On this page 9 sections
Baratang is an unusual day trip. It is a long journey by road and boat from Port Blair to a patch of mangrove, forest and limestone, where you can see caves formed over millions of years. It is also a trip that passes through a tribal reserve, which gives it a significance and a set of rules unlike any other trip in the islands.
What the journey involves
From Port Blair, the Andaman Trunk Road runs about 100 km north, through forest, to Jirkatang, where a checkpoint controls entry to the Jarawa tribal reserve. Vehicles travel in convoy at fixed times, with no stopping and no photography. After about 50 km, the road reaches the Middle Strait, where vehicles board a ferry across the water to Baratang Island. From the jetty on the far side, you take a small boat along a mangrove creek to a landing point near the caves, and then walk through the forest. The return follows the same path.
The day is long, usually 12 hours or more door to door. Start early.
What you will see
- The mangrove creek. A narrow waterway lined with mangroves and tangled roots, with birds and sometimes crocodiles.
- The limestone caves. A short forest walk leads to the caves, where stalactites and stalagmites shape fascinating forms. Visitors enter with a guide.
- The mud volcano. A small, bubbling mud area on Baratang, which can be visited on a separate trip with a long drive and walk, if conditions allow.
- Forest and wildlife. Birds, butterflies and, if you are lucky, wild boar and monitor lizards.
The Jarawa reserve road
This is the most sensitive part of the trip. The Jarawa are an indigenous community who live in the forest, and the road passes through their reserve. The law and the courts have set clear rules:
- Convoys travel at fixed times, led by police.
- Vehicles may not stop.
- Photography and video are strictly forbidden.
- You may not offer food, gifts or contact.
- Behaviour that disturbs or exploits the community is illegal.
These rules protect people who have chosen to live apart. Respect them completely. If you feel uneasy, choose another trip. Reports in the past have documented exploitation of the Jarawa through tourism, and responsible travellers should keep this in mind.
Permits and timings
Permits are required for the convoy and the caves, usually arranged at the checkpoint or through tour operators. Convoy timings vary by season and may change, so check locally. A late start can mean missing the convoy and the day.
How to prepare
- Leave Port Blair very early, around 4 to 5 am.
- Carry photo ID, as you will be asked for it.
- Wear light clothes, comfortable shoes and a hat.
- Take water, snacks and cash.
- Bring insect repellent.
- Have a phone or camera ready for the caves, but not for the reserve road.
Who it suits
It suits travellers who enjoy long, adventurous days and are comfortable with the ethics of the route. It is less suited to young children, people with back problems or those with limited time. The walk to the caves is easy but humid.
When to go
November to April is the best period. In the monsoon, the road and the creek can be affected by rain, and the trip may be cancelled.
Where to stay
Most visitors do Baratang as a day trip from Port Blair. A few guest houses at Baratang and Rangat exist for those who want to stay in Middle Andaman, but facilities are basic.
Plan with us
Baratang can be added to any Port Blair stay. See the Port Blair guide or ask us whether it suits your trip.
