Parrot Island is a hidden beauty, lying 30 kilometres away from Baratang Island in the Andaman and Nicobar group of islands. Considered one of the wonders for its prominent avian population, this uninhabited island becomes a pulsating sanctuary every evening. When the sun starts setting, thousands of parrots and parakeets converge on the island, building up a stunning natural spectacle. To nature lovers and birdwatchers, Parrot Island offers a peculiar combination of serenity with vibrant avian activity.
Parrot Island provides the testament to the intricate balance of nature. The thick mangrove forests grow there, as if reshaped vegetation, fashioned by the beaks of parrots. The island reflects a seamless integration into nature. While there are no permanent human inhabitants, local people from Baratang have deep connections with the island and its natural rhythms. They can often share fascinating insights into the island's avian inhabitants and the surrounding ecosystems.
The major attraction of this island is its avian population; however, it does give out a peek into the life of the local Jarawa tribe of indigenous living Andaman Islands. Much interaction is avoided as their privacy and mode of living should be preserved hence bits of their traditional practices can only be viewed on an excursion.
Parrot Island is a haven for birds as it belongs to over 30 species of parrots and parakeets. Thus, the island always fascinates visitors, particularly the birdwatchers. It should be mentioned that it is best to be on this island in the late evening when the flocks of parrots come here to roost. The sound and view will make a natural symphony that one shall never forget.
The rich ecosystem of the island provides phenomenal photography opportunities. Capture the brilliant colours of parrots against the dense mangroves and the hues of the serene sunset that paint the sky.
The sunsets at Parrot Island are simply legendary. When the sun goes below the horizon, it leaves the evening sky flushed with warm colours, thus setting a breathtaking backdrop to whirling flocks of parrots. It is something magical in the time of day to see the island's natural beauty in full splendor.
For the adventurous, kayaking through the surrounding mangrove forests offers a unique perspective of the island's ecosystem. Camping on Parrot Island allows you to wake up to the sounds of chirping parrots and the beauty of a sunrise over the tranquil waters.
A trip to Parrot Island starts with reaching Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Further ahead, it will take you to Baratang Island, which requires a 2-3-hour drive through the Jarawa Tribal Reserve. Upon your arrival at Baratang, you will be taking a fibre boat from Nilambur Jetty to Nayadera Jetty. Local boats then take you from Nayadera Jetty to Parrot Island.
Owing to the convoy timing restrictions, it is better to make an overnight stay in Baratang. The last boat departs around 4 PM so as to reach the island before sunset and also to see the parrots arrive in huge number. Return journey normally concludes by 7 PM.