This Active Volcano In India Makes For A Unique Getaway
If you’re headed to Andaman and Nicobar Islands, make your way to the Barren Island
Many travellers make their way to the azure shores of Andaman, making a beeline for the pristine Radhanagar beach. But 140 kms from the capital city of Port Blair, is a single island of great importance, for it is the only active volcano in South Asia. Called Barren Island, that gets its name from the uninhabited shores that it straddles, this craggy volcano often features on the list of many intrepid tourists who wish to learn more about its fiery temper.
Barren Island
View of Barren Island from a boat. Picture: Shutterstock
With eruptions that date back to 1787, the last eruption on Barren Island was recorded in 2018; however there have been instances where smoke and ash has billowed from the mouth of the volcano, covering the sky as recent as 2022. However there is not much cause for concern, and travellers can still make their way to the region with relative ease.
The island, which is 3 km in diameter, falls under a restricted zone, which necessitates permits from the forest department for visit. For those who are all psyched up about visiting this volcanic island must also know that you can’t step on the island, nor stay in the area overnight, but only view it from the confines of your boat. Nonetheless, there are many ways to activities that can be pursued in the area.
You can hire a private charter along with other people and set off as early as 4am. The region abounds in marine life and you can indulge in a day of snorkelling and fishing around the Barren Island. Scuba diving experts can also test their mettle in the water for a unique experience to spot lava formations and coral reefs in the area. If you’re lucky, you could also come face to face with Oceanic Manta Rays, dolphins and colourful schools of fish. While there is not much to be seen on the island, it does have a few species of birds and animals such as bats, rodents and a few goats.
Barren Island is the only active volcano in South Asia. Picture: Shutterstock
It is also interesting to note that the sand around the island is black, as opposed to the white sand beaches of Andaman and Nicobar. This is due to the volcanic ash deposits in the area, which not only colour the sand in the area, but also makes the water clearer. The western side of the Barren Island also has a few caves where divers are known to go for exploratory dives.
Cost Of The Trip
Trips to Barren Island are undertaken on private charters from Havelock Island and Port Blair and could put you back by INR 1,00,000-1,50,000.
Barren Island is located in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Picture: Shutterstock
