Barren Island, Havelock, Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Overview

Barren Island is a small volcanic island located in the Andaman Sea, about 135 kilometers northeast of Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is India's only active volcano and one of the few in Southeast Asia. The island is known for its rugged, barren landscape and the occasional eruptions that make it a unique and fascinating destination.

Historical Significance

• Volcanic Activity: Barren Island has been an active volcano for centuries, with recorded eruptions dating back to the late 18th century. The most recent eruptions occurred in the 1990s and early 2000s.
• Geological Importance: The island is of significant geological interest due to its active volcanic status and the unique marine life found in its surrounding waters.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Barren Island is during the cooler and drier months from November to February. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the seas are calmer, making it ideal for boat trips and diving excursions.

• November to February: Ideal weather with calm seas, perfect for sightseeing and water activities.
• March to May: Warmer temperatures but still suitable for visits; seas may start to get rough.
• June to September: Monsoon season with heavy rains and rough seas, not recommended for travel.
• October: Transitional month with improving weather conditions, marking the end of the monsoon season.

Visiting Guidelines and Tips

• Access: Barren Island is accessible only by sea, typically via chartered boats or dive trips from Havelock Island or Port Blair.
• Permits: Special permits are required to visit Barren Island due to its protected status and active volcanic nature. These permits can be arranged through tour operators.
• Activities:
  • Scenic Boat Rides: Enjoy a boat ride around the island to view the volcano and its rugged landscape.
  • Diving and Snorkeling: The waters around Barren Island are known for their rich marine life and clear visibility, making it a popular spot for divers and snorkelers. The underwater volcanic activity has created unique dive sites.
• Safety: Due to the active volcanic nature of the island, landing on Barren Island is prohibited. Visitors can view the island and its volcano from a safe distance on boats.

Key Attractions

• Volcano: Witness the awe-inspiring sight of an active volcano, with its smoke and occasional eruptions.
• Marine Life: Explore the rich marine biodiversity around the island, including coral reefs, manta rays, and various species of fish.
• Unique Landscape: The barren, rocky terrain of the island offers a stark contrast to the lush greenery of the surrounding islands.

How to Reach

• From Havelock Island: Charter boats and diving trips are available from Havelock Island, which is about 100 kilometers from Barren Island.
• From Port Blair: Boat trips and diving excursions can also be arranged from Port Blair, the nearest major city, located about 135 kilometers away.
• Travel Time: The boat ride from Havelock Island or Port Blair to Barren Island typically takes several hours, depending on sea conditions.

Visiting Barren Island offers a rare opportunity to witness an active volcano and explore some of the most unique marine environments in the world. It is a must-visit for adventure seekers, geology enthusiasts, and divers looking for an extraordinary experience in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.