Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do
- Nearby Attractions
- How to Reach
- Where to Stay
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Travel Tips
- Tips by Traveler Type
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Under starry Middle Andaman skies, the quiet sands of Cuthbert Bay transform into a living classroom of nature. Here, Olive Ridley, Leatherback, and Hawksbill turtles return to nest, continuing a cycle that has unfolded for millennia. If you’ve dreamed of witnessing turtle nesting responsibly and up close, Cuthbert Bay—near Rangat in the Andaman Islands—offers one of the archipelago’s most reliable and conservation-focused experiences.
History & Importance
Cuthbert Bay is part of a notified wildlife sanctuary on the east coast of Middle Andaman. The protected beach and nearshore waters are crucial for the nesting and hatching of endangered sea turtles in the Indian Ocean. Seasonal hatcheries managed by the Forest Department safeguard eggs from predation and erosion, while guided night watches balance visitor interest with strict wildlife ethics.
Why it matters:
- Key rookery for Olive Ridley turtles; Leatherbacks and Hawksbills are also recorded.
- Supports community-based conservation and eco-education in the Rangat region.
- Contributes to broader Indian Ocean turtle conservation corridors.
Best Time to Visit
For turtle nesting and hatchling releases, plan between December and March, with higher nesting activity often observed from January to February. Hatchling releases typically occur early mornings during peak season.
- Peak nesting: January–February (varies year to year).
- Shoulder months: December and March (good chances for sightings).
- Weather: Pleasant, less humid, calmer seas; monsoon (May–September) is unsuitable.
- Pro tip: Dark, calm nights around the new moon can see more crawls, but nature is never guaranteed.
Top Things to Do
1) Guided Night Turtle Watch
Join Forest Department-guided sessions to observe nesting from a respectful distance. No white lights or flash; red-filtered torches only.
2) Dawn Hatchling Release
In peak season, you may witness hatchlings being released at first light—a powerful and educational moment.
3) Track & Trail Beach Walk
Learn to read “crawl” tracks, nest pits, and false crawls with a trained guide to understand turtle behavior.
4) Seasonal Hatchery Visit
See conservation work in action at the Forest Department’s seasonal hatchery (when operational) and learn about protective practices.
5) Birding & Mangrove Edges
Scan the shoreline and nearby mangroves for kingfishers, herons, and shorebirds. Early mornings are best.
6) Stargazing on Clear Nights
On moonless nights, the Milky Way can be vivid—just remember to keep the beach dark and quiet for turtles.
Nearby Attractions
- Dhanni Nallah Mangrove Walkway (near Rangat): A scenic boardwalk through mangroves, great for nature photography.
- Amkunj Beach Eco Park: Driftwood artworks, eco-huts, and a quiet shoreline for sunset.
- Yeratta Mangrove Park & Long Island Access: Learn about mangrove species; boats to Long Island depart from nearby jetties (check schedules).
- Moricedera & Raman Bageecha Beaches: Untouristed stretches ideal for picnics and tide-pool spotting.
- Baratang (en route from Port Blair): Limestone Caves and Mud Volcano can be combined on a transit day.
How to Reach
Base: Rangat, Middle Andaman
- By Road from Port Blair: ~170–190 km via Andaman Trunk Road (ATR), 6–8 hours with vehicle-ferry crossings. Government and private buses run daily; private cabs are faster and costlier.
- By Sea: Inter-island ferries sometimes connect Port Blair, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), Long Island, and Rangat. Timings vary; check the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) schedule locally.
- Local Transfer to Cuthbert Bay: From Rangat town, the sanctuary/beach is roughly 12–15 km. Hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi; arrange return pickup if visiting at night.
Important: The ATR passes through protected tribal reserves. No halts, photography, or interaction is permitted within reserve areas.
Where to Stay
Base yourself in and around Rangat for access to Cuthbert Bay.
- Hawksbill Nest (Rangat): Tourism-run lodging; simple and convenient when available.
- Budget–Midrange Hotels in Rangat: Options such as local guesthouses and small hotels (e.g., near main market) with basic amenities.
- Forest Rest Houses: Limited, may require advance permission; availability varies.
Book early for January–February. Expect simple facilities; hot water and reliable Wi‑Fi are not guaranteed.
Estimated Costs
- Transport (one-way, Port Blair → Rangat): Government bus INR 400–800; private cab INR 6,000–8,500; shared cabs vary by season.
- Local Transfer (Rangat ↔ Cuthbert Bay): INR 300–700 by auto/taxi; higher at night.
- Guided Turtle Watch/Permit: Often nominal per person; guide/camera fees may apply. Check locally (INR 100–500 typical).
- Stay (per night, double): Budget INR 1,200–3,000; midrange INR 3,000–6,000.
- Meals: Thali at local eateries INR 150–300; seafood dishes higher.
Note: Prices vary by season and availability.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Try fish thali, prawn masala, crab curry, and simple coconut-based preparations at Rangat’s local eateries.
- Carry snacks and water for night visits; facilities near the beach are limited.
Shopping
- Small markets in Rangat sell daily essentials. Souvenirs are limited.
- Avoid buying shells, coral, or turtle-related curios—collection and trade are illegal.
Culture
- Rangat reflects a mix of settler communities from mainland India. Be respectful of local customs and conservation rules.
- Transit through tribal reserve zones is strictly regulated; there is no cultural tourism or interaction permitted.
Travel Tips
Permits & Ethics
- Night visits are typically supervised by the Forest Department. Enquire at the Range Office in Rangat for current procedures.
- Foreign nationals require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), usually issued on arrival at Port Blair; confirm latest rules before travel.
- No flash photography, no white lights, no touching turtles or hatchlings. Keep a 10 m distance and stay behind the nesting turtle’s line of sight.
Packing List
- Headlamp with red filter or red gel; extra batteries.
- Dark, non-reflective clothing; light windproof layer.
- Insect repellent, quick-dry footwear or sandals, small dry bag.
- Reusable water bottle, light snacks, personal medicines.
Safety & Practicalities
- Mobile coverage is patchy; BSNL/Airtel work best, but don’t rely on data.
- Do not swim at night; currents and visibility are poor.
- Leave no trace—carry back all plastic and litter.
Tips by Traveler Type
Families
- Opt for early evening/early morning guided slots; brief kids on silence and red-light use.
- Bring snacks, extra layers, and a simple field notebook for an educational experience.
Honeymooners
- Choose quieter weekdays in peak season for a more intimate stargazing and turtle-watch experience.
- Stay in Rangat near the coast for early starts and late returns.
Friends/Small Groups
- Coordinate private transfers for night visits and combine with Dhanni Nallah or Long Island for a nature-focused itinerary.
- Share a red-light torch and rotate spotting to minimize movement and noise on the beach.
FAQs
Q: When is the turtle nesting season at Cuthbert Bay?
A: December to March is the primary season, with peak nesting often in January and February. Hatchling releases commonly happen at dawn during these months.
Q: Do I need a permit or guide to watch turtles?
A: Night visits are typically allowed only with Forest Department supervision. Enquire at the Rangat Range Office for current rules, timings, and any applicable fees. Foreign nationals should also carry a valid Restricted Area Permit.
Q: Can I take photos or videos?
A: Only without flash and with red-filtered lights. Keep a respectful distance and follow your guide’s instructions. If camera fees apply, pay them at the designated counter.
Q: Where should I stay for turtle watching?
A: Base yourself in Rangat. Options include the Tourism-run Hawksbill Nest (when available) and simple local hotels/guesthouses. Book early for January–February.
Q: Is Cuthbert Bay suitable for children and seniors?
A: Yes, with care. The beach approach is sandy and unlit at night; walk slowly, use red lights, and avoid long distances. Always follow the guide’s safety instructions.
Conclusion
Cuthbert Bay’s quiet shoreline offers one of the Andamans’ most authentic wildlife spectacles: endangered sea turtles nesting and hatchlings racing to the sea. Time your visit for the December–March window, stay in Rangat for easy access, and join a guided, low-impact night watch. With patience and respect for conservation rules, you’ll leave with a deeper connection to the islands’ wild heart and a memory that lasts well beyond the season.
