Table of Contents
- Overview
- Introduction: Baratang Island
- How to Reach Baratang Island
- Baratang Island: How to Get Around
- Best Time to Visit Baratang
- Key Attractions of Baratang Island
- Limestone Caves
- Baludera Beach
- Mangrove Creek
- Mud Volcanoes
- Travel Tips for Baratang Island
Overview
Located between the Middle and North Andaman districts, Baratang Island is known for its mud volcanoes, limestone caves, and mangrove creeks. Learn more about this island and must-see attractions to visit here.
Introduction: Baratang Island
Those who like a good adventure when thinking of an Andaman trip will surely be delighted by Baratang Island. The island lies in between the Middle and North Andaman districts and is about 110 kms away from Port Blair. This island is famously known for its intriguing attractions. The key attractions of Baratang Island include limestone caves, mud volcanoes, and mangrove creeks.
One can stay at Baratang Island, but it is primarily seen as a “day-trip destination” from Port Blair. The accommodation facilities available at Baratang Island are basic and modest as it is a less commercialised island. Therefore, one should not expect tourist facilities, luxurious hotels, restaurants, or cafes here.
How to Reach Baratang Island?
- The ideal way to reach Baratang Island is by hiring a private AC cab or a private AC bus from Port Blair.
- For those looking for a cheap way to travel to Baratang Island, a government run bus is the best option.
- Tourists staying at Port Blair are expected to leave for Baratang around 3:30 to 4:00 am. Leaving this early is crucial for the day trip to get completed on time and to return to Port Blair by the evening.
- The Grand Andaman Trunk Road connects Port Blair to Baratang. Your vehicle will be stopped at Jirkatang Checkpost for verifying ID proofs.
- All local drivers cross the bumpy road that cuts through the Jarawa Tribal Reserve. The escorted convoy is organised at fixed timings to cross the tribal reserve.
- On your way you will see people of the Jarawa Tribe who wait to cross the road. Interacting with Jarawa people, taking their photos, offering them food, or gifts is strictly not allowed. One can face strict penalties or imprisonment depending on the degree of offence.
- Afterwards, you will reach a jetty (Middle Strait) and catch a boat to reach Baratang Island.
How to Get Around Baratang Island?
Travelling inside Baratang Island is easy when you have a private vehicle at your convenience. Please note that there are no scooty or bike rentals or auto rickshaws for tourists on the island. To travel around the island, the following options are available:
| Private Car | The most convenient but costly option is to hire a private cab from Port Blair to get around Baratang Island. The total cost of using a private cab from Port Blair to Baratang and return can be around INR 4500 – 5000/- |
| Govt. Bus | The cheapest option to get around Baratang is a govt run bus. These buses ply to mud volcanoes and Baludera beach at their designated time. Make sure to note the ID of the bus driver and his contact number in case of an emergency. |
| Private Jeep | Private jeeps are large and shared by tourists. They are less expensive than cabs. They charge approx INR 200 – 250 per person. |
Best Time to Visit Baratang Island
The best time to visit Baratang Island is from October and February when the temperature ranges between 22 to 26 degree celsius. The enjoyable and cool weather makes the otherwise long and strenuous journey, quite manageable.
The period from October and February with its pleasant weather is also favourable for outdoor activities. One can enjoy hiking, boating, birdwatching, and beach walks without worrying about humidity or extreme temperatures.
Note: Please note that Baratang Island remains closed on Mondays.
Key Attractions of Baratang Island
Baratang Island is considered an off-beat destination. It is primarily known for eco-tourism and connecting with nature. The wonderful attractions of Baratang Island includes:
1. Limestone Cave
The most prominent attraction of Baratang which attracts the most tourists is the Limestone Cave. This cave features stunning stalactites and stalagmites rock formations. The structures that formed are the result of interaction between carbon monoxide and minerals.
2. Baludera Beach
The Baludera beach features a clean and clear shoreline with azure waters and is ideal for serene sunset. There are no signs of commercialisation and tourist hustle bustle which means you can enjoy peace and tranquility to the fullest.
3. Mangrove Creek
In Baratang Island, Mangrove creek is a narrow waterway canopied by mangrove trees where you will find exotic birds and sometimes saltwater crocodiles. To travel through the creek one has to hire a speed boat from Nilambur Jetty.
4. Mud Volcanoes
The most peculiar yet fascinating attraction of Baratang Island are its mud volcanoes. Instead of lava, the mud volcanoes expel methane, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen gases along with mud slurries. The best time to see mud volcanoes is between October and May.
Travel Tips for Baratang Island
- Travelling to Baratang Island requires a permit from the Forest Department.
- Be ready to leave for Baratang on time as one can only visit here through escorted convoys which have their timings fixed.
- Do not interact with people of the Jarawa Tribe.
- Pre-book your cab rides before planning to visit Baratang Island.
- Carry a refillable water bottle (not plastic) and some light snacks for the 3- 4 hour long trip.
- Contact https://www.andamantourism.org/, if you need local assistance from a local travel partner or are looking for cab services to visit Baratang Island.
