Velas Turtle Festival 2025 from Pune

Overview – What this tour is all about

The Velas Turtle Festival is an exciting event near Harihareshwar Beach, where visitors can watch baby Olive Ridley turtles hatch and make their way to the sea. Held in Velas village, Maharashtra, the festival celebrates and protects these turtles while giving people a chance to witness this incredible natural event.

During the festival, tiny turtles hatch on the beach, and volunteers guide them safely to the ocean. It’s a memorable experience for families, nature lovers, and anyone curious about wildlife. You can also join activities like nature walks, cultural shows, and talks on turtle conservation, which help you learn more about the local environment and traditions.

Velas Village offers a peaceful stay with simple, eco-friendly accommodations and traditional food. Nearby attractions like Harihareshwar Temple and Bankot Fort add more charm to the trip.

This festival isn’t just fun—it’s a way to help protect turtles and connect with nature. Whether you want a relaxing break or a learning adventure, the Velas Turtle Festival is a unique experience for everyone.

History and Importance of the Festival

The Velas Turtle Festival started in 2006 as a local effort to protect Olive Ridley sea turtles that come to Velas Beach in Maharashtra to lay eggs. The villagers, along with a group called Sahyadri Nisarga Mitra, worked together to guard turtle nests from harm caused by predators and human activities.

This festival helps spread awareness about turtle conservation and encourages eco-tourism in Velas Ratnagiri. Over time, it has become a favourite event for nature lovers, giving them the unique experience of seeing baby turtles hatch and make their way to the sea.

The best time to visit the Velas Turtle festival

The Velas Turtle Festival 2025 will happen between March and April, the perfect time to see baby turtles hatch at Velas Beach. The weather during this season is pleasant, making it an excellent time for a trip.

 Visitors can enjoy this special wildlife event and explore the scenic beauty of Velas and nearby places like Harihareshwar. Comfortable hotels and homestays are available in both Velas and Harihareshwar for a relaxing stay.

Why this tour is special

This tour gives you a rare and magical experience of watching baby turtles hatch and make their way to the sea. Unlike regular wildlife tours, the Velas Turtle Festival focuses on protecting turtles and promoting eco-tourism. 

You’ll learn about the life cycle of Olive Ridley turtles and take part in efforts to help conserve them, all while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of Velas.

What to do and see at the festival

During the Velas Turtle Festival, baby Olive Ridley turtles emerge from their nests and head toward the ocean. Fun activities like conservation talks and delicious local food are also available. 

You can explore the nearby village of Velas and visit attractions like Harihareshwar, which is famous for its beaches and temples. The weather during the festival is pleasant, making it an excellent time for sightseeing.

About olive ridley sea turtles

The Olive Ridley is a small marine turtle that’s endangered and famous for its unique nesting habit called “arribada,” where large groups of turtles lay their eggs at once. 

These turtles travel great distances to lay eggs on beaches like Velas. Protecting them is essential for the health of marine life, and the Velas Turtle Festival 2025 helps raise awareness and support their conservation.

Major Attractions:

• A typical village life on a calm sea beach
• A refreshing surrounding
• Baby Olive Ridley turtles
• Bankot Fort
• Harihareshwar Temple

Travel Schedule

We’ll be boarding A/C bus from our nearest pick-up point. Bus timings are shared below for convenience:

10:00 pm Shivaji Nagar
10:15 pm McDonald’s, Deccan
10:30 pm Chandani Chowk

Meeting Point: State Bank of Maharashtra, Shivaji Nagar 10:00 pm

Check our Mumbai Batches

www.mumbaipuneadventures.com/destination/velas-turtle-festival-tour-from-mumbai-pune

Itinerary

Day-Wise Itinerary for Velas Turtle Festival

Day 0

• 09:00 PM: Depart from Pune in an A/C bus. Pick-ups will be arranged at pre-decided locations based on participant preferences.

Day 1

• 05:45 AM: Reach Velas and head straight to Velas Beach to watch baby turtles hatch and make their way to the sea.
• 08:00 AM: Return to the village for breakfast and take a short break.
• 11:00 AM: Visit Bankot Fort / Himmatgad for scenic sea views and Bankot Creek views.
• 01:00 PM: Enjoy a tasty lunch.
• 03:00 PM: Explore the scenic beauty of Velas village.
• 06:00 PM: Go back to the beach for the evening turtle release and some fun by the sea.
• 08:30 PM: Have dinner, play games, and rest for the night.

Day 2

• 06:00 AM: Another visit to Velas Beach to witness more turtle releases.
• 08:30 AM: Breakfast and some free time to explore Velas village.
• 10:00 AM: Take the ferry from Bankot to Bagmandla and head to Harihareshwar.
• 12:05 PM: Visit Harihareshwar Beach.
• 02:00 PM: Lunch at Harihareshwar, followed by the return journey to Pune.
• 08:00 PM: Reach Pune and bid farewell, hoping to meet again

Event Fee:

• 3600/- per person. Please check availability before making the payment.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Cost Includes

The event fee covers:

• A/C bus travel from Pune
• Homestay accommodation in Velas
• Day 1: Breakfasts, lunch, and dinner at the village
• Day 2: Breakfast and lunch
• Ferryboat charges
• Entry tickets and Local guide services
• Basic first aid and assistance, if needed
• Administrative charges by Mumbai Pune Adventures

Make sure to read our terms and conditions before registering.

Cost Excludes

The event fee does not cover the following:

• Extra meals, snacks, or soft drinks ordered separately
• Insurance, tips, or porter services
• Mineral water, aerated drinks, or other beverages
• Personal expenses of any kind
• Costs not mentioned in the “What’s Included” section
• Additional expenses due to unexpected situations like roadblocks or terrible weathe

Payment Details

You can make payments using any of the following modes
UPI: 9967564888@upi
Google Pay: 9967564888
Paytm: 9967564888
Phone Pay: 9967564888

NEFT: Deposit the Amount into the Following Account:
Name: Mumbai Pune Adventures
Bank: Central Bank of India
Account: Current Account
A/c No. : 3601915663
IFSC Code: CBIN0284592

For detailed payment terms and conditions, please refer to our Payment Policy on the Mumbai Pune Adventures website.

Things to Carry

• Identity proof
• Snacks like plum cakes, fruits, chocolates, biscuits, etc.
• Comfortable shoes and sandals.
• An extra set of clothes and socks (optional).
• A cap and camera (optional).
• A packet of Electral, Enerzal, or Glucon-D for hydration.
• Mosquito repellent cream
• Any personal medications you may need.
• Avoid wearing valuable jewelry or accessories to the event, if possible.

Safety tips for the tour

1. Follow Instructions: Always listen to your guide and follow their instructions during the trip.
2. Be Careful on the Beach: Stay safe from turtle nests and avoid disturbing the turtles.
3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and carry energy drinks like Electral or Glucon-D to stay energized.
4. Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes suitable for walking.
5. Keep Essentials Handy: Carry personal medications, snacks, and other vital items in a small bag.
6. Avoid Valuables: Do not wear expensive jewelry or carry valuable items to avoid loss.
7. Travel Safely: Stay seated while the bus moves and follow all travel guidelines.
8. Protect Yourself: Use sunscreen and wear a cap to protect yourself from the sun.
9. Be Aware: Stay alert in crowded areas and look for your belongings.
10. Respect Nature: Do not litter or harm the environment; always follow eco-friendly practices.

Important Notes for Participants

1. Bring Your ID Card: Carry a valid ID card for safety and verification.
2. Fill out the Disclaimer Form: Participants must complete an online disclaimer form accurately after payment. If details need to be corrected, the event host may ask you to refill it.
3. Parental Consent for Minors: Participants under 16 must have parental consent.
4. Be Punctual: Avoid delays to prevent inconvenience for others and ensure the schedule runs smoothly.
5. Schedule Changes: Participants will be informed in advance if the itinerary is modified or the event is canceled due to unpredictable circumstances.
6. Weather Changes: If the weather takes an unexpected turn, the organizer may withdraw or adjust the event plan.
7. Homestay Accommodation: Only homestay accommodation will be shared with other participants.
8. Personal Expenses: The participant is responsible for personal expenses during the trek or travel breaks.
9. Flexible Timings: The schedule may shift due to unexpected conditions, except for the start time, which will remain fixed.
10. Prohibited Substances: Alcohol, smoking, or any form of intoxication is strictly banned.
11. No Misconduct: Misbehavior will not be tolerated and may result in expulsion from the event.
12. Avoid Littering: Keep the event clean. Do not litter, especially plastic waste.
13. Basic Facilities Only: Village homestays will have basic and clean washrooms.
14. Team Spirit: Maintain discipline, cooperate, and work as a team during the event.
15. Avoid Valuables: Avoid wearing or bringing expensive accessories or jewelry.
16. Safety First: Safety is our top priority, but we are not liable for severe injuries or rare, deadly events.
17. Refund Policy: Check our website for details on cancellations and refunds.

By following these guidelines, we can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone!

How to reach Velas?

From Pune:

• Join a guided tour with an A/C bus from popular pick-up points in Pune. The distance to Velas is about 190 km.

By Train:

• Take a train to Mangaon, the closest railway station. From there, hire a taxi or hop on a local bus to Velas.

By Bus:

• State-run buses operate from Pune to Velas via Ratnagiri.

The journey offers a scenic drive through the lush Konkan region, making your trip as enjoyable as the destination!

Why choose Mumbai Pune Adventures for this tour?

• We take care of everything from your travel to your stay so you can relax and enjoy your holiday without any worries.
• Friendly Guides: Our guides are experienced and will make your trip safe, fun, and informative, sharing cool facts about the turtles and local life.
• Comfortable Travel: Travel in an air-conditioned bus for a smooth and relaxing journey to Velas.
• Authentic Local Experience: Explore charming villages, visit historical spots, and delicious traditional food.
• Safety First: Your safety is our priority, with first aid assistance and well-organized plans in place.
• Budget-Friendly: Enjoy an all-inclusive tour with no hidden costs, giving you great value for your money.
• Eco-Friendly: We support eco-tourism and conservation, so your trip is not only fun but also responsible.

Join Mumbai Pune Adventures for an unforgettable, safe, and meaningful Velas Turtle Festival 2025 tour!

FAQ

• When can we see turtles at Velas Beach? 

• You can spot turtles at Velas Beach from February to April, which is the nesting and hatching season.

• What is the Turtle Festival about?  

• The Turtle Festival is about protecting sea turtles. It lets people watch baby turtles hatch and go to the sea.

• Why is Velas Beach well-known? 

• Velas Beach is known for the annual Turtle Festival, where Olive Ridley turtles hatch and head towards the sea.

• When is the best time to visit Velas Beach to see turtles? 

• The best time to visit is between February and April when turtles nest and hatch.

• How to reach the Velas Turtle Festival from Pune?

• To get to the Velas Turtle Festival, you can take a bus or drive from Pune to Velas village in Ratnagiri district, which is around 200 km away.

• Is MPA known for offering unique experiences? 

• Yes, MPA offers special trips that take you to less-known, interesting places for a unique travel experience.

• Does MPA offer group tours or only private experiences?  

• MPA offers both group tours and private trips, so you can choose what suits your travel style.

• How does MPA ensure safety during its adventures? 

• MPA prioritizes safety by providing experienced guides, using good equipment, and following safety rules during every tour.

• Is MPA known for offering unique experiences? 

• Yes, MPA offers memorable adventures that take travelers to hidden gems and offbeat places.

• How is the mobile network signal in Velas Village?

• In Velas Village, mobile signal is available only in certain areas, and Idea SIM cards work well there. However, power outages can happen, so it’s a good idea to bring a power bank. Meanwhile, Bankot Fort and Harihareshwar Beach have better mobile network coverage.

• If there are not enough turtles or none at all, will we get a refund? And if there are more turtles than expected, will we have to pay extra?

• Events based on natural events, like the Velas Turtle Festival, turtle hatching, snowfall, rain, flower blooming, or cloud formations, are unpredictable. We recommend booking these events only if you’re okay with the uncertainty. We can’t guarantee that these natural phenomena will happen, and they are not part of the event charges.

• What is the minimum age to attend the Velas Turtle Festival?

• The minimum age to attend the Velas Turtle Festival is generally 7 years old, but it depends on the specific guidelines set by the event organizers. Please confirm with them the exact requirements.

• Is the festival suitable for children and families?

• It’s a great chance for kids to learn about wildlife conservation. Every year, many parents bring their children to the Velas Turtle Festival.

• What types of places to stay are available at Velas?

• In Velas, the villagers offer their homes for participants to stay overnight. The homes typically have a large room or hall where everyone sleeps together. Depending on the size of the room, it may accommodate 6-10 people or 12-16 people, based on the layout of the house.

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