Wildlife/MarineFree entry
Rushikulya River Mouth (Olive Ridley Nesting Site)
Bhanjanagar, Berhampur
About this place
The Rushikulya River mouth is recognized globally as the world's largest mass nesting site for endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles. Between mid-February and early March annually, hundreds of thousands of female turtles emerge from the Bay of Bengal to nest on sandy beaches. This biological phenomenon, called an 'Arribada', represents one of Earth's most remarkable wildlife spectacles.
Why it matters
World's largest mass nesting site for endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles; Critical conservation habitat
N/A (natural nesting beach); Forest protection declared 1970s
backpacker friendlycouple friendlyfamily friendlygroup friendlykid friendlysolo friendlyinstagrammableoffbeatnight visit allowedwinter bestforestoutdoor
Getting there
Nearest railway
Berhampur RS (40 km)
Nearest airport
Biju Patnaik Intl Airport, Bhubaneswar (200 km)
By road
Moderate — road via Berhampur to Ramayapatna/Gokharkuda (1.5 hrs)
Plan your visit
6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
3–6 hours needed
Free entry
February 15 to March 10 (nesting season peak)
Controlled
Kid friendly Photo spot 10/10