Turtle nesting at Karmatang Beach (seasonal)
Night-time turtle nesting experience at Karmatang Beach (Mayabunder, Middle Andaman). Join guided, low-impact beach patrols to observe sea turtles (primarily Olive Ridley and possibly other species) as they come ashore to nest. Activities focus on conservation: guided observation, minimal-disturbance monitoring, occasional hatchling releases (when permitted), and talks on local conservation efforts.
Location
Karmatang Beach, Mayabunder (Middle Andaman), India (Andaman & Nicobar Islands)
Duration
Evening-to-early-morning: typically 4–8 hours (arrival and briefing in the evening, night patrol, return after watch). Shorter 2–3 hour observation windows may be offered for late arrivals.
Best Time to Visit
November – April (peak nesting and hatchling activity: December – February). Note: exact dates vary year-to-year and by species; local forest department updates are essential.
Pricing
Typical guided patrols: INR 500–1,500 per person (varies with operator and inclusion of transfers). Forest Department permits or nominal community fees may apply (often INR 50–300). Private or bespoke tours may cost more. Free viewing from a distance is possible but discouraged without a guide/permit.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Witness turtles coming ashore to nest (primarily Olive Ridley).
Possible hatchling releases (when conservation staff allow and conditions are right).
Learn about community-led and Forest Department conservation measures.
Pristine, quiet beaches with minimal light pollution — ideal for night observation.
Opportunities to support local eco-tourism and conservation initiatives.
Itinerary
Arrival & orientation
Meet at the designated beach gate/forest-guard post; sign permits where required. Briefing on rules, safety, and low-impact behaviour. Use of red-filter torches and no-flash policy explained.
Beach approach & initial watch
Guided walk to observation points; keep quiet and maintain distance. Guides will look for tracks (crawl marks) and signs of nesting.
Peak patrol / nesting observation
Patrols commonly run through the night depending on activity. Observers watch from a respectful distance while guides coordinate any conservation actions with forest staff.
Wrap-up & return
Return to base, debrief on findings (number of nesting events, species, any relocation/hatchling notes). Drop-off to accommodation in Mayabunder.
Safety Requirements
Advance booking and/or Forest Department permit may be required — always go with authorised guides.
Keep lights low; use red-filtered torches only. No flash photography.
Do NOT touch or disturb nesting turtles, eggs, or hatchlings.
Maintain a minimum distance as instructed by guides and forest staff.
Wear closed footwear and simple, dark clothing; be prepared for sand, uneven terrain and possible strong waves.
Bring insect repellent and basic first-aid; inform guides of any medical conditions.
Follow instructions during hatchling releases — only permitted personnel or supervised releases allowed.
Tips
Book through local, certified eco-guides or the Forest Department to ensure minimal disturbance and legitimate access.
Carry a headlamp or torch with a red filter (or use red cellophane) — white light can disorient turtles.
Travel light and wear dark, non-reflective clothing to blend into the night.
Bring water, light snacks, and a waterproof jacket (coastal nights can be humid/cool).
Respect local rules: avoid single-person wanderings along the beach at night.
If you want to see hatchlings, understand releases are unpredictable and depend on conservation priorities.
Support conservation by donating to or buying from community-run initiatives; avoid plastic and leave no trace.
