Just off the Jamnagar coast lies India’s first Marine National Park, protecting coral reefs, mangroves, sea grass beds and rich inter-tidal life in the Gulf of Kutch. Around Narara and nearby islands, extremely low tide reveals a living “marine garden” – starfish, sea cucumbers, crabs, corals, sponges and colourful fish trapped in tide pools. Guided walks during low tide let visitors literally walk on the sea floor (carefully) and see marine fauna from very close range. For Ghoomein, you can position this as Jamnagar’s signature eco-experience: early-morning start, permits, forest guides and unforgettable photographs of coral and marine life without diving.
About this place
History & highlights
The Gulf of Kutch Marine Sanctuary was declared in 1980, and the core Marine National Park followed in 1982, making it the first protected marine area in India. The park covers about 163 km² within a larger 458 km² sanctuary, including an archipelago of 42 islands and long reef stretches along Jamnagar’s coast. Management has focused on regulating access, promoting guided coral walks and balancing tourism with conservation of corals, mangroves, turtles, dolphins and thousands of migratory birds that use the coastal ecosystem.
Reviews
No reviews yet. Click “Write a Review” above to share your experience.