Loha Barrack Crocodile Sanctuary – Guardians of the Mangroves in Andaman
Hidden amidst the lush mangroves and shimmering backwaters of the Middle Andaman Islands, the Loha Barrack Crocodile Sanctuary stands as a vital refuge for the saltwater crocodile — one of India’s most ancient and powerful reptiles. Spread across the Lohabarrack Creek region, this sanctuary blends wild adventure with the raw, untamed beauty of the Andaman archipelago.
Just like the Trikuta Wildlife Sanctuary in Jammu, Loha Barrack balances conservation with accessibility, offering eco-tourists and researchers an up-close look at island biodiversity.
Highlights
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Habitat for endangered saltwater crocodiles in natural mangrove estuaries
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Spread over 100 square kilometers across Lohabarrack and Yerrata regions
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Home to rich mangrove forests and tropical bird species
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Offers eco-boat safaris and nature interpretation trails
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Located between Rangat and Baratang Islands in Middle Andaman
Location & Geography
The sanctuary lies along the Lohabarrack Creek, connecting Rangat Bay to Baratang Island, forming part of the Middle Andaman forest division. The area is characterized by dense mangrove belts, tidal mudflats, and creeks, creating ideal conditions for crocodile nesting and aquatic life.
Loha Barrack also serves as an important biological corridor for marine and terrestrial fauna in the Andamans.
Flora & Fauna
Flora
The sanctuary is dominated by mangrove vegetation, including species like Rhizophora, Avicennia, Sonneratia, Bruguiera, and Ceriops. These dense roots provide shelter to fish, crabs, and nesting sites for crocodiles.
Fauna
The Loha Barrack Crocodile Sanctuary is famous for its thriving saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) population. Other key species include:
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Reptiles: Monitor lizard, sea snakes, and geckos
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Birds: White-bellied sea eagle, kingfisher, herons, and Brahminy kite
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Aquatic life: Crabs, prawns, and fish species adapted to brackish waters
Best time to visit: November to April, when tides are calm and crocodiles can be spotted basking on mudbanks.
Conservation Importance
Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1983, Loha Barrack plays a vital role in the protection of the saltwater crocodile, which was once on the brink of extinction due to habitat loss and hunting. The Andaman Forest Department, in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India, monitors nesting sites and promotes eco-friendly tourism.
The sanctuary also acts as a natural barrier against coastal erosion and storm surges, highlighting its dual ecological and protective significance.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Months | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | November – February | Ideal for crocodile sightings and boat safaris |
| Summer | March – May | Warmer but excellent for photography and mangrove study |
| Monsoon | June – September | Restricted access due to heavy rains |
Activities & Attractions
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Crocodile Safari: Guided boat rides through mangrove creeks for close sightings
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Nature Trails: Interpretive walks exploring mangrove ecology
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Birdwatching: Spot migratory birds, herons, and kites along the creeks
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Photography: Capture reflections of mangroves, crocodiles, and pristine creeks
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Eco-Education Tours: Run by the Andaman Forest Department for awareness and research
Permits & Entry
Visitors must obtain a permit from the Forest Department or Wildlife Division in Rangat or Baratang before visiting the sanctuary. Boat safaris are guided by trained naturalists.
Approximate Fees:
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Indian Visitors: ₹100
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Foreign Visitors: ₹500
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Camera Fee: ₹200
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Boat Safari (per person): ₹500–₹800 (depending on route and duration)
Entry permitted only during daylight hours, between 6:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
How to Reach
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By Air: The nearest airport is Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair (170 km).
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By Road: Accessible by ferry and road from Rangat (20 km) and Baratang (30 km).
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By Sea: Inter-island ferries connect Port Blair to Rangat regularly.
Accommodation
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Forest Guest Houses: Available in Rangat and Yerrata (advance booking required).
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Eco-Resorts: Sustainable lodges around Rangat offering guided tours.
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Budget Stays: Guesthouses and hotels available at Rangat Bazaar.
Nearby Attractions
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Yerrata Mangrove Walkway: A wooden boardwalk through dense mangrove forests.
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Amkunj Beach: A serene, eco-friendly beach near Rangat.
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Baratang Island: Famous for its Limestone Caves and Mud Volcano.
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Dhanni Nallah Nature Trail: A scenic walkway through coastal vegetation.
Weekend Trip from Port Blair
A weekend trip to Loha Barrack Crocodile Sanctuary is a must for eco-adventurers.
Day 1: Travel from Port Blair to Rangat by ferry or road (6–7 hours). Visit Yerrata Mangrove Walkway and enjoy an evening at Amkunj Beach.
Day 2: Morning crocodile safari at Loha Barrack, followed by a visit to Baratang Island for the Limestone Caves. Return to Port Blair by evening.
Travel Tip: Carry binoculars, water, and insect repellent. Always follow the guide’s safety instructions during crocodile safaris.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is Loha Barrack Crocodile Sanctuary located?
It is located in the Middle Andaman Islands, between Rangat and Baratang, along the Lohabarrack Creek.
What is the main attraction of Loha Barrack Sanctuary?
The sanctuary is renowned for its saltwater crocodiles and rich mangrove biodiversity.
Is it safe to visit the sanctuary?
Yes, all safaris are guided by licensed forest staff ensuring visitor safety and minimal disturbance to wildlife.
Are private boats allowed?
No, only authorized eco-boats operated by the Forest Department are permitted.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Q: When was Loha Barrack Crocodile Sanctuary established?
A: It was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1983.
Q: What type of forest is found here?
A: The sanctuary is dominated by mangrove and littoral forests.
Q: Can tourists spot crocodiles easily?
A: Yes, crocodile sightings are frequent during the dry season (Nov–April).
Q: Is night stay allowed inside the sanctuary?
A: No, overnight stay is not permitted within the sanctuary area.
Conclusion
The Loha Barrack Crocodile Sanctuary is one of the most unique wildlife destinations in India, blending marine ecology with thrilling adventure. Much like the Trikuta Wildlife Sanctuary’s harmony of faith and wilderness, Loha Barrack embodies the spirit of coexistence — where ancient reptiles, mangroves, and humans thrive together. For nature lovers, this sanctuary offers an unforgettable glimpse into the wild heart of the Andamans.
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