Velas Turtle Festival: A Celebration of Life by the Sea

Velas

Velas is a village located in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, India. It is renowned as the birthplace of Nana Phadnis, an influential statesman of the Maratha Empire. The village is also famous for its picturesque beaches and the annual Turtle Festival, organized by the local community in collaboration with Sahyadri Nisarg Mitra, Chiplun.

Velas beach

Velas Beach is a picturesque and serene coastal stretch located in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, India. Nestled along the pristine Konkan coastline, this beach is not only a tranquil escape for nature lovers but also a vital ecological hotspot due to its association with Olive Ridley sea turtle conservation efforts.

Velas Beach is known for its clean, untouched sands and calm waters. Surrounded by lush greenery and coconut groves, the beach offers a serene and relaxing environment, ideal for those seeking to unwind in nature’s lap. The village of Velas, situated close to the beach, reflects the simplicity of rural Konkan life. Visitors can enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals and savor traditional Konkani cuisine.

Velas Turtle Festival

Velas is renowned as a significant nesting site for Olive Ridley sea turtles. For over a decade, the residents of Velas have worked tirelessly alongside the NGO Sahyadri Nisarg Mitra and the Forest Department of India to protect the nesting sites of these endangered turtles. To raise awareness and celebrate conservation efforts, the village hosts the annual Turtle Festival, typically held in February or March, when the chances of witnessing egg hatchings are highest.

Velas Turtle Festival:
The village hosts an annual Turtle Festival, typically held in February and March, during the hatching season. Visitors get the rare opportunity to witness baby turtles emerging from their eggs and crawling toward the ocean, an experience that attracts nature enthusiasts and tourists from across the country.

Hatchling Sightings:
Visitors have the rare opportunity to witness baby turtles emerging from their nests and making their first journey toward the sea. This heartwarming sight is the highlight of the festival.

Community-Driven Conservation:
Organized by local residents in collaboration with the NGO Sahyadri Nisarg Mitra (SNM) and the Forest Department of Maharashtra, the festival is a model of successful community-driven wildlife conservation. The locals play a significant role in protecting turtle nests, raising awareness, and promoting eco-tourism.

Turtle Hatchling Releases: Scheduled early in the morning and during sunset to ensure a safe journey for the hatchlings.

Workshops and Awareness Programs: Events to educate visitors about the life cycle of turtles, the importance of conservation, and the role of the local community.

Village Life Experience: Visitors can stay in homestays, savor traditional Konkani food, and immerse themselves in the simple lifestyle of the villagers.

Eco-Tourism Activities: Explore the scenic beauty of Velas Beach, visit nearby attractions like Bankot Fort and Harihareshwar Temple, and enjoy the tranquility of the Konkan coast.

Velas Beach Resort

Velas Beach Resort is a charming and eco-friendly retreat located near the serene Velas Beach. Known for its peaceful ambiance, natural beauty, and proximity to the famous Olive Ridley turtle nesting sites, the resort offers a unique opportunity to experience rural Konkan life while enjoying modern comforts.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Stay:
The resort is designed with a focus on sustainability and eco-consciousness, ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding environment. Many of the resorts near Velas Beach are involved in conservation efforts for the Olive Ridley sea turtles, offering guests the chance to experience eco-tourism firsthand.

Proximity to Velas Beach:
Located just a short distance from Velas Beach, the resort offers easy access to the beach, allowing guests to enjoy the calm waters, golden sands, and beautiful sunsets. It’s also a great spot for turtle-watching during the nesting season, especially during the annual Turtle Festival.

Relaxing Atmosphere:
The resort is known for its tranquil setting, surrounded by lush greenery, making it an ideal place for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful retreat, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, and immerse themselves in nature.

Local Cuisine:
Guests can enjoy traditional Konkani cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, local delicacies, and other regional dishes. Many resorts near Velas offer meals prepared using locally sourced ingredients, adding to the authentic experience.

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Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Velas Beach Resort is during the Turtle Festival (February to March) when visitors can enjoy the hatching of Olive Ridley turtles, although the resort is a great destination year-round for those seeking peace and nature. Velas Beach Resort offers an ideal escape for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking to unwind in a beautiful coastal setting.

Velas Beach From Pune

Velas Beach: Journey from Pune

Velas Beach, located in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, is a popular eco-tourism destination about 175 kilometers from Pune. Known for its pristine coastline and the conservation efforts for Olive Ridley sea turtles, Velas Beach offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Distance: 175 km Route: The most common route is via Tamhini Ghat Road, which is scenic and passes through lush greenery and waterfalls.

Pune → Mulshi → Tamhini Ghat → Mangaon → Mhasala → Bankot → Velas

Roads are generally well-maintained, though some stretches near Velas may be narrower or uneven. A private vehicle or taxi is ideal for flexibility. The nearest railway station to the place is Khed, approximately 60 kilometers away. From Pune, take a train to Khed. From Khed, hire a taxi or take local transport to the place.