Barren Island – India’s Only Active Volcano

About Barren Island

Barren Island, located 138 km northeast of Port Blair, is India’s only active volcano and the only one in South Asia. It rises 354 meters above sea level and has a 2 km-wide caldera formed by previous eruptions. The island is uninhabited, with only a few species of birds, bats, and rodents surviving its harsh conditions.

Visitors are not allowed to land on the island, but they can witness its smoking crater, lava formations, and marine biodiversity through boat tours. Scuba diving, sports fishing, and snorkeling are popular activities near the island’s volcanic reef.

Travel Tips for Visiting Barren Island

✅ Do’s

✔ Obtain Required Permits – Special permission from the Forest Department is mandatory.
✔ Book a Chartered Boat – Only authorized boats and live-aboard cruises can take you close to the island.
✔ Carry Essentials – Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and motion sickness tablets for the boat ride.
✔ Follow Safety Instructions – Listen to your guide and boat crew for a safe trip.
✔ Respect Marine Life – Maintain a safe distance from corals and marine creatures while diving or snorkeling.

❌ Don’ts

❌ No Landing on the Island – Stepping on Barren Island is strictly prohibited. All tours are boat-based.
❌ Avoid Touching Corals – Coral reefs are fragile; do not touch, step on, or break them.
❌ No Littering – Keep the ocean clean; dispose of waste responsibly.
❌ Do Not Feed Wildlife – It disrupts the natural ecosystem.
❌ Avoid Monsoon Travel – The sea can be rough and unsafe from May to September.

Follow these tips for a safe and memorable visit to Barren Island! 🌋🚤