Konkan · 2D/1N · Easy

Velas Turtle Festival

Overview

Velas is a small, unspoiled Konkan coastal village in Ratnagiri district that becomes the focal point of Maharashtra's sea turtle conservation season each hatching season. Local villagers, organised as turtle-protection volunteers, patrol the beach through the nesting months to guard Olive Ridley turtle nests from predators, relocating eggs into a protected hatchery on the beach. Visitors stay in village homestays and gather at dawn or dusk to watch newly hatched turtles make their short, closely supervised crawl into the sea, alongside exhibits on the village's community-led conservation work. This is as much a cultural homestay experience as it is a wildlife one.

Based in Konkan, this easy 2-day trek is best attempted during February, March, April — when the trail and surroundings are at their most rewarding.

2 Days

Duration

Sea level

Max Altitude

Easy

Difficulty

February

Best Season

Pricing

Starting from ₹3,499 per person. Prices vary by departure city.

Departure City

Departure Dates

Starting from

₹3,499 / person

Departure Date: 5 Mar 2027

Departure City: Mumbai

Travelers

Total₹3,499

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Cancellation policy: Cancellation & Refund Policy

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Day-wise Itinerary

Arrive at your homestay in Velas, settle in, and take an evening walk through the village and along the beach to learn about the local turtle-protection effort from the volunteers.

Trip Highlights

✓Guided release of Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings into the sea
✓Stay in a local Konkan village homestay
✓Visit to the protected hatchery and conservation exhibits
✓Quiet, uncrowded stretch of Konkan coastline
✓Authentic Konkani meals prepared by the host family

Gallery

Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions

✓Homestay accommodation (1 night)
✓Dinner (night 1) and breakfast (day 2)
✓Guided hatchery visit and turtle release (subject to hatching activity)
✓Local village guide

Exclusions

✕Transport to/from Velas
✕Lunch on both days
✕Personal expenses

Things to Carry

Torch or headlamp (for dawn/dusk beach visits)Light warm layer for early morningsComfortable sandals or walking shoesReusable water bottleCamera (no flash for turtle viewing)

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Velas for the turtle festival?

The turtle hatching season runs from February to April, with peak activity typically in March. Hatchling releases happen at dawn or dusk depending on the day's conditions, and sightings depend on natural hatching activity — nothing can be guaranteed on a specific date.

Can I touch or handle the turtle hatchlings?

No. Touching the hatchlings is strictly prohibited as it can harm them. The release is a guided, supervised process where volunteers place the hatchlings on the sand and let them crawl into the sea naturally. You watch from a designated distance.

What kind of accommodation is provided?

You stay in a local village homestay — clean, basic rooms with a attached or common bathroom. The homestays are run by families involved in the conservation effort, and the meals are home-cooked Konkani food. It is not a hotel experience, which is part of the charm.

How do I reach Velas?

Velas is about a 6-7 hour drive from Mumbai (via the Mumbai-Goa highway). The nearest railway station is Khed (about 40 km away), from where you can take a local bus or shared taxi. We can assist with carpool coordination if you are travelling solo.

Is this trip suitable for children?

Absolutely. The turtle release is a magical experience for kids, and the beach and village environment is safe and engaging for children aged 5 and above. The homestay atmosphere is family-friendly.