Lakshadweep Scuba Diving Guide

If you've been scoping out the very best diving locations in the world, then there's a good chance you've heard of the picture-perfect Lakshadweep scuba diving destinations.

This idyllic grouping of islands off the coast of Kerala in India is prized for its pristine white beaches, palm trees, and lush green scenery.

For scuba lovers, the balmy location couldn't be better—the water is warm and crystal clear, and the name Lakshadweep literally means “a hundred thousand islands”, so as you can imagine, there are plenty of dive sites to choose from!

If you dream of getting your PADI open water certification or doing your first wreck dive in azure waters that are teeming with fish and other incredible wildlife, then Lakshadweep scuba diving is definitely a fantastic option.

Those hoping to scuba dive without a wetsuit will also be in luck here—although, if that includes you, there are some useful tips to consider for going wetsuit-free anywhere in the world. We'll come back to those in a little bit!

First, let’s take a closer look at Lakshadweep scuba diving.

What You Need to Know About Visiting Lakshadweep

Lots of people go to Lakshadweep for scuba diving, but there are plenty of other reasons why this jaw-dropping destination should be on your bucket list too.

In an archipelago comprised of 12 atolls, three reefs, five submerged banks, and ten inhabited islands—all clustered together within the turquoise Arabian sea—there is plenty of sights to soak up here. Anticipate encountering undulating landscapes, palm-laden sandy beaches, all sorts of flora and fauna, and ethereal mosques dotted throughout the islands.

Alongside diving, marine life fans can choose from several aquariums to visit. Meanwhile, water-sports enthusiasts can try their hand at kayaking, yachting, windsurfing, and water skiing.

In the evening, beach bars, restaurants, and charming hangouts can be explored on the islands of Minicoy, Agatti, and Bangaram, although party-seekers should be aware that alcohol consumption is only permitted in Bangaram.

The combination of immersive culture and natural beauty makes this a popular destination for honeymooners and scuba diving enthusiasts alike.

The Lakshadweep Scuba Diving Experience

Lakshadweep scuba diving is a veritable buffet of delight for those who wish to sample a little of everything.

The archipelago's many islands serve to create an unparalleled setting, with beautiful lagoons, sloping reefs, coral gardens, caves, shipwrecks, dramatic overhangs, and areas with drift diving.

Every unique dive site is abundantly teeming with coral and marine life, leading many visitors to draw parallels between Lakshadweep scuba diving and Maldives scuba diving.

Four of the islands in Lakshadweep have dive centers. Cultural hub Bangaram was the first location to offer scuba diving, and today it is a great place to head for full-service scuba experiences, as well as PADI courses and gear hire.

Kavaratti also has a fully equipped PADI dive center. Or, to get a little more off the beaten track, adventurous divers can also head to Kadmat and Minicoy for contemporary dive centers offering access to less-traveled dive sites.

Depending on what you'd like to experience on any given day, you can head to a different island. Kavaratti is a wonderful location for cave diving and the lagoon there is an ideal setting for beginners.

If you have an adventurous spirit and a bit more diving experience, both Bangaram and Minicoy have shipwrecks to explore. Every island offers access to numerous dive sites, so no two experiences need to be the same.

Scuba Diving Without a Wetsuit in Lakshadweep

It's not every day that we get the chance to go scuba diving in an exotic paradise with warm enough water to skip the wetsuit entirely. Those visiting Lakshadweep in the fall may well decide to take advantage of this exciting opportunity, although, as we mentioned, there are some tips to consider!

The water temperatures in Lakshadweep range from 79.5°F (26.4°C) in October up to 86.6°F (30.3°C) in May. For clear, calm, and tranquil diving, the best season to visit is from September to May, which will ensure that your arrival lands outside of the Monsoon season when access to and from the islands can be a bit more complex.

As you can see, peak water temperatures are inviting indeed, so let's address the next question: what is the key to scuba diving without a wetsuit in Lakshadweep?

The primary function of a wetsuit is to provide insulation underwater, as our bodies lose their heat much faster when submerged than they would above the waves. However, when the water is warm enough, wearing a wetsuit isn't necessary. It's handy to know, though, that there are other advantages to having something covering your skin.

A wetsuit protects you from potential chafing from your scuba gear, safeguards you against bumps and scrapes underwater, and even prevents sunburn—yes, you can get sunburned while scuba diving!

If you'd rather go without, it's worth buying a rashguard, which is a special lightweight top or bodysuit that is designed to be worn underwater, offering similar protection to a wetsuit without the thickness or weight.

Keep in mind that a water temperature around 80ºF will still feel pretty cool when you've been down for a while, so confirm the water temperature before you go, and check with your dive instructor that you've got the right gear to be as comfortable as possible in the water. Then you'll be able to focus on being immersed in the incredible underwater worlds of Lakshadweep!

With all the right information to hand, we hope you have the most extraordinary adventures.

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