A trip to Barren Island, the only active volcano in India and South Asia, is as exotic as a trip can get. The island is secluded and lined with black sand beaches. The island is not frequently accessed by tourists and needs special permits for a visit.
Where is Barren Island Located?
It is located about 140 kilometers away from Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The nearest habited island is the famous Havelock Island of Andaman.
Is Barren Island an Active Volcano?
Yes, Barren Island is an active volcano. It last erupted in 2017 and 2018. More than 10 eruptions have been recorded since the 1700s.
Can you visit Barren Island?
Yes, you can go near the Island, but you cannot step foot on the island as the government does not allow anyone, even researchers to visit the volcanic island.
How to Reach Barren Island?
You can reach by either taking a boat from Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) or by a seaplane or cruise from Port Blair.
From Havelock:
You can charter a boat from Havelock Island. The boat trip will last for 8-10 hours and will cost INR 1,30,000 + GST for 8 people. For every extra individual, charges will be INR 10000. Boats can usually carry a maximum of 12 passengers.
You will be snorkeling in the pristine waters surrounding the island. The island literally has no human activity. The waters are undisturbed for millions of years with colorful corals and fish.
You can scuba dive with trained divers with prior permission from the authorities. Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and beverages are included.
You can even fish. You can do popping, jigging, and trolling.
Read more about reaching Port Blair or Havelock.
From Port Blair:
You have two options if you’re at Port Blair. You can either take a seaplane or a cruise. If you choose a seaplane, you will not be landing anywhere on or near the island. But if you choose a cruise, you will be on a relaxing round trip on the coral sea cruise that has many facilities.
Barren Island entry fee:
There is no entry fee. You will just have to bear the transportation costs and the individual permit charge (INR 500 for Indians and INR 2500 for foreigners (per person per day))
Barren Island timings:
There are no visiting hours in particular. You will have to go according to the schedule of the boat or seaplane you will be traveling in.
Water Sports & Activities:
Below is a list of activities:
You can book any water activity online with us.
Facilities available:
Eateries:
There are no eateries on this island. You will be provided with food if you have chartered a boat. You can even carry your own meal.
Benches:
There are no benches installed on this island.
Changing Rooms:
There are no changing rooms.
Lifeguards:
Your boat will have lifeguards
Is Barren Island worth visiting?
Absolutely! Visiting Barren Island is an experience of a lifetime. Whether it is by boat or by seaplane, one must visit Barren Island. This island is untouched and has amazing blue waters and stunning marine life. Even though visiting this island will cost you a bit, if you are planning in a group, the experience will outweigh the costs anytime.
You can book a trip to Barren Island directly with us.
Read Next: All about Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep).
