If you are looking for something truly magical in the Andamans, Parrot Island in Baratang is a must-visit. Imagine the sky turning golden at sunset while thousands of parrots return to their nests, filling the air with a chorus of chirping. It’s a natural show you won’t forget.
Unlike the popular beaches of Havelock or Neil, this Island is quiet, unspoiled, and feels like a secret corner of paradise. For first-time travellers, it’s one of the best offbeat experiences the Andaman Islands have to offer.
Why Visit the island?
- Unique bird spectacle: Every evening, thousands of parrots and parakeets fly back to the island together, creating a sound and sight show like no other.
- Scenic boat ride: The journey itself is exciting, as you pass through dense mangrove creeks.
- Peaceful escape: With no crowds, restaurants, or hotels, the island gives you a raw, untouched experience.
Where is Parrot Island located?
Parrot Island is a small uninhabited island near Baratang Island in the South Andaman district of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Surrounded by mangrove forests and clear blue waters, it is about 100 km north of Port Blair, the capital city of the Andamans.
How to Reach Parrot Island?
Reach Port Blair
- Your trip begins at Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman Islands.
Travel to Baratang Island
- Distance: About 100 km from Port Blair.
- Time: 4–5 hours by road, including a vehicle ferry ride.
- Transport options: Private taxi, government bus, or private AC bus.
- Route: The journey passes through the Jarawa Tribal Reserve. Photography and interaction are strictly prohibited here.
From Baratang to Parrot Island
- Head to Nilambur Jetty (Baratang Jetty).
- Hire a local boat (₹4,000–₹5,000 per boat for 6–8 people).
- The boat ride takes ~20 minutes through mangrove forests and reaches the island in time for sunset.
Important Tip: The last road convoy from Baratang back to Port Blair leaves around 3 PM. Since Parrot Island visits happen at sunset, you’ll need to stay overnight in Baratang.
Read More: How to reach Port Blair?
Things to Do at Parrot Island
Baratang has a few more unique attractions worth exploring:
- Limestone Caves – A short boat ride and trek through the forest lead you to these stunning caves filled with stalactites and stalagmites.
- Mud Volcanoes – A rare natural phenomenon, with bubbling mud pools found only in a few places in the world.
Travel Tips for First-Timers
- Boats leave in the late afternoon for Parrot Island; plan your day accordingly.
- Carry your own food and drinking water — the island is uninhabited.
- Wear comfortable clothes and mosquito repellent.
- Book accommodation in advance if staying overnight in Baratang (options are limited; Coral Creek Resort and Dew Dale Resort are popular choices).
- Respect nature — do not litter or disturb the birds.
Best Time to Visit Parrot Island
- Season: November to March (cool and pleasant weather).
- Time of Day: Visit in the evening before sunset to witness thousands of parrots returning home. Avoid visiting during the monsoon (June–September) as boat rides can be risky.
Parrot Island is not about luxury or adventure sports; it’s about raw nature at its best. Watching thousands of parrots fill the dusky sky is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that few travellers get to see.
If you’re planning a trip to the Andamans, don’t miss out on this hidden gem. It will reward you with peace, beauty, and memories that last a lifetime.
FAQs
Read More: Munda Pahad Trek in Andaman.
