The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is India’s first marine biosphere reserve and one of the country’s richest marine biodiversity zones. Located along the southeastern coast of Tamil Nadu between Rameswaram and Thoothukudi, the park consists of 21 small islands, coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangroves, and shallow coastal waters.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park |
| Location | Ramanathapuram and Thoothukudi Districts, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Established | 1986 |
| Type | Marine National Park |
| Biosphere Reserve Status | Part of Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve |
| Total Area | Approximately 560 sq km |
| Number of Islands | 21 Islands |
| Famous For | Coral reefs, dugongs, dolphins, seagrass beds, marine biodiversity |
| Governing Authority | Tamil Nadu Forest Department |
| Nearest Town | Rameswaram |
| Nearest City | Thoothukudi |
| Nearest Railway Station | Rameswaram Railway Station |
| Nearest Airport | Madurai Airport |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Main Attractions | Kurusadai Island, coral reefs, mangroves, dolphins, sea turtles |
| Major Wildlife | Dugongs, dolphins, sea turtles, sea cucumbers, reef fish |
| Bird Species | Flamingos, gulls, terns, herons, migratory birds |
| Marine Ecosystem | Coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangrove forests |
| Activities Available | Glass-bottom boat rides, eco tours, birdwatching, photography |
| Entry Type | Eco-tourism and guided boat access |
| Safari Available | No land safari; marine boat tours available |
| Boating Facility | Yes |
| Photography | Allowed in most tourism zones |
| Guide Facility | Available through eco-tourism operators |
| Accommodation Nearby | Hotels and resorts in Rameswaram and Thoothukudi |
| Ideal Visit Duration | Half day to full day |
| Climate | Tropical coastal climate |
| Average Temperature | 25°C – 35°C |
| Family Friendly | Yes |
| Educational Value | High marine biodiversity and conservation importance |
| UNESCO Importance | Ecologically significant marine biosphere reserve |
| Restricted Areas | Several protected islands have restricted public access |
| Conservation Importance | Protects endangered dugongs and coral reef ecosystems |
| Official Website | Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve Trust |
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Country | India |
Point of Attractions
- 21 protected coral reef islands
- Glass-bottom boat rides
- Dugong and dolphin habitat
- Rich coral reef ecosystem
- Mangrove forests and seagrass beds
- Rare marine species and colorful fish
- Birdwatching opportunities
- Scenic coastal landscapes
- Kurusadai Island biodiversity zone
- Eco-tourism and marine conservation activities
Facilities
- Forest department guidance center
- Boat ride facilities
- Eco-tourism activities
- Parking area
- Basic rest shelters
- Nature interpretation support
- Photography opportunities
- Local guide services nearby
Best in the Park
- Dugong sightings
- Coral reef exploration
- Dolphin viewing
- Marine biodiversity observation
- Glass-bottom boating experience
- Island scenic photography
- Birdwatching during migratory season
No products in the cart.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.