Turtle nesting watch (seasonal)
A guided, night-time wildlife and conservation experience on the quiet beaches of Kalipur and Ramnagar near Diglipur. Participants join trained local guides and forest department/NGO teams to observe sea turtles coming ashore to nest and, when timing allows, to witness hatchling releases. Activities emphasize minimal disturbance and support for local protection efforts.
Location
Kalipur & Ramnagar beaches (near Diglipur), Diglipur, North Andaman, India (Andaman & Nicobar Islands)
Duration
Typical session: 2–4 hours per night (evening briefing + beach patrol). Some visitors join multi-night patrols or volunteer blocks lasting several days.
Best Time to Visit
Season: November–April. Peak nesting: December–February (highest activity). Activities are seasonal and weather-dependent.
Pricing
Approx. INR 500–2,000 per person depending on group size, operator and whether a forest department/NGO conservation fee or permit is required. Private guides or special hatchling-release nights may cost more. Bring cash for local fees and donations.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Night-time nesting observations — watch turtles coming ashore to dig, lay eggs and cover nests (without disturbing them).
Hatchling releases — when nests hatch, guided releases of hatchlings into the sea (timing dependent).
Participation in local conservation efforts with forest department/NGO teams (nest protection, data recording).
Rare species chance — possible sightings of Olive Ridley, Hawksbill and Green turtles along this coastline.
Pristine, low-light beaches with minimal human disturbance — excellent for responsible wildlife watching.
Itinerary
Arrival & briefing
Meet at the local base/forest department checkpoint. Guides cover rules, safety, no-flash policy, and what to expect.
Transfer to beach / short walk
Drive or walk to the selected beach access point. Wear dark, quiet footwear; short sandy walk to patrol area.
Night patrol & nesting watch
Guided, silent observation from a safe distance. Use red-filtered lights only. Guides record nesting events and mark/guard nests if permitted.
Nest protection & monitoring
Volunteers may assist authorized teams to safeguard recently laid nests or help relocate vulnerable clutches — only under official supervision.
Hatchling monitoring & release
If hatchlings emerge, authorized release into the sea is done under supervision at dawn. This is emotionally powerful but strictly regulated to minimize disturbance.
Safety Requirements
Always follow directions of the forest department/NGO guide; only authorized personnel handle eggs/hatchlings.
No flash photography, no bright white lights; use red-filtered torches as instructed.
Maintain distance (usually several metres) from nesting turtles; do not block the path to sea.
Keep noise to an absolute minimum and avoid sudden movements.
Do not walk on marked nests or disturb nest sites; stay on designated paths.
Be mindful of tides and slippery/sensitive terrain; wear sturdy, closed footwear.
Children must be supervised at all times.
Respect local biosecurity rules (e.g., no plastics, no littering).
Tips
Bring a small headlamp with a red filter and spare batteries; red light reduces disturbance.
Wear dark, loose clothing and closed-toe shoes (sand can be hot by day but cool at night).
Carry insect repellent and a light windbreaker or waterproof layer (coastal nights can be damp).
Keep cameras on silent and avoid flash — high-ISO settings and a fast lens work best for low-light photography (but only if permitted).
Book in advance with an operator who works with the local forest department or a reputable conservation NGO.
Bring cash for local fees, tips and donations to conservation groups.
Be prepared for late returns and limited facilities (no toilets on remote beach sites in many cases).
If you want a hands-on conservation experience, ask about supervised volunteer shifts (these often require prior approval and training).
