Andaman Tourism Opens: The Andaman & Nicobar administration has announced that all tourist spots in the South Andaman district will be opened for tourism activities with immediate effect 8 Feb 2022.
The tourists are allowed to visit Baratang/North & Middle Andaman on production of double dose covid certificate/ All other passengers viz. unvaccinated and partially vaccinated passengers (those who have taken only 1S1 dose of COVID vaccine) shall have to produce RT-PCR negative test report
General Guidelines defined for traveling to Andaman Islands during COVID :
What are the guidelines for testing for tourists coming to Andaman after August 03 2021?
On arrival at Port Blair :
1. The tourists need to carry COVID-19 negative test report from mainland based 1CMR approved lab using Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RTPCR). However, the sample for RTPCR test should have been taken within 48 hours prior to starting the journey from the origin station. (For e.g. if the tourist takes a flight from Delhi at 0600 hrs. on 1st September, 2021, the sample for RTPCR test should have been taken not before 0600 hrs. on 30th August, 2021).
2. The tourists/visitors on arrival at Port Blair airport have to undergo mandatory Covid-19 screening with RTPCR test free of cost. Thereafter the tourists/visitors are allowed to move to their respective hotels. However, they will have to be under quarantine at Port Blair in their hotel rooms until the result of RTPCR tests are received. In case of RTPCR positive test results, the tourists/visitors shall remain in
institutional quarantine in hotels notified by the Hoteliers Association in consent with the A&N Administration, on rates as specified or to the designated hospital/ Covid-19 care centre on case-to-case basis.
3. Tourists may also have to undergo random Rapid Antigen Test conducted from time to time on payment basis as prescribed by A8N Administration.
What if the tourists test positive after arriving at the Andaman Islands?
If the tourists tests positive during their stay in the Islands, he/she will need to undergo institutional isolation as per existing health protocols. The
cost of such isolation for govt. facility will be paid by the tourists as fixed by the administration from time to time.
If the patient wants to stay at hotels, he/she can stay in the hotels if all the conditions below are met:
a) Patients are not symptomatic and not more than 60 years old.
b) Request/ undertaking is made by patient in writing.
c)lf allowed by doctors.
Hotels will make necessary arrangements to designate a part of their rooms for institutional isolation for this purpose.
.jpg)
Baratang Island, a hidden gem of the Andaman Islands, is known for its natural wonders ranging from impressive limestone caves to dense mangrove creeks. You can see here tidal swamp forests as well as fascinating mud volcanoes. Located between Middle and South Andaman Island, Baratang Island is the first gateway up north from Port Blair, the capital city. It is approximately 100 kilometers from Port Blair, and thus a popular one-day destination especially for those who are staying on the islands for a short time duration.
Baratang Island remains slightly less developed in comparison with other islands. It is not a major tourist hub and there are no extraordinary tourist facilities, fancy restaurants, or luxury accommodation facilities. The majority of people do not speak English here. However, the place is a natural marvel.
Quaint beaches and crystal clear blue water make Baratang Island the best choice for a relaxed, fun-filled vacation. Whether you want to go for sunbathing or enjoy marine life, this little paradise has something for everyone. There is a lot to explore and thus, to help you in designing your itinerary, we present you the best Baratang Travel Guide.
If you are staying here for a couple of nights, then you can enjoy the secluded beaches, interesting bird watching opportunities, a rural way of life, adventurous mangrove boat rides, and several delicious and authentic Indian dishes. You should definitely pay a visit to this hidden treasure if you are a nature explorer or a wildlife fan, (or both).
Reaching Baratang Island
You can hire a private car or catch a private AC bus to reach Baratang Island from Port Blair. It is the best and the most convenient way. If you are on a tight budget, then taking a government bus from Port Blair is the best option. You will have to drive via the Andaman Trunk Road (ATR) and move in a group with one short vehicle-ferry connection. It will take a total of four hours but the lush greens and blue waters will make the whole experience unforgettable. Please note that two-wheelers are not allowed to go all the way to the island.
You can spot a few Jarawas on the way. The jungle through which the ATR cuts is home to the indigenous Jarawa tribe. You can witness many tribal people waiting on the sides of the road to cross to the other side. You cannot interact with them in any way, and also giving them food, gifts or even clicking their pictures is not permitted. You can be fined and imprisoned for the same.
Travelling in Baratang Island
Getting around the island is quite easy. You can hire a private taxi/cab from Port Blair. You can choose to explore Baratang Island in any of the following ways:
You can take a private jeep to a place like Mud Volcano from the Baratang Jetty.
A government bus can take you to the Mud Volcano as well as Baludera Beach. There is no fixed schedule but a few rides per day are for sure.
Private cars are expensive but are definitely the most convenient. You can drive from Port Blair, around Baratang Island and back.
Please note that no scooter or bike rentals are available on the island. Also, there are no auto-rickshaws as well.
Exciting activities to do in Baratang Island
The island is popular sights and therefore, these are some trekking options and interesting bird watching opportunities. You can also go for boat rides through mangrove-fringed creeks and canals heading to Limestone Caves or Parrot Island.
You can go for a romantic and exciting boat ride through mangrove forests that are spread around the island creating a canopy. Being here is not less than a magical experience! The slow meandering waterway leads to the beautiful land of the limestone caves. If you are a photographer or a bird watcher, then you will be blessed with the sights of exotic birds and animals that will leave you fascinated. Tantalizing patterns are created by the canopy on the water. Looking at sunrays penetrating the thick forest to reach the ground is a spellbinding view. A truly miraculous experience!
Baratang Island is known for the best spots for sea walking owing to its rich marine life. While you take a stroll under the water, you will see schools of fishes float by you. Straight from a fairytale, isn’t it? But you can see this in reality. You have to go to North Bay Island to experience this amazing water activity. You don’t need to know swimming to do sea walking. You will be accompanied by experienced guides when you get close to the diverse vibrant aquatic life.
If you want to explore and view corals in a way that is beyond your imagination, then you can witness colorful corals and other underwater splendor in Mohwa Dera. You can view this underwater fairyland and get familiar with different marine species nearly 31 kilometers from Port Blair. The memories of swimming down to the corals will forever remain etched in your heart.
The island has lovely beaches that are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the quality time while the wind touches your face. You can see the marvelous view of the sky meeting the water. Renting an eco-friendly hut at Baludera Beach and treating yourself to delicious drinks and seafood platter amidst magnificent natural gorgeousness is all the relaxation that you are looking for. And if you are an adventure lover, then you can go for canoeing, snorkeling, swimming, and other such fun activities. These are offered with proper equipment and certified instructors who ensure that you have a great time.
To absorb and appreciate the sheer pristine beauty of Baratang Island, go for a peaceful ride around the Jarawa Creek. The Creek is one of the most famous tourist spots here, and is home to one of the original tribes of Andaman Islands known as the Jarawa tribe. The tribe still maintains detachment from the outside developed world and sticks to its roots even after all these years. Living in harmony with nature, they spend their time dancing, singing, and hunting. You may get to look at then amidst the dense greenery if you are lucky.
Places to see in Baratang Island
The Andaman Islands have some of the most scenic spots for travel and nature lovers. The entire island is amazingly gorgeous but there is one place that nature lovers and beach bums never miss- Baratang Island. If Andaman Island is a crown, then Baratang Island is its most precious gem! Your search ends here if you are looking for surreal natural surprises. It is home to thriving biodiversity, unexploited coral reefs, white sandy beaches, adventurous experiences, a notable population of birds and animal life, and a lot more. Some of the prettiest beaches in Andaman Islands are located here. The scenic beaches boast of white sands and uninterrupted views of the clear blue skies.
Offering magnificent natural sights and diverse wildlife scenery, Baratang Island is a perfect destination for nature lovers. You can visit the below-mentioned spots to appreciate its splendor:
Limestone Caves-These are highly impressive and one of a kind natural marvel on earth. The caves feature rare stalactites, stalagmites and rock formations. These are nature’s own architecture as they have been formed naturally in the Andaman Islands. A treat to your eyes, you can take a walk through dense mangrove forests to reach these caves. These have been formed over years of corrosion. Here, you will witness a marvelous texture that is sure to leave you awestruck. The limestone formations emerge from the ceiling as well as the floor. Looking at nature transforming, evolving, and creating beautiful structures would be a miraculous experience. Parrot Island- If you are fond of bird watching or want to try it once, then this is another fine attraction worth your attention. Imagine looking at hundreds of colorful parrots and listening to their voice while they return to their nests in the evening, with a lovely background as the sun sets in the backdrop. Wow, doesn’t that sound extremely magical!
Mud Volcano- It is a famous sight and one of its kind in India. It is a small bubbling puddle of mud, which makes it worth visiting. Some people marvel at the science behind it while some consider it as a great natural marvel. You cannot miss this place if you are really willing to see something rare in Andaman Island. Imagine yourself getting close to volcanoes! You can even hike and walk over these volcanic lines around the island. Formed several years ago, these are nature’s mysterious creations. They do not erupt hot molten lava but instead release natural gases like methane as explosions.
Baludera Beach- An untouched beach, you will not see any crowd here. It is a hidden beach gem. Don’t forget to go for a refreshing swim all by yourself in low tide. It will offer you an energising beach experience. Also, you can indulge yourself in snorkeling in its warm green and blue waters. But let us tell you that the island has little tourist infrastructure. You will not find dive centers or snorkel rental places here. So, you have to bring your own snorkeling gear.
Hotels and resorts in Baratang Island
Finding a nice accommodation in this island is tricky as well as expensive. Also, the properties usually don’t welcome walk-ins. Therefore, you have to book in advance. The best options are as follows:
The best thing to do would be to make all your bookings through Andaman Island Travels. It will help you with your other reservations as well including ferry and airport transfers, etc. It is a one-stop destination for booking holiday packages and accommodations for families, couples, and solo travellers. You can also book slots for water sports activities (scuba diving, snorkeling, etc.) here. It offers a wide range of services to its esteemed customers on discounted prices.
Restaurants in Baratang Island
Don’t expect fancy restaurants on this island, but for sure you won’t stay hungry. The Nilambur jetty is dotted with a few food outlets and small eateries that serve mainly South Indian and Bengali dishes. On almost every corner, you can find refreshments, snacks and tea. The food is pocket-friendly, and is served with a smile!
Some of the best restaurants here serving yummy food are mentioned below:
Become one with nature in Baratang Island! Awaken your soul during a one-day trip to Baratang Island. Here, you can explore yourself to the sun, sea, and sand or swim in the turquoise water. If you are a true adventurer, then exploring this island should be in your travel itinerary. A trip to Baratang Island is what you need if you want to relieve your stress and rejuvenate your mind.
Baratang Island is straight out of a fairytale! It has a picture-perfect look owing to its clear blue waters and white sand beaches that are lined with lush greenery. The island promises you a perfect blend of adventure and scenic beauty with fascinating landscapes. Its natural beauty can surprise whosoever visits Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Not many people know about its splendid beauty. But those who end up here are left awestruck by the attractions it offers. You can cherish gorgeous beaches with pristine sand, which are perfect for spending quality time with your family, spouse, or alone.
Baratang Island is mostly visited by those tourists who are looking for something rare. Still not commercialised completely, the place is still growing as a tourist destination. It can be a preferred place for those looking for an exciting adventure as well as exploration. It is only visited by travellers, not tourists. We hope you understand that!
Book Your Andaman Holidays With Our Travel Experts
Enquiry Now
.jpg)
