Places and Turtle Sanctuaries in India where these Marine Creatures can be Witnessed

India, with its vast and diverse coastline, rivers, and wetlands, is home to several species of turtles and tortoises, many of which are endangered. To protect these gentle reptiles and their fragile habitats, numerous turtle sanctuaries and conservation sites have been established across the country. From the sun-kissed beaches of Odisha, where olive ridley turtles arrive in thousands to nest, to serene riverbanks and protected wetlands, these sanctuaries not only offer safe havens for turtles but also provide unique opportunities for visitors to witness conservation efforts in action. Explore some of the most remarkable turtle sanctuaries and places in India where you can witness these creatures.

Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary - Odisha 

The Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary in Odisha is a vital marine wildlife sanctuary and the world's largest nesting beach for Olive Ridley sea turtles. It's located in the Kendrapara district, extending from the Dhamra River in the north to the Brahmani River in the south.

Rushikulya Rookery - Odisha

Rushikulya Rookery in Odisha is a significant breeding ground for the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles. It's located on the sand-pit of the Rushikulya estuary near Ganjam, a crucial area for the turtles' mass nesting, often referred to as an "arribada". The rookery is known for its community-based conservation efforts, where local fisherfolk play a vital role in protecting the turtles and their nests.

Galgibaga Beach - Goa

Galgibaga Beach in South Goa, also known as Turtle Beach, is a designated nesting ground for Olive Ridley turtles, a protected species. This beach is one of three in Goa where these turtles nest, making it a vital conservation site. The northern part of the beach is specifically protected for nesting, and the beach is known for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere, suitable for turtle nesting and relaxation.

Velas Beach - Maharashtra

Velas Beach, located in the tranquil village of Vela in Maharashtra, is home to Olive Ridley turtles. There’s a special festival called the 'Velas Turtle Festival' dedicated to Olive Ridley turtle conservation, which takes place every year. Renowned as one of India's premier eco-festivals, the Velas Turtle Festival attracts tourists, travellers, and volunteers from across the globe to nurture the tiny turtle hatchlings, capture the spectacle of these two-legged creatures making their way to the ocean, and many for the enriching eco-tourism experience by the shore.

Turtle (Kachhua) Wildlife Sanctuary - Varanasi 

The Turtle (Kachhua) Wildlife Sanctuary in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is India’s first freshwater turtle sanctuary. It is a 7-kilometre stretch of the Ganga River, dedicated to protecting and conserving freshwater turtles. The stretch spanning from Ramnagar Fort to the Malviya Rail/Road Bridge was established in 1989 to safeguard the turtle population, including species like Nilssonia gangetica, which help remove half-burnt human corpses and religious waste from the river.

Marina Beach - Tamil Nadu

Marina Beach is another significant location for Olive Ridley turtle nesting, with numerous nests found in the area. The beach is known for having multiple nesting sites, which is a unique characteristic among other turtle nesting grounds. Organisations like the Students Sea Turtle Conservation Network (SSTCN) are actively involved in protecting and conserving the Olive Ridley turtles on Marina Beach. They organise turtle walks and other conservation activities. However, there have also been concerns about turtle deaths, with a large number of dead turtles washing ashore on Marina Beach and nearby areas.