Parrot Island: The Lesser Known Paradise In Andaman

Vibrant parrot perched on branch, symbolising the colourful beauty of Parrot Island

Parrot Island is a table-shaped island sitting amidst the calm blue waters of the Andaman Sea. The verdant beauty of the island, along with the thick mangrove forest, presents a visual treat for both nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. With more than 30 documented species and many undocumented species of parrots visiting the island after sunset,The location offers peace and quiet as well as a countryside attraction that provides it the ideal escape from everyday life.

Location

Baratang Island: Tranquil water lake surrounded by lush green forest - near to Parrot Island

Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Located in the Andaman Islands’ South Andaman area, it is a small deserted island. It’s well-known for its rich biodiversity and is close to Baratang Island.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Andaman

Best Time To Visit

October Season: golden leaves during the autumn - best time to visit Parrot Island

Photo: Marta Wave / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

The best time to visit is in the months of October to April. During this time, the Island weather is relatively cool and pleasant. temperature dips, marking the winter season.

How To Reach

 Baratang Island waterways transportation: Boat navigating through lush mangrove forests

Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons

Go to Port Blair’s Veer Savarkar International Airport, which is the closest. Choose the transportation mode you prefer from there.

By Water: To reach from Baratang, take a private ferry to Nilambur Jetty. Then, transfer to a boat for the onward journey. The total travel time is approximately 2.5 hours.

By Road: From Port Blair, Baratang Island, one can go to Diglipur via bus, car, or any other type of wheeled vehicle via the National Highway 233.

Suggested Read: The Festivals Of Andaman And Nicobar Islands

Places To Visit Around Parrot Island

There are many places to explore located in the vicinity as seen on the Island map.

1. Baratang Island

The view of Mangrove swamps Baratang Island - one of the best places to visit near Parrot Island

Photo: Ishita Datta / Wikimedia Commons

Located between the south and north of Andaman, Baratang Island is a popular tourist destination nearby. The place is also home to India’s only mud volcanoes, locally known as Jalki, which erupted during the 2005 tsunami.

Best Time To Visit: November to March

2. Limestone Caves

Limestone cave hidden gem - one of the popular places to visit near Parrot Island

Photo: Nicola Fittipaldi / Unspalsh.com / Image For Representation Only

Counted among some of the only places in the world with limestone caves, the limestone caves are not directly accessible by land. The journey to the caves is an adventure in itself. Tourists typically take a ferry from Port Blair to Baratang Island, followed by a boat ride through mangrove forests. A short trek through the jungle leads to the entrance of the caves.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Port Blair

3. Sitapur Beach

The view of Sitapur beach in Neil Island: Stunning shoreline with turquoise waters

Photo: Biswajit Majumdar / Wikimedia Commons

Sitapur Beach, on Neil Island, is regarded as one of the best places to see the sunrise. At low tide, this stunning and spotless beach is accessible. However, because there are many rocks on the beach, swimming is not recommended.

4. North Bay Beach

The view of North Bay Beach, featuring turquoise waters and a pristine shoreline.

Sammy Leigh Scholl / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

North Bay beach is famous for several water sport activities that take place over there. You can enjoy snorkelling, swimming, scuba diving, and many other water adventure activities. There are many restaurants around the area where you may enjoy delicious local food.

Suggested Read: Wildlife Sanctuaries In Andaman And Nicobar

5. Viper Island

 Historical landmark on Viper Island - one of the best places to visit near Parrot Island

Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons

This historical landmark island, which is close to Parrot Island, was named after a ship that the British transported to the island, the “Viper.” The location also holds a British Jail for freedom fighters. The jail is still well-maintained, you should absolutely include it on your tourism plan.

Things To Do At Parrot Island

Here are some of the best things you can indulge yourself in when visiting Andaman:

1. Bird Watching

The view of a tourist with binocular birdwatching, enjoying avian wonders on Parrot Island

Photo: Kayla Farmer / Unsplash.com / Image For Representation Only

The place is a paradise for birdwatchers, especially in the evening when hundreds and thousands of parrots return to the island for roosting. There are several exotic avian species that you can spot, like the White-bellied Sea Eagle, Pacific Reef Egret, Black Naped Tern, and Alexandrine Parakeet.

Suggested Read: Water Sports In Havelock Island

2. Mangrove Kayaking

One of the best things to do in Parrot Island is Kayaking through lush green forest

Photo: diego-cue / Wikimedia Commons

The mangrove forests surrounding the Island offer an opportunity for kayaking enthusiasts to enjoy a serene ride exploring the rich biodiversity of this wild area. Paddle through the intricate waterways that are teeming with marine, avian, and wildlife that are interconnected within the mangrove area.

Cost/Person: ₹2000 onwards

3. Cultural Safari

A unique cultural experience meeting Jarawa tribal - one of the popular things to do

Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons

For a unique local cultural experience, embark on a cultural safari to the Jarawa tribal reserve located in the vicinity of Parrot Island. This is one of the very few places in Andaman where you will get the opportunity to interact with the oldest indigenous tribe of Jarawa. This safari will give you an insight into the rich cultural heritage and customs of these people.

Suggested Read: Nightlife In Port Blair

4. Water Sports

The view of tourist snorkelling - one of the best water sports in Andaman Islands

Photo: Debal Das / Unspalsh.com

If you are looking for adrenaline rushing activities, Parrot Island offers many opportunities to indulge in the same. From banana boat rides to jet skis, you can take part in any of the thrilling activities. There is also the option of snorkelling and scuba diving if you are looking to explore the rich underwater marine life around the island.

Other Factors To Consider

Things to keep in mind and back essentials items before your trip to Parrot Island

Photo: SHVets Production / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

  • Carry some snacks with you when visiting Parrot Island.
  • Always remain on the boat and revel in the tranquil and peaceful nature of the place.
  • Taking pictures or socialising with people from the Jarawa tribe is completely banned by law, so it is better to avoid the same.
  • Always keep sunscreen, mosquito repellant, a hat, and sunglasses with you.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Andaman In December

The peaceful blue sea around Parrot Island provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness nature at its most vibrant. Looking for adventure? Explore hidden limestone caves or kayak through the island’s rich ecosystem. Book your trip with TripXL today and immerse yourself in nature’s colourful embrace.

Cover Photo: Shannon Kunkle / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

It's home to a large population of parrots that roost on the island, especially at sunset.
There is very limited to no mobile coverage on the island due to the untouched nature of the place.
Parrot Island is home to a diverse array of wildlife in addition to parrots. This includes monkeys, iguanas, sea turtles, and many different types of fishes.
Yes, there are many tour operators on Baratang offering customised and unique private tours. These tours will allow you to explore the island at your own pace and your own individual preferences.
Yes, visitors are prohibited from socialising with the indigenous Jarawa tribe and are advised to follow environmental guidelines.

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