Baratang Island – The Untamed Wilderness of the Andamans

Looking to go beyond the usual beaches and dive sites of the Andamans? Baratang Island offers a completely different flavor of adventure – think dense tropical forests, volcanic mud, hidden caves, and tribal reserves. Located about 100 km from Port Blair, Baratang is a paradise for nature lovers, explorers, and offbeat travelers.

Why Visit Baratang Island?

Baratang is known for its unique geological formations, raw natural beauty, and tribal culture. It's less commercialized than Havelock or Neil, giving you a more authentic and untouched island experience.

Highlights:

Limestone Caves
Mud Volcanoes
Dense mangrove creeks
Gateway to tribal reserves
Offbeat & crowd-free atmosphere

Top Attractions & Experiences in Baratang

a man riding a skateboard down the side of a ramp

Limestone Caves

One of the top attractions, these natural wonders are formed by the gradual deposition of limestone over centuries. To reach the caves, you'll take a scenic boat ride through mangrove creeks followed by a short jungle trek – an adventure in itself!

Mud Volcano

Baratang is one of the few places in India where you can witness active mud volcanoes. Though small in scale, the sight of mud bubbling up from the earth is fascinating and rare.

Mangrove Forest Boat Ride

A peaceful and surreal boat journey through dense mangrove tunnels, this ride feels like something out of a movie. It's also the route to the limestone caves.

Parrot Island (Optional Evening Trip)

If you're staying overnight, take a boat to Parrot Island during sunset to witness hundreds of parrots returning to roost – a spectacular sight for bird lovers.

Best Time to Visit Baratang Island

The best time to visit is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant and all tours are operational. Monsoons (May to September) can bring heavy rains and may disrupt boat services.

How to Reach Baratang Island

From Port Blair: A road journey of approx. 2.5 to 3 hours via the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR). The drive includes crossing the Jarawa Tribal Reserve, where travelers are escorted in government convoys.
Permit Required: Indian nationals need no special permits. Foreigners must obtain a permit from the immigration authorities in Port Blair.

Important: Photography is strictly prohibited in tribal areas. Respect the local laws and avoid interactions with indigenous tribes.

Where to Stay in Baratang

Baratang is more of a day-trip destination, but basic accommodation is available for overnight stays:

Dew Dale Resort
APWD Guest House
Forest Rest Houses

Most visitors stay in Port Blair and do a full-day excursion.

Travel Tips for Baratang

Start early: Convoys to Baratang start around 6 AM from Port Blair.
Pack snacks & water – few food options en route.
Wear comfortable shoes – short jungle treks are involved.
Respect tribal regulations – absolutely no photography or contact allowed within tribal reserves.
Carry ID proof – permits and checkpoints are in place.

Baratang Island is not your typical beach destination – it’s a journey through dense forests, volcanic mystery, and ancient caves. If you're looking to add some real adventure and uniqueness to your Andaman itinerary, Baratang is the place to be.