Tuna Point (Bangaram) - Lakshadweep Pelagic Diving
Site Overview
Tuna Point at Bangaram Island is an exposed outer reef site named for the large schools of yellowfin and dogtooth tuna that congregate in the current-swept waters beyond the reef crest. The site offers adrenaline-charged pelagic diving where tuna schools numbering dozens of individuals hunt baitfish in the blue water while grey reef sharks and wahoo patrol the deeper edges. Rainbow runners flash through the current creating spectacular silver streaks against the deep blue backdrop. The exposed position on the atoll's windward side ensures exceptional visibility and consistent encounters with open ocean species throughout the Lakshadweep diving season. This site represents the ultimate big-fish experience in India's most remote diving destination. The exposed reef position on the atoll's windward side creates upwelling conditions that bring deep nutrient-rich water to the surface supporting the entire food chain from microscopic plankton to the largest predatory fish. The reef slope features healthy hard coral communities interspersed with sandy channels providing both habitat and hunting grounds for diverse marine species. The consistent presence of large predatory fish at this site confirms the health of the food chain from plankton through baitfish to apex predators demonstrating a fully functioning marine ecosystem. The exposed position guarantees that every diving visit delivers unique wildlife encounters shaped by the dynamic open ocean environment.
Dive Briefing
"The dive boat crosses the lagoon and exits through the reef channel to reach the exposed outer reef point. Descend quickly along the reef slope to 18 metres where the tuna schools typically congregate in the current flow. Position yourself near the reef edge for the best viewing of pelagic species passing in the blue water. Dogtooth tuna patrol the reef wall while yellowfin tuna hunt in open water above. Watch for wahoo making high-speed passes through the baitfish schools. Maintain depth awareness as the exciting pelagic action can distract from nitrogen management at depth. Ascend along the reef slope completing safety stops while watching for late arrivals from the blue. The dive profile positions divers at the optimal depth for observing pelagic species passing in the blue water while maintaining safe nitrogen management throughout the extended bottom time. Your guide will communicate sightings using hand signals allowing the group to move together towards exciting encounters without disturbing the natural behaviour of the animals."
Signature Marine Life
Yellowfin tuna
Thunnus albacares
Best: November, December, January
Dogtooth tuna
Gymnosarda unicolor
Best: November, December, January
Grey reef shark
Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos
Best: November, December, January
Wahoo
Acanthocybium solandri
Best: November, December, January
Rainbow runner
Elagatis bipinnulata
Best: November, December, January
Safety & Hazards
- Strong currents on the outer reef wall requiring careful dive planning
- Fire coral and sharp rock formations causing abrasion risks
- Boat traffic near the lagoon entrance requiring surface marker buoys
- Marine stingers including jellyfish present in warmer months
- Limited hyperbaric facilities requiring comprehensive dive insurance and evacuation planning
Traveler Notes
Who is this for?
Advanced divers seeking big-fish pelagic encounters in the exposed outer reef environment of Lakshadweep. Tuna Point appeals to experienced divers who thrive in current-swept conditions where large predatory species congregate to feed. The site suits confident deep divers comfortable with open water exposure and the possibility of multiple large pelagic encounters in a single dive. Photographers with fast-action wide-angle capabilities will capture exceptional images of tuna schools and sharks in the blue water. Big-fish enthusiasts who dream of encountering schools of tuna, hunting sharks, and cruising rays in open water will find this site delivers consistently throughout the Lakshadweep diving season. The remote exposed position ensures minimal diver impact on pelagic behaviour meaning encounters feel genuinely wild and unscripted creating the most authentic big-animal diving experience available in Indian waters.
Quick Stats
Dive Logistics
- Bangaram Island Resort dive centre
- Kadmat Island Beach Resort
- MV Lakshadweep Sea liveaboard
Photography Info
Best for: wide_angle
Nearby Stay
Bangaram Island Resort
• km away
Kadmat Island Beach Resort
• km away