Velas Turtle Festival by Mumbai Travel Club

Join the Mumbai Travel Club for the Velas Turtle Festival Tour. Witness newborn Olive Ridley turtles take their first steps toward the ocean in this heart-warming wildlife experience.

Quick Glance Details

Suitable for: Nature lovers, families, photographers, and solo travelers

Travel: Private AC Bus (Pickups from Borivali, Sion, Vashi, and Panvel)

Location: Velas Village, Ratnagiri (Konkan Coast)

Overview

The Velas Turtle Festival is a dedicated conservation event where you can watch tiny hatchlings emerge from their nests and crawl toward the Arabian Sea. This trip isn't just about the turtles; it’s a complete Konkan experience. You will stay in traditional village homestays, enjoy authentic local food, and visit historic landmarks nearby. It is a slow-paced, eco-friendly trip designed to connect you with nature and the local community-led conservation efforts.

Itinerary

Day 0: Friday Night Departure

09:00 PM: Board the bus at Borivali (National Park Gate).

10:00 PM: Pickup at Sion.

10:30 PM: Pickup at Vashi.

11:00 PM: Pickup at Kalamboli (McD), Panvel. Overnight journey to Velas.

Day 1: Saturday – Turtle Sighting & Fort Visit

05:30 AM: Reach Velas village and freshen up.

06:30 AM: Head to the beach for the first turtle hatching session.

09:00 AM: Enjoy a traditional Konkani breakfast at the homestay.

11:00 AM: Visit Bankot Fort for a panoramic view of the coastline and Savitri River.

01:30 PM: Authentic Veg Lunch (typical Konkani style).

03:00 PM: Rest and relax at the homestay.

05:30 PM: Evening visit to Velas Beach for the second sighting and sunset.

08:30 PM: Dinner followed by a group session or documentary on turtles.

Day 2: Sunday – Harihareshwar & Return

06:00 AM: Final morning visit to the beach for turtle release.

09:00 AM: Breakfast and check-out from the homestay.

10:00 AM: Experience a ferry ride from Bankot to Bagmandla.

11:30 AM: Visit the ancient Harihareshwar Temple and Beach.

01:30 PM: Lunch at Harihareshwar.

03:00 PM: Start the return journey toward Mumbai.

10:00 PM: Reach Mumbai (tentative).

Route & Highlights

Velas Beach: The primary site for Olive Ridley turtle conservation and hatchling release.

Bankot Fort: A historic site offering views of the Bankot creek and the sea.

Harihareshwar: Known as the "Kashi of the South," featuring a beautiful temple and rocky beach.

Ferry Ride: A unique experience of crossing the creek with our vehicle on a jetty.

Inclusions

Transport: AC Seater Bus travel from Mumbai to Mumbai.

Stay: Traditional Konkani Homestay (Dormitory/Sharing basis).

Meals: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, and 1 Dinner (Veg/Non-Veg options).

Entry: Ferry charges, forest entry fees, and parking.

Guide: Local expert and Mumbai Travel Club coordinator.

Things to Carry

Identity Proof: Original ID card (Mandatory).

Clothing: Extra pair of clothes, towel, and comfortable footwear.

Toiletries: Personal kit (Soap, toothbrush, etc.) and mosquito repellent.

Sun Protection: Cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Electronics: Power bank and camera (optional).

Water: At least 2 liters of water to stay hydrated.

Important Notes

Natural Process: Turtle hatching is a natural event; sightings are not guaranteed but we visit during peak times to increase chances.

Basic Facilities: Velas is an eco-village; homestays are simple and clean but do not expect luxury or AC rooms.

Eco-Rules: Do not litter. Handling the turtles or using flash photography near them is strictly prohibited.

Washrooms: Toilets at homestays are common but clean (Indian/Western mix).