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Introduction
Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park in Tamil Nadu is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Ramanathapuram & Thoothukudi district, Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is India’s premier marine biosphere reserve, famous for the endangered Dugong (Sea Cow) and coral reefs.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Districts | Ramanathapuram & Thoothukudi |
| Year of Notification | 1986 (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve 1989) |
| Total Area | 560 sq km (comprising 21 coral uninhabited islands) |
| Landscape | Fringing coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangrove islands, and shallow coastal lagoons. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Gulf of Mannar intertidal coral reef marine waters |
| Nearest Airport | Madurai Airport (IXM) – 140 km / Tuticorin Airport – 70 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Rameshwaram Railway Station (RMD) – 15 km / Mandapam (5 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
Location
The national park lies in the Ramanathapuram & Thoothukudi region of Tamil Nadu. Via Mandapam or Rameshwaram by glass-bottom boat.
History
Notified in July 1986 and declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1989.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 560 sq km (comprising 21 coral uninhabited islands), the park’s terrain features Fringing coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangrove islands, and shallow coastal lagoons.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Fringing coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangrove islands, and shallow coastal lagoons.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Dugong (Sea Cow – flagship marine mammal), Green Sea Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Olive Ridley Turtle, Dolphin, Sea Horse, Sea Cucumber, Coral Reefs, and 3,600 marine species.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Flamingo, Pelican, Crab Plover, Eurasian Spoonbill, Avocet, Oystercatcher, Tern, and Gull.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is sustained by: Gulf of Mannar intertidal coral reef marine waters.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Rameshwaram Ramanathaswamy Temple (15 km), Pamban Sea Bridge (10 km), Dhanushkodi Ghost Town (30 km), Mandapam Marine Center (5 km).
Weather & Climate
Coastal tropical climate (23°C to 36°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport (IXM) – 140 km / Tuticorin Airport – 70 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Rameshwaram Railway Station (RMD) – 15 km / Mandapam (5 km)
- Road Connectivity: Via Mandapam or Rameshwaram by glass-bottom boat.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is from October to March.
Accommodation
TTDC Hotel Tamil Nadu Rameshwaram.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
First Marine Biosphere Reserve established in South & Southeast Asia.
Visitor Tips
Visit Mandapam CMFRI marine aquarium to learn about local marine biodiversity.
Did You Know?
- First Marine Biosphere Reserve designated in South Asia.
- Protects 21 uninhabited islands between Mandapam and Tuticorin.
- Flagship sanctuary for the endangered herbivorous Dugong (Sea Cow).
Last Updated: August 2026