A Complete Guide on Scuba Diving in Netrani Island

History of Netrani Island

Netrani Island, also known as Pigeon Island, lies off the coast of Murudeshwara in Karnataka, renowned for its pristine natural beauty. This enchanting island is adorned with lush trees and distinctive rocky formations that serve as home to numerous pigeons. Its coral reefs and crystal-clear waters make it one of India’s premier sites for snorkeling and diving.

Visitors to Netrani Island can indulge in a variety of snorkeling experiences, suitable for beginners as well as seasoned deep-sea divers. Numerous operators in Murudeshwara offer single dives and scuba diving courses, catering to all levels of enthusiasts. Swimming amidst vibrant marine life, observing them up close, and marveling at colorful corals are experiences that promise unforgettable adventures for the entire family.

How to reach Netrani Island?

By Air: The nearest airport is in Mangalore. After reaching Mangalore you can hire cab to travel further to reach the coastal town of Murudeshwar, which is closer to Netrani Island. From Murudeshwar, you can arrange for boat services to reach Netrani Island.

By Train:  You can take a train from Bangalore to Murudeshwar, which is the nearest coastal town to Netrani Island. The journey by train typically takes around 12 to 14 hours. Once you reach Murudeshwar, you can arrange for boat services to reach Netrani Island.

By Road: There are regular bus both KSRTC and private bus from Bangalore to Murudeshwar which takes approximately 10 to 12 hours. After reaching Murudeshwar, you can you can arrange for boat services to reach Netrani Island which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Best time to visit Netrani Island:

Summer Season: Summer is a popular time for diving due to the favorable weather conditions and the opportunity to witness a wide variety of marine life in their natural habitat. The summer season lasts from March to June. 

Monsoon Season: Netrani Island experiences the monsoon season from July to September, characterized by heavy rainfall and rough seas. The marine life also tends to be less active during the monsoon months. However, the monsoon brings vital nutrients to the waters around Netrani Island, contributing to the health and vibrancy of the coral reefs.

Winter Season: Netrani Island experiences winter from October to February, bringing cooler temperatures both on land and in the water. Winter diving at Netrani Island offers a different experience compared to summer, with the chance to encounter seasonal visitors such as reef sharks and turtles.

Things to do at Netrani Island:

Netrani Island, also known as Pigeon Island, is a small but picturesque island located off the coast of Karnataka, India. It’s primarily known for its clear waters and rich marine life, making it a popular destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Here are some things you can do on Netrani Island:

Scuba Diving: Netrani Island is renowned for its excellent diving spots. The clear waters offer visibility up to 15-20 meters, making it ideal for exploring the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. You can spot various species of fish, coral formations, and sometimes even reef sharks.

Snorkeling: For those who prefer to stay closer to the surface, snorkeling around Netrani Island is a fantastic experience. You can observe colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures in their natural habitat.

Boat Trips: Take a boat trip around the island to enjoy the scenic views of the coastline and possibly spot dolphins frolicking in the waves.

Relaxing on the Beach: Netrani Island has a small beach where you can relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the serene surroundings. It’s a peaceful spot away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland.

Photography: Whether you’re capturing underwater scenes while diving or scenic landscapes from the island, Netrani offers plenty of opportunities for photography enthusiasts.

Top 5 companies who offers Scuba diving:

• Netrani Adventures
• West Coasts Adventures
• Dive Netrani
• Netrani Scuba Diving and Aqua Ride
• Coasts to Coasts Adventures