Everything You Need to Know About Baratang Island

Baratang Island is a hidden gem of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, offering visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty and unique attractions of this stunning archipelago. From the limestone caves to the mud volcanoes and the dense mangrove forests, Baratang Island has something to offer every traveller.

Myths & Beliefs

The origin of the name Baratang Island is not entirely clear. Some believe that the name Baratang comes from the Burmese word "Bara Tang" which means "the land of the big fig tree." This is because the island is home to a large number of fig trees that grow abundantly in the dense forests.

Another theory is that the name Baratang is derived from the Hindi word "Barah Tang" which means "12 channels." This is because the island is located in an area that has several channels or creeks that wind their way through the mangrove forests. These creeks are a popular attraction for tourists as they offer a unique opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of the island.

Yet another theory is that the name Baratang is derived from the local Nicobarese language. According to this theory, the name Baratang means "the place where the wind blows." This is because the island is known for its strong winds that blow throughout the year, making it a popular destination for wind surfing and other water sports.

Historical Significance

The history of Baratang Island dates back to the prehistoric era, as it is believed that the island was inhabited by various indigenous tribes for thousands of years. The earliest recorded history of the island can be traced back to the 9th century when it was mentioned in the accounts of Arab traders who visited the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

During the colonial era, the British established a penal colony on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in 1858. The purpose of the penal colony was to exile Indian freedom fighters who were fighting against the British rule. The British used the dense forests on Baratang Island to extract timber and set up a sawmill to process the wood.

After India gained independence in 1947, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands became a part of India, and the Indian government took over the administration of the islands. The government established a number of settlements on the islands to provide livelihood to the local communities and to promote tourism.

In the 1980s, the Indian government started a resettlement program for the indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The program aimed to provide better living conditions and education to the tribes who were living in remote areas of the islands. The program faced opposition from some of the tribes who preferred to live in isolation and did not want to be integrated into the mainstream society.

In 2004, Baratang Island was hit by a devastating tsunami that was triggered by a massive earthquake in the Indian Ocean. The tsunami caused extensive damage to the island, and many people lost their lives. The Indian government launched a massive relief and rehabilitation program to help the affected communities and rebuild the infrastructure on the island.

Today, Baratang Island is a popular tourist destination in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, attracting thousands of tourists every year. The island is known for its natural beauty, dense forests, mangrove creeks, stunning beaches, and unique limestone caves. The island is also home to various indigenous tribes who continue to preserve their traditional way of life and culture. The Indian government has taken several initiatives to promote tourism on the island while also preserving its fragile ecosystem and protecting the rights of the indigenous communities.

Location

Located about 100 km north of Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Baratang Island is a small island that is approximately 45 km long and 15 km wide, with a total area of around 243 square kilometers. The island is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

Tourist Attractions

Baratang Island is a nature lover's paradise, and there are many attractions on the island that tourists can visit. Some of the popular tourist attractions on the island are:

Limestone Caves

The limestone caves on Baratang Island are a natural wonder that attracts tourists from all over the world. These caves are formed by the action of natural forces over millions of years and are considered to be one of the most beautiful caves in Asia. To reach the caves, tourists have to take a boat ride through the mangrove creeks, followed by a short trek through the forest.

Mud Volcano

The mud volcano on Baratang Island is another natural wonder that tourists can visit. The mud volcano is located in the middle of a dense forest and is a popular attraction for tourists who love nature and adventure.

Parrot Island

Parrot Island is a small island near Baratang Island, known for its stunning natural beauty and a large population of parrots. The island is covered with lush greenery, and tourists can witness a breathtaking sunset on the island.

Baludera Beach

Baludera Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Baratang Island, known for its pristine white sand and crystal clear water. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

Mangrove Creek

The mangrove creek on Baratang Island is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers. Tourists can take a boat ride through the creek and witness the stunning beauty of the mangrove forest.

Culture

In addition to its natural attractions, Baratang Island also has a rich cultural heritage. The island is home to the indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, including the Jarwa and Onge tribes. Visitors can learn about the local culture and traditions by visiting the different villages on the island and interacting with the local people.

How to Reach

Getting to Baratang Island is easy, as it is connected to the mainland of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands by road and waterways. Visitors can take a privately operated car from Port Blair to Baratang Island, which takes around 2-3 hours.