Mud Volcano, Baratang

History and Geological Significance of Mud Volcanoes in Andaman

1. The Only Mud Volcanoes in India

Did you know that Andaman is the only place in India that witnesses this phenomenon? There are a total of eleven mud volcanoes in the Andaman Islands. Of these, 8 are in Baratang and Middle Andaman. The remaining 3 are in North Andaman.

2. How Are Mud Volcanoes Formed?

The natural gases emitted by decaying organic matter underground push mud upwards, creating small muddy craters. These are formed in clusters and have volcanic lines.

3. Not Your Usual Volcano

These do not release lava but instead release natural gases like methane and hydrogen sulfide. What you see as a result are small, bubbling puddles of mud.

Fun Fact: If you are a science nerd, then you will be transported back to your chemistry lab at school. This is because the mud volcanoes give off a strong sulfuric odor, which is similar to the rotten egg smell of ammonia gas.

4. The History of Mud Volcanoes in Andaman

Interestingly, the first eruption was recorded by the Geological Survey of India in 1891, and since then, the volcanoes have been active. They spew mud periodically but are otherwise dormant volcanoes.

5. The Size of the Mud Volcanoes

Usually, these volcanoes have small muddy craters. Yet, the mud volcano in Baratang can reach over 3-5 meters (10-16 feet) in height. Wow!

6. Can You Visit Mud Volcanoes?

While you can’t go anywhere near an active lava volcano, mud volcanoes are more accessible, especially the ones on the lower temperature range. The average temperature can vary from 100 degrees to 2 degrees Celsius. Tourists even use these volcanoes for a mud bath. Maybe it’s therapeutic and maybe it’s not, but it surely sounds like fun!

7. Important Travel Tips

During your visit to the Mud Volcanoes, be sure to carry mosquito repellents. You also need a permit to visit the island, so make sure you have one ready. Continue to check the weather report as the area is prone to heavy rainfall.

How To Reach Mud Volcano, Andaman

You need to reach Port Blair first. You can directly fly into Port Blair but if you are staying in Neil Island or Havelock Island then you can book a ferry from Havelock to Port Blair or from Neil Island to Port Blair.

Heading to Mud Volcano first requires you to reach Bartang Island. Take a cab, private AC bus or government bus from Port Blair, the capital city of South Andaman to Bartang in Middle Andaman. Don’t rent a two-wheeler for this journey because these aren’t allowed on the island. The journey to Baratang has a story to tell. You will traverse through the Andaman Trunk Road and on this route lies the Jarawa Tribal Reserve.

From Baratang Jetty hop on shared jeeps that take you close to the volcano site. The ride will cost you approximately 200 INR. From there, a short trek of about 5-10 minutes through a forested trail leads you to the mud volcanoes which are managed by the forest department. This rocky path is slightly uneven but manageable, offering a scenic walk amidst nature.

Best Time To Visit Mud Volcano Baratang

The best time to visit this unique site is between the months of October to May, when the weather is pleasant. Do not visit the mud volcanoes during the monsoon season. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season as heavy rainfall can make the trails muddy and inaccessible.

Things to Do In and Around Baratang Island

Once you visit the Baratang Island mud volcano and have time to spare, then head to these Andaman attractions:

• Visit Limestone Caves: Spectacular and primal, these caves are a unique attraction. Walking through these caves gives you a glimpse of the topography of the Andamans.

• Relax at Baludera Beach: Seclusion awaits at this Andaman beach. This beach is truly tranquil, allowing you to experience the pristine beaches of the  Andaman sea in its untainted form. Since this isn’t a tourist hub, the amenities on this beach are scarce. So carry ample food and water

• Explore Parrot Island: You can hop on a boat and sail around Parrot Island. Here you can witness the many parakeets heading to the island from mangrove forests right as the sun sets. It’s a once-in-lifetime experience that you shouldn’t miss.

G2A Tips: Make sure you visit these only if you have a reserved stay in Baratang Island. Traveling back from Baratang Jetty to Port Blair after the last convoy which leaves at 3:30 PM is impossible. If you are staying at the island then Dew Dale Resort and Coral Creek Resorts are good stay options.