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Located in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Baratang Island Limestone Caves are naturally formed caves that act as a unique visual treat for tourists. Nestled deep within the lush green mangroves, these caves have been formed throughout millions of years. It is created through the process of natural compression of limestone in the form of unique stalactites and stalagmites lining the cave wall. It is a truly mesmerising experience to look at nature transforming and evolving to create stunning limestone structures.
Quick Details About Baratang Island Limestone Caves
Location: Baratang Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Baratang Caves Timings: 3 AM-6 PM, all days open except Mondays
Entry Fees: No fees except for transportation, adventure sports and food
Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Cost Of Boat Ride: Starting from ₹600/person
About Baratang Island Limestone Caves
Photo: Parfait Fongang / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Baratang Caves are located on Baratang Island, which is considered to be the first gateway when coming up north from Port Blair. The Baratang Island Limestone Caves location is at a distance of approximately 100 kilometres from Port Blair. The caves are formed over the years due to the dissolution of the limestone rocks which are made up of calcium carbonate. It is one of the popular one-day destinations for tourists due to its stunning creation.
The dark island caverns boast of rare stalactites and stalagmites that will send shivers down your spine. The island is also the ancestral home to the Jarawa tribe which is considered to be one of the most dangerous tribes of the world.
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Places To Visit Around The Limestone Caves
1. Mud Volcano
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
The mud volcanoes of Baratang are located 7 km away from Nilambur Jetty They occur due to a rare geographical phenomenon and are created by the natural gases trapped inside the earth. There are a total of 11 mud volcanoes in Andaman, among which 8 are located in Baratang and Middle Andaman.
2. Parrot Island
Photo: Tomas Sobek / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
This is a small yet visually stunning island that offers an interesting combination of boat rides, bird watching and sunset views. The island is home to thousands of parrots that can be seen returning to the nests during the sunset. The trip to this island lasts for about 2.5 hours, offering an amazing experience.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Andaman In December
3. Baludera Beach
Photo: Andrew Coelho / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
This serene beach, located just 9 km away from Nilambur jetty, is a hidden paradise away from the crowds. It has a lovely curved sandy bay dotted with mangrove trees on one side and old rustic trees on the other.
How To Reach
Photo: Katherine McCormack / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Board a private taxi or bus to Baratang Island from Port Blair. Following this ride, book a fibre boat from the Nilambur Jetty, which will take around half an hour to reach Nayadera Jetty. Embark on a 1.5-kilometre trek through lush green mangrove forests to reach the caves that are located on the other side of the island.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Neil Island
Where To Stay
Photo: katie manning / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
There are several government guest houses as well as private hotels and resorts located on Baratang Island. Some of the best options available on the island are Hotel Avis, Coral Creek Resort and Dew Dale Resort. With all the modern amenities, these are premium resorts that will make your stay on the island a memorable one.
Where To Eat
Photo: Jpatokal / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Baratang Island is a tourist hub where you can relish some delightful local Andamanese delicacies. Nilambur Jetty is dotted with many small eateries and restaurants serving traditional Bengali and South Indian fare. Other popular restaurants located on the island include Dew Dale restaurant, Jetty Hotel, AMS restaurant, Port Canteen, and more.
Suggested Read: Water Sports In Andaman
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: That’s Her Business / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
While planning a trip to the caves, you must keep a few factors in mind:
- Make sure to wear appropriate shoes as you will be travelling through muddy and treacherous forest areas.
- It is advisable to carry an extra set of clothes with you.
- Do ensure that you have obtained prior permission to visit the caves from the local administration before embarking on your journey.
- Avoid approaching any Jarawa tribe person in case you come in contact with them.
- It is best to visit the caves with a guide to explore the place to its fullest.
Baratang Island Limestone Caves are one of the most sought-after tourist destinations on the island. The caves are covered with massive chandelier-like formations dangling from the ceiling. There is a constant drip of the water, making these stalagmites and stalactites glow and shine. Witness the wonder of these natural structures on your next Andaman trip with TripXL for an enthralling experience.
Cover Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
