About Rangat Island

Venture off the beaten path and discover Rangat Island - an unspoiled jewel nestled in the heart of the Andaman archipelago. This island captivates its visitors with a rich offering of turquoise waters, white sand beaches, lush mangrove forests, and a vibrant blend of local cultures. Despite being relatively lesser known, Rangat Island guarantees an unforgettable experience of untouched natural beauty and tranquil serenity. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or a wanderer seeking solitude, Rangat Island has something to offer for every discerning traveller. 

So, pack your adventurous spirit as we journey through this hidden gem.

Why should you go to Rangat Island

Rangat Island is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. You can walk along the unique Dhani Nallah Mangrove Nature Walkway, watch turtles nesting at Cuthbert Bay Beach, or capture panoramic views from Moorys Dare. For thrill-seekers, Rangat presents ample opportunities, be it trekking up the Panchavati Hills or exploring the island's underwater coral world.

The island's multicultural communities offer a delightful introduction to a blend of traditions, customs, and food. Savouring the local cuisine, with its fusion of Tamil, Kerala, and Bengali influences, is a gastronomical adventure in itself.

At the heart of Rangat's charm is its commitment to sustainable tourism. It's a place that nurtures its ecology and values its local communities. By choosing to visit Rangat Island, you become part of this ecological journey, contributing to the preservation of a unique ecosystem while experiencing unparalleled beauty. In essence, Rangat Island is more than just a destination; it's a serene sanctuary where you can reconnect with nature and discover a different pace of life.

Places to visit in Rangat Island

Rangat Island is abounding with natural attractions that are nothing short of breathtaking. Here's a closer look at some must-visit spots on the island.

Amkunj Beach: Amkunj Beach is a charming coastal spot that showcases the mesmerising beauty of Rangat. This grey pebbled beach is famous for its eco-friendly infrastructures like log sofas and log teapoys. You can indulge in a calming stroll along the beach, lounge on the pebbled shore while soaking up the sun, or admire the shimmering colours of the sunset painting the sky. If you're lucky, you might also witness the awe-inspiring sight of turtles nesting.

Dhani Nallah Mangrove Nature Walkway: This 713-meter-long walkway, the longest of its kind in India, offers a unique exploration experience. This wooden pathway takes you on a stunning journey through Rangat's dense mangrove forest. As you walk, you'll hear the sounds of birds chirping, leaves rustling in the breeze, and the quiet splash of water against the tree roots. A walk here is a refreshing opportunity to connect with nature.

Cuthbert Bay Beach: This pristine sandy beach is a significant nesting ground for turtles, mainly the Olive Ridley and Leatherback turtles. If you time your visit between December and February, you can witness the rare and magnificent sight of turtles laying eggs. It’s a humbling experience to observe these gentle creatures participating in the cycle of life.

Moorys Dare: This is a popular viewpoint located amidst the scenic beauty of Rangat. The spot, named after a British colonial officer, is known for offering panoramic views of the sea and lush island landscapes. The site is perfect for photography, bird-watching, and simply revelling in the serene surroundings.

Yerrata Jetty: It's a launching pad for venturing into the sea, and also for enjoying the beautiful sunrise and sunset views. The jetty is a doorway to the creeks inhabited by stunning marine life, including an array of colourful fish and sprawling coral reefs. You can hire a boat and explore the mangrove-lined creeks for an adventurous escapade.

Panchavati Hills: If you love hiking, a trip to Panchavati Hills is a must. These lush, green hills are ideal for a day of exploration. The trek will lead you through a path filled with rich flora and fauna. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with a spectacular view of the island and the surrounding waters.

Things to do in Rangat Island

Rangat Island offers an enchanting blend of unspoiled natural beauty, cultural diversity, and a tranquil ambience. Going to Rangat Island is not just a travel choice; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in an awe-inspiring retreat away from the city's chaos. Let’s find out what are the best things you can do on your visit to Rangat Island. 

Explore the Beaches: Rangat Island boasts several breathtakingly beautiful beaches like Amkunj Beach and Cuthbert Bay Beach. Spend a day lazing around, building sand castles, taking a dip in the ocean, or simply enjoying the stunning sunset views.

Walk the Mangrove Walkway: The Dhani Nallah Mangrove Nature Walkway offers a unique exploration experience. This wooden pathway takes you on a journey through Rangat's dense mangrove forest, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the surroundings.

Turtle Watching: If you time your visit between December and February, you can witness the rare and magnificent sight of turtles laying eggs at Cuthbert Bay Beach. It’s a humbling experience to observe these gentle creatures participating in the cycle of life.

Explore Marine Life: The island's clear waters and abundant marine life make it an ideal spot for snorkelling and scuba diving. Witness the vibrantly coloured corals and a wide variety of fish as you swim through the island's underwater world.

Hiking: Trek up the Panchavati Hills and be rewarded with a panoramic view of the island and the surrounding sea. This lush, green pat1h is perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Boating: Experience the island's marine life up close by taking a boat ride through the mangrove creeks. It's a calming experience that allows you to appreciate the island's unique biodiversity.

Try Local Cuisine: The island's cuisine, with its unique fusion of Tamil, Kerala, and Bengali influences, is a gastronomic adventure. Make sure to try some local delicacies at the small eateries scattered across the island.

What kind of accommodation can you find in Rangat Island?

Rangat Island offers a wide array of accommodations to cater to every kind of traveller. Whether you are seeking luxurious comfort, an eco-friendly abode, or an authentic home experience, Rangat has something for everyone.

Eco-friendly stays: In line with the island's commitment to sustainable tourism, there are some eco-friendly huts available for stay. These huts, built with locally sourced materials, offer basic amenities while minimising the impact on the environment. Staying in these huts is an excellent opportunity to experience the island's natural charm up close.

Luxury Resorts: If you are seeking more comfort and luxury, there are some decent resorts on Rangat Island. These resorts offer premium accommodations complete with modern amenities, private beaches, spa facilities, and more. Some of these include dining facilities where you can savour local and international cuisines while overlooking the stunning views of the ocean.

Budget Hotels: If you are travelling on a budget, fret not. Rangat Island hosts numerous budget hotels and guest houses that provide comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank. These hotels offer essential facilities like clean rooms, dining options, and helpful staff to guide your local sightseeing.

Homestays: For a truly immersive experience, consider staying in a local homestay. Here, you'll have the chance to live with a local family and experience their way of life. It's a wonderful way to understand the island's culture while enjoying home-cooked meals and warm hospitality.

How to reach Rangat Island

The journey to Rangat Island is a memorable experience, as the route passes through breathtaking seascapes and untouched islands.

1. By Air: Your first step towards Rangat Island starts with reaching Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair is well connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bangalore. There are regular flights from these cities to Port Blair. Some of the prominent airlines servicing this route include Air India, SpiceJet, and IndiGo. After landing in Port Blair, you need to take a road or sea journey to Rangat Island.
2. By Road: From Port Blair, the most common way to reach Rangat Island is by road. The journey usually takes around six to seven hours. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Port Blair's central bus stand. The road trip is a visual delight, as the route passes through the lush green landscape, dotted with small villages, rolling hills, and expansive views of the sea. On your way, you will cross the Middle Strait via a vehicle ferry, adding an extra layer of adventure to your journey.
3. By Sea: For those who prefer a more thrilling route, there is an option to reach Rangat by sea. The government operates ferry services from Port Blair to Rangat, though the service isn't daily, so you'll need to check the schedule in advance. The journey can take around four to six hours depending on the weather and sea conditions. En route, you get to enjoy the captivating views of the Andaman Sea and might even catch sight of dolphins or other marine life.
   
   
   

Cost of visiting Rangant Island

Estimating the cost of visiting Rangat Island can be complex, as it significantly depends on individual preferences, lifestyle, and the choices made during the trip. However, here's a general guide to help you plan your allocation.

Transportation: The first major cost involves reaching Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, from mainland India. Once in Port Blair, a taxi to Rangat Island will cost around INR 3,500 to INR 5,000 for a one-way journey. Bus fares are significantly cheaper, usually around INR 150 to INR 300 per person. Opting for the ferry service could cost anywhere between INR 200 to INR 500 per person.

Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Rangat Island varies depending on the type of stay you choose. Budget hotels can cost around INR 1,000 to INR 2,500 per night, while luxury resorts may charge upwards of INR 5,000 per night. Eco-friendly huts and homestays can range between INR 1,000 to INR 3,000 per night.

Food & Beverages: Food costs are relatively modest in Rangat Island. You can expect to spend approximately INR 500 to INR 1,000 per day on meals, depending on whether you're eating at your hotel, local restaurants, or street food stalls.

Sightseeing & Activities: Most natural attractions in Rangat Island are free to visit. However, specific activities like guided tours, boat rides, or equipment rentals for snorkelling may incur additional costs.

Everything you need to know about Rangat Island FAQs

1. How can I reach Rangat Island?

   Answer: You first need to reach Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, by flight. From there, Rangat Island can be reached by road or sea. The road trip, by bus or taxi, takes around 6-7 hours. The sea journey, via government-operated ferries, varies depending on the weather and sea conditions.

2. What is the best time to visit Rangat Island?

   Answer: The ideal time to visit Rangat Island is during the cooler months between November and April. However, if you want to witness turtle nesting, plan your visit between December and February.

3. Are there any accommodation facilities on Rangat Island?

   Answer: Yes, Rangat Island offers a variety of accommodation options to cater to different budgets and preferences. These range from eco-friendly huts and budget hotels to luxury resorts and homestays.

4. What are some must-visit attractions on Rangat Island?

   Answer: Key attractions in Rangat Island include Amkunj Beach, Cuthbert Bay Beach, Dhani Nallah Mangrove Nature Walkway, and Moorys Dare. The island is also great for activities such as turtle watching, snorkelling, scuba diving, and trekking.

5. What is the local cuisine like on Rangat Island?

   Answer: The local cuisine in Rangat Island is a fusion of Tamil, Kerala, and Bengali influences. Seafood is a major part of the island's food culture, along with fruits, vegetables, and spices grown locally.

6. Can I rent a car on Rangat Island?

   Answer: Car rental services were not commonly available on the island. Most visitors get around by hiring local taxis or using public transportation.

7. What water sports can I enjoy on Rangat Island?

   Answer: There aren’t many water sports available on Rangat Island. You can try boat riding through the mangrove creeks, which is popular in the island. 

8. Is Rangat Island a good destination for families?

   Answer: Absolutely. Rangat Island offers a variety of attractions and activities suitable for all ages, making it a great destination for family vacations.