Barren Island

Barren Island is an active volcano in the Andaman Sea, roughly 138 km northeast of Port Blair. The cone rises 353 m above the water surface and forms part of a volcanic chain between Sumatra and Myanmar.

The first documented eruption occurred in 1787, followed by events in 1789, 1795, 1803, and 1852. After 150 years of dormancy, volcanic activity resumed in 1991 and continues to this day.

The name comes from the British colonial period and describes the sparse vegetation on the volcanic cone. Today the island belongs to a protected area monitored by the Indian Navy and serves scientific observation.

Visiting requires special permission from Indian authorities, primarily granted for scientific research. The island is uninhabited and can only be reached by boat, with landings usually prohibited due to ongoing volcanic activity.

The water around the island hosts basalt formations created by cooled lava, as well as coral gardens. Manta rays swim nearby and make the underwater world a popular destination for divers with special permits.

Location: Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Elevation above the sea: 353 m

Part of: Andaman Islands

GPS coordinates: 12.28457,93.86277

Latest update: December 12, 2025 23:42