Imagine diving into the crystal clear waters of the Arabian Sea, surrounded by colorful coral reefs, exotic fish, turtles, sharks, and dolphins. Imagine exploring the hidden treasures of the underwater world, such as caves, shipwrecks, and lagoons. Imagine experiencing the thrill and joy of scuba diving in one of the most beautiful and diverse marine destinations in India.
This is what scuba diving in Lakshadweep offers you. Lakshadweep, which means "a hundred thousand islands" in Malayalam, is a union territory of India, consisting of 36 islands, of which only 10 are inhabited. These islands are home to some of the most pristine and spectacular coral reefs in the world, hosting a rich and varied biodiversity of marine life.
Scuba diving in Lakshadweep is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for anyone who loves the ocean and adventure. But it also requires some planning and preparation, as Lakshadweep is not an easy place to reach or explore. There are many factors to consider, such as the best islands, dive sites, seasons, operators, packages, and tips for scuba diving in Lakshadweep.
That's why we have created this comprehensive guide to scuba diving in Lakshadweep, covering everything you need to know to plan and book your scuba diving trip to Lakshadweep. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, a solo traveler or a group, a budget or a luxury seeker, this guide will help you find the best options and deals for scuba diving in Lakshadweep.
So, are you ready to dive into the underwater paradise of Lakshadweep? Let's get started!
Best Islands for Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep has 36 islands, but not all of them are open for tourism or scuba diving. In fact, only five islands are accessible for scuba diving in Lakshadweep: Agatti, Bangaram, Kadmat, Kavaratti, and Minicoy. Each island has its own unique features and attractions, and some are more suitable for scuba diving than others. Here is a brief overview of each island, along with the best dive sites, other attractions, accommodation, accessibility, and regulations.
Agatti Island
Location: Agatti island is located at 10°51′N 72°11′E, about 459 km from Kochi, the nearest mainland city.
Scuba diving sites: Agatti island has some of the best dive sites in Lakshadweep, such as Agatti boat ride, where you can swim with turtles and sharks, and Agatti reef, where you can explore the coral gardens and fish schools.
Other attractions: Agatti island is also known for its scenic beauty and serene atmosphere. You can enjoy activities such as surfing, fishing, kayaking, and boating on the island. You can also visit the Agatti lighthouse, which offers a panoramic view of the island and the sea.
Accommodation: Agatti island has only one resort, the Agatti Island Beach Resort, which offers cottages and villas with sea views and modern amenities. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa, and a dive center. The rates start from ₹15,000 per night.
Accessibility: Agatti island is the only island in Lakshadweep that has an airport, the Agatti Aerodrome, which connects to Kochi and Bengaluru. The flight duration is about 1.5 hours, and the fare is around ₹10,000. You can also take a ferry from Kochi, which takes about 18 hours, and costs around ₹2,000.
Regulations: Agatti island requires an entry permit from the Lakshadweep administration, which can be obtained online or through a registered travel agent. The permit fee is ₹200 per person. You also need to book your accommodation and scuba diving package in advance, as there are limited slots available.
Bangaram Atoll
Location: Bangaram atoll is located at 10°56′N 72°17′E, about 459 km from Kochi, and 8 km from Agatti island.
Scuba diving sites: Bangaram atoll is one of the most popular and exclusive destinations for scuba diving in Lakshadweep, as it offers a variety of dive sites, such as Bangaram wall, where you can see the coral drop-off and the pelagic fish, and Bangaram lagoon, where you can enjoy the calm and clear water and the reef fish.
Other attractions: Bangaram atoll is also a paradise for nature lovers and photographers, as it has four uninhabited islands, Bangaram, Thinnakara, Parali I, and Parali II, which are surrounded by white sand beaches, coconut palms, and turquoise lagoons. You can also indulge in activities such as snorkeling, sailing, canoeing, and birdwatching on the atoll.
Accommodation: Bangaram atoll has only one resort, the Bangaram Island Resort, which offers beach tents and cottages with rustic charm and basic facilities. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, and a dive center. The rates start from ₹20,000 per night.
Accessibility: Bangaram atoll can be reached by a speedboat or a helicopter from Agatti island, which takes about 30 minutes and 10 minutes respectively. The speedboat fare is around ₹2,000, and the helicopter fare is around ₹5,000.
Regulations: Bangaram atoll does not require an entry permit, as it is a private property of the resort. However, you need to book your accommodation and scuba diving package in advance, as there are limited slots available. You also need to follow the rules and guidelines of the resort, such as no alcohol, no smoking, no littering, etc.
Kadmat Island
Location: Kadmat island is located at 11°13′N 72°46′E, about 407 km from Kochi, and 76 km from Agatti island.
Scuba diving sites: Kadmat island is one of the best islands for scuba diving in Lakshadweep, as it has a long and narrow lagoon that stretches for 8 km, offering a range of dive sites, such as Kadmat reef, where you can see the coral formations and the reef fish, and Kadmat wreck, where you can explore the sunken ship and the marine life around it.
Other attractions: Kadmat island is also a peaceful and relaxing place, where you can enjoy the natural beauty and the local culture. You can visit the Kadmat museum, which showcases the history and heritage of the island, and the Kadmat mosque, which is the oldest and largest mosque in Lakshadweep. You can also try activities such as windsurfing, water skiing, and sailing on the island.
Accommodation: Kadmat island has only one resort, the Kadmat Island Resort, which offers rooms and cottages with basic amenities and sea views. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, and a dive center. The rates start from ₹10,000 per night.
Accessibility: Kadmat island can be reached by a ferry or a helicopter from Agatti island, which takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes respectively. The ferry fare is around ₹1,000, and the helicopter fare is around ₹4,000.
Regulations: Kadmat island requires an entry permit from the Lakshadweep administration, which can be obtained online or through a registered travel agent. The permit fee is ₹200 per person. You also need to book your accommodation and scuba diving package in advance, as there are limited slots available.
Kavaratti Island
Location: Kavaratti island is located at 10°34′N 72°38′E, about 404 km from Kochi, and 54 km from Agatti island.
Scuba diving sites: Kavaratti island is one of the most developed and populated islands in Lakshadweep, and also one of the most diverse and challenging destinations for scuba diving in Lakshadweep, as it offers a variety of dive sites, such as Kavaratti caves, where you can see the coral overhangs and the cave dwellers, and Kavaratti wall, where you can see the coral slope and the pelagic fish.
Other attractions: Kavaratti island is also a cultural and historical hub, where you can learn more about the Lakshadweep people and their traditions. You can visit the Kavaratti mosque, which is the most famous and sacred mosque in Lakshadweep, and the Kavaratti aquarium, which displays the marine life of Lakshadweep. You can also enjoy activities such as cycling, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat rides on the island.
Accommodation: Kavaratti island has only one resort, the Kavaratti Island Resort, which offers rooms and cottages with modern facilities and sea views. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, and a dive center. The rates start from ₹12,000 per night.
Accessibility: Kavaratti island can be reached by a ferry or a helicopter from Agatti island, which takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes respectively. The ferry fare is around ₹800, and the helicopter fare is around ₹3,000.
Regulations: Kavaratti island requires an entry permit from the Lakshadweep administration, which can be obtained online or through a registered travel agent. The permit fee is ₹200 per person. You also need to book your accommodation and scuba diving package in advance, as there are limited slots available.
Minicoy Island
Location: Minicoy island is located at 8°17′N 73°04′E, about 398 km from Kochi, and 200 km from Agatti island.
Scuba diving sites: Minicoy island is one of the most remote and isolated islands in Lakshadweep, and also one of the most adventurous and exciting destinations for scuba diving in Lakshadweep, as it offers a variety of dive sites, such as Minicoy reef, where you can see the coral pinnacles and the reef fish, and Minicoy channel, where you can see the coral walls and the sharks.
Other attractions: Minicoy island is also a unique and fascinating place, where you can experience a different culture and language from the rest of Lakshadweep. You can visit the Minicoy lighthouse, which is the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Lakshadweep, and the Minicoy village, which is the largest and most traditional village in Lakshadweep. You can also try activities such as fishing, crab hunting, and folk dancing on the island.
Accommodation: Minicoy island has only one resort, the Minicoy Island Resort, which offers rooms and cottages with simple amenities and sea views. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, and a dive center. The rates start from ₹8,000 per night.
Accessibility: Minicoy island can be reached by a ferry or a helicopter from Agatti island, which takes about 8 hours and 45 minutes respectively. The ferry fare is around ₹1,500, and the helicopter fare is around ₹6,000.
Regulations: Minicoy island requires an entry permit from the Lakshadweep administration, which can be obtained online or through a registered travel agent. The permit fee is ₹200 per person. You also need to book your accommodation and scuba diving package in advance, as there are limited slots available.
Best Seasons for Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep
The weather and water conditions in Lakshadweep vary throughout the year, and some seasons are more favorable for scuba diving than others. The best time to book a trip to Lakshadweep is during October to May, as the weather is pleasant and the waters are calm. The water temperature is warm at 80-82°F (27-28°C) and you can expect excellent visibility which can stretch up to 150ft (45m) ².
However, you can also dive in Lakshadweep during other seasons, depending on your preference and availability. Here is a breakdown of the four seasons in Lakshadweep and their pros and cons for scuba diving:
Winter (December to February)
Winter is the peak season for tourism and scuba diving in Lakshadweep, as the weather is cool and dry, and the water is clear and calm. This is the best season for beginners and experts alike, as the dive sites are accessible and the marine life is abundant. You can see a variety of fish, turtles, sharks, rays, and dolphins in the water, and enjoy the coral reefs in their full glory.
However, winter is also the most expensive and crowded season in Lakshadweep, as the demand for accommodation and scuba diving packages is high. You may have to book well in advance and pay higher rates to secure your spot. You may also have to deal with more boat traffic and divers on the dive sites, which can affect your experience.
Summer (March to May)
Summer is the off-season for tourism and scuba diving in Lakshadweep, as the weather is hot and humid, and the water is warm and murky. This is the best season for adventurous and experienced divers, as the dive sites are less crowded and the marine life is more diverse. You can see more pelagic fish, such as tuna, barracuda, and mackerel, and more sharks, such as hammerheads, tiger sharks, and whale sharks, in the water. You can also explore the deeper and more challenging dive sites, such as walls, caves, and wrecks.
However, summer is also the most uncomfortable and risky season in Lakshadweep, as the weather is unpredictable and the water is choppy. You may have to face strong winds, waves, and currents, which can make diving difficult and dangerous. You may also have to cope with lower visibility, higher water temperature, and more plankton, which can affect your enjoyment and safety.
Monsoon (June to August)
Monsoon is the worst season for tourism and scuba diving in Lakshadweep, as the weather is wet and stormy, and the water is rough and turbid. This is the season to avoid scuba diving in Lakshadweep, as the dive sites are inaccessible and the marine life is scarce. You can hardly see any fish, turtles, sharks, or dolphins in the water, and the coral reefs are damaged and bleached.
Moreover, monsoon is also the most inconvenient and hazardous season in Lakshadweep, as the transportation and communication are disrupted and unreliable. You may have trouble reaching and leaving the islands, as the flights and ferries are cancelled or delayed. You may also have trouble staying and diving on the islands, as the resorts and dive centers are closed or limited.
Post-Monsoon (September to November)
Post-monsoon is the transition season for tourism and scuba diving in Lakshadweep, as the weather is mild and sunny, and the water is clear and calm. This is a good season for intermediate and advanced divers, as the dive sites are open and the marine life is recovering. You can see a mix of reef fish, turtles, sharks, and dolphins in the water, and enjoy the coral reefs in their recovery stage.
However, post-monsoon is also an unpredictable and variable season in Lakshadweep, as the weather and water conditions can change rapidly and unexpectedly. You may have to face occasional showers, winds, and currents, which can affect your diving plans and performance. You may also have to adjust your expectations and preferences, as the dive sites and marine life may not be as spectacular as in other seasons..
Best Operators for Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep
There are several operators that offer scuba diving services in Lakshadweep, and they differ in terms of quality, safety, price, and availability. Choosing the best operator for scuba diving in Lakshadweep can make a big difference in your experience and satisfaction. Here are some of the factors to consider when selecting an operator for scuba diving in Lakshadweep:
- Location: The location of the operator determines which islands and dive sites you can access and how long it takes to reach them. Some operators are based on one island, while others operate on multiple islands. You may want to choose an operator that is close to your preferred island or dive site, or that offers a variety of options to suit your interests and needs.
- Services: The services of the operator include the types and levels of scuba diving courses, certifications, equipment rental, guided dives, and packages that they offer. You may want to choose an operator that matches your skill level and interest, and that provides quality and reliable services. You may also want to check the credentials and experience of the instructors and dive masters, and the condition and maintenance of the equipment and boats.
- Rates: The rates of the operator are the prices and packages that they charge for scuba diving services, such as per dive, per day, per person, etc. You may want to choose an operator that fits your budget and offers value for money. You may also want to compare the rates of different operators and look for discounts, deals, or special offers that they may have.
- Reviews: The reviews of the operator are the ratings and feedback that they have received from previous customers, such as on TripAdvisor, Google, etc. You may want to choose an operator that has positive and consistent reviews, and that responds to customer queries and complaints. You may also want to read the reviews carefully and look for specific details and insights that may help you make your decision.
Based on these factors, we have listed and compared the four most reputable operators for scuba diving in Lakshadweep, in alphabetical order: Dive India, Lacadives, Planet Scuba India, and Sport Fishing India.
Dive India
Location: Dive India is based on Bangaram island, and operates on Bangaram, Thinnakara, Parali I, and Parali II islands.
Services: Dive India offers a full range of PADI scuba diving courses, from beginner to professional, as well as equipment rental, guided dives, and packages. Dive India has a team of experienced and friendly instructors and dive masters, and uses well-maintained and modern equipment and boats.
Rates: Dive India charges ₹5,000 per dive, ₹9,000 per day, and ₹40,000 per person for a 5-day package, which includes accommodation, meals, transfers, and dives. Dive India also offers discounts for groups, students, and repeat customers.
Reviews: Dive India has a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor, with 49 reviews. Customers praise the professionalism, hospitality, and expertise of the staff, the quality and variety of the dive sites, and the beauty and tranquility of the islands. Customers also appreciate the flexibility, customization, and affordability of the services.
Contact: Dive India's website is ¹, email is dive@lacadives.com, phone number is +91 98200 40994.
Lacadives
Location: Lacadives is based on Kadmat island, and operates on Kadmat, Kavaratti, and Minicoy islands.
Services: Lacadives offers a full range of SSI scuba diving courses, from beginner to professional, as well as equipment rental, guided dives, and packages. Lacadives has a team of qualified and enthusiastic instructors and dive masters, and uses high-quality and safe equipment and boats.
Rates: Lacadives charges ₹4,500 per dive, ₹8,000 per day, and ₹35,000 per person for a 5-day package, which includes accommodation, meals, transfers, and dives. Lacadives also offers discounts for early bookings, referrals, and loyalty.
Reviews: Lacadives has a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor, with 36 reviews. Customers commend the skill, passion, and friendliness of the staff, the diversity and abundance of the marine life, and the cleanliness and comfort of the accommodation. Customers also enjoy the activities, culture, and scenery of the islands.
Contact: Lacadives' email is info@lacadives.com, phone number is +91 98200 40994.
Planet Scuba India
Location: Planet Scuba India is based on Kavaratti island, and operates on Kavaratti, Agatti, and Bangaram islands.
Services: Planet Scuba India offers a full range of PADI scuba diving courses, from beginner to professional, as well as equipment rental, guided dives, and packages. Planet Scuba India has a team of certified and knowledgeable instructors and dive masters, and uses state-of-the-art and eco-friendly equipment and boats.
Rates: Planet Scuba India charges ₹6,000 per dive, ₹10,000 per day, and ₹45,000 per person for a 5-day package, which includes accommodation, meals, transfers, and dives. Planet Scuba India also offers discounts for couples, families, and corporate groups.
Reviews: Planet Scuba India has a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor, with 28 reviews. Customers appreciate the professionalism, dedication, and fun of the staff, the clarity and visibility of the water, and the variety and thrill of the dive sites. Customers also like the facilities, food, and service of the resort.
Contact: Planet Scuba India's website is , email is info@planetscubaindia.com, phone number is +91 96864 46033.
Sport Fishing India
Location: Sport Fishing India is based on Agatti island, and operates on Agatti, Bangaram, and Kadmat islands.
Services: Sport Fishing India offers a full range of PADI scuba diving courses, from beginner to professional, as well as equipment rental, guided dives, and packages. Sport Fishing India has a team of trained and courteous instructors and dive masters, and uses new and reliable equipment and boats.
Rates: Sport Fishing India charges ₹7,000 per dive, ₹12,000 per day, and ₹50,000 per person for a 5-day package, which includes accommodation, meals, transfers, and dives. Sport Fishing India also offers discounts for online bookings, long stays, and special occasions.
Reviews: Sport Fishing India has a 4-star rating on TripAdvisor, with 18 reviews. Customers admire the competence, patience, and humor of the staff, the beauty and richness of the coral reefs, and the adventure and challenge of the dive sites. Customers also recommend the fishing, kayaking, and cycling activities on the island.
Contact: Sport Fishing India's website is , email is info@sportfishingindia.com, phone number is +91 94460 22370.
Best Tips for Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep
Scuba diving in Lakshadweep is an amazing and rewarding experience, but also requires some preparation and precaution. Here are some general and specific tips for scuba diving in Lakshadweep, that will help you make the most of your trip and avoid any problems or risks:
- Check your fitness and medical condition before scuba diving, and consult a doctor if you have any health issues or concerns. Some of the common conditions that may affect your diving ability are asthma, diabetes, heart problems, ear infections, etc. You may also need to fill out a medical questionnaire and get a clearance from your operator before diving.
- Choose the right dive site and operator for your skill level and interest, and follow the instructions and guidelines of your dive master or instructor. Some of the dive sites in Lakshadweep are suitable for beginners, while others are more advanced and require more experience and training. You may also want to check the reputation and reviews of the operator you choose, and make sure they have the necessary qualifications, equipment, and safety measures.
- Respect the marine environment and wildlife, and avoid touching, feeding, or harming any coral or creature. The coral reefs and marine life in Lakshadweep are precious and fragile, and need to be protected and preserved. You may also face fines or penalties if you violate the rules and regulations of the Lakshadweep administration, such as collecting or damaging any coral or marine specimen, or fishing or hunting any marine animal.
- Carry the necessary documents and permits for scuba diving in Lakshadweep, such as passport, visa, entry permit, dive certificate, etc. You may need to show these documents at various checkpoints and checkpoints, such as the airport, the ferry terminal, the resort, the dive center, etc. You may also need to apply for these documents and permits in advance, as they may take some time to process and issue.
- Pack the essential items and equipment for scuba diving in Lakshadweep, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, swimsuit, towel, camera, etc.
- Pack the essential items and equipment for scuba diving in Lakshadweep, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, swimsuit, towel, camera, etc. You may also want to bring your own diving gear, such as mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, etc., if you have them, as the rental equipment may not fit you well or may be in short supply. However, you should avoid bringing any heavy or bulky items, such as tanks, regulators, weights, etc., as they may incur extra charges or restrictions on the flights and ferries.
- Enjoy the scuba diving experience and have fun, but also be aware of the potential risks and hazards, such as decompression sickness, ear problems, currents, etc. You should always follow the dive plan and the safety rules, such as checking your air supply, equalizing your ears, ascending slowly, etc. You should also monitor your depth, time, and no-decompression limit, and use a dive computer or a dive table to avoid exceeding them. If you feel any discomfort or symptoms, such as headache, nausea, dizziness, etc., you should stop diving and seek medical attention.
Conclusion
Scuba diving in Lakshadweep is a unique and unforgettable adventure that will leave you spellbound and amazed. Lakshadweep offers you the opportunity to explore the underwater paradise of coral reefs, marine life, and dive sites, and to experience the culture and beauty of the islands. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, a solo traveler or a group, a budget or a luxury seeker, you can find the best options and deals for scuba diving in Lakshadweep with this comprehensive guide.
However, scuba diving in Lakshadweep also requires some planning and preparation, as Lakshadweep is not an easy place to reach or explore. There are many factors to consider, such as the best islands, dive sites, seasons, operators, packages, and tips for scuba diving in Lakshadweep. You should also be aware of the rules and regulations of the Lakshadweep administration, and the health and safety precautions of scuba diving.