Mallika Dureja
Several mud volcanoes may be found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Nine of the eleven mud volcanoes may be found on Baratang Island, which is around 90 kilometers from Port Blair. Initial impressions can be of tiny holes in the ground with bubbling mud. It’s worth it to check out these mud volcanoes because they’re unique in India and the science behind them is fascinating.
Volcanoes form when bacteria and other tiny organisms unleash digestive fluids to digest dead stuff deep in the Earth. This results in the breakdown of organic matter, which in turn causes the emission of gases. Small craters of bubbling mud, known as mud volcanoes, are formed when these gases rise to the surface.
Volcanoes are not visually pleasing in any way, but if scientific inquiry is of interest to you, a trip here will be worthwhile. Volcanoes are nature’s marvelous playthings, with the average temperature at any active volcano ranging from one hundred to two degrees Celsius. Volcanic mud baths are a popular activity, especially in regions where the average annual temperature is below freezing.
How to reach Mud Volcanoes
– From Port Blair:
Mud volcanoes are located on Baratang island, which is about 90 kilometres away from Port Blair city. There are several ways to get to Mud Volcanoes from Port Blair.
You can take a bus from STS Bus Terminal in Aberdeen Bazaar, and it will take you about 2 and a half hours to reach your destination. The first half is from Port Blair to Jirkatang, which is stretched over 40 kilometres, and the second lag of the journey is from Jirkatang to Baratang, which is 49 kilometres long.
Nilambur Jetty services can also be used to get to Mud Volcanoes, and it only takes 15 minutes for the entire journey. Apart from government buses and ferries, private bus and ferry services are also available. These are generally more expensive.
– From Havelock Island:
There is no direct transportation between Havelock Island and the Mud Volcanoes, which are located roughly 170 kilometers apart. However, ferries depart daily for Port Blair, and from there, it’s a simple matter to hop on a boat to Baratang. Leaving Havelock early is recommended as the trip to Port Blair takes three hours and the last ferry to Bartang leaves at one o’clock in the afternoon. You’ll be stuck in Port Blair for the night if you don’t.
Essential Info:
1. Places to visit near Mud Volcanoes
Chidiya Tapu – witness the sheer variety of indigenous and migratory birds at this lonesome island, enjoy seclusion and serenity like never before, and explore the lush green forests. Hang out by the beach, watch emerald doves sailing through the skies.
Limestone Caves – witness the fascinating formation of Limestone Caves just a few kilometres from Mud Volcanoes. The distinct floral patterns are mesmerizing, and patterns are spread all over the walls and ceilings, lending the place a striking beauty.
Cellular Jail – A historical landmark that is a must-visit destination in andaman not only because of its significance in India’s struggle for independence but also because of its serene environs.
2. Things/ Activities to do near Mud Volcanoes
Bird watching – Baratang Island hosts birds of all varieties around the year. From red-breasted parakeets to white-bellied sea eagles, imperial green pigeons and scarlet minivets, this place is rife with exciting fauna, a haven for nature lovers.
Hiking: Baratang Island is famous for its lush green forests, stunning vistas, and mesmerizing views of the ocean. One of the most popular ways of getting close to nature here is hiking. There are plenty of trails that go through emerald forests that will take your breath away.
Explore the mangrove forests – the green blanket covering the island is unique in its beauty and will make your mind and soul rejuvenated like never before. A ride through the mangrove forests is truly life-changing.
Explore the list of things to do in Andaman and Nicobar.
3. Places to eat near Mud Volcanoes
There are no big and fancy restaurants or hotels at Baratang Island, but there are plenty of eateries and food stalls here where you can enjoy the local delicacies and hygienic food.There are a few food stalls near Nilambur jetty area where you can find South Indian and Bengali food at pocket-friendly costs. It is hot, tasty, and served with love. You can also find snack bars and chai points near Mud Volcanoes where you can buy almost any kind of refreshment. Don’t forget to try some coconut water and spiced buttermilk, if you want to beat the heat.
4. Places to stay near Mud Volcanoes
Accommodations close to Mud Volcanoes are few. Baratang is a remote island with very few high-end hotels and resorts.Only government employees are permitted to stay in any of the three government guesthouses; however, those who plan ahead can secure a reservation at any of these establishments. Only Dew Dale, a private resort, can be found on the entire island. The resort is a bit out of the way from both Mud Volcanoes and the downtown area, but the accommodations are spacious and well-kept. Make sure you reserve a room before you arrive.
5. Best Time to visit Mud Volcanoes
Mud Volcanoes are best visited during the winter season, which is from November to February. In summers, it gets too hot at the island to go sightseeing, and the scorching heat will limit your exploration. During monsoons, harsh weather may cause flight cancellations and you may get stranded.
6. Travellers’ Tip before visiting Mud Volcanoes
Before heading out to the Mud Volcanoes, make sure you have a permit to access Baratang Island.Because medical care in Baratang is subpar, you should bring any necessary medications with you. The government strictly prohibits any contact with or photography of the Jarawa Tribe, who live on the island.
7. Entry Fee and Photography allowed in Mud Volcanoes
There is no entry fee to visit Mud Volcanoes, as it is a publicly owned destination. Photography is also allowed here, and there are no extra charges you have to pay to carry a camera. In fact, the only money you will be spending is the ferry ticket.
8. Visiting Time & Duration for Mud Volcanoes
The mud volcanoes are accessible at any time. However, it is not safe to remain in the woods after sundown. One of the most deadly tribes in the world calls this island home, so it’s best to wrap up sightseeing before nightfall. It will take you between one and two hours to completely explore Mud Volcanoes.
