Kendrapara Coast
Bhitarkanika & Gahirmatha
Mangrove labyrinth and turtle coast
About Bhitarkanika & Gahirmatha
India's second largest mangrove ecosystem, home to the country's largest population of saltwater crocodiles, king cobras, and a canopy of 70+ mangrove species. Adjoining Gahirmatha is the world's largest nesting beach for Olive Ridley sea turtles, where lakhs arrive each year for the mass nesting arribada.
Places to visit in Bhitarkanika & Gahirmatha
Mangrove Boat Safari
Glide through narrow creeks past basking crocodiles and kingfishers.
Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary
Olive Ridley mass nesting — viewing is strictly regulated to protect the turtles.
Bagagahana Heronry
Thousands of open-billed storks and egrets nest here in the monsoon.
Dangmal Crocodile Centre
The conservation project that revived India's saltwater crocodile population.
What to eat
- ·Estuarine crab and prawn
- ·Village-style fish curry
- ·Coastal Odia thali
Photography spots
- ·Creek reflections at dawn
- ·Crocodile on the mudbank
- ·Turtle hatchlings reaching the sea
Travel tips for Bhitarkanika & Gahirmatha
- ·Permits are mandatory — arranged for you in advance.
- ·Wear neutral clothing and carry insect repellent.
- ·Never use flash near nesting turtles.
Continue exploring
