Located 102 KM north of Port Blair, Baratang Island is a part of Andaman Island and belongs to the North and Middle Andaman administrative district. Baratang is home to various fascinating natural wonders including mud volcanoes, limestone caves, virgin beaches, parrot island and mangrove creeks.
As compared to Havelock Island and Neil Island, Baratang is less developed for tourism. Therefore, there you will not get luxurious stays, fancy restaurants and tourist facilities. However, away from urbanization makes it a perfect offbeat destination and the best place to visit in Andaman.
It is a popular day-trip destination in Andaman but if you’re willing to spend a night here then you’ll be rewarded with interesting activities like bird watching, night kayaking, mangrove boat ride and plenty of delicious cheap Indian dishes.
Places to visit and things to do in Baratang Island:
1. Mud Volcano
Mud Volcano is one of the most famous places on Baratang Island, especially for one day trip. As its name implies, the mud volcano is a combination of mud, water and gases erupt.
It is the only known mud volcano in India. To reach there you need to take a 10-minute jeep ride from Baratang harbor that takes you to the footpath leading towards the getaway of the mud volcano. And from there you need to 10-minute walk to reach the mud volcano.
2. Limestone Caves:
Limestone caves are the beautiful creation of nature. As its name, the place is super fascinating & adventurous to explore. The unique shape and size of limestone is just spectacular to watch.
The limestone caves are filled with unique formations made of limestone which keeps changing the shape and size with time.
It’s good to hire a guide because some of the caves are so dark and deep that you would need a torch to admire their beauty.
Limestone is sedimentary rocks were formed at the bottom of the sea over millions of year back. It is made up of calcium carbonate. Limestone is very soluble so it can be easily dissolved.
To reach up there you need to take a boat from Baratang island that takes you to the footsteps of limestone caves.
3. Parrot Island:
30 KM away from the Baratang, Parrot Island is an uninhabited island that is home to thousands of tropical parrots and other species of birds. The island is famous for the fact that every evening number of parrots flying over the island but why is still a mystery. Another interesting thing is that they leave the island every morning to come back in the evening. It is the perfect place for bird lovers.
Watching the sunset with the chirping of birds will give you inner peace.
Parrot island cannot be covered in a day trip that means you need to take night’s stay at Baratang island after coming from Parrot island because of the convoy time restriction.
To reach up there you need to take a boat from the Baratang jetty and pass through the mangrove creek to reach there.
4. Boat ride through Mangroves creek:
After the beauty of limestone caves and mud volcanoes now it’s time to enjoy the thrill of famous boat ride through the mangrove forest. The boat ride through the dense mangrove forest with the chirping of birds and animals will give the lifetime experience. Inside the creek keep your camera ready to capture the amazing biodiversity of birds and animals.
5. Baludera Beach:
9 KM from the Nilambur jetty, Baludera beach is located on the eastern side of Baratang Island. This beautiful beach is hidden from the crowd therefore it’s a great place to explore if you want to escape from the outside world. The beach is surrounded by the mangrove forest on one side and old trees from another side with a lovely curved sand bay. The water is warm and perfect for swimming.
During the weekend you can spot some locals but during weekdays you can have the full beach all by yourself.
The facilities are limited here with a small shop at the bus stand so bring your own snacks and water if you’re planning to stay for a while.
How to Reach?
Baratang island is located 102 KM away from Port Blair in the center of Middle & South Andaman. It is connected to port Blair via road and water. The ferry is not available every day so road is the most convenient way to reach here.
One can reach here by Grand Andaman Trunk Road. The journey via road can be complete in 2 to 3 hours. Either you can take government buses from Mohanpura Bus terminal or take a cab. You can’t book bus tickets in advance so you’ve to take bus tickets by visiting ticket counter.
Cab is the fastest way to reach here in just 2 and half hours. And the best part about cab is that you can enjoy your journey to Baratang island with beautiful views of forest and Jarawa tribe.
Note: 2 Wheelers are not allowed on this route.
Best time to visit:
With minimal rain and pleasant weather, November to March is best time to visit Baratang island. During this time water is calm and perfect to enjoy the water sports. Also this is the perfect time to enjoy trekking and sightseeing activities.
Where to stay?
Finding hotels on the Baratang island can be tricky because there is not much option for stay. There are some guesthouse and departmental house available around the jetty but for the availability you have to ask on the spot. There is a resort on the island named “Dew Dale Resort” which is not shut so you can go there for stay. But you need to book in advance. For the best option, you can move to Rangat or Port Blair after the day trip.
Where to eat?
If you’re expecting fancy restaurants then Baratang is not for you. There are number of food stalls and eateries around the jetty where you can have delicious south Indian and Bengali food in affordable rates. You can also find tea stall and refreshment shops in every corner of the island so you won’t stay hungry here, don’t worry!
Baratang Island FAQ’s
Why is Baratang Island famous?
Baratang island is famous for its impressive natural wonders such as limestone caves, mud volcanoes, parrot island and mangrove creek.
What needs to carry for a day trip to Baratang island?
Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, bottle of water, mosquito repellent and some bites of snacks.