If you have the soul of an adventurer who wishes to be a part of the underwater world, wants to learn about the marine ecosystem, and witness it closely, then you cannot miss the snorkelling and scuba diving experience at Netrani Island, also known as Pigeon Island.
Located 19 kilometres from Murudeshwar in the Arabian Sea, this heart-shaped island is home to some vibrant aquatic life, tranquil waters, lush green surroundings, rocky formations, and numerous pigeons. A must-visit on every explorer’s list!
Quick Info
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Netrani Island (off the coast of Murudeshwar) |
| Cost for diving | Starts around ₹3,500 to ₹4,500 per person (depending on the package and operator) |
| Cost for snorkelling | Around ₹1,500 to ₹2,000 per person (depending on the package and operator) |
| Duration | Full-day trip window (with roughly 30 – 40 minutes of underwater dive time or ~1 hour for snorkelling) |
| Booking | Operator-based, can be arranged directly from the town of Murudeshwar |
| Best time to visit | November to May, plan strictly outside the monsoon season |
| Distance | From Bengaluru: ~500 km plus a 1.5-hour boat rideFrom Mangaluru: ~157 km plus a boat ride |
| Minimum Age | 10 years for diving (as per PADI guidelines; subject to operator policies) |
What to expect from the activity
It doesn’t matter whether you’re a seasoned diver or don’t know how to swim; these activities are for everyone. If you’re a beginner who wants an affordable option for exploring the beautiful coral reefs and schools of fish underwater, then snorkelling is just the activity for you.
For the duration of this activity, you will be provided with a life jacket, snorkel, mask, and fins while you’ll be in shallow water near the surface, unlike scuba diving.
In contrast, scuba diving takes you deep below the surface with visibility ranging from 15 to 30 m depending on the weather conditions. The diver is provided with gear that includes oxygen tanks and regulators, a brief about the hand gestures to use for underwater communication, and basic breathing techniques. Netrani Island offers both single scuba dives and certified courses from PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) or SSI (Scuba Schools International).
Why Netrani Island?
For a thrill seeker, Netrani Island offers a perfect diving site to start your journey of exploring the world of pristine blue waters.
- Rich marine life: Explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter schools of fish, barracudas, moray eels and, on rare occasions, whale sharks.
- What you can spot: Common sightings include triggerfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, lionfish, sea cucumbers and shrimps.
- For groups: The experience is ideal for families, couples and groups of friends looking to enjoy an adventure together.
- For solo travellers/learners: Netrani Island also offers solo-diving lessons and licensed courses from PADI and SSI.
Plan your visit to Netrani Island
- How to reach: Murudeshwar has good connectivity by road or rail from across Karnataka. The nearest airport is Mangaluru International Airport, which is approximately 157 km away.
- Transport: Boat rides to Netrani Island depart from Murudeshwar and take around 1.5 hours, which may vary depending on weather conditions.
- Best time to visit: Plan your trip strictly outside the monsoon season (November to May) for better underwater visibility and more favourable sea conditions.
- Landing: The island is uninhabited and serves as a restricted naval area where public landing is strictly prohibited.
- What to carry: Carry sunscreen, a hat, water, light snacks, swimwear, a change of clothes, a valid photo ID, and motion-sickness medication (for the boat ride).
- Booking: Book boat rides and scuba diving/snorkelling activities securely through verified operators based in Murudeshwar.
- Age restrictions: PADI lists 10 years as the minimum age for scuba diving, although local operators may have specific medical or age requirements.
- Safety: Follow the instructions of your boat captains and certified diving instructors closely, and always check weather advisories before travelling.
- Nearby attractions: Murudeshwar is a prominent coastal town in the Uttara Kannada district, famous as a holy temple town and home to the second-tallest Shiva statue.
Conclusion
Ready to quench your adventurous soul? Plan your trip to Netrani Island and discover an unforgettable underwater adventure through scuba diving and snorkelling.