Beach Camping & Turtle Conservation in Gundalba

Summary

Gundalba Beach Camp: Turtle Watching & Coastal Life

If you want to really feel coastal Odisha—camping under stars, eating fresh fish curry, and helping protect olive ridley turtles—this trip’s for you. You’ll meet locals and see sunrise from a quiet beach most travelers never find.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the salty air—kind of sharp, almost sweet—when we stepped off the bus near Gundalba. Our guide, Suman, waved us down a sandy path lined with tall casuarina trees. The ground felt springy underfoot, soft with fallen needles. It was late afternoon and you could hear the sea before you saw it—just this low, steady rush behind the trees.

We set up camp right on the sand. Tents were simple but sturdy; I could hear someone from the village chatting with our guide about last night’s turtle patrols. Dinner was already bubbling away—a big pot of fish curry made from today’s catch. There was a bit of spice in the air, mixed with woodsmoke and that unmistakable ocean smell. After dark, we played volleyball by lantern light and just lay back watching stars flicker out one by one.

Next morning, I woke to a breeze that carried hints of salt and something green—maybe seaweed or wet grass? The sunrise wasn’t loud or dramatic; it just crept up quietly over the water while fishermen pulled in their nets nearby. We walked along the beach with Suman pointing out tiny turtle tracks leading to the waves. Locals were already busy—sorting fish, mending nets, calling out greetings as we passed through.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Beach Camping and Forest Walk

• Explore Casuarina forest and virgin beach under star-lit sky
• Overnight camping at the beach
• Enjoy simple local dinner (veg or non-veg)

Day 2 — Sunrise and Coastal Walk

• Watch sunrise and morning coastal life, walk through Casuarina forest
• Have simple authentic Odia breakfast

Top questions

Is this beach camping suitable for families?

Yes! It’s great for all ages as long as everyone is comfortable sleeping in tents and spending time outdoors.

Do I need to bring my own tent or sleeping bag?

No need—we provide tents and sleeping bags at the campsite.

Can vegetarians be accommodated for meals?

Absolutely! Just let us know ahead of time so we can prepare local vegetarian options.

Is there electricity at the campsite?

The campsite is basic—no regular electricity—but we use lanterns and solar lights at night.

What’s included

You’ll get tents and sleeping bags set up right on the sand, access to toilets (basic but clean), dinner (usually fresh fish curry), breakfast in the morning, plus games like volleyball and frisbee to keep things lively.