Visitor Information
- Famous For: Geography, Nature, Photography, Adventure.
- Entry Fee: No fee is required barring adventure sports, transport and food.
- Visiting Time: The convoy accompanied by the forest officials and rangers leave around 3 am or 4 am and return by 6 pm, that is the only time when it is possible to reach the Baratang Island.
- Visiting Duration: Almost the entire day.
When the golden light of the sun touches, the distant horizon making the clear, blue water dazzle like the shimmering sapphire, Andaman is born afresh to greet the numerous tourists visiting there every year. Be it the sandy, white beach glistening against the backdrop of the blue sea or the lush, green tropical vegetation, Andaman has its own beauty to showcase. One such native place in the heart of Andaman is the Baratang Island that was once hidden from the entire world. As the home of the Jarawa Tribe, one of the most dangerous tribes in the world, this Island has recently been legally opened for the tourists to view its beauty to the optimum level, and, thus, tourists flock to the Baratang Island despite all odds.
Traveller Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes because you will be required to trek along the muddy and slippery forest.
- Carry extra clothes with you and a towel in case of an emergency.
- Make sure that you have taken the permission to visit the Baratang Island from the government of the Union Territory of the Andaman & Nicobar Island.
- Visit the place with a guide.
- Do not approach anyone from the Jarawa Tribe in case you spot them passing.
Things to Do There
- Enjoy a short trek down the dense tropical forest.
- Explore the limestone caves on the island as the sight of the very same will send a chill down your spine.
- Enjoy a boat ride to the caves while gazing at the plants that you have never seen before.
Availability of Guides
You can always hire a guide there for a nominal fee to make your trip even better.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the limestone caves in the Baratang Island in Andaman is from November to February every year as preferred by the tourists.
How to Reach
The islands in Andaman are popular all over the world as they are interconnected through the waterways. After docking at the port in Baratang, namely the Nilumbur Jetty, you will have to ride on the fibre boats to the Nayadera Jetty that will require around half an hour. From that place, you will half to trek a kilometre and a half through the tropical dense forest to reach the limestone caves.
Interesting Facts About the Limestone Caves
- The limestone caves in the Baratang Island are a natural wonder.
- The limestone structures descend both upward from the floor and downward from the ceiling of the caves.
- There are various patterns that have been naturally formed by the limestone during their deposition.
- These limestone structures are not permanent in shape. They are constantly evolving over the years.
- The Limestone Caves are adorned with a unique flora and flora that dazzles the eyes of the tourists.
- While going to the limestone caves by road, the tourists have to cross through the Jarawa Tribal Reserve in a convoy. If the visitors are really lucky then, they might spot some of the tribal people walking across the forest area.
Nearby Attractions
- Mud Volcano
- Parrot Island
Nearby Restaurants
- The A. R. Restaurant
- Mahima Restaurant
The Baratang Island is a place that draws maximum curiosity because it is one of the most unexplored islands in the world. Home to the dangerous Jarawa Tribe, as this island was under their occupancy, not a soul was allowed to set foot upon this island. However, after the negotiation made by the government, this gorgeous island has been opened up for the tourists and educationists who marvel at the unexplored yet mind blowing beauty of this place. Filled with a feel that sends a chill down the spine and a bountiful nature that blinds the eyesight, the Baratang Island is gradually growing as a tourist destination and is, hence, a must visit for all.
