Rangat Island, Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Rangat Island is located in the Middle and South Andaman Islands. The approximate distance from Port Blair by road is 180 Kms, and it is 50 nautical miles (around 90kms) by sea. Rangat has an area of about 1070 sq. km. Even though the population of this island comprises people belonging to various linguistic groups, the residents of this island are mainly noticed speaking Bengali or Tamil. The people in Rangat island are primarily engaged in fishing and cultivation as their primary occupation.

How To Reach Rangat By Road

To visit any island, you have to enter through Port Blair (VSI Airport). The first and the most economical option to reach Rangat from Port Blair is by buses.

Government Bus To Rangat From Port Blair

You can reach Rangat by Government-operated bus that departs from Port Blair at different timings. The preferred one is around 4:30 AM. It takes around 8 hours to reach Rangat from Port Blair by bus. The bus will pass through Andaman Grand Trunk Road and reach the Public Bus stand at Rangat.

Buses run by Private Sector To Rangat From Port Blair

Private buses also operate from Port Blair, departing at similar times. Both Air-conditioned and Non-Air-conditioned options are available. The journey takes around 8 hours.

Private Cab To Rangat Via Baratang

The second option to reach Rangat is by hiring a private vehicle from Port Blair. This option is best for those who are on a fixed schedule and prefer pre-booking everything.

How To Reach Rangat By Ferry

The third option is to take a Government Ferry from Port Blair to Rangat. The journey takes 5-6 hours. The ferry stops at Neil Island and Havelock Island before reaching Rangat.

What To Expect while Visiting Rangat

Rangat is a true example of an eco-tourism initiative in Andamans. It acts as a transit point while one travels to North Andamans from Port Blair. Rangat has picturesque beaches, turtle nesting grounds, waterfalls, and a unique mangrove ecosystem.

Top Places To Visit in Rangat

• Morice Dera Beach - Famous for its twin rocks and viewpoint.
• Ambkunj Beach - Located 8 kms from Rangat. Good for photography.
• Dhaninallah Mangrove Walkway - A 1 km long natural walkway amidst mangroves.
• Yerrata Creek - Known for its rich mangrove plantation.
• Raman Bageecha - A clean beach ideal for swimming.
• Panchavati Hills - Known for its waterfalls, best visited during the monsoon.

Accommodation at Rangat Island

Accommodation options include Hotel Ross and Smith, Eden Garden, and Priya International. All are decent for short stays. Pre-booking is recommended.

Food Options in Rangat Island

Small eateries and local restaurants serve good food at reasonable prices. South Indian-run hotels are common, offering a decent selection of food.

Suggested Itinerary to Rangat

• Day 1: Start from Port Blair to Baratang, visit Limestone Caves and Mud Volcano, travel to Rangat, and visit Raman Bageecha.
• Day 2: Visit Ambkunj Beach, Morrice Dera, and Dhanni Nalah Mangrove Walkway. Return to Port Blair via Baratang or move to Diglipur.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How many days are required to visit Rangat? Two days are recommended to visit all attractions.
• What are the major places to see at Rangat? Dhanni Nalah Mangrove walkway, Morrice Dera Beach, Yerrata Jetty, Amkunj Beach, Raman Bageecha, and Curtbert Bay.
• Can Rangat be visited as a day trip? Yes, it can be visited as a day trip en route to North Andaman Islands.
• How to reach Rangat? Bus or private cabs are the most preferred options, with government ferries as an alternative.