Marine National Park, Gulf of Kutch, Marine sanctuary in Devbhumi Dwarka district, India.
Marine National Park, Gulf of Kutch is a protected area along the Jamnagar coast in Devbhumi Dwarka district, covering 42 islands with coral reefs and mangrove forests. The area stretches across shallow tidal zones where seagrass alternates with coral beds, providing habitat for sponges, mollusks, and small reef dwellers.
The Indian government first declared 270 square kilometers (104 square miles) as a Marine Sanctuary in 1980 and established the national park two years later. This decision followed growing concern about coral reef destruction and declining marine species in the gulf.
The islands carry names like Narada and Poshitra, reflecting their long connection to the coastal villages. Fishermen share the waters with sea turtles and dolphins, which visitors often spot during boat trips through the park.
Visitors should time their trips with the tides, as many marine creatures are best seen during low tide. Access to certain islands and protected zones requires prior permission, which can be obtained from the park authorities.
The tidal zones reveal more than 50 coral species during low tide, along with sea anemones, starfish, and numerous crustaceans living among the rock pools. Some islands also host flamingos and other wading birds that feed on the rich mudflats.
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