S1 E16 | Port Blair to Diglipur by Bus via Jarawa Reserve & Baratang Ferry

We kicked off our journey from Port Blair bright and early, excited for the long ride north to Diglipur. The day started with a bit of luck—we’d planned on catching the 10:30 ferry but managed to snag tickets for the 8:30 one instead. After two comfortable days in Port Blair at a hotel overlooking the airport, we packed up, grabbed our breakfast parcels, and set out for the bus stand by 6 a.m.

The ride quickly became an adventure. At the Jarawa check post, about an hour from Port Blair, everyone was required to show vaccination certificates before boarding the designated buses. The stop had basic stalls selling snacks, tea, and simple eats like dosa and Maggi, plus restrooms for a small fee. While it was tempting to load up, we kept meals light, knowing the upcoming road through the Andaman hills would be winding and bumpy.

This stretch is also the entry point to the Jarawa Tribal Reserve. The area is strictly protected, and no photography is allowed inside. Buses move in convoy, flanked by police vehicles at the front and back. The ride was both thrilling and humbling, passing through dense rainforest with the knowledge that the Jarawa tribe lives within. To our surprise, four Jarawa children even hopped onto our bus for part of the ride—tiny but strong, with bright energy that reflected their forest lifestyle. It was a rare and memorable glimpse into a culture few get to experience.

Crossing the Baratang jetty was another highlight. Since there’s no bridge, vehicles are ferried across on massive barges. Watching an entire bus and lines of cars loaded onto a boat to cross the river was an adventure in itself, adding to the sense that this was no ordinary road trip.

By mid-day, we reached Rangat in Middle Andaman. The bus took a short break for repairs, giving us time to stretch and reflect. The ride so far had been rough—monsoon rains had left potholes everywhere, and our express bus hurtled through them so fast that we spent more time bouncing off the seats than sitting on them. Still, the misty weather, rolling hills, and cloud-draped forests made it worthwhile.

The onward journey to Diglipur promised more rain, more forests, and more unforgettable experiences. Despite the bumps, this road north through the Jarawa Reserve and Baratang remains one of the most unique and scenic journeys in the Andaman Islands—a true adventure for anyone traveling beyond Port Blair.