Limestone Caves is one of the most amazing places to visit in Andaman, hidden beautifully in the islands of Andaman. This starts with an exciting boat ride through thick green mangrove forests, spotting colorful birds and hearing their sweet songs. The caves, shaped by water over thousands of years, look like something from a storybook.
As long as you have fun things to do in Andaman, put these caves atop your list of places to see. Inside these caves, one can see these rock shapes like icicles falling from the top and others pushing up from the floor. Peeping through those gaps, you can see that sunlight dances at the walls inside the cave; it is enchanting. Even the soft knock of water adds to the silence of the caves.
Our Andaman tour packages include this visit to these caves, and friendly local guides make the visit special by sharing interesting stories. They know all the best spots for photos and can tell you how these amazing caves formed. It's a perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty that you won't want to miss.
Natural processes that existed long centuries back resulted in these Limestone caves in Andaman region. These caverns have emerged over thousands of years due to deposition of mineral material from the water. These caves are indeed examples of wonderful sedimentary limestone formation, created through the progressive deposit of calcium carbonate over centuries, and these Limestone caves here sport some attractive stalactites and stalagmites that beautify the landscape as if not belonging to any planet.
Inside the caves, one can see stunning rock formations resembling several shapes. The visit feels like one is entering a mysterious world because, with the continuous deposition of minerals every time, there is a formation that changes after every visit.
In fact, the caves are cool throughout the year due to their composition, making them a natural respite from the tropical climate of Andaman. The deeper one goes, the more complex and awe-inspiring the shapes. Time and nature have indeed done their best in imparting lessons, leaving the visiting minds wonder-struck over their beautiful patterns.
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How to Reach the Limestone Caves of Andaman
Reaching the Limestone Caves in Andaman is an adventure in itself. The caves are located on Baratang Island, which is around 100 kilometers from Port Blair, the capital of Andaman. To reach the caves, you need to follow these steps:
1. Travel from Port Blair to Baratang Island
- The journey begins with a drive from Port Blair to Middle Strait, covering around 100 km.
- This route passes through the Jarwa Reserve Forest, where sightings of the indigenous Jarwa tribe are possible (though interaction is strictly prohibited).
- A permit is required to cross this reserve, and vehicles move in convoys for safety and regulation purposes.
2. Crossing the Mangrove Creeks
- From Middle Strait, a ferry takes visitors across to Baratang Island.
- Upon reaching Baratang, visitors need to take a speedboat ride through the dense mangrove forests, which adds a thrilling experience to the journey.
- The speedboat ride through the narrow water passages surrounded by lush greenery is one of the highlights of the trip.
3. A Short Trek to the Caves
- After the boat ride, a short trek of around 1.5 km leads to the Limestone Caves in Andaman.
- The trek is an easy one, with well-marked trails that take you through dense forests and occasional wildlife sightings.
This multi-step journey makes the visit to the Limestone Caves in Andaman even more exciting, as it involves road travel, a boat ride, and a trek.
Best Time to Reach the Limestone Caves
The Best Time to Reach the Limestone Caves is during the dry season, from November to April. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the boat rides and treks are more enjoyable.
- Monsoons (June to September): Avoid visiting during monsoons as heavy rainfall can make the terrain slippery, and boat rides may be canceled due to rough waters.
- Summer (May to June): It can get quite hot and humid, making travel uncomfortable.
Planning a visit between November and April ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
Facts about Limestone Caves of Andaman
Here are some interesting Facts about Limestone Caves of Andaman that make them even more fascinating:
- The caves are made of entirely limestone, formed over millions of years.
- The deposits inside the caves are constantly changing due to mineral deposits and weathering.
- Some of the stalactites and stalagmites are known shapes, even resembling animals and faces, inside these caves.
- The caves continue to grow and evolve with the ongoing deposition of calcium carbonate.
- The caves fall in a place that is mostly restricted, therefore requiring a visiting permit.
Limestone Caves in Andaman
Several limestone caves are blessed on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Below are some of the most visited limestone caves that are easily accessible, so tourists and adventure lovers get an opportunity to explore these cave systems. Understand how to reach these limestone caves and why are they so popular.
1. Limestone Caves in Baratang Island
The most renowned limestone caves in Baratang Island of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The place is a miracle because of the outstanding geological formations along with green surroundings. This limestone cave on Baratang Island is among the best tourist attractions in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
2. Alfred Caves near Diglipur
The Alfred Caves are found near Diglipur and are not only a geological wonder but also a tribute to historical exploration. These caves bear the name of Alfred Wayman, a British geologist who discovered these in the 19th century. Visiting Alfred Caves is like visiting an era of scientific discovery when natural beauty was absorbed into science.
The caves can be reached by going to Diglipur first, which can be accessed via road and sea from Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Diglipur is 300 kilometers from Port Blair, taking a total of 8 hours by road. The ferry from Port Blair to Diglipur leaves every Wednesday and Saturday at 7 AM from Diglipur Jetty, taking a total of 11-12 hours to reach Diglipur.
Saddle Peak Caves, located in the dense forests of the Andaman Islands and close to the highest point on the archipelago, which is Saddle Peak, can be described as an enchanting journey into the heart of this island's wild. The place is like time standing still. Nature has carved out a new world where nature's art is the only sight.
To reach these caves, you will have to follow the same route mentioned above till you reach Diglipur. From Diglipur you can drive to the Saddle Peak National Park, which is approximately 22 km.
No entry fees exist to the caves. However, the boat ride charges which take you through the mangroves to reach the caves are approximately ₹800 per person. The timings to enter the caves may differ; however, these caves stay open during daylight hours.
Things to Do in and Around Limestone Caves
- Mud Volcanoes
Mud Volcanoes add another dimension to the tour. Not far from the caves lie mud volcanoes- a very rare geological phenomenon where semi-liquid mud flows out of the ground, owing to underground gases. Unlike traditional volcanic eruptions, these mud volcanoes create small mounds that bubble and shift continuously. The views of the dynamically changing landscape are very interesting and an educational trip about geological processes that shape the earth, making it one of the Best Things to Do in and Around Limestone Caves.
2. Parrot Island
Parrot Island is a great source of thrill for people who love to engage in bird watching. An easy boat ride from Baratang takes a visitor to this secluded island that hosts thousands of parrots. Before sunset, numerous flocks of parrots migrate to this place, covering the sky with kaleidoscopic colors and loud chirps.
3. Baludera Beach
Moreover, to relax after an exciting day, is Baludera Beach; a secluded beach near the Baratang Island, clean golden sands, and crystalline waters make it the perfect place for rest. Other than the crowded beaches of Port Blair, Baludera Beach provides some kind of undisturbed spot where visitors enjoy walking along the beach, collecting seashells, or simply sitting back to savor the breathtaking sight of the Andaman Sea.
Popular Attractions Around Limestone Caves
- Baludera Beach: If you love quiet beaches, Baludera Beach is a great place to relax. The soft sand, clear blue water, and fewer people make it a perfect spot for swimming and unwinding.
- Mangrove Creeks of Baratang: The Mangrove Creeks of Baratang are also worth exploring. The boat ride through these green tunnels of trees is both exciting and calming. You can see different birds and enjoy the beauty of nature.
- Amkunj Beach: Another popular attraction around Limestone Caves is Amkunj Beach, a quiet and eco-friendly beach. With wooden benches and huts, it is a great place to sit and enjoy the view of the waves.
Travel Tips for Visiting Limestone Caves of Andaman
To get the most out of your visit, here are some travel tips for Andaman’s limestone caves exploration:
- These are rather fragile ecosystems and should not touch the formations or litter. The natural environment mustn't be altered. Preservation can only preserve them for posterity.
- Port Blair to Baratang is too long, take an early start in the morning.
- No loud noise is kept inside the cave. It has been maintained due to the nature of peaceable silence within a silent world in the caves, underground.
- Always ensure that safety is at the top of your list while cave exploring. Adhere to the safety measures, use the right equipment, and heed your guide's words.
- If you intend to take photos, ensure your camera or phone has enough power and memory space. Take your photos but don't forget to enjoy the experience without being glued to the screen.
- To visit Baratang Island, one needs to get a permit. Do this before coming.
- Do not contact or photograph the Jarwa tribe.
- Book travel and accommodation well in advance, at least six months before peak season.
- Local guides are advised to be taken. They have a good idea of the caves and can offer valuable insights as well as the history and geology of the place while ensuring your safety above all else.
Limestone Caves in Andaman is a vision of nature's wonder which provides you with a mix of adventure, geology, and scenic beauty. A boat ride through the mangrove forests to the limestone formations within the caves makes every step of this journey breathtaking. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, an adventure lover, or a photographer, caves there will just take you by storm.
With proper planning, considering the Best Time to Reach the Limestone Caves, and exploring the Popular Attractions Around Limestone Caves, your trip to Baratang Island will be an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the mesmerizing Limestone Caves in Andaman!
