Explore Baratang Island: The Andaman’s Beautiful Wonder Hideaway
From the lush mangrove creeks to limestone caves, Baratang Island has in store thrills for nature lovers and explorers in the Indian Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The most unexplored yet deceptively breathtaking islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands stand those of Baratang Island, paradise on earth for those nature lovers. Its location about 100 km north of Port Blair sees the distinguished igniting point – it is basically known for dense mangrove creeks, limestone caves, mud volcanoes, and simply virgin wilderness. Unlike touristy spots like Havelock and Neil Islands, Baratang Islands provide a raw, off-the-beaten-path experience to view the diverse natural beauty of Andamans.
If you are an adventurer at heart, or perhaps a nature lover that wants to discover the secrets of the Andaman, then you really cannot afford to miss Baratang Island. Let us find out about the exciting experiences waiting for you in Baratang.
Why You Must Visit Baratang Island
What’s unique about Baratang Island is its different landscapes and geological wonders. Whether one is cruising silently in serene mangrove forests, witnessing the limestone formations in the caves, or visiting the rare earth mud volcano, the island offers an adventurous escape from the mundane routine of a daily life. It’s also home to indigenous communities like the Jarawas, offering insight into the life of the original inhabitants of the Andaman Islands.
Baratang is the ideal destination for individuals and families who seek seclusion, combined with closeness to nature. It is a blend of eco-tourism and adventure-this island promises to be an excellent addition to your Andaman itinerary.
Top Attractions in Baratang Island
- Limestone Caves: Nature’s Marvel
One of the most attractive attractions on Baratang Island is the wonders of limestone caves. In order to reach these caves, you will have to take a short boat ride through mangrove creeks. There, you can observe the fine limestone formations created over millions of years. The inside of the caves can be said to present incredible views, with stalactites and stalagmites forming some otherworldly shapes. This geological wonder should not be missed when visiting Baratang. - Mangrove Creek Safari: A Peaceful Boat Ride
The road to the limestone caves is almost as fantastic as the destination. A mangrove creek safari through narrow waterways covered with thick mangrove canopies offers an unusual experience. The mangrove forest creates a quiet atmosphere cut by the sound of paddles cutting through the water-very calming yet adventurous. It’s a photographer’s dream and an experience that gives you a closer connection with the natural beauty of the island. - Mud Volcano – a Geological Wonder of Nature
Another very rare natural wonder you can visit in the Andaman Islands is the Mud Volcano, which is found at Baratang. Unlike explosive volcanoes, mud volcanoes are quiet wonders that slowly release their gases and mud through tiny vents. It is quite a sight, although less dramatic, but at the same time, it is a fascinating stop in your Baratang exploration. The site of the mud volcano is easily accessible and adds some geological intrigue to the visit. - Parrot Island: For the avid bird observer
Parrot Island is one of those attractions that a bird lover or nature enthusiast just must see in Baratang. Here, thousands of parrots come in every night to roost on this island, a spectacle unmatched for anything short of spectacular, floating about in the evening sky. View the birds return to roost on the island as the sun sets, no doubt an eye-pleasing thing to do for nature lovers. Just take a boat ride in the evening to Parrot Island and view this bird wonder for yourself.
Adventure Activities on Baratang Island
Baratang Island is not a tour. Instead, it offers adventure along with a scope of exploration. This includes mangrove creek safari, limestone cave exploring, and much more
Kayaking: Paddling through the water of creeks filled with mangrove trees and getting an up-close feel of the diverse ecosystems in the island.
Trekking: On the island, one is able to engage in short treks through the forests that reveal many varieties of flora and fauna.
Bird Watching: For the bird enthusiast, Baratang is a paradise with Parrot Island serving as the prime hotspot to catch a glimpse of its famous bird population.
Best Time to Visit Baratang Island
Best time to visit:October to May, with pleasant climate, during which all the outdoors activities such as safaris in mangroves and cave explorations are on in full swing. The monsoons, between June and September, when heavy rains have begun to bring the rains, may discourage one from visiting the outdoors of this island.
How to Reach Baratang Island:
Situated about 100 km from Port Blair, Baratang can be accessed by Andaman Trunk Road (ATR) and either ferry or bus to reach the place. The ride will be scenic both in the ferry and bus rides.
From Port Blair, it is about 3-4 hours by road to Baratang. The road journey will take you along the Jarawa Reserve Forest and indeed one may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the indigenous Jarawa people. Again, due to government regulation, vehicles are not permitted without a convoy, and photography is not permitted.
By Ferry: One can reach Baratang via ferry from Port Blair, and the views of the Andaman coastline while on the ferry journey are perfect.
Where to Stay
Baratang has not been compared in terms of stay with Havelock and Neil. But here you can get budgeted guesthouses and small eco-resorts offering very basic amenities. More passengers want to stay in Port Blair itself and take it as a day trip, as it is close to the area.
Conclusion
Barely accessible by land and totally impassable by ship, the adventurous soul makes for the wild beauty of Baratang Island. Sailing through dense mangroves, exploring ancient limestone caves with superb white formations, and simply gawking at the phenomenon called mud volcanoes, Baratang was an adventure the other way around for all those seeking a deeper connection with nature. So, if you wish to see the Andamans beyond the beaches, add Baratang to your itinerary.