Complete Information About the List of Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep, India’s stunning coral archipelago, is a global hotspot for scuba diving. With 36 islands, creamy-white beaches, turquoise lagoons, and crystal-clear waters, it offers one of the best underwater experiences in Asia. The islands are surrounded by untouched coral reefs, vibrant marine species, and calm lagoons—perfect for beginner, intermediate, and advanced scuba divers.

🌊 1. Introduction: Why Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep is World-Class

Scuba diving in Lakshadweep is a breathtaking mix of marine beauty and calm, safe waters. Unlike many global dive destinations, Lakshadweep offers:

• High underwater visibility (up to 30–40 meters)

• Stable lagoons ideal for first-time divers

• PADI-certified dive instructors

• Colorful coral reefs, caves, ridges, and underwater walls

• Warm water temperature (26–29°C year-round)

• Pelagic species like tuna, rays, sharks & turtles

Lakshadweep’s corals are healthier and less crowded than other destinations, making it a paradise for divers seeking natural beauty and tranquility.

🌊 2. Complete List of Scuba Diving Sites in Lakshadweep

Below is the officially recognized list of the best scuba diving islands:

1. Agatti Island – Best for Beginner Scuba Diving

• Calm lagoon ideal for first-timers

• Coral gardens & shallow dive zones

2. Bangaram Island – Deep Diving & Wreck Diving Hub

• Deep-sea diving spots

• Shipwreck exploration

• Wide lagoon & high visibility

3. Thinnakara Island – Scenic Lagoon Diving

• Great for family-friendly diving

• Crystal-clear shallow waters

4. Kadmat Island – Popular Training Center

• Large lagoon for beginners

• Coral slopes & vibrant fish life

5. Minicoy Island – Deep Reef Diving & Pelagic Species

• Advanced diving zone

• Sharks, barracuda & manta sightings

6. Kavaratti Island – Government Dive Training Institute

• Ideal for courses

• Reef walls, coral beds & underwater caves

7. Kalpeni Island – Soft Coral Gardens

• Great visibility

• Perfect for lagoon dives & colorful reefs

8. Suheli Par – Virgin & Unexplored Diving

• Advanced diving

• Untouched reef ecosystem

9. Pitti Island – Perfect for Shallow Reef Diving

• Best for snorkeling + shallow scuba

These islands collectively form the backbone of Lakshadweep’s scuba diving tourism.

🌊 3. Detailed Guide: Top Scuba Diving Spots in Lakshadweep

Here is a complete breakdown of each scuba diving island:

3.1 Agatti Island Scuba Diving

Agatti is the most famous and accessible scuba diving island.

Key Highlights:

• Beginner-friendly

• Professional dive training schools

• Stunning marine diversity

Top Dive Sites in Agatti:

• Coral Garden

• Turtle Ridge

• Lagoon Reef

• Deep Blue Point

Marine Life:

• Parrotfish

• Butterflyfish

• Surgeonfish

• Turtles

• Rays

• Starfish

Agatti is perfect for those who want a calm introduction to scuba diving.

3.2 Bangaram Island Scuba Diving

Bangaram is considered India’s best diving destination due to its crystal-clear water and healthy coral ecosystem.

Best For:

• Advanced divers

• Wreck diving

• Deep dives (up to 40 meters)

Popular Dive Spots:

• Manta Point

• Bentinck’s Reef

• Shark Ridge

• The Wreck Ship

Marine Life:

• Manta rays

• Reef sharks

• Tuna

• Barracuda

• Moray eels

• Sea turtles

Bangaram Island is perfect for underwater photographers and adventure divers.

3.3 Thinnakara Island Diving

A scenic lagoon paradise ideal for slow-paced scuba adventures.

Top Spots:

• Lagoon Dive

• Coral Pillar Reef

• Blue Water Slope

Perfect For:

First-time divers, families, and couples.

3.4 Minicoy Island Scuba Diving

Minicoy is famous for its massive atoll and deep-sea diving.

Top Dive Sites:

• Miyar Wall

• Shark Trail

• Lighthouse Reef

• Minicoy Deep Ridge

Marine Life:

• Tiger sharks (rare sightings)

• Dolphin pods

• Tuna schools

• Barracuda

• Stingrays

This island offers some of the most thrilling deep-water dives in India.

3.5 Kadmat Island Scuba Diving

Kadmat is ideal for scuba certifications and training programs.

Popular Dive Sites:

• Turtle Caves

• Dolphin Reef

• Coral Plateau

Special Feature:

Best island to spot large sea turtles.

3.6 Kavaratti Island Scuba Diving

Kavaratti is home to Lakshadweep’s largest diving institute.

Best For:

Students, beginners, and full scuba courses.

Dive Spots Include:

• Coral Reef Cave

• Pearl Drop

• Outer Wall Reef

🌊 4. Types of Scuba Diving Available in Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep offers multiple diving experiences:

A. Discover Scuba Diving (No Swimming Required)

Beginner-friendly dive in shallow water.

B. Lagoon Scuba Diving (6–12 meters)

Perfect for photography and coral exploration.

C. Reef Diving (12–18 meters)

Explore reef walls, caves, slopes, and coral valleys.

D. Deep Diving (25–40 meters)

Available in Minicoy and Bangaram.

E. Shipwreck Diving

Bangaram has two major wreck points.

F. Night Diving

Special permission required; limited to certified divers.

🌊 5. Scuba Diving Cost in Lakshadweep

Here is the updated price list (2025):

Prices vary among islands and seasons.

🌊 6. Best Season for Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep

Best Months:

✔ October – March

Secondary Season:

✔ April – early May

Avoid:

❌ May – September (Monsoon, high waves, unsafe)

Crystal visibility and calm waters make winter the perfect time for diving.

🌊 7. Marine Life Seen During Scuba Diving

Lakshadweep is filled with breathtaking marine species.

Fish Species:

• Clownfish

• Butterflyfish

• Surgeonfish

• Angelfish

• Triggerfish

• Snapper

• Grouper

Large Species:

• Manta rays

• Reef sharks

• Tuna

• Barracuda

• Stingrays

• Moray eels

Corals:

• Table corals

• Fan corals

• Brain corals

• Staghorn corals

🌊 8. Safety Tips for Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep

• Always follow instructions from certified divers

• Avoid diving soon after eating

• Do not touch corals

• Keep safe distance from sharks

• Ascend slowly

• Stay hydrated

• Inform instructors about medical issues

• Use reef-friendly sunscreen

Safety is top priority, and all scuba centers in Lakshadweep follow strict guidelines.

🌊 9. Best Scuba Diving Centers in Lakshadweep

Agatti Island:

• Government-certified dive schools

• Beginner’s lagoon programs

Bangaram Island:

• PADI-certified deep dive centers

• Offer wreck and shark-point dives

Kavaratti:

• Lakshadweep Diving Academy

• Best for courses

Kadmat Island:

• Specialty photography underwater sessions

Minicoy:

• Deep-diving experts for advanced divers

🌊 10. Permit & Booking Process for Scuba Diving

Lakshadweep requires a special tourism permit.

To Get Permit:

• Contact a licensed tour operator

• Provide Aadhaar/ID proof

• Confirm travel itinerary

• Choose island package

Booking Tips:

• Book 1–2 months in advance

• Select islands with PADI-certified centers

• Avoid monsoon season

• Book weekday packages for better rates

🌊 11. Benefits of Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep

• Cleanest water in India

• Rare marine species sightings

• Ideal for beginners

• Health benefits (stress relief, lung capacity improvement)

• Underwater photography opportunities

• Coral reefs in better condition than many global sites

🌊 12. Complete List of Scuba Diving Packages (2025)

1. Beginner Scuba Package

Includes: Training, dive gear, underwater photos, 30-minute dive.

2. Lagoon Dive Package

45-minute shallow dive for coral viewing.

3. Reef Exploration Package

Deep reef wall diving with experienced instructors.

4. Premium Adventure Dive

Deep water + drift diving + photography.

5. Shark & Ray Point Diving

Available in Minicoy & Bangaram.

6. Full 3-Day PADI Certification

International certificate with training.

🌊 13. Frequently Asked Questions About Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep

1. Is scuba diving safe in Lakshadweep?

Yes, it is fully safe under professional instructors.

2. Do I need to know swimming?

No. Discover Scuba does not require swimming skills.

3. Which island is the best for scuba diving?

Bangaram, Agatti, and Minicoy are top choices.

4. What is the minimum age?

10+ years for beginner scuba.

5. Can I see sharks?

Yes, harmless reef sharks are often seen.

6. What is the water visibility?

20–40 meters depending on season.

7. What about underwater photography?

Almost every dive center offers photos or videos.

8. How many days are ideal for scuba diving?

2–4 days are ideal for multiple diving sessions.

🌊 14. Conclusion

Lakshadweep is one of India’s most enchanting scuba diving destinations. Its crystal-clear waters, coral gardens, and thriving marine life make it ideal for both beginners and advanced divers. With professional diving centers, safe lagoons, and world-class coral reefs, scuba diving in Lakshadweep offers a truly magical underwater experience.

The islands of Agatti, Bangaram, Kadmat, Kavaratti, and Minicoy provide outstanding diving opportunities with a mix of shallow lagoons, reef walls, deep ridges, and shipwreck points.

Whether you are planning your first dive or looking for advanced deep-sea diving, Lakshadweep delivers an unforgettable adventure beneath the waves.

List of Frequently Asked Questions About Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep (Complete Guide – 2025)

Scuba diving in Lakshadweep is one of the most sought-after underwater experiences in India. With its pristine coral reefs, crystal-clear lagoons, and colourful marine life, the islands attract thousands of adventure seekers every year. Whether you are a beginner or a certified diver, Lakshadweep offers exceptional diving conditions for everyone.

This detailed FAQ guide answers all major questions travellers ask about scuba diving in Lakshadweep, including costs, safety, best islands, booking tips, government permits, age limits, and more.

Top Frequently Asked Questions About Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep

1. What makes Lakshadweep one of the best scuba diving destinations in India?

Lakshadweep is considered the Maldives of India because of its untouched coral reefs and turquoise-blue lagoons. The warm waters of the Arabian Sea provide excellent underwater visibility ranging from 15 to 50 meters, making it one of the best places for first-time divers. The reefs here are shallow, colourful, and full of species like clownfish, turtles, rays, parrotfish, reef sharks, and vibrant corals.

2. Which islands in Lakshadweep are best for scuba diving?

Here are the top scuba diving islands in Lakshadweep:

✓ Agatti Island

• Known for: lagoon diving, beginner-friendly dive sites

• Highlights: sea turtles, coral gardens, butterflyfish

✓ Bangaram Island

• Known for: deep diving, shipwreck diving

• Highlights: reef sharks, sting rays, eagle rays

✓ Kadmat Island

• Known for: PADI-certified diving

• Highlights: large coral walls, colourful soft corals

✓ Minicoy Island

• Known for: atoll diving, clear water

• Highlights: manta rays, barracuda schools

✓ Kavaratti Island

• Known for: dive schools and training programs

• Highlights: calm waters ideal for beginners

3. What is the cost of scuba diving in Lakshadweep?

Scuba diving prices vary according to the island, dive center, and package. On average:

➤ Beginners / First-time Diving (Discover Scuba Diving)

• ₹3,500 – ₹6,500 per person

• Includes basic training, instructor, diving gear, and underwater session.

➤ Certified Diving Packages

• ₹6,000 – ₹10,000 per dive

➤ PADI Certification Courses

• ₹18,000 – ₹45,000

• Includes theoretical lessons, open water dives, equipment, and certification.

Peak months (October–March) may have slightly higher rates.

4. Is scuba diving safe in Lakshadweep?

Yes. Lakshadweep is one of the safest places in India for scuba diving because:

• All diving is supervised by PADI-certified instructors

• Equipment is periodically checked for safety

• The reefs are shallow and beginner-friendly

• Water conditions are calm with minimal currents

Precautions include following the instructor’s directions, avoiding rapid ascents, and using approved gear.

5. Do I need swimming skills to scuba dive in Lakshadweep?

No, swimming is not mandatory for introductory dives (Discover Scuba Diving).
However, for PADI Open Water Certification, basic swimming knowledge is required.

6. What is the best time for scuba diving in Lakshadweep?

The best time is October to March, when visibility is at its peak and the sea is calm.
Monsoon months (June–September) are not ideal due to strong currents and restricted entry.

7. How deep will I dive as a beginner?

First-time divers typically go up to:

• 6 to 12 meters

• Duration: 30–45 minutes underwater

Certified divers go deeper, up to 18 to 30 meters, depending on their training level.

8. How long does a scuba diving session take?

A typical session lasts 2 to 3 hours, including:

• Orientation

• Safety briefing

• Equipment fitting

• Practice in shallow water

• Dive session

9. What type of marine life can I see in Lakshadweep?

Lakshadweep is home to some of India’s richest coral reefs. You may encounter:

• Sea turtles

• Colourful corals

• Parrotfish

• Surgeonfish

• Clownfish and Nemo-type species

• Angel fish

• Barracuda schools

• Sting rays

• Reef sharks (harmless)

• Manta rays (rare but possible)

10. Is scuba diving suitable for children?

Yes, children above 10 years can participate in beginner scuba diving sessions.
However, PADI certifications have age-specific requirements.

11. How do I book scuba diving in Lakshadweep?

You can book through:

• Approved Lakshadweep Tourism packages

• Government-authorized travel agents

• Certified dive centers on Agatti, Bangaram, Kadmat, Kavaratti, and Minicoy

Early booking is advised because permits and slots fill quickly.

12. Do I need a permit to visit Lakshadweep for diving?

Yes. Lakshadweep is a restricted destination.
All tourists must obtain an official entry permit which includes:

• Application form

• Valid ID

• Travel itinerary

• Accommodation confirmation

Dive centers usually assist in obtaining the permit.

13. What should I pack for scuba diving in Lakshadweep?

Essential items include:

• Swimwear

• Quick-dry towel

• Waterproof case

• Sunscreen (reef safe recommended)

• Slippers / beach footwear

• Light clothing

• Personal medication

Dive gear like a suit, mask, fins, and cylinders is provided by the instructor.

14. Can I carry my camera underwater?

Yes.
You can carry:

• GoPro

• Underwater cameras

• Waterproof mobile housing

Some dive schools also provide photography services for an extra charge.

15. What are the medical restrictions for scuba diving?

Avoid diving if you have:

• Severe asthma

• Heart problems

• Epilepsy

• Recent surgeries

• Pregnancy

A medical declaration is mandatory before diving.

16. Are there any eco-rules for scuba diving in Lakshadweep?

Yes. Lakshadweep follows strict eco-protection guidelines:

• No touching corals

• No feeding fish

• No taking shells or sand

• No littering

• Respect marine life boundaries

Sustainable diving is essential to protect fragile coral ecosystems.

17. Is night diving allowed in Lakshadweep?

Night diving is allowed only for certified divers, mainly in:

• Bangaram

• Kadmat

• Minicoy

It offers a unique experience to witness nocturnal marine life.

18. Are there any shipwreck dive sites?

Yes. Bangaram and Minicoy have shipwreck diving spots ideal for advanced divers.

19. What is the minimum age for PADI certification in Lakshadweep?

• Junior Open Water Diver – Minimum age: 10 years

• Standard Open Water Diver – Minimum age: 15 years

20. Do Lakshadweep tour packages include scuba diving?

Some packages include scuba diving, but most charge separately.
Always check inclusions before booking.

21. What factors affect scuba diving prices in Lakshadweep?

Prices depend on:

• Diving duration

• Certication level

• Island (Bangaram is costliest)

• Instructor expertise

• Equipment and photography add-ons

• Season (peak months cost more)

22. Can beginners do deep diving?

No. Deep diving (18–30 meters) requires a minimum PADI certification.
Beginners are limited to shallow diving.

23. How is the underwater visibility in Lakshadweep?

Visibility ranges from:

• 15–30 meters (average)

• 40–50 meters on clear days in Bangaram and Agatti

Some of the clearest waters in India are found here.

24. Are there sharks in Lakshadweep waters? Is it safe?

Lakshadweep has reef sharks which are harmless and shy.
There has never been any harmful incident involving divers.

25. What is the ideal duration for a scuba diving trip to Lakshadweep?

A 4–5 day trip is ideal to cover:

• 2–3 days of diving

• Island hopping

• Lagoon relaxation

26. Can I dive more than once a day?

Yes, certified divers often do 2–3 dives a day with proper surface intervals.

27. Are dive schools in Lakshadweep certified?

Yes, most schools are associated with:

• PADI

• CMAS

• NAUI

Always check certification before booking.

28. Is scuba diving possible for elderly travellers?

People above 60 can dive if they are fit and cleared medically.
Many instructors conduct a fitness assessment first.

29. Are wetsuits necessary in Lakshadweep?

Yes, for safety and comfort.
Temperature ranges from 26°C to 30°C, so thin wetsuits are enough.

30. Can I dive during monsoon?

Diving is restricted during monsoon due to rough sea conditions and closed tourism operations.

Conclusion

Scuba diving in Lakshadweep is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure filled with vibrant marine life, coral gardens, and pristine lagoons. This FAQ guide covers everything you need to know—from costs and safety rules to island choices, booking tips, and permit requirements. Whether you're a beginner or a certified diver, Lakshadweep offers an unforgettable underwater experience.