Velas Turtle Festival 2023

Overview of the Velas Turtle Festival in Ratnagiri

The sleepy little village of Velas in Maharashtra’s Konkan belt swarms with visitors in March for the ‘Velas turtle festival,’ an annual event dedicated to the conservation of Olive Ridley turtles. The Velas turtle festival, held at Ratnagiri’s Velas beach, 210 kilometers from Mumbai and 200 kilometers from Pune, has grown in popularity in the eco-tourism sector both nationally and internationally. While turtle egg conservation activities take place on the beach, the residents of the pristine coastal village offer visitors a variety of exciting local activities and culinary experiences, transforming the festival into a memorable multi-day event.

The laying of eggs usually begins in February, and the process of turtles coming to the beach to hatch their eggs lasts until April. The festival, which is primarily a sea turtle conservation event and a celebration of the natural process of breeding, has no set dates. The activities and tourist influx, on the other hand, are at their peak in March and April.

Where is the Festival Held?

The Velas Turtle Festival is held at the beach of Velas in Ratnagiri, 210 km from Mumbai.

Velas Turtle Festival 2023 is happening from March 1 to April 9, 2023. It will be an everyday event. And the release of the turtles happens twice a day, once in the morning at 6 am, and once in the evening at 5 pm.

The Velas turtle festival is one of India’s most celebrated eco-festivals, attracting tourists, travelers, and volunteers from all over the world. Some come to care for the tiny turtle hatchlings, others to photograph the little two-legged creatures crawling their way to the ocean, and still others to enjoy the relaxing eco-tourism experience by the beach!

It is a memorable experience for visitors, allowing them to enjoy their time while also giving back to society and mother nature. The festival’s arrival has resulted in the economic upliftment of the villages surrounding Velas beach, and, unsurprisingly, the number of sea turtles has increased inexorably.

A turtle festival experience is also ideal for children. This festival is a welcome break from the digital universe of tablets and cell phones for the young, who are otherwise buried in the digital universe of tablets and cell phones.

Where to stay?

Green Cliff Homestay offers offer a more personal and immersive accommodation experience, and comfortable place to stay close to the festival events and activities. Check out our homestay options below: