Exploring St. Mary’s Island

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by

Rijo Ebenezer
in

Exploring St. Mary’s Island: Karnataka’s Geological Marvel

St. Mary’s Islands, also known as Coconut Island or Thonsepar, are a captivating group of four small islands in the Arabian Sea, located off the coast of Malpe in Udupi, Karnataka. Famous for their rare, columnar basaltic rock formations resulting from ancient volcanic activity, these islands are a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and geologists alike.

A Historical Glimpse

In 1498, the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama landed on St. Mary’s Island during his journey from Portugal. He reportedly fixed a cross on the island and named one of the islands “O Padrão de Santa Maria,” dedicating it to Mother Mary before heading to Kozhikode, Kerala. This event led to the island’s current name and marked it as a significant historical site.

The Island’s Geological Significance

St. Mary’s Island is a site of immense geological importance, featuring hexagonal basaltic lava rock formations known as “laminar lava.” These distinctive rock columns, some reaching up to 20 feet, are believed to have formed millions of years ago due to volcanic activity. Recognizing their rarity and scientific significance, the Geological Survey of India declared the islands a National Geological Monument in 2001. These islands are composed entirely of igneous rocks, which scientists note have an acid composition, adding to their unique structure and appeal.

How to Reach St. Mary’s Island

The journey to St. Mary’s Island begins at Malpe fishing harbour, approximately 5.8 km from Udupi. The harbour has ample parking facilities and a park for visitors. Boat services, available from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, transport travelers to the island, taking approximately 20-30 minutes to reach. The fare is ₹300 for adults and ₹150 for children. Note that the island is closed to visitors from May 15th to September 15th during the monsoon season due to rough seas. It’s advisable to bring water and sunscreen, as the island has a hot climate, and remember that plastics are not allowed on the island.

The Boat Journey

The boat ride itself is a memorable experience. The friendly crew members enhance the journey with their warm service, and lively music on board creates a festive atmosphere, setting the mood for a tropical island adventure.

Discovering St. Mary’s Island

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a beautiful, white sandy shoreline surrounded by azure waters. This island is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and soaking in its natural beauty. While exploring, tourists can admire the hexagonal rock formations and take in panoramic views from various vantage points. You can comfortably explore the entire island within an hour, wandering through the scenic landscapes and marvelling at the unique rock formations.

Guidelines for Visitors

To preserve the island’s natural beauty and historical significance, tourists are required to follow a few rules:

  1. Plastic-Free Zone: Carrying plastics is strictly prohibited.
  2. No Alcohol or Smoking: The island is an alcohol-free and smoke-free zone.
  3. No Overnight Stays: Visitors are not allowed to stay on the island overnight.
  4. Selfie Restrictions: Avoid taking selfies on top of the rocks.
  5. No Souvenirs: Taking shells, stones, or pebbles from the island is prohibited.
  6. Water Safety: Use appropriate swimwear and life jackets during water activities.
  7. Respect the Rocks: Damaging the rock formations is punishable.

Final Thoughts

St. Mary’s Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, geological marvels, and historical significance. A visit to this island is not only a journey into the wonders of nature but also a step back in time to an era that shaped the history of the region.