Morjim is a census town on the north bank of the River Chapora. It is known for the Morjim Beach, which is among the last remaining nesting habitats of the endangered Olive ridley sea turtles. It is also home to Russia’s sizeable immigrant population in Goa, earning it the informal title of “Little Russia” among locals. In December and January, the Russian New Year marks the end of the holiday season here.
Given its special status for wildlife preservation, Morjim Beach has been the site of many neighbourhood volunteer efforts for marine turtle preservation. For those who would like to witness the nesting season, it usually begins in September. But, more recently, it has shifted to January, while still ending in either March or April.