Long Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a beautiful, serene destination to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Its flowing green levels, untouched golden beaches, and rich heritage make it a great place to visit. Here’s an elaborate insight into planning your trip to this peaceful Island, including its historical significance, activities to do, places to stay, and how to get there.
The history of Long Island dates back to the early days of British colonisation of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It has always been a habitation for the locals but later developed during colonial times as part of the penal colony system. Over the years, this Island has evolved from a far-flung outpost to a place where people journey to seek peace and a calm environment for recreation and leisure.
History is also reflected in the Island’s preserved, unique cultural heritage and colonial influence. Even during these modern times of beach tourism, Long Island managed to preserve its historical charm and natural beauty.
Long Island boasts some of the finest and most pristine beaches in the Andaman archipelago. Lalaji Bay Beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming, with its emerald blue waters and white sandy beach. Continuing further on, the untouched beauty of Merk Bay Beach will put those seeking peace in a more secluded location.
The coastal waters around Long Island are abundant in marine species. Scuba diving and snorkelling are everyday activities here, and one can view the rich coral reefs and marine life species. The waters are clear, and one can enjoy the view while engaging in this deepwater snorkelling experience.
For outdoor personality types, there are different trekking trails in Long Island, threading through the dark forests. These nature walks give tourists a taste of the natural environs, and many find encounters with the rich flora and fauna quite thrilling.
Interact with the local people and learn about the cultural practices and traditions of the Island. The locals were very warm and welcoming, and it wasn't that difficult to get a glimpse of the traditional lifestyle and culture of the Andamanese people.
A lovely place to stay for an eco-friendly and unconventional traveller. This exclusive resort set around an ancient padauk tree was made out of sustainable things like waste plastic and old tires and is earthquake-proof. It is able to serve a maximum of not more than 25 guests at a time, and hence, this provides for a very intimate and communal feel to the place.
Room facilities are basic and a little old-fashioned. Guests can choose between having an attached bathroom or a bathroom attached to their room. There are also dormitory-style rooms. Room rates are between ₹300 and ₹1500 per night. Perfect for backpackers and solo travellers, Blue Planet offers a different kind of eco-conscious accommodation experience to its visitors. That said, the accommodation is temporarily closed, so please check its status.
This government-run resort is made and maintained considering a budget place. The main source of attraction in this place is its location, which is at Lalaji Bay. The resort keeps one very comfortable; it remains simple without luxury, and one would have a good beachside experience. This place is also likely to be chosen because it would be lit for families or for those who are looking for a more traditional hotel stay than an eco-hut experience.
Tapovan Rest House is another government accommodation on the Island. This is another viable place in town that offers good service for limited facilities in a serene ambience. The rest house’s location also seems comfortable for people travelling around the Island and witnessing its natural bounty.
The Vanashree Forest Rest House is located at the jetty. The accommodation is basic but comfortable. Since it is government property, it is run under the same guidelines—advance booking is a must. Many facilities are functional rather than luxurious to maintain the place’s tradition and natural aspects.
Accommodation in Long Island is generally basic, devoid of high-end luxurious facilities. Tourists should be prepared to spend simple, eco-friendly holidays that concentrate more on comfort and sustainability rather than lavishness.
Reaching Long Island requires a little bit of planning since it is not directly accessible by air. Latterly, the mainstream route goes through landing at Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. From Port Blair, one can take a further ride on a ferry to Rangat, the nearest central town to Long Island. From here, one must again get on a ferry or boat that will take one to Long Island. <br><br>
Since it’s a multi-stage journey, ferry timetables need to be checked in advance, and according to that, the trip needs to be planned.
An ideal stay for one to explore Long Island would be 3 to 4 days. A stay of this length will permit you ample time to enjoy the violas of the key attractions of beaches, limestone caves, and marine activities, and also have time to relax and absorb the tranquillity of the island atmosphere. For those wanting more serious trekking or diving, longer stays may be advantageous.
Overall, Long Island offers serene surroundings with pretty landscapes and modest but carefully planned ecologically sensitive accommodations. Whether people travel to enjoy a relaxing beach vacation or to go on an adventure exploring water life and caves, let alone to get refreshed in the middle of wildlife and local cultural elements, a visit to Long Island should indeed be assured of a beautiful, rewarding experience.