The Gulf of Mannar is the first marine Biosphere reserve in the south East Asia with richest coastal regions. It is one if the four major regions of Coral reefs with other three at Andaman Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep & Gujarat. Running down towards south from Rameshwaram to Kanyakumari encompasses of 21 islands. Besides home to key coastal habitats as Mangroves, coral reefs, seagrass beds, the region also preserves endangered species of Dugong Dugon, Sharks species, Sea turtles, dolphins and sea cucumbers.
To protect the biosphere reserve from external threats of pollutants, over harvesting, tourists are not allowed in the region. But for the very first time, Tamil Nadu Tourism & forest Department had taken initiative to allow for boat riding to one of the Island of Gulf Of Mannar- Kurusadai Island. The motive behind the boating permission is to benefit the local fisherman community along improving marine education among tourists.
The experience will be unique of its kind to do boating across coral reef beds, sea cucumber, shoals of fish, devil’s eye crab and exotic widespread flora & fauna. Spot the jumping dolphins and other sea creatures on the way of 168-acre Island. It will create awareness & importance of islands and the marine ecosystem. With limited tome and travel restrictions rule, tourists can enjoy boating between 7 am to 2 pm. Click the adorable pictures of beautiful islands and the migratory birds flying on the shore.
The trip is approved by the eco-tourism federation & Wildlife Management plan.
Location- Jetty rode in Kunthukal, approx. 10 kms form Rameshwaram Town
