Baratang Island is around 100 km from Port Blair. The journey to Baratang is through tribal reserve forests. One gets to explore the limestone caves and the mud volcano in Baratang. The boat ride to the limestone caves through the mangroves is as beautiful as the caves themselves.

How to reach?

The best way to reach Baratang is by road from Port Blair. Although recently the government has started ferry services from Port Blair it is not very reliable.

Convoy timings and Jarawa area rules

The vehicles pass the Jarawa area in a convoy for safety. The first convoy leaves Jirkatang's check post at 6 am. It is advised to go to Baratang in the first convoy so that you can get sufficient time to visit the limestone caves. To get the first convoy from Jirkatang's at 6 am one needs to leave Port Blair by 3.30 am as there are other formalities to be done at the check post.

Strict rules are to be followed while passing through the Jarawa area. The vehicle is not to be stopped in between and interacting with the Jarawa tribes is a punishable offense. For your safety please keep the windows closed during the journey.

What to see?

The main attraction of the Baratang Islands is the limestone caves and the boat ride to the caves through the mangroves. Also, the car driving through the forest is amazing. Those interested may also hire a jeep to visit the mud volcano.

What to do?

There are no other activities to be done in Baratang apart from visiting the limestone caves and the mud volcano. Those going to Diglipur or willing to do an overnight stay can visit Parrot island in the evening.

What to eat?

Before you start your convoy journey from Jirkatang's, make sure to finish your breakfast in the numerous roadside eateries near the check post. This will save your time in Baratang. For lunch, you may choose the food vendors and the small shacks near the jetty for Thalis and basic food. Those guests who have complimentary breakfast in their package are advised to take a packed breakfast from the hotel the previous night.

What you should not miss

Do not miss the boat ride from the Baratang jetty to the limestone caves.

What you can skip

In case you are hard-pressed for time or have senior citizens with you, you may skip the mud volcano.

Ideal for

Ideal for families and youths. Since there is a trekking of 1.5 km to the cave it is not advisable for senior citizens who have problems walking.

Disclaimer:

Discover Andaman Holidays do not conduct or encourage tours to the Jarawa areas. Tourists should understand that interacting, giving food, and even stopping their vehicles in the Jarawa area is a punishable offense.