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Frequently mentioned in reviews: Gulf (33) Mannar (31) park (29) species (25) coral (21) Park (20) National (19) area (19) marine (18) Marine (17)
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  • 5/5 Mohd A. 3 years ago on Google • 340 reviews
    Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is a group of 21 small and breathtakingly beautiful islands, along with some adjacent coral reefs and shallow water habitats that are located in the Gulf of Mannar in the Indian Ocean. This park is also the core area for the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve and is home to a myriad of plants and animals in its marine, intertidal and near shore habitats. When it comes to marine biodiversity, it boasts of being one of the wealthiest areas. Not only does the park have three aquatic ecosystems, which are the coral reef, seagrass and mangroves, but it is also home to salt marshes and specific algal communities. The different estuaries, beaches and forests in the park further heighten its beauty and showcase nature in all its glory.
    56 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Praveen G. 6 years ago on Google • 647 reviews
    It covers 21 islands spreading over 405 square km area out of which 2 islands are submerged due to coral mining .It houses 117 species of corals,5 species of turtles dugong,sea grass,sea cucumber's etc.It also has mangrove blocks harbouring great faunal diversity. It is threatened due to poaching of Holothuria(sea cucumber),Dugong(for meat),sea horses, Sankh(volumbari),olive Ridley turtles,prawns etc. Forest department is implementing olive ridley turtle conservation(quantifying egg laying) and coral restoration programme (Artificial coral plantation) here. Goverment is planning to bring commuity based ecotourism on the kursudai island to ensure livelihood and conservation. The proposed(now shelved) Sethusamudram project is thought to be affecting more to olive ridley turtles than the corals.
    32 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rudra k. 2 years ago on Google
    The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is a protected area of India consisting of 21 small islands (islets) and adjacent coral reefs in the Gulf of Mannar in the Indian Ocean. It lies 1 to 10 km away from the east coast of Tamil Nadu, India for 160 km between Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) and Dhanushkodi. It is the core area of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve which includes a 10 km buffer zone around the park, including the populated coastal area.The park has a high diversity of plants and animals in its marine, intertidal and near shore habitats. Public access inside the park is limited to glass-bottom boat rides.
    34 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ershad A. 4 years ago on Google
    Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, Dhanushkodi Overview The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is a group of 21 small and breathtakingly beautiful islands, along with some adjacent coral reefs and shallow water habitats that are located in the Gulf of Mannar in the Indian Ocean. This park is also the core area for the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve and is home to a myriad of plants and animals in its marine, intertidal and near shore habitats. When it comes to marine biodiversity, it boasts of being one of the wealthiest areas. Not only does the park have three aquatic ecosystems, which are the coral reef, seagrass and mangroves, but it is also home to salt marshes and specific algal communities. The different estuaries, beaches and forests in the park further heighten its beauty and showcase nature in all its glory. Occupying a total area of 6.23 square kilometres, the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is the first biosphere reserve to have been established in the country in the year 1980. At the same time, the park also forms a part of the third largest of the world's oceanic divisions, which is the Indian Ocean. Since all the twenty-one islands of the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park come under the Marine National Park sphere, tourism and related activities are restricted here. Public access and participation inside the park is limited to glass bottom boat rides. Nevertheless, a visit to this park is a must to enjoy the bounties of nature and to view some of her marvellous creations.
    32 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Dr. HareKrishna M. 2 months ago on Google • 730 reviews New
    The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is situated along the southeastern coast of India, between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. It is known for its rich marine biodiversity, including coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and diverse fish species. The park was declared a biosphere reserve by UNESCO, highlighting its ecological significance. The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is a haven for various marine life, making it an important area for conservation and research.

  • 5/5 Chirag P. 5 months ago on Google • 165 reviews
    Ohhh I lived the atmosphere It's amazing place for darshana and tourist places in south india
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 ATITHI K. 1 year ago on Google • 155 reviews
    One of the most beautiful places in Rameshwaram. Definitely one should visit Rameshwaram. The sunsets here are very beautiful and stupendous.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sail M. 5 years ago on Google
    Experts say that Vaan Island, one of the four islands of the Tuticorn group, has split in two and if immediate efforts are not taken then the island would soon vanish under the sea. Vaan Island, which is the southernmost of the 21 islands in the Gulf of Mannar, was initially spread across 16 hectares, but had shrunk alarmingly by around 10.3 hectares to its current 5.7 hectares in less than three decades. According to J K Patterson Edward, director of Suganthi Devadasan Marine Research Institute (SDMRI), Tuticorin,"Rampant coral mining by people of the fishing villages along the coast is the main cause of the devastation to the island. Coral mining was banned in 2005, but the damage had already been done." Two of the 21 islands have already submerged around a decade ago.
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Karthik 2 months ago on Google • 130 reviews New
    vibrant coral reefs. You can see many types of fish species here,near shore habitats, sea grass, sea animals,estuaries,intertidal zone. Glass bottom boats are available for tourists to see under the water. Islet.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shubham S. 10 months ago on Google • 184 reviews
    End point, this place is nice but weather is very hot. It is very hard to stay there for 1 2 hr . Better go in morning or in evening when temprature is low.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dark S. 4 years ago on Google
    It is true that with a huge human population, a large part of the land will be used by humans for humans, but there is a very substantial area that is not cultivated, which can certainly be returned to health. Once forest and other ecosystems support original communities of plants and animals, crop pests like the wild boar and macaques will have something else to feed on besides agricultural produce, groundwater will be recharged, shrubs and bushes will re-grow, insect populations will recover, the nutrient cycles will be re-established and the biodiversity crisis will become history.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nishant B. 6 months ago on Google • 70 reviews
    .The crystal-clear waters of ram setu were a dream come true for swimmers and water sports enthusiasts alike. Whether you prefer leisurely swims, snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, or adventurous surfing, the beach offered a plethora of aquatic activities to suit all tastes.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Dustin A. 4 months ago on Google • 67 reviews
    The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is a protected area of India consisting of 21 small islands (islets) and adjacent coral reefs in the Gulf of Mannar in the Indian Ocean. It lies 1 to 10 km away from the east coast of Tamil Nadu, India for 160 km between Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) and Dhanushkodi. It is the core area of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve which includes a 10 km buffer zone around the park, including the populated coastal area.The park has a high diversity of plants and animals in its marine, intertidal and near shore habitats. Public access inside the park is limited to glass-bottom boat rides.It was established as a National Park in 1986.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 S R R. 3 years ago on Google
    Every Indian should visit this place to get the real feel of our great Hindu Ithihas Ramayan.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Aravind K V. 2 years ago on Google
    Do not try to visit on summer! And gate have some opening and closing time from Rameswaram to Dhanushkodi. Plan accordingly:)
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Rahul K. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 CHELLAIAN R. 11 months ago on Google
    t is not a coincidence that the picturesque attraction of Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park ensconced within the larger Gulf of Mannar biosphere reserve in Tamil Nadu. Spread across an area of 560 sq km and located in the Coromandel Coast region, the national park consists of 21 islets enclosed by coral reef areas and the shallow underwater habitat of marine biodiversity. The protected area has a high diversity of aquatic animals and plants. For tourists, glass bottom boats are available in order to explore this beaut attraction in Tamil Nadu. Also, the national park is counted amongst the richest areas in terms of marine biodiversity and is blessed with three marine ecosystems; Seagrass, Coral Reefs, and Mangroves. Such is the beauty and exquisiteness of the coral reefs of Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park that they are often esteemed as the ‘Underwater Tropical Rainforest’. Moreover, the national park gives an insight into the 11 species of seagrass and 117 species of hard coral that are present in the biodiversity of the reserve. Whereas aquatic animals are concerned, the reserve houses five species of turtles along with other marine species like whales, dolphins, sea cucumber, and dugongs that you can expect to see. Evidently, the place is one of the most exotic travel destinations in South India for that ultimate holiday experience. Whether you’re a wildlife buff or an individual who is more inclined towards nature, this place is surely a perfect stopover to bestow yourself with an impeccable escapade. BEST TIME TO VISIT The months October to March are considered as the ideal time to visit Gulf of Mannar National Park for indelible experiences and unforgettable time. WHERE TO STAY? The park does not have its own hotel or resort whereas a number of accommodation options are available in Rameswaram (22 km) and Ramanathapuram (59 km) for tourists that ranges from premium to budget category.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Tapan kumar S. 5 years ago on Google
    Nice place and full enjoy with my friend
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 o siva saila n. 3 years ago on Google
    Lovely place .. must visit .. edge of India ( southern)
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 SUBRATA D. 1 year ago on Google
    • Gulf of Mannar is a marine national park, an inlet of the Indian Ocean located between southeastern India and western Sri Lanka. • It is bounded to the northeast by Rameswaram (island), Adam's (Rama's) Bridge (a chain of shoals), and Mannar Island. • The gulf is 80-170 miles (130-275 km) wide and 100 miles (160 km) long. • It receives several rivers, including the Tambraparni (India) and the Aruvi (Sri Lanka). • The port of Tuticorin is on the Indian coast. • The gulf is noted for its pearl banks and sacred chank (a gastropod mollusk).
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Digvijay 3 years ago on Google
    The park includes estuaries, mudflats,  beaches and forests of the near shore environment. It also includes marine components such as coral reefs, seaweed  communities, sea grasses, salt marshes and mangroves. Seaweed photo gallery Mangroves dominate the intertidal zones of the park islands. They consist of species of the genera Rhizophora,  Avicennia, Bruguiera, Ceriops and Lumnitzera.Mangroves: photo gallery. The introduced tree genus Prosopis is dominant on land in all the islands. The flowering herb Pemphis acidula (family Lythraceae) is the only endemic plant species.12 species of sea grass and 147 species of seaweeds were recorded. This vegetation provides important feeding grounds for the vulnerable marine mammal, the Dugong,endangered Green turtles and vulnerable Olive Ridley turtles.[9] Sea grasses: photo gallery The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is a protected area of India consisting of 21 small islands (islets) and adjacent coral reefs in the Gulf of Mannar in the Indian Ocean. It lies 1 to 10 km away from the east coast of Tamil Nadu, India for 160 km between Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) and Dhanushkodi. It is the core area of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve which includes a 10 km buffer zone around the park, including the populated coastal area.The park has a high diversity of plants and animals in its marine, intertidal and near shore habitats. Public access inside the Park is limited to glass bottom boat rides.The 560 km2  (220 sq mi) park is part of the 140 km long and 25 km wide Mannar barrier reef. It lies between 8° 47’ to 9° 15’ N latitude and 78° 12’ to 79° 14’ E longitude. The 21 islands vary from 0.25 ha (.6 acre) to 130 ha. (321.2 acres). Total area of the islands is 6.23 km2  (2.41 sq mi)Its surrounding shallow waters harbour three species of seagrass that are found nowhere else in India. Representatives of every animal phylum known (except amphibians) are found on this island.Dugong, a vulnerable marine mammal is the flagship mammal of the park. It is an important habitat for the Cetaceans: Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, Finless porpoise, Spinner dolphin,Common dolphin,Risso's dolphin,  Melon-headed whale, and Dwarf sperm whale.Larger whales include Sperm whale,Minke whale, Bryde's whale,Sei whale,and critically endangered species including Humpback whale, Fin whale and Blue whale.About 510 (23%) of the 2,200 fin fish species in Indian waters are found in the Gulf, making it the most highly diverse fish habitat in India. Coral associated ornamental fishes of the family Chaetodontidae (butterfly fish),  parrotfish, Amphiprion spp. (clown fish), Holocentrus spp. (squirrel fish), Scarus spp. (parrot fish), Lutjanus spp. (snappers) and Abudefduf saxatilis (sergeant major) are abundant.Four species each of shrimp and lobster, 106 species of crab, 17 species of sea cucumber, and 466 species of mollusc including 271 gastropods, 174 bivalves, 5 polyplacophorans, 16 cephalopods and 5 scaphopods,108 species of sponge, and 100 species of echinoderm  occur in the Gulf.The coral fauna includes 106 species from 30 genus of hermatypes and 11 species from 10 genus of ahermatypes, including 13 new species, giving a total of 117 species from 14 families and 40 genus. The reefs in this area are narrow fringing reefs located 150 to 300 m. from the shore of the islands and patch reefs rising up from depths of 2 to 9 m. and extending up to 2 km. long and 50 m. wide. Large areas of these reefs are in generally poor condition due to destructive human activities of the 150,000 persons living along the coast. Nutrient and other pollution loads are high due to agriculture, deforestation, industry, urbanization and septic pollution. It appears that the Coral reefs of the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park seem to be healthy and in good condition, despite high rates of sedimentation and other threats. However, live coral cover is only about 35%. Various algae cover much of the dead coral.The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is a protect
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Ki R. 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome place
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 #t _. 3 years ago on Google
    Ram✔
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Deep B. 2 years ago on Google
    Very good and stunning place. Well maintained and protected Ecosystem, Wildlife and Nature. I like to go this beautiful National Park..🥰💖❤️
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 TYSON A X E P. 4 years ago on Google
    Super place to visit 🥰🥰
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 TIRTHRAJ Y. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 hemu b. 4 years ago on Google
    Very beautiful spot to enjoy beach bird and nature
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 SREE CHAKRA M. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place never miss
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Saff_zyn 2 months ago on Google • 19 reviews New
    Well maintained and protected eco systems. Peacefull place

  • 5/5 Manoj K. 3 months ago on Google • 4 reviews New
    Very beautiful place

  • 5/5 Mohit G. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice place

  • 4/5 Rupesh D. 4 years ago on Google
    Quite good place

  • 5/5 Mukesh m B. 3 years ago on Google
    Good

  • 5/5 அன்பிற்கும் உண்டோ அடைக்கும் �. 4 years ago on Google
    Good

  • 1/5 Saifu “Saif” K. 2 years ago on Google
    Manali So beautiful and nature

  • 4/5 Chandhan kumar N. 2 years ago on Google
    Heritage site Worth visiting.

  • 5/5 Sreedevi A. 1 year ago on Google
    An excellent place with nature wonders..

  • 5/5 saqdi M. 1 year ago on Google
    gulf of mannar good osen

  • 5/5 Rajesh v. 1 year ago on Google
    Every Darshan you pay money. No value of bhakti, shrdhdha

  • 5/5 Amarjeet K. 1 year ago on Google
    If you want some adventure than go

  • 5/5 Gokul K. 1 year ago on Google
    Gulf of mannar marine national park is fully covered with water and it divine park to see by ship or boats. And we see a lot of different types fish and other sea creatures. We can see the colourful fishes

  • 5/5 Ajay N. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice location

  • 1/5 Ashutosh M. 3 years ago on Google
    So nice and misterious place

  • 4/5 RAJESH D. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful

  • 5/5 Anurag R. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice plays

  • 5/5 Masud K. 3 years ago on Google
    All Is Well

  • 5/5 Mabud Ali K. 3 years ago on Google
    All Is Well

  • 5/5 ANIL s. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Bharat se Shri Lanka (Original) Bharat se Shri Lanka

  • 5/5 Ashok sharma A. 3 years ago on Google
    Good

  • 5/5 karan k. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) karam (Original) karam

  • 3/5 Mugal Hasnain R. 3 years ago on Google
    Good

  • 5/5 Alive G. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice

  • 4/5 Chandra Sekhar S. 3 years ago on Google
    😍😍😍

  • 4/5 naveed k. 3 years ago on Google
    Loved it

  • 5/5 Rakeshroshan d. 4 years ago on Google
    Love this place

  • 5/5 Vivek J. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place

  • 5/5 arjun d. 3 years ago on Google
    Amezing place to visite

  • 5/5 Mia A. 3 years ago on Google
    kinda wet

  • 5/5 Mitesh S. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautifully wonderful

  • 5/5 Rakesh u. 3 years ago on Google
    Best location

  • 5/5 Patel S. 3 years ago on Google
    Nyc

  • 5/5 Anitha G. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place

  • 5/5 sonu nishad j. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice

  • 5/5 kanishka e. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice

  • 5/5 K. K K. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice

  • 1/5 Israr A. 3 years ago on Google
    Wao so super beach

  • 5/5 mahendra c. 4 years ago on Google
    I love this I want to come over here

  • 5/5 Sachin B. 4 months ago on Google • 2 reviews
    Gulf of mannar is gateway to heaven
    1 person found this review helpful 👍


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Amenities


  • Activities
    • ✓️ Hiking
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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