Located in the southwestern region of India, Kerala, also known as God's Own Country, is known for its stunning coastline, lush greenery, and vibrant culture. 

While many tourists flock to the state to explore its natural beauty and indulge in its delicious cuisine, scuba diving enthusiasts have recognized Kerala as a hidden gem for underwater exploration.

One of the main reasons to go scuba diving in Kerala is the abundance of marine life. The Arabian Sea, which borders Kerala, is home to beautiful beaches, many fish species, colourful corals, sea turtles, and even sharks! Scuba divers can also explore shipwrecks. The state's rich maritime history has left behind several wrecks that have become popular dive sites.

Below, we have mentioned the best scuba diving places in Kerala you can explore along with other information you must know about diving in Kerala before you hit the waters.

1. Kovalam

Kovalam, located on the southern coast of Kerala, is a picturesque destination known for its serene beaches and the tranquil backwaters. It is renowned worldwide for its tranquil beaches and is now becoming a hotspot for scuba diving. The clear blue waters of the Arabian Sea and the vibrant marine life make Kovalam an ideal destination for exploring the underwater kingdom.

Scuba diving in Kovalam offers an unforgettable experience as one gets to witness a wide variety of marine life. The dive sites here are well-maintained and offer a safe and secure environment as well. 

• Popular Diving Spots: Artificial reef, Poovar Island, Vizhinjam Rock, Puffer Paradise.
• Unique Underwater Attractions: Boxfish, moray eels, butterflyfish, parrotfish, underwater rock formations, coral formations, surgeonfish, lionfish, batfish, triggerfish, pipefish, stonefish, groupers, perch, stingrays, turtle, sea cucumbers, eels, octopus, squid, jellyfish, red snappers, sardines, fusiliers, needlefish.
  
• Depth: 5m - 20m
• Costs: Individual dives - ₹4,500 - ₹8,000 & Courses - ₹9,000 - ₹50,000

2. Varkala

Varkala is a prominent scuba diving destination in Kerala, often called the Jewel of Scuba Diving in Kerala. The place is famous for its beautiful landscape and scenery, which reflects similarly underwater. The coastline of Varkala is home to diverse and colourful marine life owing to warm waters.

Scuba diving in Varkala is an exceptional experience that allows you to explore a world vastly different from the one above the surface. The underwater topography is just as stunning as the marine life, with breathtaking rock formations, caves, and swim-throughs to explore. 

• Popular Diving Spots: Anchuthengu Fort, Papanasam Beach, Kappil Beach, Odayam Beach
• Unique Underwater Attractions: Underwater rock formations, shipwrecks, pufferfish, lionfish, surgeonfish, sea anemones, dolphins, rays, corals.
  
• Depth: 6m - 35m
• Costs: Individual dives - ₹5,500 - ₹9,000 & Courses - ₹9,000 - ₹15,000

3. Kochi

Kochi, often called the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea,' is a vibrant city in the southwestern state of India. Kochi offers a unique and thrilling diving experience with clear azure waters and abundant marine life. The city's proximity to the Arabian Sea and the backwaters of Kerala makes it an ideal spot for a diving adventure. The underwater world of Kochi is an awe-inspiring sight, with colourful coral reefs, schools of fish, and rare species of marine animals.

In addition to diving, Kochi is also known for its rich history and cultural diversity. Visitors can explore the city's ancient forts, palaces, and temples and sample its flavourful cuisine. 

• Popular Diving Spots: SS Rangoon, Kochi Coral Reef, Barge Wreck, Kadamakkudy Island, Shallow Reef Dive
• Unique Underwater Attractions: Corals, shipwrecks, seahorses, butterfly fish, reef fish, groupers, batfish, crustaceans, turtles, rays, sharks.
  
• Depth: 3m - 12m
• Costs: Individual dives - ₹4,500 - ₹10,000 & Courses - ₹9,000 - ₹50,000 

September to March are the best months to go scuba diving in Kerala. The sea is calm with clear visibility. The waters are also warm, and this attracts diverse underwater life for scuba divers to swim among and enjoy.

It is best to avoid the monsoon season in Kerala (June to September), as the rainwater levels can get unpredictable.

Before you go scuba diving in Kerala, be sure to carry these essential items:

• Valid ID proof is a must
• Swimwear, dry bag and towels
• Hats, sunglasses and sunblock
• First aid kit

Scuba diving operators in Kerala will provide you with scuba diving equipment. Be sure to check your equipment before you're in the water to avoid malfunctions.

• Go for a medical check-up before your dive to ensure that you are fit enough and don't face any complications mid-dive. 
• Dive only in designated areas and always pay attention to the guidelines set down by your instructor.
• Wait for at least 2 hours after eating before you go scuba diving.
• Avoid diving under the influence of substances or if advised against by a medical practitioner.
• There should be a considerable time gap between flying, exercising and consuming alcohol after going scuba diving.

Kerala is a fantastic destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. With its diverse marine life, unique underwater topography, and different dive sites to choose from, scuba diving in Kerala offers an unforgettable experience for all skill levels.