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Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park
India’s first marine national park, Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park near Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu, showcases vibrant coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity. Managed by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, visitors can explore diverse marine species and experience the natural beauty of the Indian Ocean through guided tours.
4.2
972 reviews
Details of Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park
Open now
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Paid parking lot
Free parking lot




Overview - Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park
Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, India’s pioneering marine protected area, lies along the southeastern coast of Tamil Nadu near Dhanushkodi. As the nation’s first marine national park, it safeguards a vibrant ecosystem teeming with biodiversity—coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests that shelter endangered sea turtles, dugongs, and over 3,600 marine species. Visitors can embark on guided boat excursions, particularly popular glass-bottom boat rides from Mandapam, to explore underwater wonders without getting wet. The coastline offers pristine beaches and rugged rock formations, providing a scenic backdrop for nature lovers. Managed by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, this sanctuary balances conservation with sustainable tourism, inviting enthusiasts to witness the delicate interplay of oceanic life. Its strategic location near the Palk Strait provides a unique glimpse into the Indian Ocean’s ecological richness, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to connect with India’s marine heritage.
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Highlights

Glass-Bottom Boat Rides
21 Islands Ecosystem

Diverse Coral Reefs
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Navigations
Navigations
Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu 623519, India
Reviews
nithin ak
Located on the southeastern tip of the subcontinent, the Gulf of Mannar is known to harbour over 3,600 species of flora and fauna, making it one of the richest coastal regions in Asia.
4 years ago
Sen
U need to visit this place at least once
4 years ago
M J
Awesome place to visit
7 years ago
K.Bheemsen Rao
It's indeed a fantastic experience for some one who lives in land far from sea. It's really thrilling to see this. Well maintained and good public relations are two strong points.overall enjoyable.
6 years ago
Sathis S
Edge of the borderline. The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is a protected area of India consisting of 21 small islands and adjacent coral reefs in theGulf of Mannar in the Indian Ocean. It lies 1 to 10 km away from the east coast of ...
Edited 6 years ago
