Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park

A group of 21 small islands and adjacent coral reefs together build the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park. This national park was established in 1986 and is 1 to 10 km from Tamil Nadu’s east coast. The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is located 160 km between Dhanushkodi and Thoothukudi. It covers the coast of Tuticorin, Rameswaram, Kanyakumari, and Tirunelveli. From the first marine biosphere reserve and the marine biodiversity hotspot of Southeast Asia, it is the richest region of the world. Tourists can see here the 3600 plants and animal species, and also globally endangered species, such as sea cow, along with six mangrove species.

A Detailed Guide on Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park

The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park occupies a total area of 6.23 sq km, and it is the first biosphere reserve that was established in India in the year 1983. Simultaneously, this national park is also considered the third-largest oceanic division in the world. The entire 21 small islands of the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park come under the sphere of Marine National Park. All tourism-related activities are restricted in this national park. Participation inside the park and public access is limited to the glass-bottom boat rides. Visitors must visit this park to enjoy the beauties of nature and also to view a few marvellous creations.

Fauna and Flora Available at the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park

The main attraction at the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is undoubtedly the variety of coral reefs and marine animals that are easily available here. The coral reefs are home to colourful aquatic and ornamental fish. The reefs are gorgeous and breath-taking, and are often referred to as ‘Underwater Tropical Rainforest.’ This National park is home to 3600 different types of species of flora and fauna, and many of these are available in their virgin forms.

Hard coral of 117 species are also found in this region, including various pearl oysters, turtles, seahorses, dolphins, balano-glossus, sea cucumbers, barracuda, herrings, and sprats, and these are sheltered by the reefs. In this national park, there are 11 different species of seagrass also available. Apart from these, on this island, migratory birds come frequently from across the world. More than 180 types of birds are seen in the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park. Among them, the warders and seabirds are the most common. Moreover, visitors can also see rare kinds of birds in the national park; for example, broad-billed sandpiper, crab plovers, bar-tailed godwit, red-necked phalarope, eastern knot, red knot, long-toed stint, and dunlin. During the winter months, thousands of flamingos are also seen in this national park.

This national park is also a very popular habitat for different types of rare crabs, lobsters, oysters, shrimp, and many more. More than 100 species of hard coral make this place look amazing and beautiful.

Various Activities at the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park

In the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, there is a must-visit museum where visitors can learn about the different wonders and features of this national park. A glass-bottomed boat ride is also an enjoyable activity inside this national park.

When Can One Visit This National Park?

The best time to visit the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is during October-March.

How to Reach the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park

The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is located at the Mandapam’s Madurai Road of Ramanathapuram. It is well-connected through well-developed roads to all the major cities. The nearest railway station to this national park is the Rameshwaram railway station. This railway station is located about 7 kilometres away from the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park. Many private and government-operated vehicles are also available for visitors to reach this national park.

Conclusion

On a concluding note, we can say that this is a must-visit national park, which is considered the third-largest oceanic division of the world. The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is located 160 km between Dhanushkodi and Thoothukudi. The variety of coral reefs and marine animals is the main attraction of this national park. The best time to visit this national park is during October-March.