Barren Island - India's Only Active Volcano
Barren Island Overview
Barren Island is situated in the Andaman Sea, about 138 km northeast of Port Blair. It holds the unique distinction of being the only active volcano in India and along the chain from Sumatra to Myanmar. This submarine emergent volcano lies above the subduction zone of the Indian and Burmese plates.
The island's name reflects its nature - a barren, uninhabited area with no significant vegetation. While humans don't live here, the island has a small population of goats, birds, bats like flying foxes, and some rodent species. The volcano has been periodically active, with eruptions recorded as recently as 2018.
Location
Andaman Sea, 138 km NE of Port Blair
Distance from Havelock
Approximately 90 km
Travel Time
3-4 hours by boat each way
Main Attractions
Active volcano, Scuba diving, Fishing
What to Expect at Barren Island
Visiting Barren Island offers a unique opportunity to witness India's only active volcano. The island's dramatic landscape, formed by past eruptions, creates a surreal environment. The surrounding waters are rich in marine life, making it excellent for diving and snorkeling.
Active Volcano
Witness the spectacular sight of an active volcano, with occasional eruptions producing ash clouds and red lava fountains.
Scuba Diving
Explore the underwater world with manta rays, interesting basalt formations, and fast-growing coral gardens.
Important Notes
- Special permits required to visit (arranged by tour operators)
- No landing allowed on the island - viewing from boat only
- No overnight stays permitted
- Trips are weather dependent
The Journey to Barren Island
The trip to Barren Island is a full-day adventure starting very early in the morning from Havelock Island. The total trip duration is about 10 hours, including travel time and activities.
Early Morning Departure
Start from Havelock Island around 5:00 AM to reach Barren Island by morning.
Boat Journey
3-4 hour journey by chartered boat to Barren Island through the Andaman Sea.
Arrival at Barren Island
View the volcano from a safe distance (no landing permitted).
Activities
Scuba diving, snorkeling, and fishing in the surrounding waters.
Return Journey
Depart Barren Island in the afternoon to return to Havelock by evening.
Boat Information
MFV Caiman is a luxury boat used for Barren Island trips, equipped with safety gear, GPS, first aid, and toilet facilities. It has a 2x250 Suzuki engine and can accommodate up to 16 passengers.
Main Attractions at Barren Island
Volcano Viewing
Spectacular views of India's only active volcano, with occasional eruptions producing ash clouds and lava flows.
View from boat only
Scuba Diving
Explore underwater volcanic formations, coral gardens, and marine life including manta rays.
For certified divers only
Sport Fishing
Excellent fishing opportunities in the nutrient-rich waters surrounding the volcanic island.
Equipment provided
Snorkeling
Explore the shallow coral reefs around the island, teeming with marine life.
Equipment provided
Popular Barren Island Packages
Private Charter to Barren Island
- Private boat charter from Havelock
- Volcano viewing
- Fishing and snorkeling equipment
- Breakfast, lunch and refreshments
- Full day tour (10 hours)
Extra: ₹15,000 per additional person (max 16)
Permit: ₹500 (Indian) / ₹2500 (Foreigner)
Shared Trip to Barren Island
- Shared boat trip from Havelock
- Volcano viewing
- Fishing and snorkeling equipment
- Breakfast, lunch and refreshments
- Full day tour (10 hours)
Permit: ₹500 (Indian) / ₹2500 (Foreigner)
Trip Conditions
All trips are subject to weather conditions, government regulations, and payload on the day of sailing. Shared trips operate every Tuesday from Havelock Island.
Geography & Volcanic Activity
Barren Island is just 3 kilometers wide, with a two-kilometer-wide caldera. It is the summit of a volcano that rises about 2,250 meters from the seafloor, with 354 meters above the waterline. The eruptions have significantly impacted the island's biodiversity, reducing the number of bird species from 16 previously reported to just 6 observed species today, with the Pied Imperial Pigeon being the most abundant.
Volcanic Activity
The first recorded eruption dates back to 1787. In 1991, it erupted with smoke billowing out for about six months. Since then, there have been eruptions every two-three years, with the last significant one in February 2016 and activity observed in 2017 and 2018.
All eruptions have been at the lowest levels of the Volcanic Explosivity Index (ranked 2 out of 8), making them relatively safe for viewing from a distance.
Safety Information
While the volcano is active, all eruptions have been minor and pose no significant danger when viewed from the approved distance. The boat crew monitors volcanic activity closely and maintains a safe distance at all times.
Travel Tips for Barren Island
Timing
- Start very early (5:00 AM from Havelock)
- Return by evening same day
What to Carry
- Motion sickness medication (if prone to seasickness)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Camera with waterproof case
Photography
- Bring zoom lenses for volcano photography
- Waterproof case for water activities
Restrictions
- No landing on the island permitted
- Follow all safety instructions from crew
Quick Facts
- Location: Andaman Sea, 138 km NE of Port Blair
- Distance: 90 km from Havelock Island
- Travel Time: 3-4 hours by boat each way
- Best Time: November to April
- Boat Required: Chartered boat only
- Activities: Volcano viewing, Diving, Fishing
Essential Contacts
Tourist Information
+91 94760 40000
Medical Emergency
102 / +91 94760 40000
Police
100
Barren Island Tour Operators
+91 94760 40000
Important Notes
Restricted Access
Special permits required to visit. No landing allowed on the island.
Weather Dependent
Trips may be cancelled due to weather conditions or volcanic activity.
Food Options
Meals are provided on board but bring snacks if needed.
Recommended Packing List
- Motion sickness medication
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Waterproof camera/case
- Light jacket/windbreaker
- Comfortable non-slip shoes
- Extra batteries/memory cards
- Reusable water bottle
Ready to Witness India's Only Active Volcano?
Experience the raw power of nature at Barren Island with our expert-guided tours.
Offbeat Andaman
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+91 94760 40000
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