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Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is a marine biosphere, running along
with coasts of Ramanathapuram and Tuticorin
districts. The entire Gulf of Mannar abounds in distinguished marine life
covering 10,500-sq-kms and 21 islands with continuous stretches of coral
reef.
Flora And Fauna
Gulf of Mannar is the first Marine Biosphere Reserve not only in India
but also in South East Asia. It is full of coral reefs, Dugong, Turtles
and Balano- Glossus. Dolphins could create euphoria to the tourists. The
presence of coral reef, flora and fauna here are in their virgin form. The
coral reefs, which surround the islands in the area are highly productive
and are often referred to as "Underwater Tropical Rain Forest"
and a treasure house for marine ornamental fishes.
The Marine Reserve
This unique marine ecosystem of Gulf of Mannar is one of the richest for
biodiversity resources in the Indian subcontinent. The richness of its
biodiversity can be gauged from the fact that more than 3,600 species of
fauna and flora have been recorded in this reserve. Kurasadai Islands, off
Mandapam, boasts of a vast expanse of shallow waters.
Moreover, more than 138 villages and towns spread over five districts
depend heavily on the fishery resources of the Gulf. Commercial fishing is
done in about 5,500 sq. km. and nearly 50,000 people dwelling in 47
villages along the coastline bordering the Gulf of Mannar depend directly
on the biodiversity resources of the biosphere reserve for their
livelihood.
The establishment of the Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere reserve has
enhanced India's position as an environmentally responsible country in the
comity of nations.
Air: The nearest airport is at
Madurai (150-km).
Rail: The nearest railway stations are the Mandapam railway
station and the railway station at Tuticorin.
Accommodation is available at the hotels in Mandapam, Ramanathapuram and Tuticorin.