Maharashtra is proud of the Malvan Marine Sanctuary, which is biologically one of India's richest coastal regions and was designated a World Heritage Site in 1987. Its crystal clear water is home to diverse coastal species, including sea anemones, molluscs, polychaetes, pearl oysters, corals, seaweed, and mangroves. Malvan is both beautiful and intriguing on the inside and out. The location provides a beautiful view, much like its riveting deep underwater secrets. Take binoculars because there is a chance of seeing some rare bird species on this 29.22 square kilometres.
How To Get There:
To get to the Malvan Marine Sanctuary, tourists must take a boat from the Malvan jetty. There's a slim chance of seeing dolphins if you're lucky.
Sindhudurg in Maharashtra is surrounded by water, and numerous submerged and exposed rocks are nearby, providing an ideal habitat for marine life.
Take A Trip To Marine Sanctuary In Malvan:
Malvan is one of Maharashtra's biologically richest coastal regions. The Malvan Marine Sanctuary has an abundance of coral and marine life. Marine flora and fauna include sea anemones, molluscs, polychaetes, pearl oysters, corals, seaweed, and mangroves.
The Malvan Marine Sanctuary, Sindhudurg, Maharashtra, is open all year and covers an area of 29.22 square kilometres. Aside from the enchanting coral and marine life at the sanctuary, one of the attractions here is the golden sands and casuarina plantations on the Malvan coast, which form a breathtaking view.
The Malvan Marine Sanctuary provides enchanting lodging at the Forest Department's Akeri Rest Houses.
During visiting Malvan Marine Sanctuary, you can also take excursions to nearby tourist destinations such as Sindhudurg Fort and the golden sandy beaches of Tondavali, Tarakali, and Vengurala, which are all within a 10-kilometre radius of the sanctuary.
The Malvan Marine Sanctuary, located in the Malvan Taluka of Sindhudurg district in the Indian state of Maharashtra, is home to a diverse array of coral and marine life. It is the state's only marine sanctuary. On April 13, 1987, it was designated as a wildlife sanctuary. Malvan's spectacular coast, adorned with golden sands and Casuarinas, is a visual treat.
The location also provides a delightful opportunity to observe the traditional life of fishermen. The sanctuary also houses the famous Sindhdurg fort, built by Shivaji, the Maratha Empire's Emperor.
Malvan Marine Sanctuary's Geography:
Malvan Marine Sanctuary is 29.22 square kilometres in size. The core zone is 3.182 square kilometres, while the buffer zone is 25.94 square kilometres. The core zone includes Padamged Island, Sindhudurg Fort, and other rocky structures. The buffer zone's northern and eastern borders are 50 meters from the seashore near Malvan Port. A semi-circular sandy beach runs parallel to the shore of Malvan to the east of the sanctuary. The sanctuary's southern end is near Mandel Rock, while its western end is near Malvan.
Malvan Marine Sanctuary Flora And Fauna:
Malvan Marine Sanctuary has a wide variety of flora and fauna. Malvan is one of Maharashtra's biologically richest coastal regions. The sanctuary's primary flora includes mangrove vegetation. The area's marine flora and fauna include seaweed, corals, pearl oysters, polychaetes, molluscs, sea anemones, egrets, plovers, black-headed gulls, and many other species.
More than 30 fish species and subspecies can be found in the sanctuary's various water bodies. Mystus seenghala, Tor putitora, Labeo calabash, Labeo dero, Labeo rohita, and other notable commercial varieties. Nilgai, Leopards, Wild Boars, Barking Deer, and Sambars surround the sanctuary.
Migratory wetland birds, which arrive from Siberian lands during the winter, are one of the sanctuary's main attractions. The ducks swimming in the swamps in the lake between Pongdam and Shahnahar Barrage create a captivating sight.
Located on an islet off the Malvan coast, Sindhudurg Fort is a magnificent 17th-century fort built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The defence offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and houses temples, a freshwater reservoir, and secret passages.
Tarkarli Beach is known for its pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters. It's a popular spot for water sports, such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and boating. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful atmosphere.
Near Devbagh Beach, Tsunami Island is a small, picturesque island formed by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. The island offers water activities like jet skiing, banana boat rides, and kayaking. You can also relax on the island's sandy beaches.
Devbagh Beach:
Located near the confluence of the Karli River and the Arabian Sea, Devbagh Beach is known for its golden sands and tranquil ambience. It's an excellent place for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying beautiful sunsets.
The Rock Garden in Malvan is a unique creation made entirely of rocks. It features sculptures, pathways, and seating areas made from stones and shells. The garden provides a serene environment for leisurely walks and relaxation.
Malvan Market:
Explore the local market in Malvan, where you can find a variety of fresh seafood, spices, and local handicrafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and indulge in authentic Malvani cuisine.
Located about 40 kilometres from Malvan, Sawantwadi is a small town famous for its traditional arts and crafts. Visit the Sawantwadi Palace, which houses the Shilpgram, an artisans' village showcasing handicrafts like lacquerware, wooden toys, and bamboo crafts.
Approximately 25 kilometres north of Malvan, Vengurla is known for its scenic beaches, including Vengurla Rocks and Mochemad Beach. The region is also famous for its cashew plantations and the Vengurla lighthouse.