Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Private Cab Fare Guide (Port Blair ⇄ Baratang)
- History & Importance of Baratang Island
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do in Baratang
- Nearby Attractions
- How to Reach Baratang
- Accommodation Options
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Estimated Costs & Sample Budgets
- Essential Tips for Visiting Baratang
- Travel Tips by Traveler Type
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Planning a day trip to Baratang Island from Port Blair? Baratang is famous for its limestone caves, mud volcano, mangrove creeks, and raw tropical landscapes. The road journey through the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR) passes a protected forest corridor, so transport is regulated and most travelers choose a private cab for comfort and timing control. This guide breaks down private cab fares, how the trip works, what to see, and practical tips to make your Baratang visit smooth and memorable.
Private Cab Fare Guide (Port Blair ⇄ Baratang)
Typical One-Day Round-Trip Cab Fares
Fares vary by vehicle type, season, fuel prices, and inclusions. The ranges below are common for a same-day Port Blair ⇄ Baratang trip with hotel pick-up/drop.
- Sedan (Dzire/Etios, AC, 2–3 pax): ₹5,000–₹6,500
- MPV (Ertiga, AC, up to 5 pax): ₹6,500–₹7,500
- SUV (Innova/Crysta, AC, up to 6–7 pax): ₹7,500–₹9,500
- Tempo Traveller (10–12 pax): ₹11,000–₹14,000
What’s usually included:
- Vehicle with driver for the day (Port Blair hotel pick-up ~3:00–4:30 AM)
- Waiting time at check-posts, jetty, sightseeing points
- Driver’s allowance
Common exclusions (payable on the spot):
- Forest/permit fees (if applicable)
- Vehicle ferry charges at Middle Strait (if charged separately)
- Shared speedboat to Limestone Caves: ₹800–₹1,200 per person (approx.)
- Mud Volcano transfer (local jeep/share): ₹100–₹300 per person (approx.)
- Meals, personal expenses
Money-saving pointers:
- Share an SUV among 4–6 people to reduce the per-person cost.
- Confirm inclusions/exclusions and any overtime charges in writing.
- Start with the earliest passage window to avoid long queues and peak-heat hours.
History & Importance of Baratang Island
Baratang sits between South and Middle Andaman and is known for its remarkable limestone formations, rare mud volcanoes, thick mangrove forests, and quiet beaches. The island’s geology and biodiversity make it a unique day trip from Port Blair. The approach road crosses a protected forest corridor; strict rules are in place to safeguard the ecosystem and indigenous communities.
Best Time to Visit
- October to May: Best weather and calmer creeks for boat rides to the Limestone Caves.
- December to February: Peak season; start early and pre-book your cab and boats.
- June to September (Monsoon): Boat trips may be curtailed due to rain/rough water; trails can be slushy.
Top Things to Do in Baratang
- Limestone Caves: Scenic boat ride through mangroves followed by a short walk to stunning stalactite/stalagmite formations.
- Mud Volcano: One of the few accessible mud volcanoes in India; expect small bubbling mud vents.
- Parrot Island (Sunset): Thousands of parrots return to roost; best if you can stay till evening or overnight.
- Baludera Beach: Quiet shoreline ideal for a relaxed break; basic facilities only.
Nearby Attractions
- Rangat (2–3 hours further north): Dhani Nallah mangrove walk, Morice Dera beach.
- Long Island: Laid-back vibe and nature trails (requires further boat transfer from Rangat).
- Middle Andaman countryside: Village scenes, creeks, and birdlife for slow travelers.
How to Reach Baratang
Route Overview
- Distance: ~100–110 km one-way from Port Blair to Baratang Jetty.
- Driving time: 2.5–3.5 hours one-way, plus waiting at check-posts and Middle Strait jetty.
- Key segments: Port Blair → Jirkatang Check Post → Middle Strait (vehicle ferry) → Baratang Jetty.
Transport Options
- Private Cab (most convenient): Pre-booked with hotel pick-up; regulated passage through the forest corridor.
- Government/Private Buses: Budget-friendly but slower; fixed timings; expect queues at jetty.
- Self-drive/Bikes: Generally not feasible for tourists; two-wheelers are typically not permitted through the protected corridor, and self-drive rentals are limited.
Permits and Timings
- Travel across the protected forest corridor is regulated. Passage windows and escort rules can change; confirm the latest advisory with your driver/operator one day prior.
- Carry a government ID; keep cash for on-the-spot fees.
- Night travel is not allowed through the corridor.
Accommodation Options
- Port Blair base: Most travelers do Baratang as a day trip from Port Blair due to limited stays on the island.
- Baratang & nearby: A few basic lodges/eco-stays operate near the jetty and along the ATR. Facilities are simple; book ahead if planning to see Parrot Island at sunset.
- Rangat side: Additional simple accommodations are available if you’re continuing north.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Expect simple dhabas near the jetty: veg thalis, omelettes, snacks, tea, fresh coconuts.
- Seafood availability varies; hygiene and options are basic—carry snacks and water.
Shopping
- Very limited. Small kiosks sell beverages, chips, seasonal fruits. Major shopping is best done in Port Blair.
Culture & Ethics
- The road passes a protected forest corridor. Photography, stopping, or interacting with indigenous people is strictly prohibited.
- Follow all forest and ferry rules; keep noise low and do not litter.
Estimated Costs & Sample Budgets
Typical Day-Trip Costs (per group)
- Private cab (sedan): ₹5,000–₹6,500
- Boat to Limestone Caves (shared): ₹800–₹1,200 per person
- Mud Volcano local transfer: ₹100–₹300 per person
- Permits/jetty/ferry: ₹100–₹400 per person (varies; some fees may be per vehicle)
- Meals/snacks: ₹200–₹500 per person
Sample Per-Person Cost
- 2 travelers sharing a sedan: ~₹3,000–₹4,000 per person
- 4 travelers sharing an SUV: ~₹1,800–₹2,600 per person
Note: Costs fluctuate by season and policy. Always reconfirm updated fees and timings.
Essential Tips for Visiting Baratang
- Start early (often 3:00–4:30 AM pick-up) to catch the earliest passage and avoid queues.
- Carry government ID, cash (ATMs and card acceptance are limited), water, snacks, and small change for local transfers.
- Wear light clothes, a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable closed shoes; pack insect repellent.
- Mobile data can be patchy; download offline maps and keep your driver’s number handy.
- Respect all rules in the protected corridor: no photos, no stopping, no littering.
- If seas/creeks are rough or it’s raining heavily, boats to the caves may be suspended—be flexible.
Travel Tips by Traveler Type
Families
- Choose an MPV/SUV for space and comfort; carry snacks for kids.
- The cave walk involves uneven paths—lightweight stroller alternatives (baby carrier) are better.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Opt for a private early start for quieter cave visits.
- Consider staying near Baratang to catch Parrot Island at sunset.
Friends/Small Groups
- Split an SUV or Tempo Traveller to reduce per-person costs.
- Pack a dry bag for phones/cameras during the mangrove boat ride.
Packing Essentials
- Photo ID, cash, sunscreen, insect repellent, cap, reusable water bottle, light rain jacket (monsoon).
Safety
- Follow crew and forest guard instructions at all times.
- Avoid risky selfies on boats or near mangrove roots; watch your step on cave trails.
FAQs
Q: What is the average private cab fare from Port Blair to Baratang for a day trip?
A: Most sedan cabs cost ₹5,000–₹6,500 for a same-day round trip. MPVs/SUVs range from ₹6,500–₹9,500, depending on season and inclusions.
Q: How long does the trip take, and when should I start?
A: The drive is 2.5–3.5 hours one-way plus waiting at check-posts and the jetty. Plan a 10–12 hour day in total. Start early (around 3:00–4:30 AM pick-up) to catch the earliest passage.
Q: Are permits required for Baratang?
A: Passage through the protected corridor is regulated and ID checks are common. Certain fees/permits and ferry charges may apply. Your cab operator usually handles formalities; carry a valid government ID and cash for on-the-spot payments.
Q: Can I self-drive or go by bike to Baratang?
A: Self-drive options are limited in the Andamans, and two-wheelers are typically not permitted through the protected corridor. Visitors generally travel by private cab or bus.
Q: Is Baratang doable as a day trip?
A: Yes. Most travelers visit the Limestone Caves and Mud Volcano and return to Port Blair the same day. For Parrot Island at sunset, consider an overnight stay nearby.
Conclusion
Baratang Island rewards early risers with mangrove boat rides, dramatic limestone formations, and a glimpse of the Andamans’ wild side. Private cabs offer the most reliable way to navigate regulated passages and tight timings. With an early start, realistic cost expectations, and respect for local rules, you can comfortably experience Baratang’s highlights in a single day.
