Close to the Bhitar Kanika Sanctuary is another of Orissa's special sanctuaries - the Gahirmatha Turtle Sanctuary. This stretch of beach is the breeding ground for the giant Olive Ridley Turtles, who travel all the way from the Pacific Ocean to mate and lay their eggs here.
Every year, thousands of these wondrous creatures can be seen here. In order to protect the turtles, special arrangements have been made by the Government of Orissa.