Rameshwaram Temple in Tamil Nadu
The boat takes off, as your guide tried to set the sail, the sun mesmerizingly makes the sea glisten, as the little sea creatures bounce and swim around. You try and free through the glass of your boat, right beneath you an exciting marine life seems to be hopping around- it is like the calm water is hiding bustling energy beneath it. The fishes swim around as if trying to greet you, and everything in the world seems fine.
Such is the feeling of being at the miraculous Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park. Located in Tamil Nadu, this national park, unlike others focuses on the life below the water. It shows us a realm which is usually hidden from us most of the time. It is also said to be one of the richest biospheres concerning marine life. Interestingly this was also the first Marine Biosphere Reserve in entire Southeast Asia, making it so much more special and important.
Once you are inside this arena, you will realise that it is made up of different islands- there are about 21 islands. All of these islands are stunning and unique in their way. However, most of the islands are so far away from the urbane life, that they are still uninhabited.
The Bursting Marine Presence
What will impress you in this park, is the sheer variety of marine species that have been preserved here. Full of colours and vibrancy, these animals come alive right in front of your eyes at this park.
You will not just find different kinds of fishes, but also corals- that have all the shades of a rainbow, active polyps, and beautiful underwater flowers that just make this place more alluring. You will also find lusciously green seagrass just wavering with the motion of the water, and mangroves just dipping themselves slightly into the water. It has been estimated that a total number of 3600 species of flora and fauna have made this their own. There are also parts of this deep blue sea that are still to be explored and remained uncharted.
Among the various sea animals you will encounter, here are some that are the most common- Sponges, Turtles, Pearl Oysters, Sea Cucumbers, Dolphins, Seahorses, Barracuda, Herrings, and Whales- among whales, you can also find the largest mammal on the Earth- the Blue Whale right over here. If you are looking for some colour among the deep azure waters then look out for fishes like Butterflyfish, Parrotfish, Clownfish, Snappers, and Squirrelfish- all of these are coloured in all shades of nature’s palette.
If you are all about the coral life, then head over to the Mandapam island, which is known to be the home of 112 species of brightly coloured hard corals.
To enjoy all of these magnificent waters, just head on to a glass-bottomed boat, and let the sea life unfold in front of you.
Things To Do
- Row Row Row Your Boat: Drift along the seas: This is pretty much mandatory to do when you are in this park. You cannot get into this park or move around here without a glass-bottomed lake. So take a guided tour and peek into the lives of these marine animals, all of them in their natural habitat! You can also explore some of the islands, and get yourself far away from the bustling city life
- Spot That Bird: Unleash the inner explorer in you and grab a pair of binoculars. This park is also famous for its variety of birds. Just look up at the sky, or on the trees, and you will find several birds just busy in their world.
Places to visit
This mystical national park offers much more than just staring at the immense marine life while sailing on tranquil and pristine waters. There are some places near the park, which you can visit and get the most out of your visit.
- Rameshwaram Temple: This temple is said to be once of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Highly revered and frequented by devotees, this temple is the perfect example of a spiritual allure blended well with the essence of architectural designs. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this lovely temple was said to be frequented by Lord Ram himself, who was instrumental in placing the Lingam inside the temple. Many pilgrims flock this place to denounce their sins and return as a pure soul.
- Pamban Island: A happening yet relaxing beach destination, this place was a pilgrimage centre once. It was also mentioned in the Ramayana. This place is like heaven for tourists looking to unwind with some sand in the air, and waves to take care.
- Adam’s Bridge, Dhanushkodi: An extremely popular and mythologically relevant site. This bridge is said to be 50 km long and had once connected India and Sri Lanka. It is said to be the current version of the famous Ram Setu- which features in the Ramayana. The locals believe that this bridge is at least 1,25,000 years, and was eventually destroyed by a cyclone in AD 1480. In the present, this place is now blessed with some amazing and panoramic views of sand beds and coral reefs, that looks stunning from above. This is the best place to stand, reflect and take some pictures to show off the beauty of this place.
Side Note: You must take permission from the forest department before entering the park. You can also only enter this park by a glass-bottomed boat.
Some Facts
You can also spot all kinds of unique sea creatures here, so keep your eyes open.
You can volunteer at this park, and make an effort to converse the environment and the brimming water life. Many marine research centres have popped up in this area. This greatly helps in the development and conservation of these marine animals.
