
Adam’s Bridge Marine National Park opens for visitors from 15 October 2026, offering guided sandbank visits, swimming, diving activities, and responsible marine tourism.
Discover remote sandbanks, turquoise waters and a remarkable connection between Sri Lanka and India.
Adam’s Bridge Marine National Park opens for sandbank visits from 15 October. This visitor programme offers a new way to explore Mannar’s coastal beauty.
Visitors can travel by boat and explore selected sandbanks under the supervision of the Department of Wildlife Conservation.
Adam’s Bridge stretches between Mannar in Sri Lanka and Rameswaram in India. Its shallow waters and sandy islands create a distinctive coastal landscape.
The chain contains 16 sandbanks, with eight belonging to Sri Lanka and eight to India.
People also know Adam’s Bridge as Rama Setu. The site holds deep religious significance for Hindus through its connection to the Ramayana.
For visitors, the journey combines natural beauty, cultural heritage and a memorable experience at sea.
The visitor programme includes boat trips to the first five sandbanks. However, visitors must follow the approved landing arrangements.
At the first sandbank, visitors can get off the boat, swim and enjoy diving activities.
At the third sandbank, visitors can get off and spend time enjoying the surroundings.
Always follow wildlife officers’ instructions before entering the water or stepping onto a sandbank. Weather and sea conditions may affect the day’s activities.
Each boat carries seven people. The charges are:
The entrance fee applies separately from the boat fare.
Confirm booking arrangements, current charges and departure times with the organisers before travelling.
Mannar ranks among Sri Lanka’s hottest areas. Strong sunshine can make a boat trip uncomfortable without proper preparation.
Bring drinking water, sunscreen, a secure hat and suitable sun protection. Keep your belongings secure during the journey.
Mannar also experiences strong winds. These winds can affect sea conditions and boat travel.
Check the weather before your visit and follow the boat operator’s advice. Wear a life jacket throughout the boat journey.
Adam’s Bridge supports a highly sensitive marine environment. Careless tourism could damage its sandbanks, coastal habitats and surrounding waters.
The Department of Wildlife Conservation must maintain strict supervision throughout the visitor programme. Officers should monitor boat activities, manage visitor numbers and enforce conservation rules.
Visitors also share responsibility for protecting the park. Take all rubbish back, avoid disturbing wildlife and leave shells and other natural materials untouched.
Follow designated routes and landing instructions. Responsible behaviour helps protect the marine park for future generations.
A visit to Adam’s Bridge Marine National Park offers a distinctive experience in northern Sri Lanka.
Explore its sandbanks, appreciate its cultural importance and enjoy Mannar’s coastal scenery. Prepare for the heat and wind, follow official guidance and help protect this remarkable place.