Diving in India
Including Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) and Netrani Island. On the map.
The vibe
Submerged volcanic slopes and deep drop-offs offer encounters with manta rays and schooling pelagics in waters warmed by tropical currents. The prime season runs from winter into spring when underwater visibility peaks and sea conditions remain predictable. Dive centres here range from relaxed beachfront operations to structured resort setups, making it easy to sort gear hire and boat slots on arrival.
local diving registration card
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), Andaman Islands
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Gautambhardwaj10 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Havelock Island is the premier scuba destination in India, offering vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Divers frequent sites like 'Johnny's Gorge' and 'The Wall' to encounter schools of snapper, barracuda, and occasional reef sharks.
Access. Accessible by ferry from Port Blair. Numerous PADI and SSI dive centers are located at Beach No. 3 and No. 5, offering daily boat dives.
Notes. Best diving season is November to April. Depth ranges from 10m to 30m.
Netrani Island, Karnataka
Karnataka
Jyothimohan / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Known as 'Pigeon Island,' this site offers some of the best visibility on India's west coast. The underwater topography features steep slopes and coral formations that attract whale sharks, turtles, and large schools of trevally.
Access. Dive boats depart from Murudeshwar. Several dive operators manage boat trips to the island, which is about 10 nautical miles offshore.
Notes. Seasonality is strict: diving is only possible from October to May due to monsoon conditions.