A Sanctuary for Sea Turtles: The Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre
Discover the wonders of sea turtle conservation at the Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre in Galle, a vital sanctuary for marine life.
A brief summary to Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre, Mahamodara
- Colombo - Galle Main Rd, Galle, LK
- +94769757471
Nestled along the scenic Colombo - Galle Main Road, the Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre in Mahamodara is a remarkable wildlife rescue service dedicated to the conservation and protection of sea turtles. This center plays a vital role in rehabilitating injured turtles and providing a safe haven for hatchlings until they are ready to be released back into the ocean. Visitors are welcomed to explore the hatchery, where they can witness the incredible journey of these majestic creatures from eggs to baby turtles. As you enter the hatchery, you'll be greeted by friendly and knowledgeable staff who are passionate about marine life and conservation. They offer fascinating insights into the different species of sea turtles that inhabit the waters surrounding Sri Lanka, including the endangered Olive Ridley and Hawksbill turtles. Through educational displays and interactive experiences, you can learn about the threats these turtles face, such as habitat destruction and pollution, and how you can help protect them. The hatchery also provides visitors with the unique opportunity to participate in the release of baby turtles into the sea, an unforgettable experience that fosters a deeper appreciation for marine life. The facility operates daily from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM, ensuring ample time for exploration and learning. With over 1950 photos showcasing the beauty of the turtles and the hatchery, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to document your visit. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a meaningful experience during your travels, the Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre is a poignant reminder of the importance of conservation and the wonders of nature.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and to see more activity from the turtles.
- Bring a camera to capture the adorable baby turtles during their release into the ocean.
- Engage with the staff to learn more about the conservation efforts and how you can help.
- Consider making a small donation to support the hatchery's ongoing work in turtle conservation.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in Galle Fort, exit the fort through the Main Gate and head towards the beach. Walk along the beach road heading south until you reach the lighthouse. Continue along the coastal road until you reach the Colombo - Galle Main Road. Turn left onto Colombo - Galle Main Road. Walk for about 1.5 kilometers; you will see the Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre on your right side.
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Tuk-Tuk
Find a tuk-tuk stand near your location or hail one on the street. Tell the driver you want to go to the Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre in Mahamodara. The ride should take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The driver will take you directly to the hatchery, which is located on the Colombo - Galle Main Road.
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Public Bus
Walk to the nearest bus stop on the Colombo - Galle Main Road. Look for buses heading towards Matara or Unawatuna. Board the bus and inform the conductor that you want to get off at the Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre. The ride will take around 10 minutes. After you get off the bus, the hatchery will be a short walk ahead on the same road.
Attractions Nearby to Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre, Mahamodara
- Eco Friendly River Safari & Canoeing Excursion Mahamodara
- View Point - Mahamodara
- Mahamodara Beach Park & Marine Walk
- Rockpooling with Anoma
- Mahamodara Lake
- Gintota Beach
- Meeran Jumma Mosque
- St. Mary's Cathedral
- Meeran Jumma Masjid
- Sunset Observing Place
- Old Slave Quarters
- Galle Fort Attractions and Jumpers Sri Lanka
- Galle Dutch Fort
- Galle Fort Clock Tower
- Galle International Cricket Stadium - ගාල්ල ජාත්යන්තර ක්රිකට් ක්රිඩාංගනය
Landmarks nearby to Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre, Mahamodara
- Dharmapala Park
- Star Bastion
- rumassala
- Rooster Monument | කුකුල් ස්මාරකය
- The Entrance Galle Fort
- Laksala
- New Old Dutch House Galle Fort
- Sentry Point (රැකවල් ස්ථානය)
- Portuguese Structural Remains ( පෘතුගීසි ගොඩනැගිලි නෂ්ඨාවශේෂ )
- Galle Fort - Fishmark Bastion
- Rajgama Wella
- Maritime Museum
- Galle Unesco Signage
- Fort Entrance (Old Gate)
- Black Galle Fort - Zwart Bastion