Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is a stunning natural wonder located in the Tamil Nadu region of India. This biodiverse marine park is known for its vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
Visitors to the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park can explore the underwater world and encounter a wide variety of marine species, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. The park is also home to over 3,600 species of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the sea cow and the dugong.
In addition to its incredible marine life, the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is also known for its picturesque islands, sandy beaches, and mangrove forests. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the park's islands and enjoy activities such as birdwatching, beachcombing, and nature walks.
For those interested in the cultural and historical aspects of the region, the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is also home to ancient ruins and archaeological sites dating back to the medieval Chola dynasty. The park's cultural heritage, combined with its natural beauty, offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors.
Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Upputanni Island, Nallathanni Theevu. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Sperm whale
The sperm whale or cachalot is the largest of the toothed whales and the largest toothed predator. It is the only living member of the genus Physeter and one of three extant species in the...
Mammals
Fin whale
The fin whale, also known as finback whale or common rorqual and formerly known as herring whale or razorback whale, is a cetacean belonging to the parvorder of baleen whales. It is the...
Mammals
Blue whale
The blue whale is a marine mammal belonging to the baleen whale suborder Mysticeti. Reaching a maximum confirmed length of 29.9 meters and weight of 173 tonnes, it is the largest animal...
Mammals
Dugong
The dugong is a medium-sized marine mammal. It is one of four living species of the order Sirenia, which also includes three species of manatees.
Mammals
Sei whale
The sei whale is a baleen whale, the third-largest rorqual after the blue whale and the fin whale. It inhabits most oceans and adjoining seas, and prefers deep offshore waters. It avoids...
Mammals
Tamil Nadu