Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary: An Ecotourism Destination for Turtle Lovers
Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary is a unique ecotourism destination located in the coastal town of Kappil, India. It is the perfect place for turtle lovers to explore and learn about these fascinating creatures. The sanctuary was founded in 2002 by local conservationist K.T. Saju, who is dedicated to protecting and conserving the endangered Olive Ridley turtles.
At Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary, guests can observe the Olive Ridley turtles nesting on the shore and can even join in the process of releasing the baby turtles into the sea. The sanctuary also offers educational tours and workshops to help visitors understand more about turtles and their habitats.
What to Do at Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary
If you’re looking for things to do at the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary, there is a lot of eco-friendly fun to be had. Here are some of the best activities to enjoy while visiting the sanctuary:
Turtle Nesting Tours
One of the most popular activities at the sanctuary is the turtle nesting tours. Guests can observe the nesting process of the Olive Ridley turtles and help release the baby turtles into the sea. The nesting season usually begins in late August and continues until early February.
Turtle Release
The turtle release program is a great way to experience the entire turtle life cycle firsthand. Visitors can join in the process of releasing the newly hatched baby turtles into the sea and follow them as they make their way to the ocean.
Educational Tours
Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary also offers educational tours and workshops to help visitors understand more about turtles and their habitats. The tours and workshops provide an in-depth look at the turtles’ life cycle and the conservation efforts being undertaken to protect them.
Snorkeling and Kayaking
The sanctuary also offers snorkeling and kayaking tours to explore the waters around Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary. Visitors can paddle through the mangroves and admire the diverse wildlife and lush vegetation.
Where to Stay at Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary
Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary offers a variety of accommodations for visitors, from budget-friendly homestays to luxury beach resorts. The sanctuary is located just a few minutes from the beaches of Kappil, so visitors can enjoy a relaxing stay with a beautiful ocean view.
How to Get to Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary
Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary is easily accessible by road and rail. The nearest railway station is Kappil, which is about 5.5 km away from the sanctuary. From the station, visitors can take a bus or taxi to the sanctuary.
Conclusion
Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary is an ideal ecotourism destination for turtle lovers. From turtle nesting tours and educational workshops to snorkeling and kayaking, the sanctuary offers a variety of activities to explore and enjoy. There are also a variety of accommodations available for visitors, making it a great place to stay for a few days and get to know these fascinating creatures.