Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project.

Turtle hatcheries are good for the environment, save lives, and incredibly fun. There are a few lovely ones down the coast, especially in and around the Kosgoda area. We visited the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project (our favourite) this weekend. They have a great sustainability model and a very friendly owner, Dudley. The place is run by the locals, with international volunteers helping out throughout the year.


A hatchling summons Cthuhlu

The experience for tourists (regardless of nationality) is just brilliant. If you swing by during the day you’ll get to see all the adorable little hatchlings or the older and wiser turtles doing their thing in the tanks. But the real fun is being part of the release! It goes down almost everyday around sunset. The staff will pick out the ones fit for release, put them in little buckets and hand them to you.

You then trek a couple of meters down to the beach, where Dudley’s wife draws a starting line in the sand which you’re not allowed to cross. One by one, the turtles are released. It is genuinely one of the coolest experiences to watch them eagerly scuttle down the sand and slide into the sea. We were extra lucky because we were just in time to see a hatching, but this doesn’t always happen at the same time everyday.

The KSTCP has about 10 tanks filled with turtles, either new hatchlings waiting their turn to be released or older ones who can’t make it in the big bad sea themselves and have been rescued. According to the site,

“Only a few hatchlings from each batch will ever make it to adulthood. Therefore every nest-ground, every egg, every hatchling and every turtle is crucial to the survival of the species. Unfortunately, sea turtles face many dangers.
The project’s work relies on fundraising and grants. Every year, the project helps clear and maintain the local beach, protecting vital nesting-grounds (particularly important after the devastation of the Tsunami) and releases thousands of hatchlings”.

The hatchery project collects and rescues eggs so they can hatch safely away from predators. A certain percentage is also kept back for a short period for ‘headstarting’. The program is intended to maximize the number of hatchlings reaching the sea and surviving the critical stages of their life (the first few days). According to Dudley, the hatchery releases thousands of turtles a year!

The hatchery is close to a lot of touristy areas in Galle and the surrounding areas, so try and visit because it’s absolutely worth the stop. You may feel tempted to steal a tiny turtle but this is both wrong and illegal, so probably best to avoid it.

Entrance is on admission, at Rs. 500. Call ahead to make sure it’s a release day.

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp

Highlights.

Latest.

KAMU.

The Sweetest Valentine’s Treat from The Sweet Room!

by Shamrina Carim February is here and love is in the air—So is the irresistible

Kamu

Sawan for Seven! A Gigantic North Indian Meal from Rosewood Ceylon

By Shamrina Carim If you’re craving an indulgent North Indian meal that brings together bold

Kamu

Culinary Adventure at Long Feng by Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo : The Chinese Food Festival 2025

If you’ve never journeyed to China, a  grand opportunity to immerse yourself in its true

Kamu

Cheers Pub at Cinnamon Grand Colombo: The Ultimate Spot for Great Vibes, Delicious Food, and Fun

By Sharon Nonis Looking for a place that blends great food, refreshing drinks, live music,

Highlights Kamu

Across Borders: A Culinary Bridge Between India and Sri Lanka Through Peshawri’s Timeless Flavors

By Vimasha Vishvadari Peshawri, a renowned restaurant chain, originated from the iconic Bukhara restaurant in

Highlights Kamu

Tenkū – a hidden Gem of the Japanese Cuisine

By Vimasha Weerawansha Ambience  The Kingsbury Rooftop offers a breathtaking panorama of the cityscape and

Highlights Kamu

Trending.

Radisson Hotel Colombo Achieves Hotel Sustainability Basics Certification

Radisson Hotel Colombo proudly announces its certification in Hotel Sustainability Basics, a globally recognized framework

Trending

Celebrate Love This Valentine’s Day at Cinnamon Grand

Indulge in the ultimate romantic experiences this Valentine’s Day at Cinnamon Grand. From an exquisite

Trending

Love This Valentine’s Day at Cinnamon Lakeside

This Valentine's Day, immerse yourself in romance with an array of exclusive experiences at Cinnamon

Trending

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Style at Cinnamon Red

Indulge in the ultimate romantic experiences this Valentine's Day at Cinnamon Grand. From an exquisite

Trending

Mount Lavinia Hotel Celebrates World Pizza Day with Special Guest Chef Roberto Radoni

Mount Lavinia Hotel’s celebration of World Pizza Day on February 9th was an unforgettable gastronomic

Trending

A Valentine’s Day to Remember at The Kingsbury

This Valentine’s Day, let your love story unfold at The Kingsbury, Colombo. Set against the

Trending

Yamu Guide.

Colombo’s BYOB Gems: 15 Perfect Spots to Pair Your Drink with Delicious Food

by Vimasha Weerawansha Are you on the hunt for dining spots where you can bring

Yamu Guide

14 Romantic Places to Spend  February 14th – Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if you're looking for the perfect place

Highlights Yamu Guide

Valentine’s Gift Guide for Him 2025

by Fathima Rukaiya Looking for the perfect way to show your special guy how much

Highlights Yamu Guide

9 Valentine’s Day Picks for Her 2025

By Fathima Rukaiya, With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, hearts are filled with anticipation.

Highlights Yamu Guide

New Year’s Eve at The Kingsbury Colombo

Embrace the wonder of Christmas with a world of joy and togetherness this New Year’s

Trending Yamu Guide