Have you ever dreamed of visiting a place where you can witness the rare and fascinating phenomenon of mud volcanoes, explore the unique and adventurous attraction of limestone caves, watch thousands of colorful parrots at sunset, and relax on a pristine and secluded beach? If yes, then Baratang Island is the place for you.
Baratang Island is a part of the Great Andaman Chain, and is located about 150 km north of Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is one of the few places in the world where you can experience the beauty and diversity of nature, as well as the history and culture of the local people.
Baratang Island is home to the indigenous and protected Jarawa tribe, who live in harmony with nature and have their own traditions and customs. The island also has a rich history of colonization and migration, which has shaped the lifestyle and identity of the local people.
Baratang Island is a hidden gem of Andaman that offers a variety of attractions and activities for tourists, such as exploring the limestone caves, witnessing the mud volcanoes, watching the parrots at parrot island, relaxing at Baludera beach, and visiting the nearby islands of Ritchie’s Archipelago.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Baratang Island, from its history and culture to its attractions and activities, and help you plan your perfect trip to this natural wonderland of Andaman.
History and Culture of Baratang Island
Baratang Island has a fascinating history and culture that dates back to thousands of years ago. The island was originally inhabited by the Jarawa tribe, who are believed to have migrated from Africa more than 60,000 years ago. The Jarawas are one of the oldest living human groups in the world, and have their own language, religion, and way of life.
The island was also settled by the Ranchiwalas, who are descendants of the workers brought by the British from Ranchi in mainland India in the 18th century. The Ranchiwalas were employed in the timber and salt industries, and later became farmers and fishermen. The Ranchiwalas follow Hinduism and Christianity, and celebrate festivals and rituals.
The island was also colonized by the British, who established a penal colony on the island in the 18th century, and exploited the natural resources and the local people. The island was also a part of the Indian freedom struggle, and witnessed several revolts and uprisings against the British rule.
The history and culture of Baratang Island is reflected in the architecture, cuisine, and art of the island. The island has a mix of colonial and tribal influences, and offers a glimpse into the past and present of the island.
If you want to learn more about the history and culture of Baratang Island, you can visit the Baratang Museum, which showcases the artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the island. You can also interact with the local people, and experience their hospitality and warmth.
However, you should also respect the Jarawa tribe and their culture, and follow some tips and rules, such as:
- Do not interact, offer, or photograph the Jarawas, as it is illegal and harmful for them.
- Do not enter the Jarawa Reserve, which is a protected area for the Jarawas, and is off-limits for tourists.
- Do not litter or pollute the environment, as it affects the Jarawas and their habitat.
- By following these tips and rules, you can enjoy the history and culture of Baratang Island, and also protect the Jarawa tribe and their culture.
How to Reach and Get Around Baratang Island
Baratang Island is located about 150 km north of Port Blair, and can be reached by road or by boat. The journey to Baratang Island is an adventure in itself, as you will pass through the dense forests, the Jarawa Reserve, and the mangrove creeks.
By road
The most common and convenient way to reach Baratang Island is by road, which takes about four hours from Port Blair. You will need to take the Andaman Trunk Road, which connects Port Blair to the northern part of Andaman. The road passes through the Jarawa Reserve, which is a protected area for the Jarawa tribe. You will also need to cross two creeks by ferry, which are at Middle Strait and Nilambur Jetty.
The road journey to Baratang Island is regulated by a convoy system, which means that you will have to travel in a group of vehicles, escorted by the police. The convoy system is in place to ensure the safety and security of the travelers and the Jarawas. The convoy timings are fixed and limited, and vary according to the season and the weather. The convoy timings are as follows:
From Port Blair to Baratang: 6:00 am, 9:00 am, and 12:30 pm
From Baratang to Port Blair: 6:00 am, 8:30 am, and 2:30 pm
The road journey to Baratang Island costs about Rs. 400 per person, which includes the ferry charges. You can book your seat in advance, or on the spot, at the bus stand or the taxi stand in Port Blair. You can also hire a private jeep or a car, which will cost you about Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000, depending on the season and the availability.
By boat
The alternative and less popular way to reach Baratang Island is by boat, which takes about three hours from Port Blair. You will need to take a boat from the Phoenix Bay Jetty in Port Blair, which will take you to the Baratang Jetty. From there, you will need to take a speed boat to the limestone caves, which is the main attraction of the island. You can also take a dinghy to the parrot island, which is another attraction of the island.
The boat journey to Baratang Island is scenic and adventurous, as you will sail through the blue waters, the green islands, and the mangrove creeks. However, the boat journey is also dependent on the weather and the availability of the boats. The boat timings are as follows:
From Port Blair to Baratang: 6:00 am, 8:00 am, and 10:00 am
From Baratang to Port Blair: 2:00 pm, 4:00 pm, and 6:00 pm
The boat journey to Baratang Island costs about Rs. 500 per person, which includes the speed boat and the dinghy charges. You can book your ticket in advance, or on the spot, at the Phoenix Bay Jetty in Port Blair.
Getting around
Once you reach Baratang Island, you can get around the island by private jeeps, government buses, or boats. The mode of transportation depends on the destination and the budget.
Private jeeps: The private jeeps are the most convenient and comfortable option, but also the most expensive. They can take you to any place on the island, such as the mud volcano, the Baludera beach, or the lighthouse. They can also arrange the permits and the tickets for you. The private jeeps charge about Rs. 1500 to Rs. 2000 per day, depending on the season and the availability.
Government buses: The government buses are the cheapest and most frequent option, but also the most crowded and slow. They can take you to the main places on the island, such as the Baratang Jetty, the mud volcano, or the Baludera beach. They can also help you get the permits and the tickets for you. The government buses charge about Rs. 50 to Rs. 100 per person, depending on the destination and the distance.
Boats: The boats are the only option to reach the limestone caves and the parrot island, but also the most scenic and adventurous. They can take you to the limestone caves and the parrot island, which are the main attractions of the island. They can also arrange the permits and the tickets for you. The boats charge about Rs. 400 to Rs. 500 per person, depending on the season and the availability.
Important information
Before you plan your trip to Baratang Island, you should also know some important information, such as:
ID cards: You will need to carry your ID cards or passports, as they are required for the permits and the tickets. You will also need to show them at the checkpoints and the ferry points.
Permits: You will need to get the permits to visit the limestone caves and the parrot island, as they are restricted areas. You can get the permits from the Forest Department Office at Baratang Jetty, or from the tour operators in Port Blair or Baratang. The permits cost about Rs. 50 per person, and are valid for one day.
Tickets: You will need to get the tickets to visit the limestone caves and the parrot island, as they are the main attractions of the island. You can get the tickets from the ticket counter at Baratang Jetty
Best Time to Visit Baratang Island
Baratang Island is a year-round destination, as it has a tropical monsoon climate, with hot and humid weather, and abundant rainfall. However, the best time to visit Baratang Island depends on your preferences and expectations, as different seasons offer different experiences and challenges.
October to March
The best time to visit Baratang Island is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and dry, and the ferries are available and frequent. This is the peak season for tourism, as you can enjoy the attractions and activities on the island and its nearby islands, without any hassle or interruption. The temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C, and the rainfall is minimal. The sky is clear and the sea is calm, which makes the boat rides and the beach visits more enjoyable and safe. This is also the best time to watch the parrots at parrot island, as they flock to the island in large numbers, and create a spectacular sight at sunset.
However, the downside of visiting Baratang Island in this season is that it is also the most crowded and expensive time, as many tourists and travelers flock to the island to escape the winter chill. You will have to book your accommodation, transportation, and tour in advance, as they are in high demand and limited supply. You will also have to deal with the crowds and the queues at the attractions and the ferry points, which can affect your experience and mood.
April to June
The second-best time to visit Baratang Island is from April to June, when the weather is hot and humid, and the ferries are less frequent and reliable. This is the off-season for tourism, as you can enjoy the attractions and activities on the island and its nearby islands, with less crowd and cost. The temperature ranges from 25°C to 35°C, and the rainfall is moderate. The sky is partly cloudy and the sea is slightly rough, which makes the boat rides and the beach visits more adventurous and thrilling. This is also the best time to visit the mud volcano, as it is more active and eruptive in this season.
However, the downside of visiting Baratang Island in this season is that it is also the most uncomfortable and risky time, as the heat and the humidity can cause dehydration and exhaustion. You will have to carry enough water and sunscreen, and wear light and breathable clothes. You will also have to check the weather and the ferry availability before you plan your trip, as they can change or cancel due to the unpredictable weather conditions.
July to September
The least recommended time to visit Baratang Island is from July to September, when the weather is wet and windy, and the ferries are rare and uncertain. This is the low season for tourism, as you can enjoy the attractions and activities on the island and its nearby islands, with more difficulty and danger. The temperature ranges from 22°C to 32°C, and the rainfall is heavy. The sky is cloudy and the sea is stormy, which makes the boat rides and the beach visits more challenging and risky. This is also the worst time to visit the limestone caves and the parrot island, as they are closed or inaccessible due to the high tide and the low visibility.
The only upside of visiting Baratang Island in this season is that it is also the most serene and green time, as the rain and the wind bring freshness and beauty to the island. You can enjoy the lush and vibrant vegetation, the soothing and refreshing breeze, and the occasional and stunning rainbow. You can also get the best deals and discounts on the accommodation, transportation, and tour, as they are in low demand and high supply.
Top Things to Do and See in Baratang Island
Baratang Island is a natural wonderland that offers a variety of attractions and activities for tourists. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or education, Baratang Island has something for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do and see in Baratang Island:
Limestone Caves
One of the main attractions of Baratang Island is the limestone caves, which are a unique and adventurous attraction with intricate formations. The limestone caves are formed by the erosion of the limestone rocks by the rainwater and the seawater over millions of years. The caves have different shapes and sizes, and some of them are narrow and dark, while others are spacious and bright. The caves are also home to various bats, insects, and plants.
To visit the limestone caves, you will need to take a boat from the Baratang Jetty, which will take you through the mangrove tunnel, which is a scenic and romantic ride through the mangrove forest. The boat ride takes about 15 minutes, and costs about Rs. 400 per person. The boat will drop you at the Nayadera Jetty, from where you will need to walk for about 1.5 km to reach the caves. The walk is easy and enjoyable, as you will pass through the green and serene forest. You can also hire a guide, who will explain the history and the features of the caves.
The best time to visit the limestone caves is in the morning, when the tide is low and the visibility is high. The duration of the visit is about 2 hours, and the cost of the permit is Rs. 50 per person. You should also carry a torch, a water bottle, and a camera, and wear comfortable shoes and clothes. You should also follow some safety precautions, such as:
- Do not touch or damage the formations, as they are delicate and precious.
- Do not disturb or harm the wildlife, as they are protected and endangered.
- Do not litter or pollute the environment, as it affects the caves and their ecosystem.
By following these safety precautions, you can enjoy the limestone caves, and marvel at the beauty and mystery of nature.
Mud Volcano
Another attraction of Baratang Island is the mud volcano, which is a rare and fascinating phenomenon with grayish mud oozing out. The mud volcano is caused by the release of natural gas from the underground, which pushes the mud and water to the surface. The mud volcano is not hot or explosive, but rather cold and calm. The mud volcano has different shapes and sizes, and some of them are small and shallow, while others are large and deep. The mud volcano is also home to various birds, insects, and plants.
To visit the mud volcano, you will need to take a jeep from the Baratang Jetty, which will take you through the forest road, which is a bumpy and exciting ride through the forest. The jeep ride takes about 15 minutes, and costs about Rs. 600 per jeep. The jeep will drop you at the mud volcano site, from where you will need to walk for about 200 meters to reach the volcano. The walk is easy and short, as you will pass through the open and dry land. You can also hire a guide, who will explain the origin and the features of the volcano.
The best time to visit the mud volcano is in the afternoon, when the activity is high and the eruption is frequent. The duration of the visit is about 1 hour, and the cost of the permit is Rs. 50 per person. You should also carry a water bottle, a camera, and a hat, and wear comfortable shoes and clothes. You should also follow some safety precautions, such as:
- Do not go near or inside the volcano, as it is slippery and dangerous.
- Do not throw or burn anything in the volcano, as it is harmful and disrespectful.
- Do not litter or pollute the environment, as it affects the volcano and its ecosystem.
By following these safety precautions, you can enjoy the mud volcano, and witness the wonder and power of nature.
Parrot Island
Another attraction of Baratang Island is the parrot island, which is a bird-watching paradise with thousands of colorful parrots. The parrot island is a small and uninhabited island, which is covered with dense mangrove forest. The island is home to various species of parrots, such as parakeets, macaws, cockatoos, and lorikeets. The parrots come to the island every evening, and create a spectacular sight and sound with their flight and chatter.
To visit the parrot island, you will need to take a dinghy from the Baratang Jetty, which will take you through the mangrove creek, which is a scenic and romantic ride through the mangrove forest. The dinghy ride takes about 30 minutes, and costs about Rs. 100 per person. The dinghy will drop you at the parrot island, from where you will need to climb a watchtower to get a better view of the island and the parrots. You can also hire a guide, who will explain the behavior and the features of the parrots.
The best time to visit the parrot island is in the evening, when the parrots return to the island after their day-long foraging. The duration of the visit is about 2 hours, and the cost of the permit is Rs. 50 per person. You should also carry a water bottle, a camera, and a binocular, and wear comfortable shoes and clothes. You should also follow some safety precautions, such as:
- Do not disturb or feed the parrots, as they are wild and sensitive.
- Do not make loud noises or flash lights, as they can scare or harm the parrots.
- Do not litter or pollute the environment, as it affects the parrots and their habitat.
By following these safety precautions, you can enjoy the parrot island, and admire the beauty and diversity of nature.
Baludera Beach
Another attraction of Baratang Island is the Baludera beach, which is a pristine and secluded beach with clear water and white sand. The Baludera beach is one of the few beaches in Andaman that is not crowded or commercialized, and offers a peaceful and relaxing experience. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking, as well as for spotting dolphins, turtles, and crabs. The beach also has a eco-friendly resort, which offers cottages, tents, and hammocks for staying overnight.
To visit the Baludera beach, you will need to take a jeep or a bus from the Baratang Jetty, which will take you through the forest road, which is a smooth and pleasant ride through the forest. The jeep or the bus ride takes about 45 minutes, and costs about Rs. 200 per person. The jeep or the bus will drop you at the Baludera beach, from where you can enjoy the beach and its surroundings. You can also hire a guide, who will show you the best spots and activities on the beach.
The best time to visit the Baludera beach is in the morning or the afternoon, when the tide is low and the sun is bright. The duration of the visit is about 3 hours, and the cost of the permit is Rs. 50 per person. You should also carry a water bottle, a camera, and a sunscreen, and wear comfortable shoes and clothes. You should also follow some safety precautions, such as:
- Do not swim or venture too far into the water, as there can be strong currents and waves.
- Do not touch or harm the wildlife, as they are protected and endangered.
- Do not litter or pollute the environment, as it affects the beach and its ecosystem.
By following these safety precautions, you can enjoy the Baludera beach, and relax and rejuvenate yourself.
Other Attractions in Baratang Island
Besides the main attractions of Baratang Island, there are some other attractions that you can visit and enjoy, such as:
Lighthouse: A historical and scenic attraction that offers a panoramic view of the island and the sea. The lighthouse is located at the southern tip of the island, and can be reached by a jeep or a bus from the Baratang Jetty. The lighthouse was built by the British in the 19th century, and is still operational and functional. You can climb the spiral staircase to the top of the lighthouse, and admire the beauty and the breeze of the island. The best time to visit the lighthouse is in the evening, when you can watch the sunset and the stars. The duration of the visit is about 1 hour, and the cost of the permit is Rs. 50 per person. You should also carry a water bottle, a camera, and a flashlight, and wear comfortable shoes and clothes. You should also follow some safety precautions, such as:
- Do not go near the edge of the lighthouse, as it is high and steep.
- Do not touch or damage the equipment, as it is valuable and delicate.
- Do not litter or pollute the environment, as it affects the lighthouse and its ecosystem.
Tidal Swamp Forest: A unique and rare attraction that showcases the adaptation and evolution of nature. The tidal swamp forest is a type of mangrove forest that grows in the intertidal zone, where the land is submerged by the sea water during the high tide, and exposed during the low tide. The tidal swamp forest is home to various plants and animals, such as the screw pine, the sundari tree, the fiddler crab, and the mudskipper. The tidal swamp forest is located near the Baratang Jetty, and can be reached by a jeep or a bus from the Baratang Jetty. The best time to visit the tidal swamp forest is in the morning or the afternoon, when the tide is low and the forest is visible. The duration of the visit is about 1 hour, and the cost of the permit is Rs. 50 per person. You should also carry a water bottle, a camera, and a binocular, and wear comfortable shoes and clothes. You should also follow some safety precautions, such as:
- Do not enter or walk on the forest, as it is muddy and slippery.
- Do not disturb or harm the wildlife, as they are protected and endangered.
- Do not litter or pollute the environment, as it affects the forest and its ecosystem.
Ritchie’s Archipelago: A group of islands that offer a variety of attractions and activities for tourists. The Ritchie’s Archipelago consists of 12 islands, such as Havelock Island, Neil Island, Long Island, and Guitar Island. The islands are famous for their beaches, coral reefs, and water sports, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and fishing. The islands are also known for their resorts, restaurants, and nightlife, which cater to different tastes and budgets. To visit the Ritchie’s Archipelago, you will need to take a boat from the Baratang Jetty, which will take you to the islands of your choice. The boat ride takes about 1 to 2 hours, and costs about Rs. 1000 to Rs. 2000 per person, depending on the destination and the distance. The best time to visit the Ritchie’s Archipelago is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and dry, and the water is clear and calm. The duration of the visit is about 1 to 2 days, and the cost of the accommodation, food, and activities varies according to the island and the season. You should also carry a water bottle, a camera, and a sunscreen, and wear comfortable shoes and clothes. You should also follow some safety precautions, such as:
- Do not swim or venture too far into the water, as there can be strong currents and waves.
- Do not touch or harm the coral reefs, as they are fragile and precious.
- Do not litter or pollute the environment, as it affects the islands and their ecosystem.
Where to Stay and Eat in Baratang Island
Baratang Island is not a major tourist hub, and has limited options for accommodation and food. However, you can still find some decent and affordable places to stay and eat on the island, as well as some nearby islands. Here are some of the best hotels and restaurants in Baratang Island:
Hotels and Resorts in Baratang Island
Dew Dale Resort: A 3-star resort with spacious rooms, a restaurant, a garden, and a friendly staff. The resort is located near the Baratang Jetty, and is close to the main attractions of the island. The resort offers cottages, tents, and hammocks for staying overnight, and also arranges tours and activities for the guests. The resort has a rating of 8 out of 10 on Tripadvisor1, and charges about Rs. 3000 to Rs. 4000 per night, depending on the season and the availability.
Blue Planet: A 2-star hotel with basic rooms, a restaurant, a terrace, and a helpful staff. The hotel is located near the Baratang Jetty, and is close to the main attractions of the island. The hotel offers rooms with attached bathrooms, and also arranges tours and activities for the guests. The hotel has a rating of 7 out of 10 on Tripadvisor2, and charges about Rs. 2000 to Rs. 3000 per night, depending on the season and the availability.
Hotel Avis: A 1-star hotel with simple rooms, a restaurant, a parking, and a courteous staff. The hotel is located near the Baratang Jetty, and is close to the main attractions of the island. The hotel offers rooms with shared bathrooms, and also arranges tours and activities for the guests. The hotel has a rating of 6 out of 10 on Tripadvisor3, and charges about Rs. 1000 to Rs. 2000 per night, depending on the season and the availability.
Restaurants in Baratang Island
Annapurna: A vegetarian restaurant with a variety of dishes, such as dosa, idli, paratha, and thali. The restaurant is located near the Baratang Jetty, and is popular among the locals and the tourists. The restaurant has a rating of 4 out of 5 on Tripadvisor4, and charges about Rs. 100 to Rs. 200 per person, depending on the dish and the quantity.
Blue Sea: A non-vegetarian restaurant with a variety of dishes, such as chicken, fish, prawn, and crab. The restaurant is located near the Baratang Jetty, and is popular among the locals and the tourists. The restaurant has a rating of 4 out of 5 on Tripadvisor5, and charges about Rs. 200 to Rs. 300 per person, depending on the dish and the quantity.
Green Valley: A multi-cuisine restaurant with a variety of dishes, such as Chinese, Indian, and Continental. The restaurant is located near the Baratang Jetty, and is popular among the locals and the tourists. The restaurant has a rating of 3.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor6, and charges about Rs. 300 to Rs. 400 per person, depending on the dish and the quantity.
Suggestions and Alternatives
If you are looking for more options for accommodation and food, you can also visit the nearby islands of Ritchie’s Archipelago, such as Havelock Island, Neil Island, Long Island, and Guitar Island. These islands have more facilities and choices for the tourists, such as luxury resorts, budget hotels, beach huts, homestays, camping, street food, cafes, bars, and clubs. You can also enjoy more attractions and activities on these islands, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, fishing, cycling, and hiking. You can reach these islands by taking a boat from the Baratang Jetty, which will take you to the islands of your choice. The boat ride takes about 1 to 2 hours, and costs about Rs. 1000 to Rs. 2000 per person, depending on the destination and the distance. You can also book your accommodation, food, and activities in advance, or on the spot, on these islands.
Conclusion
Baratang Island is a hidden gem of Andaman that offers a variety of natural wonders and wildlife, as well as a glimpse into the history and culture of the island. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or education, Baratang Island has something for everyone.
To plan your perfect trip to this natural wonderland, follow our complete travel guide and enjoy the best of Baratang Island.
