Hare Island (Pandian Theevu)

Hare Island, known in Tamil as Muyal Theevu and more widely as Raja Theevu or Pandian Theevu, lies beside the V. O. Chidambaranar Port at Thoothukudi. Covering 1.29 square kilometres, it is the biggest of the Gulf of Mannar islands and lies within the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park. The Portuguese called it Isle des Reis.

The island is known for healthy coral and sea grass. Its history is tied to the Paravars, the pearl-fishing people of this coast: when they converted in large numbers and were persecuted by the Nayaks of Madurai, they fled from Tuticorin to the island before moving on over time. Many visitors come over the Pongal holidays, when extra buses are laid on for them.