Netrani (also known as Pigeon Island) is a tiny island in the Arabian Sea. It is situated approximately 10 nautical miles (19 km) from the temple town of Murudeshwara.
The clear waters and rich marine life around the island make for superlative diving - Visibility around the island is usually in the 15-20 metre range. The dive sites are from 10 to 30 metre deep, and consist of coral reefs on the eastern side of the island and rock walls on the west and north western side of the island. Expect to mingle with schools of Barracuda, Jacks, Snappers, Red tooth trigger fish, Indian Banner fish, large shark- like Cobia, Groupers, Honeycomb Moray Eels, Puffer fish, Napoleon Wrasse.
Due to recently imposed security restrictions, official permits need to be arranged for diving at the island. Divers booking for the trip will need to provide us with their names and passport numbers, and will need to carry their passports with them. Indian citizens will need to provide details of any government photo identity card such as driving license, which they will need to carry along with them.
This island offers diving suitable for professionals. The island adjacent to Netrani is used by the Indian navy for target practice. One could see empty shells rusting around Netrani and adjacent island. It is not recommended to visit Netrani without permission.
The best time to visit is between December and January. The resort stops taking tourists for snorkeling and scuba diving during June-September because the sea becomes rough.
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