Top 5 Things to Do in Baratang – 2025 Edition

Baratang Island, nestled in the heart of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a lesser-explored and hidden gem offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and unique experiences. Located in Middle Andaman, this tiny island serves as the first gateway to adventure for tourists visiting Baratang Island. With very limited access to amenities and little tourist infrastructure, Baratang remains a slightly secluded Isle but is a preferred tourist destination in the Andaman Islands for those seeking adventure and natural wonders.

Reaching Baratang Island a.k.a Ranchiwalas Island from the capital city, Port Blair, is an adventure in itself. You’ll need to rent a private car or book a government bus, or private AC bus for a four-hour bumpy ride along the Andaman Trunk Road. The journey takes you through the picturesque landscapes of both Middle and South Andaman, showcasing the region’s stunning natural beauty as you travel in a convoy for safety and it includes a short vehicle ferry connection at the Nilambur Jetty, which connects to the Baratang Jetty to start your Baratang Island trip.

Top Things to Do in Baratang Island

Baratang Island is packed with geological and natural wonders, offering both well-known tourist attractions and lesser-visited tourist places for those seeking a more secluded experience. If you’re ready to explore Baratang Island, here are some major places to visit:

1.  Explore the Impressive Limestone Caves

The limestone caves are one of the top places to visit in Baratang Island. These caves feature rare stalactites and stalagmites that were formed centuries ago, making them a geological wonder. Reaching the Limestone caves is half the fun! You’ll be on a scenic speed boat rides through dense mangrove forests and dense mangrove creeks. The journey is magical and amazingly pleasant, surrounded by warm green mangrove trees, blue waters and tidal swamp forests. After the boat ride, a short 1.2 km trek through tropical forests takes you to the limestone cave, offering a glimpse of the island’s hiking and trekking activities where you can wonder at the natural rock formations in unique shapes.

Since Baratang Island remains crowded during peak seasons, it’s best to visit the caves early in the morning to enjoy the experience without large crowds. Carry good walking shoes and a flashlight for a better experience.

2. Visit the Fascinating Mud Volcanoes

Mud volcanoes in Baratang Island are another fine attraction worth visiting. A quick shared Jeep ride from Nilambur Jetty in Baratang Island, followed by a short trek, leads you to these interesting geological wonders. These small bubbling puddle and mud pools are created by natural gases escaping from underground, forming a rare and natural phenomenon.

While the mud volcano may not sound extremely magical at first glance, the uniqueness of this natural wonder makes it truly special. The Andaman Islands are among the few places in the world where you can witness mud volcanoes, making them a must-visit in Baratang Island for adventure lover and nature explorer.

3. Visit Parrot Island: A Bird Watcher’s Paradise

Parrot Island, a secluded uninhabited Island near Baratang Island, is a paradise for nature lovers and bird watching enthusiasts. Hop on a local boat safari from the Baratang Jetty in the afternoon for a picturesque 20–30-minute ride to this small island. Arrives just in time to witness the colorful parrots flocking back to their nests at sunset. Since there are only a few rides available to Parrot Island each day, planning ahead is crucial to ensure you don’t miss the magical and famous sight.

The boat departs at 4 PM, making it the perfect time to catch the sunset. This 2–3-hour shared boat tour costs ₹5000 per boat, accommodating up to 8 people. Since Parrot Island is uninhabited, you can admire its pristine beauty from the comfort of the boats, ensuring its natural beauty remains untouched.

Note: To visit Parrot Island, plan an overnight stay in Baratang Island, as accommodations are very limited and booking in advance is essential. This unique experience is a must for anyone seeking peace and the wonders of nature.

4. Relax at Baludera Beach

If you’re looking for an untouched beach destination, Baludera Beach is your go-to spot on Baratang Island. Just 9 km from the Nilambur Jetty, Baludera Beach offers a peaceful escape for those seeking peace and natural beauty. This hidden beach gem in the Andaman Islands features a gently curved sandy bay, bordered by lush mangroves on one side and old fallen trees on the other. The warm waters make it an ideal spot to cool off after a busy day of sightseeing. Unlike the crowd captivating beaches of Havelock Island, Baludera Beach remains one of the uncrowded virgin beaches. Most of the time, you’ll have this serene beach all to yourself which instantly put you in a holiday mood, as very few tourists visit here, and locals usually visit only on weekends for picnics.

With limited tourist facilities and just a small shop near the bus stand, it’s best to bring your own snacks and essentials if you plan to spend some time relaxing in the beach.

5. Observe Indigenous Jarawa Tribe

On the way to Baratang Island from Port Blair via Andaman Trunk Road, keep an eye out for the indigenous Jarawa tribe people alongside the road. It’s interesting to see them living their traditional, tech-free life, untouched beauty by modern advancements like phones and the internet, something many of us can’t imagine going without for even a day!

However, it’s crucial to respect their privacy. Don’t stop your vehicle, offer them food, or take photos, it’s not just a matter of etiquette, but also for their safety. They’re vulnerable to diseases and disturbances, so a hands-off approach ensures everyone stays safe. Respecting their space and way of life is the best way to appreciate this unique cultural glimpse.

6. Other Things to Do in Baratang Island

• Food Stalls and Snacks: Near Baratang Jetty, you’ll find small eateries and a few South Indian food outlets serving delicious meals. Don’t expect fancy restaurants, as the services are quite basic, but the authentic experience makes it a worthwhile stop.
• Photography: Baratang Island is a lovely destination. Capture the diverse wildlife scenery, and mangrove-fringed creeks, offering magnificent natural sights.
• Spot Rare Birds and Animals: With its dense forests and tidal swamp forests, Baratang offers interesting bird watching opportunities and spotting rare animals.

Tips for Your Baratang Island Trip

1. Accommodation: With only a few stays available, book your accommodation in advance. Options range from Forest guest houses to decent accommodation. There are no luxury accommodation facilities and fancy restaurants.
   
   
2. Timing: Plan your visit Baratang Island early to avoid missing the last convoy back to reach Port Blair (the capital town).
   
   
3. What to Carry: Pack light but include essentials like walking shoes, sunscreen, flashlight and water. Carry cash as there are only a few ATMs available. Baratang Island does not have enough medical facilities, so carry a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications during your trip.
   
   
4. Transport: Scooter or bike rentals are not available, so arrange your transport in advance.
   
   
5. Respect Nature and Tribes: While enjoying the natural delight, remember to respect the environment and the indigenous communities.
6. Avoid During Monsoon: Avoid visiting Baratang Island during the monsoon season, as the weather conditions turn extremely humid and can disrupt travel plans.