Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park Travel Guide
| Today in India: Seng Kut Snem (23 Nov) |
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, also known as the cachalot, holds the title of the largest toothed whale and predator. Belonging to the genus *Physeter*, it shares its family with the pygmy and dwarf sperm whales. These majestic creatures are distributed throughout the world...
Mammals
Fin whale
The fin whale, often referred to as the finback whale or common rorqual, is a majestic marine giant and the second-largest species on our planet, second only to the blue whale. Belonging to the baleen whale family, these impressive creatures are characterized by their...
Mammals
Blue whale
The blue whale, a marine mammal beloning to the baleen whale suborder Mysticeti, holds the distinction of being the largest animal ever known to exist. These magnificent creatures can reach lengths of up to 29.9 meters and weigh as much as 173 tonnes.
Mammals
Dugong
The dugong is a medium-sized marine mammal and the only herbivorous marine mammal, found in the coastal waters of approximately 40 countries across the Indo-West Pacific region. These creatures are highly dependent on seagrass for sustenance, thus confining their...
Mammals
Sei whale
The sei whale is a captivating baleen whale and the third-largest member of the rorqual family, trailing only the blue whale and the fin whale. These majestic creatures inhabit most of the world's oceans, favoring deep, offshore waters.
Mammals
Tamil Nadu