove-fringed creeks around Yeratta offer naturally elevated vantage points that have become local favorites for sunset viewing.
Best Time to Visit for Sunsets
- Season: November to March offers the clearest skies and calm seas. October and April are good shoulder months. The monsoon (June–September) brings cloud and rough seas, with occasional dramatic skies.
- Daily timing: Arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset to scout compositions and stay 15–20 minutes after sunset for pastel afterglow.
- Tides: For rocky shores like Morrice Dera, a mid to low tide often reveals textures and safe footing. High tide can restrict access.
- Wildlife windows: Turtle nesting at Curtbert Bay typically peaks December–February; follow all night-time and light-use restrictions.
Top Sunset Points in Rangat
1) Morrice Dera Beach (Best for classic west-facing sunsets)
Why go: Rugged black rock formations and a wooden bridge to a tiny islet create striking silhouettes against fiery skies.
Orientation: Generally west-facing, offering direct sunset views.
Where: About 10–12 km from Rangat town on the ATR towards Mayabunder.
What to expect: Simple shelters, benches, photo-friendly rock pools at lower tides, and limited shops near the parking area.
Photo tips: Frame the “twin rocks” at mid tide; use a tripod for 1–2 second exposures to smooth the water; carry a headlamp for the walk back.
Safety: No lifeguards; avoid slippery rocks and large swells.
2) Yeratta Mangrove Viewpoint Tower (Sunset over creeks)
Why go: A watchtower provides panoramic views of mangrove creeks that reflect sunset colors beautifully.
Where: Yeratta area, roughly 8–10 km from Rangat; well signposted.
What to expect: Boardwalks, interpretive signboards, and a quiet setting ideal for birding and slow, reflective photos.
Photo tips: Use a polarizer for glare; telephoto lenses capture birds at golden hour.
Note: Mosquitoes are active at dusk—bring repellent.
3) Aamkunj (Amkunj) Eco Beach (Golden hour glow)
Why go: Driftwood art, eco-benches, and a tidy shore make this a pleasant late-afternoon stop. While the beach often faces more towards the open sea with softer evening light rather than direct sun-drops, skies can turn pastel after sunset.
Where: About 6–8 km south of Rangat on the ATR.
What to expect: Eco-park seating, basic snack stalls in season, and easy beach access.
4) Dhani Nallah Mangrove Boardwalk + Beach (Soft light and silhouettes)
Why go: A scenic wooden boardwalk through mangroves opens onto a quiet shore. Best for late-afternoon light, silhouettes, and long-exposure seascapes.
Where: Roughly 15–20 minutes from Rangat towards Betapur.
Tip: Start the walk well before sunset and aim to leave the boardwalk before full dark, as lighting is limited.
5) Curtbert Bay Beach (Turtle zone—visit responsibly)
Why go: Known for seasonal turtle nesting; sunsets can be atmospheric over open water.
Where: Around 10–12 km from Rangat.
Important: Follow Forest Department guidance; avoid bright lights and flash photography. Night access may be restricted or guided during nesting season.
6) Rangat Bay Waterfront/Jetty (Convenient in-town option)
Why go: For travelers staying in Rangat town, the bayfront offers quick sunset colors with fishing boats and quiet water as foreground.
Note: Facilities vary; carry water and a torch if you plan to linger.
Nearby Attractions
- Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway: Educational boards, serene boardwalk, and a calm beach.
- Aamkunj Eco Park: Family-friendly with driftwood art and seating.
- Panchavati Waterfall (seasonal): Best during/just after monsoon; check local conditions.
- Yeratta Jetty for Long Island: Boats to Long Island; from there, day trips to Lalaji Bay (requires planning).
- Curtbert Bay Turtle Sanctuary: Seasonal guided turtle watching.
- Mayabunder (day trip): Karmatang Beach and mangrove creeks, roughly 1.5–2 hours by road.
How to Reach Rangat
From Port Blair
- By road (most common): 170–180 km via the Andaman Trunk Road (6–8 hours, depending on ferry crossings and checks). You will cross creeks on vehicle ferries (e.g., Middle Strait), observe speed limits, and pass protected reserve stretches—no photography or stopping in restricted zones.
- By government ferry (limited schedules): Occasional inter-island ferries connect Port Blair with jetties in Middle Andaman (and onward to Rangat/Long Island). Seats are limited; check latest schedules at the DSS ticket counters in Port Blair.
From Havelock/Neil
- By ferry (indirect): Seasonal government ferries may run to Long Island; from there arrange a local boat/road transfer to Rangat. Connections are not daily—verify before planning.
From Mayabunder/Diglipur
- By road: Frequent public buses and taxis connect northwards. Mayabunder to Rangat takes about 1.5–2 hours; Diglipur to Rangat around 4–5 hours.
Local Transport in Rangat
- Public buses ply the ATR; auto-rickshaws serve short hops.
- Day-hire cars are practical for combining multiple sunset points.
- Limited scooter rentals may be available; confirm fuel availability and return times.
Accommodation Options
- Budget guesthouses (Rangat Bazaar): Simple rooms, walkable to eateries. Typical range: INR 800–2,000 per night.
- Mid-range hotels: Larger rooms, on-site dining, easy ATR access. Typical range: INR 2,500–4,500 per night.
- Eco-resorts/forest rest houses (in surrounding areas): Green settings near mangroves or countryside, limited inventory. Typical range: INR 3,500–7,000+ per night. Book early in winter season.
Note: Accommodation stock is modest compared with Port Blair/Havelock. Always reconfirm power backup, hot water, and meal options.
Estimated Trip Costs
- Port Blair to Rangat by bus: INR 300–800 per person (non-AC to AC), one way.
- Shared cab/day-hire car: INR 1,200–1,800 per person in a shared vehicle, or INR 5,500–8,500 for a private full-day car depending on season and route.
- Local taxis/auto-rickshaws around Rangat: INR 100–300 for short hops; INR 1,800–3,500 for half/full-day circuits.
- Boat to Long Island (from nearby jetty): Approximately INR 200–500 per person (schedules vary; confirm locally).
- Entry/parking at eco-sites: Typically INR 10–50 per person/vehicle when applicable.
- Meals: INR 200–450 per person per meal at local eateries; seafood platters higher.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Try island-style fish curry, fried snapper, crab masala, and prawn dishes.
- Vegetarian thalis with dal, seasonal veg, and rice are widely available.
- Tea stalls and bakeries serve snacks perfect for pre-sunset picnics.
Shopping
- Small markets in Rangat Bazaar sell spices, areca nut, coconut products, and basic travel supplies.
- Avoid buying corals, shells, or turtle products—these are protected by law.
Culture
- Rangat reflects a mix of settler communities from mainland India; Hindi and Bengali are commonly spoken, with Tamil and other languages heard.
- Respect local norms, especially around protected reserves; do not stop or photograph inside tribal reserve corridors on the ATR.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families
- Choose well-laid sites like Aamkunj Eco Park and Yeratta Viewpoint for seating and easier access.
- Carry snacks, water, wet wipes, and insect repellent for evening outings.
- Plan to leave rocky areas like Morrice Dera before full dark.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Time a golden-hour stroll at Dhani Nallah and the sunset drop at Morrice Dera for romantic photos.
- Hire a private car for flexible timing and no rush between points.
- Pack a light shawl—breezes can feel cool after sundown.
Friends/Backpackers
- Use public buses for budget travel; confirm last-bus timings back to Rangat.
- Wild camping on beaches is not encouraged; ask local authorities about any permissions.
- Bring a dry bag, headlamp, and power bank for long photo sessions.
Essential Tips for Sunset Chasers
- Check tides and weather: Mid/low tide improves access at rocky shores; cloud edges often make the best color.
- Light etiquette: No flash or bright lamps near turtle nesting zones (Curtbert Bay); follow ranger instructions.
- Footwear: Closed-toe sandals or amphibious shoes grip better on algae-coated rocks.
- Timing cushion: Arrive early, scout compositions, and stay for afterglow 10–20 minutes post-sunset.
- Leave no trace: Pack out all litter; avoid trampling mangrove roots or fragile tide pools.
FAQs
Q: Which is the best place to watch sunset in Rangat?
A: Morrice Dera Beach is the top pick thanks to its west-facing vantage, dramatic black rocks, and an easy walk to viewpoints.
Q: Are Rangat’s beaches better for sunrise or sunset?
A: You can do both. West-leaning spots like Morrice Dera shine at sunset, while several east/open-coast beaches around Rangat offer dreamy sunrise and late-afternoon light. Yeratta’s mangroves work beautifully for sunset reflections.
Q: Do I need a permit to visit these sunset points?
A: No special permits are needed for standard viewpoints. However, you must follow ATR rules when transiting protected zones, and turtle nesting sites may have seasonal restrictions and guided access after dark.
Q: What time should I arrive for the best colors?
A: Be there 30–45 minutes before the listed sunset time. In the Andamans, sunsets generally occur between about 5:00–6:00 pm depending on the season; check local timings on the day.
Q: Is it safe to stay after dark?
A: Sites are generally quiet with limited lighting. Carry a torch, watch your footing on rocks, avoid isolated areas, and arrange your return transport in advance.
Conclusion
Rangat’s sunsets are unhurried and elemental: mangrove creeks turning to mirrors, rock bridges sketching dark lines across a glowing sea, and soft evening breezes on low-key beaches. With Morrice Dera’s classic west-facing views, Yeratta’s reflective panoramas, and easy golden-hour stops at Aamkunj and Dhani Nallah, you can plan a relaxed evening circuit backed by practical connections, simple stays, and local flavors. Time your visit for clear winter skies, respect the coastline’s wildlife, and let Rangat’s quiet horizons do the rest.
