Had enough of the land? Leave the road behind and indulge in some aquatic adventures. Forget about the typical Goa parties. The next season beckons you to dive into the enchanting turquoise and deep blue waters of the Andaman and Lakshadweep islands. That’s right, we’re talking about scuba diving, and of course, we have a fabulous list of the best spots for scuba diving in India.
The movie Zindagi Milegi Na Dobara showed us the true glamour of scuba diving. The serenity of the underwater world, its vibrant marine life, and the thrill of soul-surfing. Scuba diving truly transports you to a different realm. And here’s the best part, non-swimmers need not worry. Swimming skills are not a prerequisite for scuba diving!
Discovering Scuba Diving In India
Scuba diving in India promises endless fun and excitement. But before you take the plunge, remember these important safety rules.
- Never dive alone. It’s always safer and more enjoyable to be with companions.
- Breathe naturally. No one can hold their breath forever.
- Start with small steps. Don’t dive too deep right away.
- Double-check your equipment before diving. Only divine intervention can save you if your gear malfunctions.
- Obey your trainer or supervisor. Remember, they are in charge.
- Do not pollute the natural habitat of marine flora and fauna. They do no harm to our world.
Scuba Diving in India: 14 Spectacular Dive Sites
Ready to embark on an exhilarating journey? Here’s our handpicked list of the finest destinations for scuba diving in India. If it’s not on this list, you can skip it.
- Andaman: Discover the Deep Blue
- Lakshadweep: Delight in the Underwater World
- Goa: Dive into Excitement!
- Pondicherry: Submerge in the Tranquil Waters
- Netrani Island in Karnataka: Witness the Abundance of Marine Life
- Tarkarli in Maharashtra: Admire the Vibrant Coral Reefs
- Kovalam in Kerala: Revel in a Unique Experience in God’s Own Country
- Havelock Island: The Underwater Paradise
- Neil Island: Dive in and Embrace the Beauty of Coral
- Cinque Island: Escape the Chaos and Discover Serenity
- Kadmat Islands: A Haven of Peace
- Dwarka: More than Just a Religious Destination, It Offers Adventure
- Bangaram Island: Immerse Yourself in Crystal Clear Waters
- The Aravind Wall: Dive in and Experience Unmatched Bliss
1. The Deep Blue Side of Andaman
Immerse yourself in the vibrant marine life of the Bay of Bengal with an exhilarating scuba diving experience in Andaman. Explore the breathtaking corals and pristine reefs that create a perfect setting for this thrilling activity. Known as the ultimate scuba diving destination in India, Andaman offers encounters with turtles, moray eels, manta rays, trevally, and batfish.
Preferred Dive Site: The Wall, Havelock, and Dixon’s PinnaclePrice: INR 4,500 per person per diveOrganizers: Barefoot, Pugmark Eco Tours, and Experience AndamansRecommended Time: November to mid-April, with most diving trips conducted in the morningsImportant Information: The Scuba Diving Organizers provide certified training courses for beginners, advanced level divers, professionals, and rescue divers. Training for professional and rescue divers takes place after sunset.
2. Underwater Delight at Lakshadweep
Indulge in an unforgettable scuba diving adventure in Lakshadweep, one of the top scuba diving destinations in India. Prepare to be thrilled as you explore the blue transparent lagoons and coves teeming with manta rays, turtles, vibrant fish, and occasionally sharks and whales.
Preferred Dive Sites: Princess Royal, Lost Paradise, Dolphin Reef, Classroom, Fish Soup, and Manta PointPrice: INR 4,000-7000 per person for a 25-minute underwater experienceOrganizers: Lacadives, Nivalink, and Planet Scuba DivingRecommended Time: October to mid-May, with December to April offering the best scuba experienceImportant Information: Dive into history as you explore the Princess Royal diving spot in Bangaram, where a warship sank during the battle between France and England 200 years ago. Discover traces of cannons, pottery, and shipwrecks while enjoying your scuba diving adventure.
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3. Glee! It’s Scuba Diving Time in Goa
Experience pure joy as you embark on a scuba diving expedition in Goa. Discover tiny exotic corals, enchanting schools of fish, and a plethora of colorful marine creatures. With calm underwater currents and excellent visibility, Goa offers one of the safest scuba diving experiences in India.
4. Pondicherry: A Refreshing Underwater Getaway
5. Netrani Island In Karnataka: Witness The Abundant Marine Life
Netrani, famously known as Pigeon Island, lies 10 kilometers away from Murudeshwar, along the Karnataka coastline. This small, heart-shaped island serves as an unconventional scuba destination, teeming with a varied array of marine organisms such as fish, corals, and humpbacks. Lucky divers may even encounter whale sharks. One of the renowned diving spots in Netrani is Bhatkal shipwreck, located 25 kilometers offshore. Netrani is acclaimed for providing the finest underwater diving experience in India.
Diving Spots: NACost: INR 4999 per personScuba Diving Organizers: Netrani AdventuresBest Time for Diving: From mid-September to the end of MayGood to know: Netrani Adventures is an officially registered PADI resort.
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6. Tarkarli In Maharashtra: Delight in the Vibrant Coral Reefs
Tarkarli is situated near the majestic Sindhudurg Fort in Maharashtra. Its coastal waters are exceptionally clear and abound with colorful corals and marine animals. Visitors are ferried from Dandi beach to the diving site via speedboats. The diving experience in Tarkarli is led by skilled professionals and offers a recreational and joyful dive, deviating from the typical scuba experience.
Diving Spots: NACost: INR 850 per personScuba Diving Organizers: Shamika Scuba Diving,Best Time for Diving: October to April is the optimal period to visit Tarkarli, allowing visitors to revel in scuba diving amidst exceptionally clear waters.Good to know: Non-swimmers can also partake in dives in Tarkarli. Divers can explore depths of up to 30 feet.
Recommended Read: 6 Exquisite Waterfalls in Gujarat for an Abundantly Refreshing Vacation
7. Kovalam In Kerala: Uniquely Experience God’s Own Country
Bond Safari
Kovalam in Kerala is swiftly gaining popularity among tourists as a scuba diving destination. A company named Bond Safari, utilizing an underwater scooter, has brought this unique experience to the beaches of Kovalam. The water here is crystal clear and provides a glimpse into a vibrant marine life teeming with various sea creatures. Kovalam stands out as one of the most exceptional scuba diving spots in all of India.
Areas for Diving: Lighthouse Beach, Hawah BeachPrice: INR 4500 per person (rates may vary)Scuba Diving Organizers: Bond Safari, Scuba Cochin Dive CentreBest Time for Diving: September to February is the ideal period to indulge in water activities like scuba diving in Kovalam.
It is worth noting that Kovalam is emerging as a leading destination for scuba diving in India.
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8. Havelock Island: A Subaquatic Paradise
Vikramjit Kakati
This immaculate island represents one of the top attractions in Andaman and Nicobar and is renowned for its scuba diving sites in India. Situated 50 kilometers away from Port Blair, Havelock Island is home to a wide range of exotic marine life. While exploring underwater, one can encounter fascinating species such as the Humpback Parrot Fish, Lionfish, and Soft Corals.
Diving Spots: Turtle BayPrice: INR 4500-INR 6000 Scuba Diving Organizers: Barefoot Scuba, India Scuba Explorers, Eco Diver, Dive India Outbound, Ocean Tribe Scuba Best Time for Diving: October to AprilGood to Know: You may have the opportunity to witness the grandeur of Humpback Parrot Fish, Lionfish, and Soft Corals.
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9. Neil Island: Dive In and Uncover the Coral Splendor
Neil Island, another gem of the Andaman Islands, possesses a subtle beauty that is far removed from the chaos of the main town. This isolated paradise is renowned for its unexplored, secluded beaches, which also host fantastic scuba diving spots. Moreover, the untouched coral reef on Neil Island perfectly preserves its rich and diverse collection of flora and fauna. Without a doubt, Neil Island ranks among the finest destinations for underwater diving in India.
Diving Spots: NAPrice: INR 3500-INR 6000 Scuba Diving Organizers: K Rock, Bus Stop, Margherita’s Mischief Best Time to Visit: December to AprilGood to Know: The coral reef remains untouched, showcasing its magnificent diversity of flora and fauna.
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Away from Chaos, amidst Serenity: Cinque Island
When it comes to exploring the islands in Andaman, one cannot miss the charm of Cinque island. This island boasts the clearest waters in the world, with depths reaching up to 80 feet, making it one of the premier scuba diving destinations in India. It is home to a diverse array of marine life, including captivating black corals and awe-inspiring sharks.
Diving Locations: Not ApplicableCost: INR 3500-INR 5000 Organizers for Scuba Diving: Barefoot Scuba Best Time to Visit: December-MayUseful Information: The island is home to a diverse array of marine life, including captivating black corals and awe-inspiring sharks.
Recommended Reading: Responsible Travel: Exploring India’s Ecotourism in 10 Enchanting States
Kadmat Islands: A Tranquil Paradise
Also known as the Cardamom Islands, this coral paradise is located within the Lakshadweep Union Territory. Kadmat Islands are home to mesmerizing marine turtles and an array of marine species that make diving beneath its turquoise waters a breathtaking experience. With its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters, this place truly resembles a paradise.
Diving Locations: Cardamom IslandsCost: INR 6000 Organizers for Scuba Diving: Laccadives Best Time to Visit: November-MarchUseful Information: Witness the mesmerizing marine turtles and an array of marine species.
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Dwarka: Beyond Religion, an Adventurous Retreat
Ashwin chandrasegaran
Known as the divine abode of Lord Krishna, Dwarka is also a hidden gem for adventure enthusiasts as it offers remarkable scuba diving experiences. This location has recently gained popularity among scuba divers, as it houses a captivating marine ecosystem. With decent visibility, divers can encounter playful dolphins, magnificent whale sharks, and graceful turtles.
Diving Locations: Not ApplicableCost: INR 4,500 (Fun Dive), Open Water Course (INR 26,000) Organizers for Scuba Diving: DiveIndia Best Time to Visit: October-MarchUseful Information: Encounter playful dolphins, magnificent whale sharks, and graceful turtles underwater.
13. Bangaram Island: Surrounded by Pristine Waters
Lakshadweep.gov.in
This destination is an Atoll, encompassed by coral reefs, and offers a breathtaking sight. Celebrated for its enchanting environment, Bangaram Island is a part of the Lakshadweep islands. The underwater view is captivating and often compared to the exquisite beaches of Maldives and Mauritius. Moreover, the beach on this island is extremely pristine and can be conveniently accessed by air or boat.
Diving Sites: AtollCost: INR 4000-INR 7000 Scuba Diving Organizers: Laccadives, Bangaram Island, Agatti Island Best Time to Visit: October-MarchNoteworthy: The underwater view is captivating and often compared to the exquisite beaches of Maldives and Mauritius.
14. The Aravind Wall: Immerse Yourself in an Unforgettable Experience
AshwiniShinde for Wikipedia
Note: This image is solely for visual representation.
Situated 15 kilometers offshore, The Aravind Wall is renowned as one of the finest scuba diving sites in India. Here, one can witness a rich variety of marine creatures such as Lionfish, butterfly fish, and various types of sea snakes. Moreover, lucky divers may even spot the elusive honeycomb Moray Eel on the wall.
Diving Sites: NACost: INR 3500-INR 6000 Scuba Diving Organizers: Temple Adventures Best Time to Visit: December-MarchNoteworthy: Lucky divers may spot the elusive honeycomb Moray Eel on the wall.
Essential Items for Scuba Diving
- Sunblock
- Diving mask
- Rehydrating Salt
- Dive Logbook
- Dry Bag
- High-Quality Wetsuit
- Depth Gauge, Compass, Submersible Pressure Gauge
- Premium Diving Footwear
Tips for Scuba Diving in India
Scuba diving is undoubtedly one of the most thrilling and enjoyable activities one can try. However, the idea of breathing underwater might be intimidating for some. Therefore, here are some valuable tips to keep in mind.
- Ensure safety is your top priority and consider learning from a professional before diving.
- Prior to taking the plunge, engage in underwater swimming and yoga for a few months, building up your confidence.
- Undergo a thorough medical examination to ensure your fitness for scuba diving.
- Comply with your instructor’s instructions, and carefully plan your diving route, informing your guide accordingly.
- Acquire the correct equipment and inspect your gear as you travel to your dive site. If you have any uncertainties, seek assistance from your guide.
Further Reading: Discover 18 Must-Visit Destinations for India’s Wildlife Experience
Why travel overseas for an extraordinary and mesmerizing experience like scuba diving when India offers a plethora of options? So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your perfect holiday trip to India and choose your favorite scuba diving destination in the country! Happy Diving!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Scuba Diving in India
What are the top scuba diving destinations in India?
Andaman, Goa, Kerala, Pondicherry, and Lakshadweep are among the best places for scuba diving in India. These locations boast incredible diving spots.
Is scuba diving worth trying in Pondicherry?
Absolutely! Pondicherry is renowned as one of the finest scuba diving destinations in India. It offers a safe and thrilling experience, thanks to its vibrant marine life.
Is scuba diving safe in India?
Yes, scuba diving in India is perfectly safe. There are numerous experts available to assist with any concerns. If you’re unsure, consider embarking on a 3-day or 5-day basic training session for the best experience.
Can I scuba dive if I can’t swim?
Yes, you can still scuba dive without knowing how to swim. However, it is crucial to have an expert accompanying you. Make sure to choose a session supervised by reputable and experienced divers.
What is the cost of scuba diving in Andaman?
The cost of scuba diving in Andaman ranges from INR 3500 to INR 5000, depending on the location and organizers.
Which is the best beach for scuba diving in India?
Havelock Island beach is considered one of the best beaches for scuba diving in India. Other popular destinations include Swaraj Dweep, Malvan, Tarkarli, and more.
How much does scuba diving cost in Goa?
The cost of scuba diving in Goa starts from INR 3000 and varies depending on the diving site and organizer you choose.
What is the cost of scuba certification?
Scuba diving certification typically starts from INR 15000.
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