Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Importance of Long Island
- Best Time to Visit
- How to Reach Long Island (Andaman)
- Sustainable Resorts and Eco-Stays on Long Island
- Top Things to Do on Long Island
- Nearby Attractions and Islands
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Estimated Costs and Sample Budgets
- Travel Tips and Responsible Travel Guidelines
- Tips for Families, Honeymooners, and Friends
- FAQs: Sustainable Resorts in Long Island Andaman
- Conclusion
Introduction
Long Island in the Andaman archipelago is an offbeat gem famous for its old-growth forests, tranquil villages, and the dreamy Lalaji Bay. If you’re searching for sustainable resorts in Long Island Andaman, expect rustic eco-lodges, homestays powered by solar, and community-run stays that keep footprints light and experiences authentic. This guide blends on-the-ground practicality with responsible-travel insight to help you plan a low-impact escape.
History and Importance of Long Island
Long Island sits between Middle and North Andaman, historically linked to forestry and small-scale settlement. Over time, logging declined and eco-tourism grew, with the island becoming a base for boat trips to pristine beaches and uninhabited islets like Guitar Island and North Passage Island (Merk Bay). Its importance today lies in biodiversity—mangroves, fringing reefs, and nesting shores—and in demonstrating slow, community-centered tourism away from the Andamans’ busier hubs.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak season (October–April): Calm seas, clear water for snorkeling, pleasant treks to Lalaji Bay.
- Shoulder (May, September): Warm, occasional showers, fewer boats; good for solitude.
- Monsoon (June–August): Rough seas, frequent rain; some ferries/boat trips may be canceled.
How to Reach Long Island (Andaman)
From Port Blair
- By road + ferry via Rangat (most reliable): Bus/shared cab to Rangat (6–7 hours), then local ferry/speedboat from Yerrata Jetty to Long Island (45–90 minutes).
- By inter-island ferry: Limited services may connect Port Blair/Rangat to Long Island directly. Schedules change—check locally a day or two in advance.
From Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) or Neil (Shaheed Dweep)
- No routine direct services. Travel via Rangat or Port Blair, then onward ferry to Long Island.
Essential Notes
- Ferry schedules are dynamic; buy tickets at counters (Port Blair, Rangat-Yerrata) and reconfirm timings.
- Carry ID; check the latest visitor rules/permits with the Andaman & Nicobar Administration before travel.
- Long Island has limited ATMs and patchy mobile data; carry cash.
Sustainable Resorts and Eco-Stays on Long Island
Expect simple, low-impact accommodation rather than large resorts. The charm here is in minimalism and proximity to nature.
Types of Eco-Friendly Stays You’ll Find
- Community homestays and guesthouses: Family-run, basic rooms, home-cooked meals, solar lighting.
- Eco-huts near beaches/forest edges: Natural materials (bamboo/wood), rainwater collection, limited generator use.
- Government/forest guest houses: Functional rooms managed by local authorities; advance booking is often required on-island or in Rangat.
What Makes a Stay “Sustainable” Here
- Solar power or restricted generator hours to cut diesel use.
- Rainwater harvesting and bucket showers to save fresh water.
- Dry waste segregation; guests often asked to carry back non-biodegradables.
- Locally sourced seafood/produce, minimal plastic, reef-safe practices.
Booking and Availability
- Inventory is small; many places take walk-ins or phone bookings via local contacts in Rangat/Long Island.
- For peak months (Dec–Mar), arrive with flexible dates or confirm availability in Rangat before crossing.
- Names and operators can change; verify current status at Yerrata Jetty ticket office or the local tourism information counter.
Indicative Price Ranges (Per Night)
- Homestays/guesthouses: ₹1,000–₹2,500 (fan, simple ensuite/shared bath).
- Eco-huts/cabins: ₹2,500–₹5,500 (natural builds, limited power, close-to-nature settings).
- Government/forest rest houses: ₹1,000–₹2,000 (book locally; variable amenities).
Note: Rates are indicative and seasonal; confirm inclusions (meals, transfers, taxes) on-site.
Top Things to Do on Long Island
- Trek to Lalaji Bay: A scenic forest trail (approx. 1.5–2 hours on foot) to a powdery white sand beach with turquoise water. Boat transfers may be possible in calm seas.
- Boat trip to Guitar Island & Merk Bay (North Passage Island): Glassy shallows, snorkeling over seagrass and coral patches, and picture-perfect sandspits. Hire licensed boats locally; go with life jackets and a guide.
- Snorkeling and swimming: Choose calm, clear mornings; always follow reef-safe guidelines.
- Village walk: Meet carpenters, boatmen, and home cooks; learn about mangroves and island life.
- Birdwatching: Look for kingfishers, sea eagles, and Andaman drongos at dawn and dusk.
- Stargazing: Minimal light pollution; clear skies outside monsoon can be spectacular.
Nearby Attractions and Islands
- Guitar Island: Uninhabited, shaped like a guitar; ideal for beachcombing and photography.
- North Passage Island (Merk Bay): Calm, shallow waters; popular half-day boat excursion.
- Rangat (mainland base): Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway, Amkunj Beach (eco-park), Curtbert Bay (seasonal turtle sightings).
- Baratang (en route from Port Blair): Limestone caves and mangroves (requires additional logistics and permits).
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Food: Simple, fresh seafood thalis; coconut-rich curries; seasonal fruit. Many stays cook to order—inform dietary needs in advance.
- Shopping: Very limited on Long Island. For handicrafts and spices, shop responsibly in Rangat or Port Blair. Avoid shells/coral products.
- Culture: A mix of settlers from mainland India; islanders are warm and privacy-valuing. Dress modestly in villages; always ask before photographing people.
Estimated Costs and Sample Budgets
- Shoestring (₹2,000–₹3,500 per person/day): Homestay room, local meals, shared boat if available, self-guided hikes.
- Comfort (₹5,000–₹9,000 per person/day): Better eco-hut, guided boat trip to Merk Bay, two restaurant/homestay meals, snorkel rental.
- Activities: Boat to Guitar/Merk Bay ₹2,500–₹5,000 per person (group dependent); guide ₹800–₹1,500; snorkel set ₹300–₹500/day.
- Transport: Port Blair–Rangat bus ₹400–₹800; Yerrata–Long Island ferry ₹50–₹200; speedboat more.
Prices fluctuate by season and group size; check locally for up-to-date quotes.
Travel Tips and Responsible Travel Guidelines
- Cash & connectivity: Carry enough cash; networks are intermittent (BSNL works best).
- Packing: Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, light long sleeves, insect repellent, quick-dry towel, dry bags, headlamp, reusable bottle.
- Safety: Swim only in calm conditions, heed local advice; wear life jackets on boats.
- Waste: Pack out non-biodegradables; refuse single-use plastics; bring a trash bag.
- Wildlife & reefs: No touching corals or marine life; keep distance from nesting turtles.
- Permissions: Boat landings and some areas may have restrictions; follow your licensed boatman/guide.
Tips for Families, Honeymooners, and Friends
Families
- Choose stays near the village for easier meals and quick medical access.
- Plan shorter outings (morning boat trip, afternoon rest); pack snacks and ORS.
Honeymooners
- Opt for eco-huts with privacy and easy trail access to quiet beaches.
- Sunrise/sunset walks and stargazing add romance without extra footprint.
Friends/Small Groups
- Charter a boat together to split costs to Merk Bay/Guitar Island.
- Carry board games/cards—nights are peaceful and offline.
FAQs: Sustainable Resorts in Long Island Andaman
Q: Are there luxury sustainable resorts on Long Island?
A: Long Island focuses on rustic, low-impact lodgings—homestays, eco-huts, and government guest houses. For upscale eco-luxury, base in Swaraj Dweep (Havelock) or Port Blair and visit Long Island on a side trip.
Q: Can I book eco-stays on Long Island online?
A: Online inventory is limited. Most bookings are done by phone or on arrival via local contacts in Rangat/Long Island. Reconfirm availability in peak season.
Q: Is Lalaji Bay open year-round?
A: Yes, but access depends on weather and sea conditions. Monsoon months can limit boat landings and make trails slippery—check locally before setting out.
Q: Do I need a permit to stay on Long Island?
A: Rules can change. Carry valid ID and verify current visitor/boat regulations with the Andaman & Nicobar Administration or local ferry offices before travel.
Q: What sustainable practices should I follow as a guest?
A: Conserve water and power, carry back waste, use reef-safe sunscreen, respect wildlife buffers, and support local services and foods.
Conclusion
Long Island rewards travelers who value simplicity, nature, and community. With eco-minded stays, quiet beaches like Lalaji Bay, and boat trips to pristine islets, it’s an ideal base for slow, responsible exploration in the Andamans. Plan flexibly, travel light, and let the island’s gentle rhythm lead the way.
