There’s something magical about coastlines—the gentle hush of waves, the salty breeze brushing past your face, the skies that feel wider and bluer than anywhere else. If 2025 is the year you want to slow down, reconnect with nature, and breathe in days that feel like they were made just for you, these coastal sanctuaries deserve a spot on your travel list.
Each one offers its own rhythm, its own quiet charm, and moments you’ll want to tuck away forever.
Bhitarkanika National Park, Odisha
A paradise of mangroves, creeks, and river channels—Bhitarkanika is home to saltwater crocodiles, vibrant birdlife, and endless green corridors. Perfect for serene boat rides and quiet nature trails. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (approx. 160 km away). From there, you can hire a cab to reach Khola/Dangmal, the main entrance to the park. By train, the closest railway station is Bhadrak, about 55 km from Chandbali.
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Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, Tamil Nadu
India’s first marine biosphere reserve, filled with coral reefs, seagrass beds, and playful dolphins. Glass-bottom boat rides bring you face-to-face with underwater beauty without disturbing the ecosystem. The nearest airport is Tuticorin Airport, located about 35 kilometres away. From there, you can take a taxi or hire a private vehicle to reach the park. The nearest railway station is Rameshwaram Railway Station, which is approximately 7 kilometres from the park.
Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, Odisha
Famous as the world’s largest nesting site for Olive Ridley turtles, this sanctuary turns into a miracle of nature during nesting season. Watching thousands of turtles arrive under the moonlight is unforgettable. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, approximately 150 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Rajnagar, which is about 35 km from the sanctuary. The nearest railway station is Bhadrak, located around 49 km from Gahirmatha.
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Sundarbans Coastal Belt, West Bengal
Beyond the tiger tales, the coastal Sundarbans offer stunning riverine landscapes, rich ecosystems, and boat journeys through the world’s largest mangrove forest. Spread across 10,000 km², it is the world's largest mangrove forest. The islands are also of great economic importance as a storm barrier, shore stabiliser, nutrient and sediment trap, a source of timber and natural resources, and support a wide variety of aquatic, benthic and terrestrial organisms.
Malvan Marine Sanctuary, Maharashtra
Crystal-clear waters, colourful corals, and schools of fish that shimmer like gems—Malvan is ideal for snorkelling and diving. A lesser-explored gem for people who love peaceful coastal escapes. This sanctuary spreads over an area of about 29.22 square kilometres and was declared in 1987 with the primary aim of conserving the region's rich marine biodiversity. It encompasses the Malvan coast, including several beaches and rocky stretches, as well as adjacent areas of the Arabian Sea.
In 2025, let these coastal sanctuaries remind you of how powerful slow travel can be. These are places where the world feels quieter, where time moves gently, and where every breath smells of salt and possibility.
