Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Center | Bentota

About this Attraction

During my recent trip to the southern coast of Sri Lanka, one of my most unforgettable experiences was visiting the Victor Hasselblad Turtle Research and Conservation Centre in Kosgoda. Known as the first turtle conservation centre in Sri Lanka, established in 1978, this place is not just a hatchery but a sanctuary where nature’s miracles unfold before your eyes.

Finding My Way to the Turtle Sanctuary

Getting there was easy. I followed the Galle Road and took the road next to the Kosgoda Police Station. As I arrived, I was greeted by the soothing sound of waves and the warm smiles of the staff, who were passionate about their work. The centre felt welcoming yet peaceful, with simple structures blending seamlessly into the natural coastal environment.

Meeting the Gentle Giants

The hatchery was well-maintained, with several tanks filled with different sizes and species of turtles. I was thrilled to see Green Turtles, Hawksbill Turtles, Loggerheads, and even the rare Olive Ridley Turtles. What touched me the most was seeing the injured turtles—some with missing flippers, others recovering from injuries caused by fishing nets and plastic waste.

The caretakers patiently explained the rescue and rehabilitation process, and under their supervision, I even got the chance to touch a few of the turtles gently. Feeling the cool, textured shell of a majestic sea turtle was a surreal experience that connected me deeply to these ancient ocean mariners.

Witnessing the Miracle of Life

The highlight of my visit came in the evening when I had the chance to participate in a baby turtle release. Watching the tiny hatchlings, barely the size of my palm, scramble towards the waves was heartwarming and emotional. The staff explained how only a small percentage of these baby turtles would survive to adulthood, which made this simple act of releasing them feel like a powerful gesture of hope.

Standing there, with the sun setting over the horizon, I felt awe and gratitude. It was a moment that reminded me of the fragility of life and the importance of conservation efforts to protect endangered species.

Learning Beyond the Surface

What made this visit even more enriching was learning about the life cycle of sea turtles—from eggs to hatchlings to their return to the same beach years later to lay their eggs. The centre’s guides shared fascinating facts about how turtles navigate the vast oceans, their threats from human activities, and how climate change affects their survival.

Final Thoughts – A Must-Visit in Kosgoda

Visiting the Victor Hasselblad Turtle Research and Conservation Centre was not just an educational experience but a journey of empathy and connection with nature. Witnessing the dedication of the conservationists, the resilience of the injured turtles, and the determination of tiny hatchlings fighting their way to the ocean left me with a renewed sense of responsibility towards protecting our planet’s wildlife.

If you’re planning a trip to Bentota or anywhere along Sri Lanka’s southern coast, I highly recommend stopping at this incredible center. It’s not just a place to see turtles—it’s a place to feel inspired, humbled, and connected to the natural world.

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