Velas Turtle Festival with Harihareshwar

Velas Turtle Festival offers a truly remarkable experience, allowing visitors to witness the extraordinary journey of Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings as they make their way from the sandy shores of Velas beach to the vast expanse of the Arabian Sea. This enchanting spectacle is not just a visual delight but also a vital part of the conservation efforts aimed at protecting these magnificent creatures. Velas beach has earned its reputation as a significant nesting site for Olive Ridley turtles, which are classified as an endangered species. The beach’s pristine environment and dedicated conservation initiatives have made it a sanctuary for these turtles, providing them with a safe haven to lay their eggs and nurture their young.

The turtle conservation project initiated by the organization SNM (Save Nature Movement) in the coastal region of Maharashtra, particularly in Velas, has proven to be a resounding success. This initiative has not only focused on safeguarding a substantial number of turtle nests but has also facilitated the release of thousands of hatchlings into the sea, significantly contributing to the revival of the Olive Ridley turtle population. These turtles face numerous threats, including pollution, climate change, and various human activities that disrupt their natural habitats. By actively engaging in conservation efforts, the project aims to mitigate these threats and ensure a more sustainable future for the Olive Ridley turtles, thereby enhancing biodiversity in the region.

In addition to the awe-inspiring sight of turtle hatchlings making their way to the ocean, Velas and its surrounding areas offer a plethora of other fascinating attractions worth exploring. One of the prominent landmarks is the historic Bankot Fort, which stands as a testament to the region’s rich heritage. This fort not only provides a glimpse into the past but also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the Arabian Sea, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation. Furthermore, the nearby Harihareshwar temple is a renowned pilgrimage site, famous for its unique Pradakshina route. This circumambulation path around the temple allows devotees and visitors alike to engage in a spiritual journey while enjoying the serene ambiance of the temple complex.

For those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture, opting for a homestay in Velas presents an excellent opportunity. Staying with local families provides a unique glimpse into the everyday lives of the residents, allowing visitors to experience authentic homemade cuisine that reflects the culinary traditions of the region. Guests can savor a variety of dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and partake in communal meals that foster a sense of connection and community. Interacting with the locals not only enriches the travel experience but also offers valuable insights into their customs, traditions, and the ongoing efforts to protect the Olive Ridley turtles and their habitat. This holistic approach to tourism not only supports conservation efforts but also promotes sustainable practices in the region, ensuring that both nature and culture thrive for generations to come.

Highlights:

Three visits to the Turtle Hatching area.

Experience Homestay.

Bankot fort.

Ferry crossing.

Harihareshwar pradakshina route.

Konkan Homemade food.

Itinerary:

DAY 0:

Depart by hired AC vehicle from Dadar East, Mumbai at 11:00 PM with pickup points at Chembur, Vashi, & Panvel. ( exact locations will be shared with the registered participants)

DAY 1:

Reach Velas village – 05:30AM.

Fresh up – 30 minutes.

Event briefing & Introduction.

Reach Velas nesting area.

Witness turtles hatchlings making their way into the sea – 2 hours.

Breakfast at villagers home – 45 minutes.

Travel to Bankot fort – 15 min.

Explore Bankot fort – 45 min.

Travel to Velas homestay – 15 min.

Lunch break at villagers house – 1 hour.

Allocate sharing accommodation at Velas Homestay.

Relax time till evening.

Visit the Velas turtle nesting area in the evening.

Dinner break – 1 hour

Rest for the day at homestay

Day 2:

Wakeup call – 05:30 AM

Fresh up at homestay – 30 minutes.

Visit to Velas turtle nesting area – 2 hours.

Breakfast at homestay – 45 minutes.

Travel to Harihareshwar by vehicle- 1 ½ hours.

Harihareshwar Pradakshina Marg- 1 hour.

Lunch break – 1 hour.

Return journey to Mumbai – 6 hours.

Price: ₹3600

Included

Travel from Mumbai by AC Luxury seater Bus

Breakfast, Veg Lunch, evening hi tea, Veg Dinner on Day 1, Breakfast on Day 2

Sharing basis Homestay at Velas.

Forest Fee, permits.

Ferry crossing at Harihareshwar.

Excluded

Snacks break during travelling.

Any Personel expense

Non-Veg Meals at Homestay

Get a group discount for parties of more than 5; see the tickets for details.

Registration Process:

Step 1: Book Your Seat

Visit the event website and book your seat by completing the registration process. ( Refer to the Manual Payment if you want to pay using UPI/NEFT).

Step 2: Fill Mandatory Disclaimer Form

After payment confirmation, participants will receive a participation disclaimer form.

Fill up the form accurately to provide necessary information.

Compliance with the disclaimer is mandatory for participation.

Step 3: WhatsApp Group Creation

A WhatsApp group will be created in the evening on the day of the departure.

All registered participants will be added to the group.

This group serves as a platform for communication, updates, and coordination among participants.