No matter how much we watch the sea, it keeps captivating us. Scuba diving is a fascinating form of exploration where you delve into deep blue waters and watch the mysteries unfold. India is a country with the sea on three sides and these amazing water bodies and lagoons pave the way for the popularity of adventure and water sports, among which scuba diving stands unparalleled. You can’t afford to miss the underwater bliss that a scuba diving adventure offers and words are truly not enough to explain the experience. Here are the best 5 Scuba Diving Destinations in India.
1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
A little far away from the landmass of India, Andaman and Nicobar is a lonely island with crystal blue waters and marine life. White sand lays the perfect backdrop for the colorful coral reefs which are the main attraction of the scuba diving adventure. Havelock Island, Corruption Rock and Snake Island of Corbyn’s Cove beach are the most popular diving destinations. Apart from tuna, dolphins and reef sharks, Corruption Rock is home to a large variety of species such as giant napoleons, huge snappers, eagle rays, schooling fusiliers, unicorn fish, and banner.
2. Lakshadweep
While Andaman and Nicobar Islands boast the best-picked visuals of the Indian Ocean, Lakshadweep complements it well with the exotic scuba diving destinations offering the splendid sights of the Arabian Sea. With a transcending stretch of coral reefs, Agatti Island is a much sought-after location here. The secret islands of Bangaram and the enthralling lagoons of Kadmat Islands with its large set of flora and fauna are popular locations during peak seasons.
3. Kerala
Beaches guarded with a never ending army of coconut trees and greenery is what makes the sea in this part of the country unique. You can set out for an underwater adventure in the waters of Cochin, popularly known by the sobriquet the Queen of Arabian and the dazzling waters of Varkala beach. You will never know what you will unlock under the cryptic waters of Kerala which are renowned for their amazingly satisfying calmness and serenity.
4. Goa
When it comes to beaches in India, the first name that runs in anyone’s mind is Goa. Be it water adventures, underwater expedition, partying in the beach resorts or simply sitting by the shores, Goa has it all! It has an exhaustive list of fishes like Barracuda, Damsels, Snappers, Sweetlips, Groupers and Sweepers. There are plenty of other aquatic life in the waters as well. These waters in Goa also have the tales of plenty of shipwrecks including galleons, World War II wrecks, and many merchant ships. Turbo Tunnel, Uma Guma Reef, and Davy Jones Locker are a few popular diving sites in Goa.
5. Pondicherry
The exhilarating experience in the underwater exploration in man-made “reefs”, rocky outcrops and unscathed natural coral reefs of Pondicherry are oddly satisfying. Pondicherry is a great place for beginners to get rid of their fear of mighty water bodies and get close to nature under the sea. A completely artificial reef known as Temple Reef is constructed in the coast of Pondicherry. It has concretes, trees, palms, ruins of ship wrecks and many other recycled materials. Cool Shark Reef and Aravind’s Wall are a site of small reef balls and many different dive areas.
Your beach trip is incomplete without a scuba diving experience. If you have enjoyed your time along the seashore gazing at the turquoise water and contrasting sand colors, then delve into those waters. The sights you are going to see will truly be something you have never seen in your life before. There are diving instructors and diving schools that give the right instructions and make you ready for the ultimate trip underwater.
Ally Kessler