A new tourism experience is set to begin at Adam’s Bridge Marine National Park from 15 October, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the remarkable sandbanks of one of Sri Lanka’s most unique marine and cultural landscapes.
Adam’s Bridge, also known as Rama Setu, is a chain of shallow sandbanks and limestone formations stretching from Talaimannar towards India. The area is highly important in Hindu religious belief and attracts pilgrims, nature lovers, photographers, and tourists interested in experiencing this distinctive landscape.
Adam’s Bridge has 16 sandbanks, with 8 belonging to Sri Lanka and 8 belonging to India. Under the new visitor programme, tourists will be able to visit up to five sandbanks, under the monitoring of the Department of Wildlife Conservation.
At the 1st sandbank, visitors will be allowed to get down, swim, and enjoy approved diving activities. At the 3rd sandbank, visitors will be allowed to get down, walk, relax, and spend time enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Boat Facilities and Entrance Fees
Boat facilities will be arranged for visitors travelling to the sandbanks. One boat can carry seven people, with a charge of Rs. 2,500 per person. The total boat fee for a fully occupied boat will therefore be Rs. 17,500.
The Department of Wildlife Conservation will also charge an entrance fee of Rs. 150.
Protecting a Sensitive Marine Environment
Adam’s Bridge is a very sensitive marine environment. Its sandbanks, shallow waters, birdlife, marine life, and coastal ecosystem must be carefully protected.
Strong monitoring inside the marine national park will therefore be essential. Boat movements, visitor numbers, waste disposal, swimming, diving, and other human activities should be strictly managed to avoid damage to this valuable natural heritage.
Preparing for the Mannar Environment
Visitors should also remember that Mannar is one of the hottest areas in Sri Lanka. It is also a very windy place, particularly around the coastal and sandbank areas.
Tourists are advised to prepare well before travelling by carrying drinking water, sun protection, and suitable clothing, while following all safety instructions given by wildlife officers and boat operators.
This new Adam’s Bridge sandbank visit can become an important attraction for Mannar tourism if it is managed responsibly. It gives visitors a rare chance to experience one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful marine landscapes while also reminding everyone of the need to protect this fragile environment for future generations.