Diving into deep blue water and swimming alongside sea creatures as if you were one of them is an unforgettable experience. Many seek to visit popular diving sites for an incredible adventure, and if you are one of them—we have a list of some of the best places for scuba diving in India.
From the turquoise aquatic wonders of Andaman and Nicobar Islands to the colourful fish and enthralling flora of Goa, India has a plethora of scuba diving locations. Although no list can encompass every great dive out there, here are some best places we found, which you will surely love.
1. Netrani Island, Karnataka
The Island of Mudreshwar, Bhatkal Taluka, is a beautiful diving spot shaped in the shape of a heart. Because of its fascinating flora and fauna, the island is affectionately known as the "heart of India's diving." Some exotic underwater fishes and aquatic plants include coral reefs and butterfish, as well as eels and whales.
Best time to visit: December to January because the rest of the time the sea experiences high tide.
Cost of diving: INR 5,500- INR 6,000 per person.
2. Grand Island, Goa
Grand Island explores the not-so-famous side of Goa, where there is peace and tranquillity. Located a few kilometres away from the Mormugao peninsula, this diving spot is a hit among adventure junkies because of its erratic and strong sea current. Scuba diving in Grand Island will be a once in a lifetime experience. You can see Suzy’s wreck (an old sunken ship), Davy Lockers, and Turbo Tunnel, amongst other things, on your way to the Island.
Best time to visit: November and March is the best time to visit the place because the temperature is just right.
Cost of diving: INR 4,000 per person.
3. Kovalam, Kerala
Located in God’s Own Country, Kovalam attracts lakhs of travellers every year. It is situated at a distance of 16 km from Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. A scuba diving company in Kovalam offers an underwater scooter to all its travellers, instead of using traditional scuba diving gears, which makes the diving experience in Kovalam unique.
Best time to visit: December and January are the best months to visit Kovalam because the weather is pleasant.
Cost of diving: Above INR 20,000 per person.
4. Aravind's Wall, Pondicherry
This famous scuba diving location is located 15 km offshore. It has some exotic and unique aquatic plants and sea creatures. You can see creatures like lionfish, buttery fish, and many types of sea snakes at Aravind's Wall.
Best time to visit: December to March is the ideal time to visit the place as the temperature is appropriate and the sea is calm.
Cost for diving: INR 3,500- 6,000 per person.
5. Dwarka, Gujarat
Aside from popular pilgrim shrines, Dwarka is also home to some lesser-known scuba diving adventures. Many visitors come to the temple town to participate in unusual scuba diving activities. Dwarka is home to sea creatures such as whale sharks, dolphins, and turtles.
Best time to visit: Post monsoon (between October to March) is the ideal time to visit Dwarka for scuba diving.
Cost of diving: INR 4,500 plus GST per person.
6. Havelock Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Situated in the middle of the Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal, Andaman and Nicobar Islands are known for their mesmerising beaches and unique scuba diving spots. Havelock Island is one of the famous scuba diving locations in the UT, and it attracts travellers from different parts of the world. Located 50 km away from Port Blair, Havelock Island has a wide range of exotic marine life.
Best time to visit: October to April is the ideal time to visit the Island since these months are free from the harsh rains that dominate the islands.
Cost of diving: INR 4,500-6,000 per person
7. Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Port Blair is the capital of the Union Territory and has some fun scuba diving places to explore such as Dive Mantra and Lacadives, among others. The port has the most beautiful sea flowers and about 50 different kinds of corals.
Best time to visit: December to April is the best time to visit Port Blair.
Cost of diving: INR 3,500-6,000 per person.