Mangrove Creeks And Lime Stone Caves

The Baratang Limestone Caves and the mangrove creeks that lead to them are the main reason to visit Baratang Island. Getting there is half the adventure: a short boat ride winds through narrow tidal creeks under a green canopy of mangroves, then a walk along a forest path brings you to a cave whose roof is hung with stalactites and whose floor rises in stalagmites, shaped slowly over a very long time. It is wild, atmospheric and unlike anything else on a typical Andaman trip.

The caves are reached from the Baratang jetty, around 100 km north of Port Blair, and the trip is usually done as an early-start day excursion. This guide covers the boat ride, the trek, what the caves are like inside, safety points, timings, how to reach them and how to plan your day. If you would rather have the transport, permits and guide arranged for you, explore our Andaman tour packages, planned by Andaman Emerald Travels, a travel team based in the Andamans.

Limestone Caves and Mangrove Creeks at a Glance

About the Limestone Caves

The caves are made of limestone and shaped by the slow dripping of water carrying dissolved minerals. Over a very long time, calcium carbonate has collected drop by drop to form stalactites hanging from the ceiling and stalagmites rising from the floor, along with other rock shapes. The caves are inside a forested area of the island, which is part of why the trip feels so remote.

The caves are not large, and the walk inside is short, but the setting is what makes them special. The mangrove ride, the jungle walk and the dark, dripping chamber combine to make a small adventure. For a different kind of geological sight on the same island, see the mud volcano.

The Mangrove Creek Boat Ride

The trip to the caves begins at the jetty, where visitors board small fibre or speed boats that carry around ten people. The boat leaves the open water and enters a narrow tidal creek, where the mangroves close in on both sides and overhead. Roots rise out of the muddy banks, birds flit between the trees and the light changes from bright to dappled green. The ride usually lasts 15 to 30 minutes and is a highlight on its own.

• Sit still and keep your hands in the boat. The creeks are narrow and branches can reach out.
• Look for wildlife. Herons, kingfishers and other birds are common, and other animals may appear.
• Keep your belongings dry. Spray is possible, so protect your phone and camera.
• Be cautious near the water’s edge. Saltwater crocodiles live in some Andaman creeks, so never put your hands or feet in the water and stay in the boat until you reach the landing point.

The Forest Walk to the Caves

After the boat, you land at a small jetty and walk to the caves along a marked path through tropical forest. The distance is usually described as 1 to 1.5 km, and part of the path is a wooden walkway through the mangroves. It takes roughly 15 to 30 minutes each way at a relaxed pace. The path can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain, so wear sturdy shoes and carry water.

Inside the Caves

At the cave entrance, you step from the bright forest into a cool, dark chamber. Guides usually lead small groups and point out the formations, and they may use a torch to show the textures. Because entry and exit use the same opening, you may wait briefly for your turn in the narrower chambers.

• Carry a torch. The last few metres are completely dark, and a phone light is not always enough.
• Avoid harsh flash. Soft light shows the formations better and does less damage.
• Do not touch the formations. Oils from skin can stop the rock from growing.
• Watch your head and your step. The floor is damp and the ceiling can be low.
• Follow your guide. Guides explain the rocks, though some visitors find the tour quick.

Trip Highlights at a Glance

Timings are approximate and vary with the tide, queues and the pace of your group.

Permits, Timings and Rules

There is no separate ticket gate for the caves. Visitors pay for a forest permit and the boat ride, and these arrangements are usually included in organised tours. Boats generally run during the daytime, with the last boats leaving mid-afternoon so that everyone can return before dark. Some sources give the cave timings as roughly 6 am to 3 pm.

• The road trip needs an early start. Tourists travel from Port Blair in convoys, commonly at around 6 am and 9 am, through the Jarawa tribal reserve.
• Follow the reserve rules. Do not stop, photograph, film or interact with the tribal people, and never offer food. See our guide to the tribes of Andaman.
• Carry valid photo ID. It is checked on the route and for permits.
• Check the schedule. Convoy and boat times can change with weather and local orders.

Our team handles the permits and timing for guests on our packages.

Best Time to Visit the Limestone Caves

The best season is October to May, when the roads are dry, the creeks are calm and the forest paths are easier to walk. The monsoon brings heavy rain, slippery trails and sometimes rough water that can delay or cancel boats. Go early in the day to avoid queues and to leave time for the return convoy.

How to Reach the Limestone Caves

The caves are reached in stages, and each stage has its own rules and timings.

The Middle Strait ferry jetty is reported to have saltwater crocodiles in the water nearby, so keep a safe distance from the edge. For a wider plan, see our guide to Baratang Island and the other stops on the island: the Baludera Beach for a rest and Parrot Island for sunset, which needs an overnight stay.

Suggested Day Plan

Looking for a ready-made plan that includes Baratang? See our 3 nights 4 days and 4 nights 5 days Andaman packages. If you are heading further north, the trip continues to Rangat. For more wild places, read our guide to offbeat places in Andaman, or browse all Andaman destinations on our site.

What to Bring

• A torch. The inner cave is completely dark.
• Sturdy shoes with grip. The path and cave floor are damp and uneven.
• Water and snacks. Food options on the route are limited.
• Sun and insect protection. Bring a hat, sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
• A light rain jacket. Showers are common, especially in the wet months.
• A waterproof pouch. Protect your phone and camera in the boat.
• Valid photo ID. It is needed on the route.

Visitor Tips

• Start very early. The convoy and boat times are fixed, and the day is long.
• Stay in the boat. Do not touch the water, and wait for the crew’s instructions.
• Be quiet in the caves. Noise and flash disturb the formations and the bats that may live there.
• Mind your health. The trek is short but uneven, so seniors and young children may find it tiring.
• Take your waste with you. Help protect this fragile environment.
• Keep a backup plan. Weather or access changes can cancel boats.

Andaman Tour Packages Including Baratang

Baratang excursions are part of many of our packages. Every traveller has different needs, so we offer a package for each:

Not sure which suits you? Reach out through our contact page for a customised itinerary.

Why Book with Andaman Emerald Travels?

• Local team that handles convoy timings, permits, ferries and boats
• Customised itineraries for couples, families, groups and solo travellers
• Hotels, ferries, private transfers and sightseeing arranged for you
• Flexible 50-50 payment plan: pay 50% after reaching the Andaman Islands
• Personal support throughout your trip

See what travellers say about us on Andaman Emerald Travels on Google, then call +91 9933245630 or send an enquiry for a free quote on your Andaman tour packages.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Limestone Caves

Where are the limestone caves in Andaman?

They are on Baratang Island in Middle Andaman, roughly 100 km north of Port Blair, reached by a boat through mangrove creeks and a short forest walk.

How long is the walk to the caves?

Sources give 1 to 1.5 km, and about 15 to 30 minutes each way, partly along a wooden walkway.

Is there an entry fee for the caves?

There is no separate cave ticket. You pay for the forest permit and the boat ride, usually included in a tour.

Do I need a torch?

Yes. The last part of the cave is completely dark, so carry a torch.

Is the trip suitable for children and senior citizens?

Older children usually manage well. The trek is short but uneven, and the day is long, so seniors and very young children may find it tiring.

How long does the whole trip take?

Plan about 2 to 2.5 hours for the creeks, trek and caves, within a full day from Port Blair.

Are the creeks safe?

Yes, when you stay in the boat and follow the crew. Do not touch the water, as saltwater crocodiles live in some Andaman creeks.

Which Andaman tour package includes the limestone caves?

Baratang excursions can be arranged on request. Couples often choose a honeymoon package, families a family package and adventure lovers an adventure package. Our team can customise any plan.