India’s First Marine National Park — Jamnagar with Wildstep India
A Guided Coastal Wildlife Experience with Jaidevsinh Rathod and TeamWritten by Jaidevsinh Rathod | Wildstep India
When we think of India’s rich biodiversity, our minds often wander to the dense forests of the Western Ghats or the tiger territories of Central India. But tucked along the serene coastline of Gujarat lies a treasure trove of marine life that many are yet to fully explore— India’s First Marine National Park in Jamnagar, situated in the Gulf of Kutch.
Last month, our team at Wildstep India had the immense pleasure of guiding 40 enthusiastic students from Baroda College on a magical educational trip to Narara Marine National Park, one of the finest natural spectacles on India’s western coast.
Where Land Meets Sea: A Peek into Narara Marine National Park
Located just about 60 km from Jamnagar city, Narara Island is part of the larger Marine National Park, which spreads across 42 islands and covers over 458 sq km of marine ecosystem.
This protected park is India’s first marine national park, declared in 1982, and is a part of Devbhumi Dwarka district and Jamnagar district in Gujarat. The park’s coastline and islands are a living example of the fragile yet stunning beauty of marine biodiversity.
The Wildstep India Experience – Beyond Just a Trip
The Baroda college group tour wasn’t just about sightseeing – it was an educational and sensory journey. We started early in the morning, our spirits high with the tide. As we reached Narara, the low tide revealed a marine wonderland, and the students, guided by our expert team and me, embarked on a coral walk across the exposed sea floor.Every step on the slippery reef was met with wide-eyed fascination, gasps, and excited camera clicks. From octopus camouflaging against rocks to pufferfish inflating defensively, nature was in full display.
Marine Life Spotted – A Living Encyclopedia
Here are just a few of the sea creatures and birds we spotted during our walk:🐙 Octopus
Masters of camouflage and intelligence, these invertebrates change color and texture in seconds! Students were fascinated watching one glide into a rock crevice, vanishing like magic.
🐡 Pufferfish
We found a few of these quirky fish, which inflate into spiky balls when threatened. A fun fact we shared: they are among the most poisonous vertebrates in the world!
🐚 Sea Anemones
Resembling underwater flowers, these soft-bodied animals stun prey with their tentacles.
🐌 Sea Slugs (Nudibranchs)
These vibrant creatures were like underwater gems. Their colors serve as both warning and camouflage.
🐠 Butterfly Fish and Gobies
Tiny, fast, and colorful—a delight for young nature photographers!
🌊 Corals
Students learned about hard and soft corals, their role in the ecosystem, and the threats they face due to climate change.
🦀 Hermit Crabs & Fiddler Crabs
These crab species amused everyone—especially the fiddler crab males with one oversized claw, waving at potential mates!
🌟 Starfish & Sea Cucumbers
From the iconic five-armed stars to squishy cucumbers, the touch-and-feel experience was unforgettable.
The Winged Wonders—Birding at Narara
Jamnagar is not just about sea life. It’s a paradise for birders, especially in winter. We spotted:Flamingos—their vibrant pink hue against the saline backdrop was mesmerizing.
Sandpipers, Plovers, and Redshanks
Western Reef Egrets and Herons
Ospreys, diving for fish with precision
Common and Lesser Terns, performing aerial acrobatics
Fun Fact: Jamnagar hosts over 250 bird species annually!
Why Jamnagar Tourism Should Be On Your Bucket List
Jamnagar is often referred to as the “Jewel of Kathiawar” and rightly so. It offers a perfect blend of wildlife, spirituality, and culture. From the Marine National Park to Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary and the historical temples of Dwarka, this region offers a complete Gujarat experience.
Nearby Attractions:
Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary— a RAMSAR site known for its freshwater and saline wetlandsDwarka – one of the four sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites
Beyt Dwarka – believed to be the original residence of Lord Krishna
Balachadi Beach – clean, serene, and perfect for sunsets
Educational and Conservation Goals
At Wildstep India, every trip we conduct has a deeper purpose. Our goal is to connect the next generation with the natural world. Students on this trip didn’t just see marine life—they learned about ecosystem balance, climate change, and the importance of conservation.
We discussed:
Coral bleaching and rising sea temperatures
The impact of plastic pollution in marine environments
How species like dolphins, stingrays, and jellyfish are indicators of marine health
Hands-On Activities and Learning
We made sure the trip was engaging:
Sketching sessions by the coast – led by Kunjalba Rathod, co-founder of Wildstep India and a wildlife artist
Photography challenge – the students captured marine life and birds, learning ethical nature photography
Beach clean-up drive – where we collected plastic waste and educated students on the “Leave No Trace” philosophy
Tips for Travelers to Narara Marine National Park
🌊 Best Time to Visit: October to March (during low tide for coral walks)🕒 Ideal Time: Early morning low tides; check tide schedules before you plan
👣 Footwear: Closed sandals or water shoes with good grip
🧴 Things to Carry: Cap, sunscreen, refillable water bottles, camera/binoculars
📜 Permissions: Entry passes required at the forest office; guided tours recommended for safety and education
Species Checklist from Our Trip
Sea Creatures Bird SpeciesOctopus Flamingo
Pufferfish Reef Egret
Sea Anemone Western Marsh Harrier
Sea Slug (Nudibranch), Black-winged Stilt
Starfish Sandpiper
Sea Cucumber Common Redshank
Butterfly Fish Lesser Whistling Duck
Hermit Crabs Grey Heron
Coral Colonies Little Egret
What Makes Wildstep India Unique?
✅ Expert Naturalists and Wildlife Artists
✅ Customized Educational Tours
✅ Focus on Conservation and Sustainability
✅ Support for Local Art and Eco-products
✅ Proceeds used for wildlife awareness campaigns
Every trip we conduct is built with heart and purpose. With a deep love for nature and storytelling, our mission is to bring people closer to the wild, respectfully and responsibly.
A Call to Schools, Colleges, and Nature Lovers
If you are a teacher, a parent, or someone who believes that the outdoors is the best classroom, join us for our next wildlife exploration. Whether it’s Narara Marine National Park, Velavadar Blackbuck Safari, or Gir Jungle Trail, we promise unforgettable memories, wildlife encounters, and learning that lasts a lifetime.
Final Thoughts from Jaidevsinh Rathod
As I watched the Baroda students stare in awe at a school of fish darting under the water, I couldn’t help but smile. This is exactly what Wildstep India was created for— to spark curiosity, fuel respect for nature, and build a community of conscious travelers.
Let’s walk the tide together, one reef at a time.
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