Scuba Diving In Sri Lanka: Explore The Top 10 Places

Sri Lanka has some of the best water sports in all of Asia. You will see some of the best dive sites in Sri Lanka which are beyond comparison. So, if you haven’t been to the Pearl of the Indian Ocean yet, visit the best dive sites in Sri Lanka to have a wonderful time like never before. This adventure would definitely take you to a good space mentally and physically to give you a feeling of wholesome!  Though there are different places to visit in Sri Lanka, the scuba diving experience can really add the charm to your trip. 

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Reasons To Try Scuba Diving In Sri Lanka

• There are hundreds of marine species of both corals and fishes that you would be mesmerized to see. People are amazed by the variety of species they get to witness underwater. 
• The coastline of about 1,585 km and the mangrove ecosystem in Sri Lanka played a significant role in buffering the Tsunami waves in 2004. This was a big thing witnessed by the people out there. 
• Diving schools in Sri Lanka provide you with the right knowledge and types of equipment before going. The perfect guidance will help you have the best ever scuba diving experience. 
• Newbies can discover the best dive sites in Sri Lanka to start their journey and experience a great underwater adventure like never before! 

Best Time To Visit Sri Lanka

Experience the nightlife of Sri Lanka by going to different bars, beaches, and lounges! It is an impeccable time that cannot be missed. 

Also, there are a variety of resorts and hotels in Sri Lanka, that make your stay much more luxurious and comfortable. Make sure you book the best for yourself! 

When we talk about the east coast sites, it is suggested to explore the place from September while for the west and southern regions, visit the place around December and it goes on till March. 

So, it totally depends on you to choose the right season with your own preference. 

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10 Best Dive Sites In Sri Lanka

1. Unawatuna

It is a place for both beginners and experienced divers! You can easily come to the place to let your adventure begin. 

Price: It starts from INR 3,300 for a boat dive including rental equipment per person. 

2. Trincomalee

Pigeon Island Marine Life Sanctuary is nearby and has a wide variety of coral reefs, fishes, anemones, and nudibranchs.  Being close to the coast, you also have the choice to visit the shipwreck Irakkandy to add an extra punch to your diving experience. Read more

Price: It starts from USD 55 for beginners and USD 65 to do with one boat dive. 

3. Passikudah

You must witness the good times with the gigantic and famous wreck British Sergeant near the deepest ends at this famous diving site. You need to make this more memorable with the beautiful photographs taken with the mesmerizing views.

Price: Starting from INR 7000 

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4. Mirissa

For beginners, there have been learning schools established to be taken care of. They will guide you through the journey and assist you for an impeccable time under the water. You must indulge in this amazing experience to make the most out of your trip. Read more

Price: Starting from INR 2800 without equipment per person. 

5. Kirinda

The village is known for many popular attractions like Buddhist shrines and rock formations but if you are not here to explore much, you must have a look at the gray sharks and tuna that will blow up your mind. 

Come up with your diving suits and make the best time out of your trip to Sri Lanka. 

6. Weligama

If you want to have a wholesome experience, you must see the caves opening to the corals and fishes. Among the tourists, diving with the whales is very famous which they even like to do! 

Price: starts from INR 2500 with one boat dive 

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7. Kalpitiya

There are online packages that can really suit the tourists, as it include whale watching, sunsets on cruises, dolphin watching, and much more! You should not miss these things while experiencing scuba diving in the place. 

Price: starts from INR 3,000

8. Barracuda Reef, Hikkaduwa

When we talk about the top diving sites in Sri Lanka, you cannot miss this one. It is located off the coast of Mount Lavinia near Colombo. 

There are different packages for different visitors who can make the most out of their experience. So, don’t miss this one and see what all is there for you. 

Price: NIL

9. Taprobane Reefs

There are a lot of schooling fish, which makes you your diving experience much more wonderful. When you come underwater to swim, there is a lot to witness and enjoy at the same time. 

Swimming with the tiniest creatures and seeing these unique species would definitely make your time worth it.  

Price: Starts from INR 2800 for a boat dive 

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10. Bull Dog Reef

This underwater paradise offers divers a chance to explore vibrant coral formations and an abundance of marine life. The reef is aptly named for the presence of numerous bullhead parrotfish that inhabit the area. 

Divers can also encounter a variety of other colorful fish species, as well as the occasional sea turtle or moray eel. With its clear waters and diverse underwater ecosystem, Bull Dog Reef is a popular destination for both novice and experienced divers seeking to witness the beauty of Sri Lanka’s underwater world.

Price: INR 1100 onwards

Tips For Scuba Diving In Sri Lanka

1. Choose the Right Season: The best time for scuba diving in Sri Lanka is between November and April when the seas are calm and the visibility is excellent. During this period, the east coast (Trincomalee, Batticaloa) is the most popular, while the west and south coasts are better from May to October.
2. Select the Right Dive Sites: Sri Lanka offers a variety of dive sites, including coral reefs, walls, and shipwrecks. Some popular dive sites include Pigeon Island, HMS Hermes, and the Great Basses Reef. Choose your dive sites based on your experience level and interests.
3. Dive with a Reputable Dive Center: Ensure you choose a reputable dive center with certified instructors and well-maintained equipment. Check reviews and get recommendations from fellow divers or online forums.
4. Check Certification Requirements: If you’re not a certified diver, you can take a course in Sri Lanka to become a certified diver. Make sure you understand the certification requirements and choose a course that suits your needs.
5. Respect Marine Life: Sri Lanka’s waters are home to a variety of marine species, including turtles, whale sharks, and colorful coral. Respect their natural habitat by not touching or disturbing them, and follow responsible diving practices to protect the environment.
6. Be Mindful of the Currents: Some dive sites in Sri Lanka may have strong currents. Ensure you have the necessary experience and skills to handle such conditions or consider diving with a guide who knows the area well.
7. Check Equipment: Inspect your dive equipment or the rental gear thoroughly before heading into the water. Safety is paramount, so ensure everything is in good working condition.
8. Stay Hydrated and Sun Protected: The sun in Sri Lanka can be intense, so wear sunscreen, a rash guard, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from sunburn. Stay well-hydrated both before and after your dives.
9. Plan Surface Intervals: Always allow for surface intervals between dives to reduce the risk of decompression sickness. Typically, a minimum of one hour between two dives is recommended.
10. Travel and Health Insurance: Make sure you have appropriate travel and health insurance that covers scuba diving accidents. In case of an emergency, you’ll want to be prepared.
11. Dive Logs and Documentation: Maintain a dive log to keep a record of your dives, including depth, time, and conditions. It can be helpful for future reference and can be requested by dive centers.
12. Be Environmentally Responsible: Be aware of your impact on the underwater environment. Don’t collect souvenirs or damaged coral, and properly dispose of any trash or debris you may encounter.

Scuba diving in Sri Lanka can be a memorable and rewarding experience. By following these tips and respecting the environment, you can have a safe and enjoyable diving adventure in this beautiful island nation.

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