Information about Barren Island
Last eruption: 2017
Elevation: 354 m
Area: 8.34 km²
Location: Bay of Bengal
Island sub-group: East Volcano Islands
Postal code: 744202
Famous For: Active Volcano
Volcano Age - 1.8 million years old
About Barren Island Volcano
Have you read any one of those folk tales or enjoyed cartoons that have islands surrounded by a volcano which is active and also the whole area looks so wonderful? Well, Barren Islands is one such location, where the volcano is still active. Barren Island is situated at a distance of 138 kilometers from the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Port Blair. In fact, it is the only volcanoes to have been confirmed active in South Asia as well as along the chains of volcanoes that inhabit the belt from Indonesia to Myanmar. This island comes under the custody of the Indian Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands as well as is popular as a Submarine emergent Volcano lying above the temptation area of India and also Burmese plate.
The island that measures around 3 kilometers has a large crater of the volcano that increases around half kilometers far from the shore of the sea. The deepness of the crater is measured around 150 fathoms. True to its name, it is a barren location uninhabited by human beings, though it has a small populace of goats that come there to eat the grass. Also, birds, bats like flying foxes and a couple of rodent species such as rats are known to survive the harsh conditions. Rests are just short-lived visitors who just come to witness the volcano and also the breathtaking route to reach it. Plus, it's one of the most popular places worldwide for scuba diving.
The first eruption happened in the 17th Century. The majority of its eruptions are more devastating. Also, the majority of the volcano is situated under seawater. Well, Barren Island in Andaman has actually again started appearing in 2018 after it has continued to be inactive for over 177 years, and also lots of people across the world are coming to the islands just to experience this phenomenon. Visitors normally take a water boat ride and look out the Barren Island from distance without even getting on the Island, However, lots of scientists visited the Island in the past for research study as well as analysis.
How to Reach Barren Island
The sight of nature's solitary guard is absolutely spectacular. Although sightseeing around the island is not that common, you can get permissions from the local forest local to do so. There are a variety of ferries as well as water boats that can take you around to check out the island. No night stay is allowed at Barren Island so one can plan for the morning journey to the island like you can start at 3 or 4 a.m. It takes almost 4 to 5 hrs to reach the island. You can also take a seaplane tour from Port Blair to reach Barren Island, However, because of the unpredictability of the volcanic eruptions, visitors are not allowed to arrive at the shores and need to sustain with a view from the sea, which is equally memorable and spectacular.
Best Time to Visit Barren Island
November to February is considered the very best months to see Barren Island because the weather will be clear providing a possibility to see the island and the volcano.
Cost of the Barren Island Tour
This destination is fairly remote and you need to charter a private water boat to Barren Island. There are no government ferries operating to the islands as well as staying is not allowed there. Mostly this journey starts from Havelock Island and also this trip can cost you between INR 1,00,000 to 1,50,000 for the entire charter depending upon the watercraft you are getting. This price is inclusive of all features that you will be offered with at the ship, such as an onboard kitchen, washroom and also restrooms in the ship like a houseboat you will find in Kerala. A group of 4 - 8 Adults are normally advised to do this tour. However, a lesser number of people can also do this tour.
What Things to Do & See in Barren Island?
Active Volcano: Barren Island is house to the ONLY active volcano in South Asia. The first recorded eruption of the volcano goes back to 1787. Since 1787, the volcano has appeared over 10 times. One of the most recent eruptions started in September 2010, which continued till January 2011!
Scuba Diving: The waters bordering Barren Island offer a wonderful location for scuba diving. It's a remote diving destination, but it has a great deal for one to see. The crystal clear waters, intriguing basalt formations, coral reefs gardens are few of the things you must not miss at this site.
Serene and Secluded: Barren Island is truly barren and uninhabited by people. It is not easy so very few tourists choose to go to Barren Island, though it's completely worth it. One needs permission from the Forest Department to go to the Island. However, those looking for refuge far from various other travelers need to plan a day's trip here!
Photographer's Paradise: Barren Island is house to a small population of goats, flying foxes, and a few rodent species. Well, offered to the harsh conditions, very few animals can survive here. Nonetheless, the area is pretty, surrounded by crystal blue waters. It's fairly a visual joy, we must say!
FAQs of Barren Island
Q1. Is it risk-free to visit Barren Island?
Ans. Yes, it is safe for traveling. According to the Volcanic Explosively Index (an index which rates the volcanoes from 1 to 8 on the basis of the quantity of volcanic material erupted and also its strength), the eruptions at the Barren Island are listed as the lowest and also hence, are safe. This means that a visit to Barren Island is totally safe.
Q2. Is there any adventure sport at Barren Island?
Ans. Sports activities not available on Barren Island. But on your way to Barren Island, you can enjoy sports and also other activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, sea walk, if you are traveling by a private charter. In fact, the waters that surround the Barren Island are famous for being just one of the world's top scuba diving destinations.
Q3. Why people should do it?
Ans. To witness one of the most unique geographical sensations live! This is the only active volcano in South Asia and it makes total sense to witness its beauty because the view is mesmerizing and maintain scintillating for long.
