Baratang Island
A hidden geological wonderland — mangrove tunnels, prehistoric limestone caves, and India's only mud volcanoes.
India's Premier Mangrove & Cave Destination
Baratang Island is a hidden geological wonderland located in the Middle Andamans, roughly 100 kilometres north of Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair). Known for its raw, unfiltered landscapes, it offers a rustic adventure far removed from the commercial beach resorts of Havelock or Neil Island.
It is the premier destination in India for exploring active mangrove tunnels, prehistoric limestone caves, and mud volcanoes — a full-day trip that rewards travelers looking for something beyond the beaches.
Top Natural Sights in Baratang
The Limestone Caves
An ancient subterranean solution cave network hidden deep within the jungle. Reaching them requires an adventurous speedboat ride through arching mangrove tunnels, followed by a 1.5-kilometre forest walk. Inside, you'll see massive, evolving stalactites and stalagmites formed over centuries.
The Mud Volcano (Jalki)
The only known mud volcanoes in India. Natural gases underground push gray clay mud upward, creating small, bubbling, active craters — a rare geological sight found nowhere else in the country. Accessible via a short uphill walk from the island road.
The Tribal Reserve Convoy
Reaching Baratang by road is an adventure in itself, as the highway cuts directly through the highly protected Jarawa Tribal Reserve Forest. To protect the reclusive Jarawa people, all private cabs and tourist buses must cross the forest together in a strict, government-regulated convoy.
Once you clear the forest checkpoint at Middle Strait, your vehicle parks and you board a massive vehicle ferry to cross the sea creek over to Baratang's main Nilambur Jetty.
A Standard Day-Trip Timeline
Because of the rigid convoy schedules, a day trip follows a very specific layout
Your private cab or tour bus picks you up from your hotel in Port Blair to join the early morning queue at the Jirkatang forest check post.
After crossing the creek ferry, board a shared 10-seater speedboat from Nilambur Jetty (approx. ₹900 round-trip) heading deep into the mangrove channels.
Walk the wooden boardwalks and jungle pathways to explore the dark interior of the Limestone Caves.
Head back to the mainland to see the Mud Volcano, followed by a hearty local seafood or veg lunch at a rustic village eatery.
Join the afternoon vehicle convoy heading south, arriving back at your Port Blair hotel around 6:30 PM.
Critical Travel Tips
Mandatory Permits
Carry a valid government ID (Aadhaar/Passport) to clear the Forest Department Permits at the check post.
Carry a Flashlight
The Limestone Caves are completely dark inside with zero artificial lighting.
Cash Is Essential
Digital UPI networks don't work on Baratang. Carry ample physical cash for speedboat tickets, permits, lunch, and refreshments.
Accessibility Note
Due to the long 6-hour road commute and uneven muddy trails, not recommended for toddlers, pregnant women, or seniors with severe back issues.
Ready to Explore Baratang Island?
Let our local experts arrange your convoy timing, ferries, and permits — all handled for a smooth day trip.