Baratang Island - Adventure in Andaman
Baratang Island Overview
Baratang Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is located between the Middle and South Andaman Islands. Approximately 110 km from Port Blair, Baratang Island is a major attraction for tourists visiting the islands. The Baratang Island trip is considered adventurous due to its long distance from Port Blair and the unique journey that starts early in the morning.
While Andamans is known as a beach destination, Baratang offers a greener version of the islands with dense forests, mangrove creeks, and unique geological formations. Baratang is home to the Jarawa tribes who are the major inhabitants of this island along with some Ranchi settlers.
Location
Between Middle and South Andaman Islands
Distance from Port Blair
Approximately 110 km
Travel Time
3-3.5 hours each way
Main Attractions
Limestone Caves, Mud Volcano, Parrot Island
What to Expect in Baratang
When visiting a tropical island like Baratang, you can expect dense forests, tribal inhabitants, mangroves, boat rides through the creeks, unique geological formations, trekking, and the fascinating mud volcano.
Jarawa Tribal Reserve
Pass through the protected area of the indigenous Jarawa tribe (Note: Interaction or photography is strictly prohibited).
Mangrove Boat Ride
Enjoy a scenic boat ride through dense mangrove forests to reach the limestone caves.
Important Notes
- Telecom networks are limited in Baratang
- Basic restroom facilities available at government rest houses
- Interacting with Jarawa tribes or photographing them is strictly prohibited
- Limited dining options available (pack snacks if needed)
The Journey to Baratang
The trip to Baratang is a full-day adventure starting very early in the morning (around 3:00-3:30 AM) to reach the attractions and return the same day. The total travel time is about 6-7 hours round trip.
Early Morning Departure
Start from Port Blair around 3:00-3:30 AM to reach Baratang by morning.
Jirkatang Check Post
After about 1 hour drive, reach the check post where vehicles gather for the convoy.
Jarawa Reserve Area
Travel in convoy with security personnel through the protected tribal area (speed limit 40 kmph).
Nilambur Jetty
Board a vehicle ferry to cross the strait between Middle Andaman and Baratang Island.
Baratang Island
Arrive at Baratang and proceed to attractions via boat rides and short treks.
Convoy Timings
Regular convoy timings from Port Blair to Baratang: 6 AM, 9 AM, 12 PM, 3 PM. Recommended timings for tourists are 6 AM and 9 AM convoys.
Main Attractions in Baratang
Limestone Caves
Formed over thousands of years, these spectacular caves are accessible via a boat ride through mangroves followed by a 1.2 km trek through the forest.
Boat ride + trek required
Mud Volcano
A rare geological phenomenon where mud oozes out from underground due to natural gas emissions. The only known mud volcanoes in India.
Jeep ride required from Baratang
Parrot Island
Requires overnight stay at Baratang. Witness thousands of parrots returning to their nests at sunset in a spectacular display.
Evening visit only
Mangrove Forests
Dense mangrove ecosystems that you traverse by boat to reach the limestone caves, offering beautiful scenery and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Part of limestone caves journey
Accommodation at Baratang Island
For those wishing to stay overnight to visit Parrot Island, there are limited accommodation options available:
Dew Dale Resort
The best option available in Baratang with spacious rooms and basic amenities.
Coral Creek Resort
Budget accommodation option with basic facilities for overnight stay.
Alternative Option
You can also choose to stay at Rangat (further north) after visiting Baratang and return to Port Blair the next day.
Food Options at Baratang
On the Way
Basic snacks and water available during pit stops at Jirkatang check post.
At Baratang
Dhaba-style eateries serving simple Indian meals (vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available).
Note
Carry some snacks and water as options are limited. The food is hygienic but don't expect star-category restaurants.
Popular Baratang Packages
Baratang Day Trip
- Limestone Caves visit
- Mud Volcano experience
- Mangrove boat ride
- Convoy transfers
- Full day tour with guide
Baratang with Parrot Island
- Limestone Caves visit
- Mud Volcano experience
- Parrot Island sunset tour
- Overnight stay at Baratang
- 2 days tour package
Andaman Explorer with Baratang
- 5 Nights/6 Days package
- Port Blair city tour
- Baratang day trip
- Havelock Island stay
- All transfers included
Travel Tips for Baratang
Timing
- Start very early (3:00-3:30 AM)
- Complete visits by afternoon for return
What to Carry
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water bottles and snacks
- Rain gear (during monsoon)
Photography
- No photography in Jarawa reserve
- Waterproof case for boat rides
Restrictions
- No interaction with Jarawa tribe
- Follow convoy rules strictly
Quick Facts
- Location: Between Middle & South Andaman
- Distance: 110 km from Port Blair
- Travel Time: 3-3.5 hours each way
- Best Time: October to May
- Ferry Required: Yes (vehicle ferry)
- Activities: Trekking, Boat Ride
Essential Contacts
Tourist Information
+91 94760 40000
Medical Emergency
102 / +91 94760 40000
Police
100
Baratang Tour Operators
+91 94760 40000
Important Notes
Jarawa Tribe Protection
Photography or interaction with Jarawa tribes is strictly prohibited and punishable by law.
Limited Connectivity
Mobile networks are weak or unavailable in most parts of Baratang.
Food Options
Carry snacks and water as dining options are limited to basic eateries.
Recommended Packing List
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water bottles
- Snacks/energy bars
- Rain jacket (monsoon)
- Sunscreen & hat
- Camera (no flash in caves)
- Basic medications
Ready for Your Baratang Adventure?
Experience the unique geological wonders and tribal heritage of Baratang Island with our expert guides.
Offbeat Andaman
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+91 94760 40000
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