Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do
- How to Reach
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
- Nearby Attractions
- Travel Tips & Responsible Travel
- Traveler-Type Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Parrot Island near Baratang in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands is one of India’s most magical sunset spectacles. As the sky glows amber and rose, thousands of parrots and parakeets sweep in waves over a mangrove-fringed islet to roost for the night. The experience is entirely by boat, timed to the golden hour, and blends birdwatching, hushed mangrove channels, and an unforgettable Andaman sunset.
History & Importance
Parrot Island is a natural roosting site set amid mangrove creeks off Baratang Island. For years, local boatmen and forest guides have timed evening rides to witness flocks of parrots and parakeets spiraling into the mangroves at dusk. Beyond its visual drama, the roost highlights the ecological richness of Andaman mangroves and the need for quiet, low-impact wildlife viewing.
- Ecological value: Dense mangroves provide safe night roosts for parrots, parakeets, and other shorebirds.
- Cultural relevance: Sunset boat trips are a community-led experience, often narrated by local boatmen.
- Conservation note: Visitors do not land on the island; all viewing is from boats to protect habitat.
Best Time to Visit
- Season: November to April offers the clearest skies and calm seas.
- Monsoon (June–September): Seas can be choppy; boat departures may be canceled for safety.
- Daily timing: Boats typically leave late afternoon so you arrive 20–40 minutes before sunset; exact timing shifts by season (roughly 4:30–5:30 pm departures).
- Bird activity: Largest, most reliable flocks are usually in the dry months; arrive early to watch the build-up.
Top Things to Do
1) Sunset Boat Ride to Parrot Island
Drift through serene mangrove creeks before anchoring a respectful distance from the roost. The crescendo happens minutes before sunset as parrots sweep in repeatedly.
2) Birdwatching
- Expect large flocks of parrots and parakeets; other estuarine birds often appear around the creeks.
- Bring binoculars (8x–10x) for best views without disturbing wildlife.
3) Low-Light Photography
- Use telephoto (200–400mm), fast shutter speeds, and higher ISO near dusk.
- Avoid flash to prevent disturbing birds.
4) Mangrove Creek Cruise
The approach to the roost is half the charm—mirror-still channels, arching mangrove roots, and golden reflections. Ask your boatman to pause briefly for photos where safe.
How to Reach
Base: Baratang Island (Nilambur Jetty)
Parrot Island trips start from Baratang’s jetty. Most travelers day-trip from Port Blair.
From Port Blair by Road
- Distance/time: ~100–110 km; 2.5–4 hours depending on traffic and checkpoints.
- Route: Andaman Trunk Road via Jirkatang checkpoints to Baratang.
- Regulations: The road section through protected areas has strict rules—no stopping, no photography of indigenous people, and adherence to speed limits. Expect ID checks.
- Bridge/ferry: A bridge now connects Middle Strait, reducing reliance on the older vehicle ferry; confirm current road conditions locally.
Public Transport
- Government/private buses run between Port Blair and Baratang; departures are limited and may not align with sunset boats.
- Shared cabs are an option but verify return timings after dusk.
On Arrival in Baratang
- Head to Nilambur (Baratang) Jetty and book a licensed boatman for the Parrot Island sunset ride.
- Typical duration: 1.5–2 hours round trip.
From Havelock/Neil
Travel via ferry to Port Blair, then by road to Baratang. Direct connections are uncommon; plan a night in Port Blair if needed.
Accommodation Options
- Stay in Baratang: Limited but convenient for sunset timing; options include simple lodges and eco-resorts near the jetty or along the trunk road.
- Stay in Port Blair: Wider choice across budgets; feasible for a long day trip if you depart early.
- Stay in Rangat: Works if combining North & Middle Andaman sightseeing; longer drive to the jetty.
Indicative categories:
- Budget guesthouses: INR 1,000–2,500 per night (simple rooms, fan/AC, basic dining).
- Mid-range resorts: INR 3,000–6,000 per night (AC rooms, on-site meals, limited amenities).
- Upscale stays: Sparse in Baratang; consider Port Blair for higher-end hotels.
Estimated Costs
- Private cab Port Blair–Baratang round-trip (day trip): INR 6,000–9,500 depending on vehicle and waiting.
- Shared tour (often combined with Limestone Caves): INR 2,000–3,500 per person, excluding meals.
- Parrot Island boat:
- Per person on shared boat: INR 800–1,500.
- Private boat (often 6–10 seats): INR 3,500–5,000 per boat.
- Permits/fees: Minimal or included by boatmen; confirm at the jetty.
- Meals at Baratang dhabas: INR 150–400 per person for a simple thali/snacks.
Note: Rates fluctuate seasonally; always confirm current prices locally.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
Food
- Try local seafood thalis (fish curry, rice, dal) at jetty-side eateries.
- Fresh coconut water and seasonal fruit make light pre-boat snacks.
Shopping
- Baratang has very limited shopping; pick up souvenirs (shell crafts, spices) in Port Blair instead.
Culture & Etiquette
- Respect protected areas and local communities; no photography of indigenous people along the route.
- Keep noise low near the roost; follow boatman’s instructions.
- Carry back all waste—mangroves are sensitive ecosystems.
Nearby Attractions
- Limestone Caves (Baratang): Short boat + forest walk to striking limestone formations.
- Mud Volcano (Baratang): A quick visit to see active mud vents.
- Baludera Beach: Quiet stretch ideal for a brief stop if staying overnight.
- Mangrove Boardwalks/Creeks: Ask locally about short guided creek rides earlier in the day.
Travel Tips & Responsible Travel
- Timing: Arrive at the jetty early to secure a boat that reaches the roost 20–40 minutes before sunset.
- Gear: Binoculars, telephoto lens, microfiber cloth (mangrove humidity), insect repellent, light shawl/windbreaker.
- Safety: Wear life jackets; keep phones/cameras secured—boats may rock when flocks arrive.
- Respect wildlife: No flash, no loud calls or music, no feeding birds, no landing on the island.
- Weather check: Trips may cancel with rain, wind, or poor visibility; build buffer time in your itinerary.
- Regulations: Follow all rules on the Andaman Trunk Road—no stopping inside protected stretches.
- Cash: Carry small bills for boats, snacks, and fees; card acceptance is limited.
Traveler-Type Tips
Families
- Choose a stable, larger boat if traveling with kids; sit centrally for less motion.
- Pack snacks, water, wet wipes, and a light jacket.
- Brief children to stay seated when flocks arrive.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Opt for a private boat for quieter viewing and better positioning for photos.
- Carry a small blanket or shawl for the cool return ride after dusk.
Friends/Groups
- Split a private charter to control timing and save per person.
- Combine with Limestone Caves in the morning and return for the sunset roost.
FAQs
Q: Where exactly is Parrot Island for the sunset roost?
A: It sits off Baratang Island in the Middle Andamans. Boats depart from Nilambur (Baratang) Jetty and navigate mangrove creeks to a no-landing roosting islet.
Q: Can I land on Parrot Island?
A: No. To protect the habitat, all viewing is from boats at a respectful distance. Landing is not permitted.
Q: What time do the parrots arrive?
A: Activity ramps up shortly before sunset, with multiple waves of birds arriving until dusk. Boatmen time departures so you reach 20–40 minutes before sunset.
Q: Is the sunset trip suitable in monsoon?
A: It depends on sea and weather conditions. Many operators cancel during heavy rain or strong winds. The dry season (Nov–Apr) is more reliable.
Q: Do I need prior booking?
A: In peak season and on weekends, advance coordination helps—either via your Port Blair hotel/driver or by arriving at the Baratang jetty early afternoon to secure a boat.
Conclusion
Parrot Island’s sunset roost near Baratang is a rare blend of golden-hour beauty and raw wildlife drama. Time your boat for dusk, keep a gentle footprint, and let the silhouettes of swirling parrots against a glowing Andaman sky become the lasting memory of your trip.
