Ask anyone who has experienced scuba diving and they will tell you that it was a life-changing experience. The serenity of being underwater with no distractions and no noise is definitely the most relaxing thing.
Scuba diving also introduces you to the fascinating, bright-colored life under water that’s truly an invigorating experience. If you too want to get a feel of this pleasure, pick from any of the below mentioned scuba diving destinations in India for an experience to remember:
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) – Andaman
Havelock Island is also known as the “Wall” by scuba divers. This is one of the best diving spots in the world. The waters are deep to give you the perfect diving experience. It is known for being one of the cleanest sites for scuba diving, giving you a clear view of the fabulous life underwater. The marine life is simply breathtaking with a variety of different species such as the Angler fish, Sharks, Octopuses, Scorpion Fish, and colorful coral reefs.
The average expenditure per head here would be between Rs.5000 to 10,000.
Lakshadweep
This cluster of 36 islands is located just 240 meters off the Malabar Coast. The water is crystal clear allowing you to enjoy the coral sand, the coral reef and the beautiful marine life. Lakshadweep is regarded as one of the best diving zones in the world. There are two popular diving sites here, namely the Bangarram Island and the Aggati Island where you can witness the best of marine life with a variety of beautifully colored underwater species.
The average expenditure per head is between Rs.4000-7000.
Bangalore (Bengaluru)
Bengaluru has several scuba divers thanks to its proximity to some of the best scuba diving spots in the country. The silicon city offers several scuba diving courses for first time divers to earn their PADI or Professional Association of Diving Instructors license. You can also sign up for the PADI open water diver courses, which is one of the most widely recognized courses in the world. Planet Scuba is one of the most popular diving training centers in Bengaluru offering a variety of different courses.
Pondicherry
Besides the beautiful French architecture, Pondicherry is known for some of the most pristine beaches in the country. These waters also make for excellent diving spots. They are home to beautiful underwater species such as the Manta Rays, Eagle Rays, King Fish, Lion Fish, Moray Eels, Parrot Fish, Tiger Fish, Sea Snakes and of course, coral reefs. The four most popular diving sites in Pondicherry are Temple Reef, Coral Shark Reef, The Hole, and The Corners.
The average expenditure per head to scuba dive in Pondicherry is between Rs.6500 and 8000.
Netrani Island, Coastal Karnataka
Coastal Karnataka is definitely nature at its best. With beautiful valleys, lush forests, clear backwaters and fresh tropical waters, this area is definitely one that you should explore if you love to be in the lap of nature. There are several diving sites in coastal Karnataka where you can experience the diversity of marine life in the Arabian Sea.
One of the most popular sites is the Netrani Island. Diving here will introduce you to a host of different species including stingrays, Cobias, Stone Fish and even Whales.
The average cost per head to scuba dive here is between Rs. 5,500 to 7000.
You can get all the equipment that you need for scuba diving with the centers that offer these packages in these diving sites. Make sure that you look for licensed centers with instructors who are PADI certified. You will undergo a short orientation program before you are allowed to dive into deep waters. This is for your safety and to ensure that you are in the right physical condition to be able to scuba dive.
Scuba diving is one sport that will make you want to go back time and again. It is a challenge for your mind and body and is, still, the most relaxing experience.