Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do in Baratang
- Nearby Attractions
- How to Reach
- Taxi Options & Estimated Costs
- Accommodation Options
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Tips for Travelers
- Traveler-Specific Advice
- Sample Itineraries
- Estimated Budget
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Planning a Port Blair to Baratang taxi trip is one of the most rewarding day journeys in the Andaman Islands. The route along the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR) takes you through lush rainforests and a protected tribal reserve before reaching Baratang Island—home to limestone caves, a rare mud volcano, serene mangrove creeks, and the famed Parrot Island. This guide covers taxi choices, timings, permits, costs, and everything you need for a smooth, responsible trip.
History & Importance
- Strategic corridor: The Andaman Trunk Road connects South Andaman (Port Blair) with Middle Andaman via Baratang, making it a lifeline for local communities.
- Unique geology: Baratang showcases rare natural features—India’s only accessible mud volcanoes and striking limestone formations shaped over millennia.
- Protected landscapes and people: Part of the drive skirts the Jarawa Tribal Reserve. Transit is strictly regulated to safeguard indigenous communities and fragile ecosystems.
Best Time to Visit
- October to March (Peak/Best): Pleasant weather, calm seas for boat rides to the limestone caves, and clearer sunsets for Parrot Island.
- April to early June: Warmer and humid but manageable for early-morning trips.
- Monsoon (June–September): Heavy rain may disrupt boats and visibility on roads; check daily advisories and boat operations.
- Start early: Aim to leave Port Blair by 4:30–5:30 am to align with road regulations and beat queues at checkpoints.
Top Things to Do in Baratang
Limestone Caves (Nayadera)
Ride a speedboat through enchanting mangrove tunnels followed by a short forest walk to reach stalactite-stalagmite chambers. It’s the star attraction of a Baratang day trip.
- Boat duration: ~10–15 minutes one way
- Walk: ~1–1.5 km on a marked trail
- Tickets: Boat + forest entry payable at Baratang jetty
Mud Volcano
See bubbling mud pots formed by subterranean gases—a rare sight in India. The area is compact with a short approach walk.
Parrot Island (Sunset)
At dusk, thousands of parrots gather over a tiny mangrove islet. Requires an overnight at Baratang to join the sunset boat.
Baludera Beach
A quiet, curved beach ideal for a picnic and stroll. Facilities are basic; carry water and snacks.
Mangrove Creek Boat Rides
Even beyond the limestone cave run, bespoke mangrove trips can be arranged when boats and tides permit.
Nearby Attractions
- Rangat (Middle Andaman): Aamkunj Beach and Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway (~70–90 km north of Baratang).
- Yerrata Mangrove Viewpoint: Elevated views over extensive mangroves near Rangat.
- Long Island: Access by boat from Middle Andaman for pristine beaches (requires additional travel time).
- Closer to Port Blair: Chidiya Tapu (sunset) or Wandoor Beach—good add-ons if you’re based in Port Blair.
How to Reach
Route: Port Blair → Jirkatang Check Post → ATR through Jarawa Reserve → Middle Strait crossing → Baratang (Nilambur Jetty).
- Distance: ~100–110 km one way
- Travel time: ~2.5–3.5 hours each way depending on check-post wait and crossing
- Road rules: Transit through the reserve is regulated. Stopping, photography of tribal people, or interactions are strictly prohibited.
- Crossing: Historically via vehicle ferry at Middle Strait; a bridge may operate for part/all traffic. Status changes—confirm locally before departure.
Transport Options
- Private taxi (recommended): Most flexible for families and early starts.
- Shared cab/jeep: Early-morning departures with fixed timings; less flexibility but budget-friendly.
- Government bus: Operates between Port Blair and Baratang/Middle Andaman. Seats are limited and schedules may change; check at the STS bus depot.
- Self-drive: Rare in Andaman; regulations on ATR and limited rental availability make hired taxis more practical.
Taxi Options & Estimated Costs
Fares vary by season, fuel prices, and inclusions. The figures below are indicative for a same-day round trip from Port Blair to Baratang with sightseeing.
- Hatchback/Sedan (AC, 2–3 pax): INR 6,500–8,500
- SUV/MUV (AC, 4–6 pax): INR 8,500–12,500
- Tempo/Van (7–10 pax): INR 12,000–18,000
- One-way drop (rarely used): INR 3,500–5,500
What’s Typically Included
- Vehicle, fuel, driver charges
- Basic parking and standard check-post fees (if applicable)
- Pickup/drop in Port Blair city limits
Usually Excluded
- Boat tickets to Limestone Caves and Parrot Island
- Forest entry permits and camera fees
- Overtime/waiting beyond agreed hours (e.g., INR 200–400 per hour)
- Accommodation and meals
Note: Convoy/batch timings, ferry/bridge status, and fees are subject to change. Confirm the latest schedule a day prior.
Accommodation Options
- Port Blair (best base for day trips):
- Budget: INR 1,500–2,500 per night
- Mid-range: INR 3,000–6,000 per night
- Premium: INR 6,500+ per night
- Baratang (for Parrot Island sunset/early cave visit):
- Basic guesthouses/lodges near Nilambur Jetty: ~INR 1,500–3,500 per night
- Facilities are limited; book ahead in peak season
- Rangat (if continuing north): Simple stays, INR 1,500–3,000 per night
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Simple eateries at Jirkatang and Baratang jetty serve tea, snacks, and basic meals (veg/non-veg thalis, fish curry when available).
- Carry water, fruit, and light snacks for the road; options en route are limited.
Shopping
- Baratang has minimal shopping. Do your handicraft/souvenir shopping in Port Blair (e.g., shell crafts, spices, local art).
Culture & Etiquette
- Transit through the Jarawa Reserve is for passage only. No stopping, photographing, or interacting with tribal communities.
- Dress modestly, avoid loud music, and keep the environment litter-free.
Tips for Travelers
- Start early: 4:30–5:30 am departure helps clear checkpoints and secure early boats.
- Cash & network: ATMs and mobile data are patchy beyond Port Blair. Carry sufficient cash; BSNL often has better coverage.
- What to wear/carry: Light cottons, hat, sunglasses, rain jacket (seasonal), insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes.
- Safety: Seat belts on the ATR, follow driver/forest staff instructions, and be cautious on slippery trails after rain.
- Responsible travel: No littering, no plastics in mangroves, no wildlife disturbance.
Traveler-Specific Advice
Families with Kids
- Choose an SUV for comfort and space.
- Keep snacks, ORS, and a light jacket for boats.
- Short walks to caves are doable for most kids; take it slow in heat.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Book a private taxi and consider an overnight in Baratang for Parrot Island sunset.
- Carry a small daypack; avoid heavy luggage on boats and trails.
Friends/Backpackers
- Shared jeeps or buses are economical; verify first-departure timings.
- If budget allows, split an SUV for flexibility and time-saving.
Sample Itineraries
Classic Day Trip (from Port Blair)
- 04:45–05:15: Depart Port Blair
- ~06:15: Arrive Jirkatang Check Post
- ~07:30–08:30: Cross Middle Strait and reach Baratang
- 08:45–11:30: Boat to Limestone Caves + walk + return
- 11:45–12:30: Early lunch near jetty
- 12:45–13:45: Visit Mud Volcano
- 14:00+: Begin return to Port Blair (subject to road windows)
Overnight for Parrot Island
- Day 1: Port Blair → Baratang; visit caves and mud volcano; sunset boat to Parrot Island; stay in Baratang.
- Day 2: Optional Baludera Beach; return to Port Blair or continue north to Rangat.
Note: Timings are indicative and depend on batch windows, crossing arrangements, tides, and weather.
Estimated Budget
- Day trip (private taxi, 2–4 pax): INR 3,500–6,500 per person all-in (taxi share, boat to caves, forest fees, simple meals).
- Day trip (shared cab/bus): INR 1,800–3,200 per person (transport + boat/fees + meals).
- Overnight add-on: +INR 1,500–3,500 per person for basic stay in Baratang, depending on room type and season.
These ranges are estimates; actuals vary by season, availability, and exact inclusions.
FAQs
Q: How long is the taxi ride from Port Blair to Baratang?
A: The one-way journey is roughly 2.5–3.5 hours for ~100–110 km, depending on check-post wait times and the Middle Strait crossing or bridge status.
Q: Do I need a permit for Baratang?
A: Indian nationals don’t need a separate tourist permit, but transit rules through the Jarawa Reserve are enforced. Forest entry and boat tickets are required for the limestone caves and are purchased at the Baratang jetty. Non-Indian visitors should confirm current Restricted Area Permit guidelines on arrival.
Q: Can I stop for photos inside the Jarawa Reserve?
A: No. Stopping, photography, or any interaction within the reserve is strictly prohibited. Follow all instructions at checkpoints.
Q: What should I wear and carry for the caves?
A: Light clothes, sturdy walking shoes, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and water. A small daypack is ideal; avoid heavy luggage.
Q: Are boats to the limestone caves always available?
A: Boats operate during suitable weather and tides. In monsoon or rough conditions, services may be delayed or suspended. Check at the jetty on arrival.
Conclusion
A Port Blair to Baratang taxi trip blends scenic rainforest driving with unique natural attractions—limestone caves, a rare mud volcano, tranquil mangroves, and, with an overnight, Parrot Island’s sunset spectacle. Start early, carry essentials, respect local regulations, and verify road and boat timings a day ahead for a smooth, memorable journey.
