India's Coastal Ecosystems: Beaches, Dunes and Mangroves

Nature · Hiking, trekking and nature · 2 min read · Researched guide · Last updated 2026-10-23

In short: India's mangroves cover about 4,992 km2, roughly 0.15% of the country, with West Bengal (about 2,112 km2) and Gujarat (about 1,177 km2) holding the most. Mangroves buffer storms, erosion and rising seas, but face deforestation, aquaculture and pollution. Some beaches host nesting olive ridley turtles.

Quick facts

Where mangroves grow

Beaches and dunes

I could not verify dune ecology from my sources, but the principle is simple: stay on marked paths, never drive on dunes or nesting beaches, and avoid lights and fires near nesting turtles. Olive ridley turtles nest on Odisha's coast, including Gahirmatha.

Travel with care

Read beach camping and coastal safety and visit flagship mangroves such as the Sundarbans and Bhitarkanika. Compare with the Konkan coast.

Visit responsibly

This is a researched nature guide, not a trip report. Rules, permits, closures and fees change. Confirm locally before you travel. Park entry, boat, safari and permit rules are set by the managing authority, and some areas are closed to protect wildlife.

Frequently asked questions

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Rules, closures, fees and conditions change. Confirm with the relevant authority before you travel, and treat this guide as planning help, not a substitute for local advice.