How to Visit Narcondam Island – Permit, Transportation & Others Details

Discover Narcondam Island’s volcanic beauty, unique wildlife, diving spots,
and travel tips from Port Blair for an unforgettable adventure.

You must have heard about Volcanic mountains, but what about Volcanic islands? Narcondam Island is a remote, extinct volcanic region known to be one of the two volcanic islands of the Andaman archipelago along with Barren Island. Known for its untouched scenery, pristine landscape, and distinctive volcanic origin, the island draws the attention of wildlife enthusiasts and escapes tourists. Its volcanic history, isolated existence, and geological significance make it a unique destination of nature’s wonders.

Wan to experience the beauty of the “Pit of Hell,” here’s all you need to know about reaching Narcondam Island, preparing for it, and other details in the blog post below. So, read on.

Port Blair to Narcondam Distance

Narcondam Island is 257 km (138 nautical miles) from Port Blair (Pheonix Bay Jetty). It has no jetty and is uninhabited, except for a police outpost at the arrival point and a delegated wildlife sanctuary protecting local Narcondam Hornbill.

Port Blair to Narcondam Ferry

As of 2024, no regular government or private ferries run between Port Blair and Narcondam islands. Travel to this island is strictly restricted for ecosystem conservation, especially local flora, fauna, and the region’s hornbill. The island is also entirely uninhabited, creating a potential risk for visitors, as there would be no immediate response or help from Port Blair in emergencies.

Port Blair to Narcondam by Boat

Narcondam is accessed only by customized private speed boats or charter boats with special permission from the Coast Guard, Home, and Environment Ministry for wildlife watching and research. The companies that cater private charters and organized tour services to this route are mentioned below:

Tour operators:

Tour operators provide expert guides and necessary permits, which are an affordable option ideal for budget-friendly travelers. However, they don’t offer refreshments or flexible timings.

Private Charter Boats:

On the other hand, private charter boats offer premium services like customizable meals, cabins, and highly flexible timings. These are expensive travel options ideal for group and luxury travelers and researchers.

Journey duration: 10-12 hrs.

Cost per person: Starting from INR 25,000.

Amenities included: Equipment for snorkeling and fishing, refreshments, etc., depending on the package opted.

Why Visit Narcondam Volcano Island?

Narcondam is an ideal diving island on Andaman Island for adventure divers and nature enthusiasts. Its Marine ecosystem, which includes sheer slopes and coral reefs, and underwater life, including rugged ridges, eagle rays, potato cod, tunas, jacks, Georgian fans, barrel sponges, mantas, Napoleon wrasse, parrotfish, and groupers, attracts scuba divers to the immense island’s aqua world. Chimneys, Lighthouse Reef, and Ooh La La are the top diving spots in Nancodam.

In addition, this region’s wildlife sanctuary, quiet volcano, and hornbill are well protected by dense forests, untouched beaches, and unexplored waters.

Important Tips:

Below are the important tips to remember while visiting Narcondam Island. Visitors interested in a trip to this region are requested to keep in mind these points to ensure a comfortable journey.

Narcondam is situated in a remote and uninhabited region, so visitors must be aware of emergencies, and proper planning and execution while visiting are recommended
Travel with groups and expert guides familiar with the area to ensure protection.
Carry adequate food, drinking water, satellite phone, and first aid.
Follow all the safety standards while traveling and engaging in water activities.
Don’t harm, disturb, or tamper with wildlife in the region’s natural habitat.
It is advised to strictly adhere to the environmental guidelines as it is a highly protected zone.
Overnight stays are not allowed in Narcondam.
Narcondam is a highly restricted area, so a special permit from the A&N administration is mandatory for a short trip.
It is advised to talk with Port Blair authorities or tour operators for help with the permits.
November to April are the best time to visit Narcondam due to its pleasant weather and low tides.
June to October is the worst time to visit Narcondam, with unpredicted climatic conditions and harsh sea tides.
Narcondom is not an excellent place for children due to its remote existence, Rocky terrain, and unavailability of facilities.

We’re Official Ferry Ticket Partner

We are an MSME listed local travel agency in Port Blair, South Andaman, providing fast and convenient ferry ticket booking through Andaman Ferry Ticket. Our unique guarantee ensures confirmed ferry tickets within minutes, coupled with a straightforward cancellation and refund policy.