Nestled along the pristine coastline of the Bay of Bengal, Habalikhati Sea Beach is one of the most breathtaking and lesser-known beach destinations in eastern India. Located inside the renowned Bhitarkanika National Park, this secluded beach offers a rare combination of mangrove forests, rich wildlife, serene coastal beauty, and eco-tourism experiences.

Situated approximately 16 kilometers from the Bhitarkanika forest region and about 86 kilometers from Kendrapara, Habalikhati Sea Beach has become increasingly popular among nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and eco-tourists.

One of the major highlights of this unique destination is the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle Research Center, which plays a vital role in the conservation of endangered marine turtles along the Odisha coastline.

Visitors who embark on the journey to Habalikhati experience an unforgettable adventure that includes a scenic boat ride, a forest trail walk, and stunning encounters with wildlife.

Where is Habalikhati Sea Beach Located?

Habalikhati Sea Beach is located along the coastline of Bay of Bengal within the ecological zone of Bhitarkanika.

This coastal destination is surrounded by:

• Mangrove forests
• Estuaries and tidal creeks
• Wildlife habitats
• Coastal wetlands

Because of its remote location and protected ecosystem, Habalikhati remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. This makes it one of the most peaceful beaches in Odisha.

The beach is also close to Bhitarkanika Mangroves, one of the largest mangrove ecosystems in India.

The Unique Journey to Habalikhati Sea Beach

Reaching Habalikhati is an adventure in itself.

Unlike many popular beaches that are accessible by road, this beach requires a combination of boat travel and forest trekking.

Step 1: Boat Ride from Gupti Ghat

Visitors begin their journey from Gupti Ghat. From here, a boat ride of approximately 2 to 3 hours takes travelers through scenic waterways.

During this journey, visitors pass through:

• Mangrove-lined river channels
• Wildlife habitats
• Coastal creeks

The boat ride itself is considered one of the highlights of visiting Habalikhati.

Step 2: Walk Through Hental Forest

After reaching the jetty, travelers must walk approximately 2.8 kilometers through the Hental forest to reach the Habalikhati Nature Camp.

The forest trail is surrounded by:

• Mangrove vegetation
• Coastal flora
• Wildlife habitats

This nature walk provides an immersive experience in the biodiversity of Bhitarkanika.

Wildlife and Biodiversity Around Habalikhati

Habalikhati is part of one of India’s most biologically diverse ecosystems. Visitors may encounter a variety of wildlife species during their journey.

Crocodiles

The rivers and estuaries of Bhitarkanika are famous for hosting Saltwater Crocodile, the largest living reptile in the world. Bhitarkanika is home to one of the largest populations of saltwater crocodiles in India.

Olive Ridley Sea Turtles

Another major attraction of the region is the nesting of Olive Ridley Sea Turtle. Every year, thousands of Olive Ridley turtles arrive along the Odisha coastline to lay eggs.

The Olive Ridley Turtle Research Center at Habalikhati plays an important role in:

• Monitoring nesting patterns
• Protecting turtle habitats
• Conducting marine research

This conservation effort makes the beach an important ecological site.

Bird Watching Paradise

Habalikhati and the surrounding mangrove forests are home to numerous bird species.

Bird watchers may spot:

• Kingfishers
• Egrets
• Herons
• Sea eagles
• Migratory water birds

The region is particularly active during winter months when migratory birds arrive.

Natural Beauty of Habalikhati Beach

What truly makes Habalikhati special is its untouched natural beauty.

The beach offers a stunning landscape consisting of:

• Golden sandy coastline
• Calm greenish sea waters
• Mangrove forests
• Coastal wetlands

Unlike crowded tourist beaches, Habalikhati offers a tranquil and peaceful environment.

Visitors often describe the beach as a perfect location for:

• Nature photography
• Quiet reflection
• Bird watching
• Wildlife observation

Habalikhati Nature Camp Resorts, Bhitarkanika

Habalikhati Sea Beach is located in the Bhitarkania National Park on the coast of the Bay of Bengal. It is approximately 16 kilometers from Bhitarkanika and 86 kilometers from Kendrapara Town. It is well-known for its Olive Ridley Sea Turtle Research Center. To get to the beach, take a 2-3 hour boat ride from Gupti Ghat, followed by a 2.8 km walk through the Hental forest. During the boat ride, various types of birds, crocodiles, and olives can be seen, which is interesting to see.

Nurtured by the presence of crocodiles and framed by the intricate tapestry of mangrove forests lining the riverbank, the Beach imparts an additional layer of enjoyment. A favored destination for tourists, particularly during the winter months, it beckons with its allure. Amidst the multitude of scenic beaches gracing the Kendrapara district, the prominence of Habalikhati Beach stands unrivaled. This locale emanates tranquility, offering a picturesque ambiance characterized by a golden sandy expanse and the crystalline embrace of verdant waters.

Habalikhati Nature Camp Price & Information

• The visitor has to take a print copy of the accommodation booking and entry ticket along with identity proof.
• Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are complimentary and limited to the number of the person named on the ticket.
• Operation of AC in the Location is subject to the availability of electricity.
• In addition to the Accommodation Parking Charges for Boat Vehicle are also required to be paid at the destination as per the following Tariff:
• Boat Parking Fee: Rs100/- per Boat per Day Motor Cycle: Rs25 per Motor Cycle per Day Four Wheeler: Rs100 per four-wheeler per day.
• Still camera = for armature @ Rs.50 per day, Professional-Rs.1000/-
• Cine Camera for armature @ 5000 per day professional Rs.25000/- per day Charges for making of a documentary on wildlife Rs.15000/- per day
• For Non-Indian Nationals
• Still camera = for armature @ Rs.200 per day, Professional-Rs.2000/ Cine Camera armature @ 10000 per day, professional Rs50000/- per day Charges for making of a documentary on wildlife Rs.20000 per day
• Gupti to Habalikathi by boat journey (approx. 3hrs) and on-spot boat booking for
• Visitors are to walk about 2.8 km long nature trails from the jetty to reach the Habalikhati nature camp of Bhitarkanika.