🌋 Barren Island – India’s Only Active Volcano

Barren Island lies about 140 km northeast of Port Blair, surrounded by the deep blue waters of the Andaman Sea. The island is roughly 3 km wide and is a part of the Andaman Subduction Zone, one of the world’s most active tectonic regions.

🌋 What Makes Barren Island So Special?

India’s only active volcano, with periodic eruptions (last observed in 2017)
Among the few accessible active volcanoes in Asia
A rare destination for volcanic sightseeing, photography, and diving
Offers scenic cruises and flyovers for an unforgettable view

Despite its name, Barren Island is home to a few hardy animal species, birds, and thriving marine life around its base, making it a hotspot for divers and marine explorers.

🛥️ How to Visit Barren Island

Being a restricted and protected zone, tourists are not allowed to land on the island. However, boat tours and aerial trips offer incredible close-up views of the volcanic terrain and surrounding marine life.

🚤 By Sea:

Private charter boats and group cruises depart from Havelock or Port Blair
Boats circle the island for panoramic viewing and photography
Includes diving/snorkeling/Game Fishing opportunities nearby

🤿 Scuba Diving Near Barren Island

a man riding a skateboard down the side of a ramp

While the island itself is off-limits, the waters surrounding Barren Island are world-renowned for scuba diving. With dramatic drop-offs, caves, lava-formed reefs, and rich marine biodiversity, it’s a dream location for experienced divers.

What to Expect Underwater:

Manta rays, reef sharks, and large pelagic fish
Pristine coral gardens and unique lava formations
Exceptional visibility (up to 40 meters)
Dive sites like Purple Haze, Manta Point, and Black Magic

🔱 Only certified divers can access these deep-sea sites. Trips are usually organized by dive centers in Havelock or Neil Island.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Barren Island

November to May: Best weather, calm seas, and clear visibility
Avoid monsoon season (June–September) due to rough sea conditions and restricted access

📋 Travel & Permit Info

Foreigners require special permits for Barren Island excursions
Book tours through registered operators from Port Blair or Havelock
Overnight stays are not allowed – visits are strictly for sightseeing and diving

📝 Travel Tips

Carry binoculars and cameras – the views are surreal
Wear sun protection – the open sea reflects intense sunlight
If diving, ensure you have valid certifications and medical clearance
Eco-responsible travel is crucial – this is a protected zone

From the deep rumble beneath the sea to the smoky silhouette against the sky, Barren Island is raw, rare, and unforgettable. It’s not just a place — it’s a phenomenon. For travelers who want to step away from the ordinary and witness the extraordinary, Barren Island delivers an experience unlike anywhere else in India.