Baratang Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Baratang Island is located between the Middle and South Andaman Islands. Approximately, 110 km from Port Blair, Baratang Island is another major attraction for tourists visiting the islands. The Baratang Island trip is considered to be an adventurous trip due to its long distance from Port Blair and the journey that starts at 3 Hours past 1200 Hours. You’ll read more about the way toward Baratang in our section on How to reach Baratang.

Baratang Island Andaman

While the Andamans is a beach destination that brings thoughts of blues and sands to your mind, adding Baratang to your travel itinerary can be fascinating for those looking to explore the greener version of the Andamans. Baratang is home to the Jarawa tribes, who are the major inhabitants of this island, along with a few Ranchi settlers.

Baratang Island

The major attractions at Baratang are the Limestone Caves and Mud Volcano. There is another delightful place to visit in Baratang: Parrot Island. However, to visit Parrot Island, you have to stay overnight at Baratang.

What to Expect while Visiting Baratang?

When you visit a tropical island like Baratang, you can expect dense forests, tribal inhabitants, mangroves, boat rides, beaches, birds, caves, trekking, and even a volcano! Baratang offers all of this and more.

Limestone Caves Baratang

Though Baratang is gaining popularity as a tourist destination, it remains a remote location with limited telecom networks, restaurants, and hotels. Government restrooms are available and are the only option (but hygienic) while traveling to Baratang.

On your way to Baratang, you will pass through the Jarawa Tribe Reserve, where you might see the Jarawa tribes. However, this is not a sightseeing opportunity, and interacting with, feeding, or photographing the Jarawas is strictly prohibited and punishable.

What is the Journey to Baratang like?

If you are planning to visit the Limestone Caves & Mud Volcano, we recommend starting around 0300-0330 hours from Port Blair. The distance is about 120 km, taking approximately 3-3.5 hours each way. The day trip to Baratang is a full-day journey.

Convoy to Baratang from Port Blair

There are convoy timings for security reasons while traveling to Baratang from Port Blair. Regular convoy timings: 6 AM, 9 AM, 12 PM, 3 PM. The recommended timings for tourists are 6 AM and 9 AM.

Vehicle Ferry to Baratang

After passing the tribal reserve, you will reach Nilambur Jetty. From there, a vehicle ferry takes you to Baratang Island. These ferries accommodate all types of vehicles and passengers.

Visiting Limestone Caves

A 10-seater fiber boat will take you to the trekking point for the Limestone Caves. You will then trek for about 1.2 km to reach the caves. Guides are available to explain the cave formations and the shapes that have evolved over time.

Mud Volcano Visit

A shared Jeep takes you from Baratang to the Mud Volcano. Here, you will witness mud oozing from the ground.

Parrot Island

If you stay overnight at Baratang, you can take a boat to visit Parrot Island in the evening. Parrots return to their nests at sunset, offering a spectacular sight from your boat.

Accommodation at Baratang Island

There are two primary hotel options on Baratang Island:

• Dew Dale Resort: Offers spacious rooms and is the best option as of 2023.
• Coral Creek Resort: A budget-friendly hotel.

Other options include departmental guest houses, but these need to be booked on the spot.

Food Options at Baratang Island

You can get snacks during pit stops along the way to Baratang. Upon reaching Baratang, you’ll find dhaba-style eateries offering major meals, but don’t expect star-category restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much time is required for a Baratang day trip?

The trip takes about 10 hours. You need to start early at 3 AM from Port Blair.

Is Baratang a must-visit destination?

If you are enthusiastic about tropical forests and adventurous trips, Baratang should be on your itinerary.

Who should avoid visiting Baratang?

People with knee or back issues should avoid this trip due to the long, bumpy roads and the trek involved in visiting the caves and volcano.

What should we carry for this trip?

Carry a hat, sunglasses, snacks, water, and mosquito repellent. Closed shoes or flip-flops are recommended for the trek.