We present current data from an acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) moored on the continental shelf-break in the Gulf of Mannar (GoM) near Ram Setu during 2010–2011. The observations show that the near-surface, sub-inertial current flows primarily north-westward all round the year. This northwestward flow is punctuated by intraseasonal bursts that last a few weeks. Compared to the current off Kanyakumari, the intraseasonal fluctuations in the GoM are weaker and in the opposite direction. The flip in direction is linked to eddy-like circulations, which cause the current to bifurcate or merge in the region between Kanyakumari and Ram Setu.

$\bf{Highlights}$

$\bullet$ Ocean current data collected in Gulf of Mannar.

$\bullet$ Near-surface current is north-westward over most part of the year.

$\bullet$ Current shows intraseasonal variability.

$\bullet$ Intraseasonal variability in the Gulf of Mannar current is weaker and in opposite direction compared to off Kanyakumari current.

$\bullet$ The opposite direction of Gulf of Mannar and off Kanyakumari currents is linked to local changes in the sea level.