DESCRIPTION

Merk Bay Beach is located on North Passage Island, which is very close to Strait Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This beach is accessible from Long Island and is one of the most pristine beaches in the region. The North Passage Island is a dense mangrove forest, and one side of the island is covered with these forests. To reach Merk Bay Beach, you have to walk through a narrow wooden jetty and then walk for a few kilometers through the mangrove forest. The walk is pleasant, and the dense forest is a sight to behold.

The beach itself is stunning, with crystal-clear waters that make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It is recommended that you carry your own snorkeling gear as there are no guided snorkeling or scuba diving options available at the beach. Merk Bay beach is also known for its rich marine life, and you can spend hours exploring the underwater world. The beach is also perfect for a leisurely stroll or sunbathing.

Merk Bay Beach is one of the most remote and beautiful beaches you can visit in a lifetime. The pollution is very much in control here, making it a perfect place to unwind and relax. Merk Bay gives an experience very similar or even better than Radhanagar beach located at Havelock Island. The major reason for this is that less than 1% of the tourists visit this island, making it a pristine and untouched place. When you visit Merk Bay for the first time, you will be engulfed by its charm and aura. The beach is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, and you can spend hours just soaking in the beauty of nature.

It’s important to note that there are no shops or eateries near the beach, so it’s advisable to carry your own snacks and water. Additionally, make sure to clean up after yourself to help keep the beach clean and beautiful for future visitors. Merk Bay Beach is truly a hidden gem in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and is a must-visit for those looking for an off-the-beaten-track experience.

TIMINGS TO VISIT AT MERK BAY BEACH

As Merk Bay Beach is located on an island, there are no fixed timings to visit the beach. It is recommended to plan your visit during the daytime when the sun is out and the weather is good, as it can get difficult to navigate through the mangrove forests in the dark. It’s also important to keep in mind the timings of the boat that will take you to and from the island, as there may be limited trips available. It’s best to inquire about the timings of the boat at the Long Island jetty or with your tour operator beforehand. Additionally, it’s advisable to check the weather conditions before planning your visit, as rough seas and high tides can make it difficult to access the island.

HOW TO REACH AT MERK BAY BEACH FROM RANGAT

To get to Merk Bay Beach from Rangat, you can take the following steps:
Take a local bus or hire a taxi from Rangat to Yerrata Jetty, which is approximately 12 km away.
From Yerrata Jetty, take a boat or ferry to Long Island. The journey takes around 50-60 minutes.
Once you reach Long Island, you’ll need to hire a private chartered boat from the Long Island jetty to reach Merk Bay Beach at passage island. The boat ride typically takes an hour in clear weather. It’s advisable to book the boat in advance since boats aren’t readily available at the jetty. Merk Bay Beach is accessible throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from November to April when the weather is pleasant and the sea is calm.

THINGS TO DO AT MERK BAY BEACH

At Merk Bay Beach, visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The crystal clear waters of the beach offer a great opportunity to explore the marine life and coral reefs. However, it is recommended to carry your own snorkeling gear as there are no rental facilities available on the beach. Visitors can also take a walk along the beach and admire the scenic views of the island. It is important to note that there are no guided snorkeling or scuba diving facilities available at Merk Bay Beach.

PLACE TO STAY NEAR LONG ISLAND AT RANGAT?

Here are some options for places to stay near Merk Bay Beach, North Passage Island at Rangat, Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

• Hotel U.K. Nest: Budget hotel with basic amenities and an on-site restaurant. It is located in Rangat town,

• Hotel Roos and Smith: Mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant. It is situated in Rangat town,

• Hotel Priya International: Mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant serving Indian, Chinese, and continental cuisine. It is located in Rangat town.

• Hotel Eden Garden: Budget hotel with basic amenities and an on-site restaurant serving Indian and Chinese cuisine. It is situated in Rangat.

• Bliss Resort: Mid-range resort with comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant serving Indian, Chinese, and continental cuisine. It is located in Batapur, around 01 km away from Dhaninallah Mangrove Walkway.

• Roos Ross & Smith: Budget hotel with basic amenities and an on-site restaurant serving Indian and Chinese cuisine. It is situated in Rangat.

• Hotel Avis: Budget hotel with basic amenities and an on-site restaurant serving Indian and Chinese cuisine. It is located in Rangat town.

TRAVEL TIPS FOR MERK BAY BEACH

If you’re planning to visit Merk Bay Beach, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:

• Book your transportation in advance: Since there are no readily available boats at the jetty, it’s important to book your boat in advance to avoid any delays or last-minute cancellations.

• Bring your own food and water: There are no shops or eateries on the beach, so it’s recommended to bring your own food and water.

• Wear sunscreen and insect repellent: Since the beach is located in a tropical area, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun and insects.

• Pack light: Since the beach is secluded and there are no porters available, it’s advisable to pack light and bring only essential items.

• Respect the environment: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are known for their rich biodiversity, so it’s important to respect the environment and avoid littering or damaging the natural surroundings.

• Check the weather conditions: While the beach is accessible throughout the year, it’s recommended to check the weather conditions before your trip and avoid visiting during monsoon season.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Merk Bay Beach.