Scuba Diving in India

What it is

Explore reefs, wrecks and marine life on tank-supplied air. India has warm tropical water, healthy coral in the islands, and a large network of PADI and SSI dive centres.

When to go

October to May on both coasts. Most west coast operators pause during the June to September monsoon; the Andamans dive nearly year-round with a short break at peak monsoon.

First time?

No certification needed for an intro dive (usually called Discover Scuba): a briefing, shallow water practice, then a guided dive to around 12 metres. Certification courses take 3 to 4 days.

Where to do it

• Andaman Islands

  Havelock and Neil, the clearest water and richest reefs in India

• Netrani Island, Karnataka

  boat dives from Murudeshwar, frequent turtle sightings

• Grande Island, Goa

  easy conditions, the most affordable place to try diving

• Pondicherry

  the east coast option, artificial reefs and pelagic life