Islands of Andaman & Nicobar | India's Emerald Islands

Fri 22-08-2025 09:38

Thu 30-07-2026 04:39

Baratang Island

Ranchiwalas Island - Overview

Baratang Island

Baratang Island lies in Middle Andaman, roughly 100–110 km north of Sri Vijaya Puram through the Andaman Trunk Road. Best known for its limestone caves and mud volcanoes, it is a popular one-day trip destination. Baratang offers a memorable journey to the Jarawa Tribal Reserve (49 km forest stretch) and Mangrove Creek from Middle Strait before reaching the island's remarkable natural attractions. Combining geological wonders with rich natural landscapes, it is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

The journey to Baratang passes through the Jarawa Tribal Reserve under a police-escorted convoy system. Visitors must strictly follow all regulations, including the prohibition on stopping, photography, videography, or interacting with members of the Jarawa tribe.

History of Baratang

The name Baratang is derived from an Andamanese word referring to the bara tree. Archaeological evidence from Hava Beel Cave and Wot-a-emi suggests that the island has been inhabited since around 420 CE.
Baratang is named after settlers from the Ranchi region who were brought to the island during the late nineteenth century by the British to develop agriculture.
Over the years, Bengali and other mainland communities also settled on the island, contributing to its growth through agriculture and fishing.
A lighthouse, commissioned in 1985, stands at the eastern entrance of the Andaman Strait and continues to serve as an important navigational aid.

Island Location

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Emergency Numbers

Police	100
Fire	101
Ambulance	108
Tourist Helpline	1363
Coast Guard	1554

How To Reach

Baratang is a popular day-trip destination from Sri Vijaya Puram, located approx. 110 km away and reached in about 3–4 hours by road, requiring an early start and travel through the Jarawa Tribal Reserve convoy system.

By Road 🚌

Depart from Sri Vijaya Puram early (typically 4:00 AM, 7:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM) by government or private bus/car via the Andaman Trunk Road. Tickets can be booked at the Mohanpura Bus Terminus counter or online through the ANTS Portal.
At the Jirkatang Check Post, forest officials verify vehicle documents and passenger details before allowing entry into the Jarawa Reserve and the escorted convoy.
Vehicles join a police-escorted convoy at the Jirkatang checkpoint through the Jarawa Reserve; departures are at fixed times (approximately 6:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 3:00 PM). No stopping is permitted inside the reserve.

Middle Strait to Baratang / Nilambur Jetty ⛴️

At Middle Strait, vehicles cross by a short government vehicle ferry to reach Baratang/Nilambur Jetty.
Return convoys typically run around midday (about 6:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 3:00 PM). Return tickets can be booked through the ANTS Portal.

Mud Volcano

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Limestone Cave Exploration

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Parrot Island

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Travel Information

When to Visit

Best Season (October to May)

Pleasant weather for the cave walks and mud-volcano trek, with calmer conditions for the mangrove creek boat ride.

Monsoon (June to September)

Trails become slippery, and the sea crossing/mangrove boat ride can be rough. Avoid visiting during heavy rainfall.

Year-Round Destination

A tropical maritime climate prevails throughout the year with warm temperatures and humidity.

Food and Stay

Food

Baratang offers dining options, mainly around Nilambur Jetty and the Baratang Bazaar area. Simple vegetarian meals, rice plates, snacks, tea, and refreshments are widely available.

Accommodation

Baratang has a few basic accommodation options suitable for overnight stays available near Baratang Bazaar, including APWD Guest House (near Baratang Jetty), Forest Rest House, and private resorts such as Dew Dale Resort and Coral Creek Resort. Subject to prior permission and availability.

Transport Facilities Inside Baratang Island

Private Jeeps: Available from Baratang Jetty and provide a convenient mode of transport to attractions and sightseeing around Baratang.
Government Bus: Connects Baratang Jetty with popular attractions. An economical option for budget travellers to Mud Volcano and Baludera Beach.
Private Cars: Offer the most comfortable and flexible way to explore Baratang. They drive you from Sri Vijaya Puram, around Baratang, and return.

Entry Permits and Visitor Regulations

Indian Nationals

A valid original government-issued photo ID is mandatory at the Jirkatang checkpoint and convoy system, before transit through Jarawa Reserve.

Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals must carry a valid Passport, Indian Visa (including e-Visa), and identification documents at all checkpoints.

Things to Remember Before Planning Your Visit

Start Very Early: Plan an early start from Sri Vijaya Puram to join the first convoy and maximize your time at Baratang's famous Limestone Caves and Mud Volcano.
Respect the Jarawa Reserve Rules: While travelling through the Jarawa Tribal Reserve, visitors must follow all regulations and avoid photography, stopping, or interaction. These regulations are strictly enforced to protect the privacy, culture, and well-being of the Jarawa people.
Carry Original ID: Photocopies are generally not accepted at the Jirkatang checkpoint.
Strict Environmental Laws: Single-use plastics are banned across the Andaman Islands. Avoid littering, and never touch or collect natural formations in the caves or elsewhere.