Table of Contents
- Shared Cabs to Baratang Island: Overview
- Baratang Island at a Glance (History & Importance)
- Best Time to Visit
- How Shared Cabs to Baratang Work
- Permits, Rules & Safety through Jarawa Reserve
- Estimated Costs
- Top Things to Do in Baratang
- Nearby Attractions & Extensions
- Accommodation Options
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Alternative Ways to Reach Baratang
- Tips for Different Travelers
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Shared Cabs to Baratang Island: Overview
Planning a day trip from Port Blair to Baratang Island? Shared cabs are the most convenient and cost-effective way to reach the island’s famous limestone caves, mud volcano, and mangrove creeks. They pick you up early morning, handle the long Andaman Trunk Road (ATR) drive, and get you back by evening—ideal for travelers who want to keep costs in check without compromising on comfort.
Below is a complete guide covering timings, bookings, what to expect on the road through the Jarawa Reserve, typical costs, and how to organize your day efficiently.
Baratang Island at a Glance (History & Importance)
Baratang sits between South and Middle Andaman, about 100–110 km by road from Port Blair. It is renowned for its otherworldly limestone caves shaped by millennia of water and mineral deposits, the rare mud volcanoes, and dense mangrove creeks that you’ll navigate by motorboat.
- Ecological significance: A mosaic of tropical forests, mangroves, and coastal ecosystems.
- Cultural sensitivity: The ATR passes the Jarawa Tribal Reserve—strict rules protect the community and the forest.
- Tourism pattern: Primarily day trips; limited stay options on the island, with most visitors returning to Port Blair by late afternoon.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak season (November–April): Calm seas, clearer skies, best for boats and trekking to the caves.
- Shoulder (October and May): Warmer, occasional showers; still manageable for day trips.
- Monsoon (June–September): Heavy rain can disrupt boat services and make trails slushy. Travel possible but less predictable.
How Shared Cabs to Baratang Work
Typical Route & Distance
- Start: Port Blair (pickups from popular neighborhoods or a central stand).
- Route: Andaman Trunk Road → Jirkatang check → Jarawa Reserve section → Middle Strait Jetty → vehicle ferry → Baratang (Nilambur) Jetty.
- Distance/Time: ~100–110 km; typically 3–4 hours one way, depending on checks, traffic, and ferry wait.
Schedules & Pickup Points
- Start early: Most shared cabs begin pickups between 4:30 AM and 5:30 AM to reach the jetty in time for morning boats to the limestone caves.
- Return: Vehicles usually depart Baratang by early-to-mid afternoon to ensure a same-day return to Port Blair.
- Pickup zones: Aberdeen Bazaar, Junglighat, Phoenix Bay, Bathu Basti, or your hotel if pre-arranged.
- Important: Movement on the ATR is regulated for safety and conservation. Confirm the latest travel window and reporting time the day before your trip.
Booking Methods
- Local stands: Book a seat a day in advance at shared-cab counters near Aberdeen Bazaar or bus stand areas.
- Hotel/travel desks: Most arrange per-seat bookings with early pickup and drop-off.
- What you’ll need: Full names, mobile contact, ID details (keep originals handy at checkpoints).
Seat Types, Luggage & Comfort
- Vehicles: MUVs (Innova/Xylo/Ertiga) or tempo travelers with 10–17 seats.
- Seating: First come, first served unless pre-assigned; front/middle seats get snapped up fast.
- Luggage: One small bag per person is standard; large suitcases may attract an extra fee or may be declined (space constraints).
- Comfort: Air-conditioned vehicles; expect a long drive with limited stops in regulated zones.
Accessibility & Who Should Avoid
- The limestone cave trek involves a flat 1–1.5 km walk each way; not wheelchair-friendly.
- Boat rides through mangroves can be bumpy; those with severe motion sickness should prepare accordingly.
- Families with infants or travelers with mobility constraints may prefer a private vehicle for flexibility.
Permits, Rules & Safety through Jarawa Reserve
- Regulated corridor: The ATR crosses a protected tribal reserve. Stopping, photography, handing food/items, or interacting with the tribe is strictly prohibited.
- ID checks: Carry government-issued photo ID (passport for foreign nationals). Your cab operator will brief you on any current formalities at gates.
- No photos/videos: Especially in the reserve zone and at security points; fines and legal action apply for violations.
- Speed and stops: Follow driver/escort instructions. Unscheduled halts in the reserve are not allowed.
- Always verify: Rules, timings, and procedures may change; reconfirm with your operator a day prior.
Estimated Costs
Prices vary by season, fuel rates, and demand. The ranges below are indicative per person unless noted.
- Shared cab seat (Port Blair–Baratang–Port Blair, same-day): INR 1,500–2,500.
- Boat to Limestone Caves (return; purchased at Baratang jetty): INR 800–1,200.
- Forest/entry fee (if applicable): INR 50–150.
- Local guide (often arranged at jetty/caves; per group): INR 200–500.
- Mud Volcano transfer (shared auto/jeep): INR 200–400 per person, or INR 400–800 per vehicle.
- Meals (simple dhaba lunch + tea/snacks): INR 200–400.
Approximate day-trip total: INR 2,800–4,500 per person, depending on inclusions and season.
Top Things to Do in Baratang
Limestone Caves
- Experience: A scenic motorboat ride through mangroves followed by a short forest walk to see stalactite-stalagmite formations.
- Time needed: 2–3 hours (including boat and trek).
- Tip: Wear sturdy walking shoes; carry water and a hat.
Mud Volcano
- Experience: See cold mud bubbling from earth fissures—geologically fascinating and unique in India.
- Access: Short drive from Baratang bazaar + a 10–15 minute walk.
Mangrove Boat Ride
- Experience: Narrow creeks framed by mangrove canopies; great for photos outside restricted zones.
- Note: Life jackets are mandatory; follow your boatman’s safety briefing.
Parrot Island (Seasonal/Timing-dependent)
- Experience: Thousands of parrots return at dusk—a spectacular natural show.
- Note: Typically requires an evening boat; same-day return to Port Blair may not be possible if you include this. Plan an overnight near Baratang.
Nearby Attractions & Extensions
- Rangat: Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway, Aamkunj Beach (eco-friendly seaside stretch).
- Long Island: Gateway to Lalaji Bay Beach and quiet island stays (requires extra boat transfer).
- Guitar Island: Scenic sandbar and turquoise shallows (logistics depend on tides and local boats).
Accommodation Options
Staying in Port Blair (Best for Day Trips)
- Budget hotels/guesthouses: INR 1,500–3,000 per night.
- Mid-range: INR 3,500–7,000 per night.
- Why stay here: Wider choice, dining options, and easy early-morning pickup for shared cabs.
Staying in Baratang (Limited)
- Options: A handful of basic lodges and eco-stays; inventory is limited and sells out in peak months.
- Price range: INR 2,500–5,000 per night for simple rooms.
- Tip: Book in advance if you plan to see Parrot Island or want a slower, 2-day itinerary.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Food: Expect simple Indian meals—veg/non-veg thalis, fresh fish curries, hot chai, coconut water near the jetty or bazaar.
- Shopping: Minimal. Pick up souvenirs back in Port Blair (Aberdeen Bazaar).
- Culture & respect: The ATR crosses a tribal reserve. Do not photograph, stare at, or attempt contact with the Jarawa community. Follow all directions from authorities.
- Payments: Carry cash; ATMs and digital payments can be unreliable.
Alternative Ways to Reach Baratang
Government/Private Bus
- Most economical; fixed schedules, early departures.
- Less flexibility on stops and timings; can be crowded in peak season.
Private Cab/Tempo Traveller
- Best for families/groups wanting custom timings and comfort.
- Cost is per vehicle (significantly higher than per-seat shared cabs), but cost-effective when split among 4–8 travelers.
Self-Drive/Two-Wheeler
- Not recommended for most visitors due to regulations, ferry coordination, and reserve rules.
- If attempted, confirm current permissions and timings well in advance.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families with Kids
- Pack light snacks, water, sunhats, and wipes; early starts can be tiring.
- Choose mid-rows in tempo travelers for less motion sway.
- Keep IDs and a small first-aid kit handy.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Opt for a private cab if you prefer flexible photo stops outside restricted zones.
- Carry a light daypack for the cave trek; closed shoes are better than sandals.
Friends/Backpackers
- Shared cabs offer the best value; book a day in advance in high season.
- Bring cash for boat tickets, guides, and snacks.
Packing Checklist
- Photo ID, cash, water bottle, light rain jacket (Oct–May heat/occasional showers; monsoon heavier).
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, insect repellent.
- Closed-toe walking shoes; quick-dry clothing.
- Motion-sickness tablets if needed (road + boat).
FAQs
Q: What time do shared cabs to Baratang usually leave Port Blair?
A: Most begin pickups between 4:30 AM and 5:30 AM to reach the jetty for morning boat slots. Confirm your exact reporting time with the operator a day before travel.
Q: Do I need any special permits to visit Baratang?
A: Tourists typically don’t need a separate permit just to visit Baratang, but movement on the ATR is regulated. Carry valid photo ID (passport for foreign nationals) and follow all rules in the Jarawa Reserve, including no photography or stops.
Q: How much cash should I carry?
A: Carry at least INR 1,500–2,500 per person in cash for boat tickets, local guides, meals, and small transfers, in addition to your prepaid cab fare. Card/UPI can be unreliable.
Q: Can I visit both the limestone caves and mud volcano on a day trip?
A: Yes, most day trips cover both, time and weather permitting. Start early and stick to your driver’s suggested schedule.
Q: Is photography allowed on the way?
A: Not inside the Jarawa Reserve or at security checkpoints. Photography is allowed at tourist sites like the caves and mangroves—respect local guidance and signboards.
Conclusion
Shared cabs offer a balanced way to experience Baratang Island in a single day—cost-efficient, reasonably comfortable, and aligned with the regulated movement on the Andaman Trunk Road. Plan an early start, carry cash and ID, respect conservation rules, and allow ample time for the boat ride and short treks. With sensible pacing, you can comfortably explore the limestone caves, mud volcano, and mangrove creeks before heading back to Port Blair the same evening.
