Barren Island

Barren Island in the Andaman Islands
Barren Island is situated in the Andaman Sea and is dominated by the Barren Volcano, which is the only confirmed active volcano in South Asia. It is also the sole active volcano along the volcanic chain extending from Sumatra to Myanmar. The surrounding waters of Barren Island are considered among the world’s premier scuba diving locations. The island is in a restricted area, and visitors must obtain special permits to visit. Additionally, landing on Barren Island is prohibited. Key attractions include crystal-clear waters, manta rays, unique basalt rock formations, historic lava flow landscapes, and rapidly growing coral reefs.

Barren Island is located approximately 138 km northeast of Port Blair, the capital of the territory. It stands as the only active volcano in India and is part of the Indian Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Known as a submarine emergent volcano, it rises above the subduction zone between the Indian and Burmese tectonic plates. The volcano erupted again in 2018, attracting visitors worldwide eager to witness this natural phenomenon. Recent images showcase the island’s volcanic activity since the 2018 eruption.

The uninhabited island measures about 3 km in width and contains a caldera roughly 2 km wide, with walls ranging from 250 to 350 meters high. The caldera opens to the sea on the west side and was formed by a powerful explosive eruption in the late Pleistocene epoch, which produced extensive pyroclastic flow and surge deposits. The shape of a relatively fresh pyroclastic cone built in the caldera’s center has changed over time due to multiple historical eruptions. Lava flows have covered much of the caldera floor and have reached the sea along the western shore during eruptions in the 19th century, as well as in 1991 and 1995.

Basic Information

Famous for:
Barren Island is renowned as the only active submarine volcano along the Sumatra-Myanmar volcanic chain, located above the subduction zone of the Indian and Burmese plates. It is a small, uninhabited island approximately 3 km wide.

Entrance Fee:
Not applicable

Best Time to Visit:
November to February

Visit Duration:
Around 10-15 hours

Interesting Facts

After remaining dormant for over 150 years, the Barren Island volcano erupted in 1991 and resumed activity again recently, releasing ash and lava.

Things to Do

Visitors can enjoy uninterrupted views of clear blue waters surrounding the island, creating a serene environment perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. The marine life includes large species such as manta rays, turtles, and reef sharks. Fascinating basalt rock formations, thriving coral gardens, and ancient lava flow topographies make the island a captivating destination for nature lovers.

Traveler Tips

Visiting Barren Island requires mandatory permits from the forest department. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is an exclusive destination accessible only to a limited number of visitors. Those who get to visit can consider themselves fortunate.

How to Reach

Barren Island lies within a restricted zone, and special permission is necessary for any visit. Landing on the island is not allowed, and overnight stays are prohibited. Trips typically start early in the morning (around 3 or 4 a.m.), with travel time of about 4 to 5 hours by boat. Visitors generally travel by ship, enjoying the stunning views without setting foot on the island. Access is only possible through chartered boats with approval from the forest department and the required permits.

During the journey, tourists can participate in sport fishing or snorkeling activities. Experienced scuba divers sometimes visit for diving expeditions. Trained guides accompany visitors throughout the trip.