Dedicated to the conservation of Olive Ridley sea turtles, Velas Turtle Festival 2024 serves as a poignant tribute to these majestic creatures, which journey to the shores of Velas to nest. Recognized as critically endangered, the preservation of these turtles holds paramount importance in the realm of biodiversity conservation.
The Velas Turtle Festival stands as a cherished annual tradition nestled in the scenic village of Velas within Maharashtra’s Ratnagiri district, India. This remarkable event is orchestrated by the Sahyadri Nisarga Mitra, a dedicated non-profit organization committed to safeguarding marine life and nurturing environmental conservation efforts.
Spanning across 2 months, the festival offers a diverse array of activities aimed at fostering awareness and action towards turtle conservation. These include immersive beach clean-up initiatives, enlightening lectures, and interactive workshops centered around turtle protection and habitat preservation. Guided tours to the turtle nesting sites provide visitors with invaluable insights into the turtles’ natural habitat and nesting behaviors.
A highlight of the festival is the opportunity for visitors to actively participate in the release of hatchlings into the vast expanse of the sea. Witnessing the mesmerizing journey of these tiny creatures as they embark on their maiden voyage into the ocean serves as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility towards marine conservation.
Where is the Festival Held?
The Velas Turtle Festival is held at the beach of Velas in Ratnagiri, 210 km from Mumbai.
Are there any Entry fees?
Please check with the local tourism authority for information on the entry fees.
When is the festival happening?
Velas Turtle Festival 2024 is happening from March to mid-April, 2024. 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.
A cherished tradition at the festival is the time-honored “piti-piti” ceremony, a symbolic ritual deeply ingrained in the local culture. During this revered ceremony, villagers cradle the newborn turtle hatchlings in traditional earthen pots, escorting them to the embrace of the ocean with utmost reverence. Rooted in tradition, this ceremony is believed to bestow blessings upon the community, symbolizing harmony with nature and the cycle of life.
Beyond the turtle-centric activities, the festival offers a vibrant tapestry of cultural festivities, featuring captivating performances, spirited sports competitions, and an array of tantalizing food stalls showcasing the flavors of the region.
The Velas Turtle Festival serves as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the locale, serving as a platform to illuminate the importance of turtle conservation and environmental stewardship. Drawing in crowds from across the globe, this annual gathering serves as a nexus for cultural exchange and environmental advocacy. It stands not only as a significant event in the village of Velas but also as an unforgettable cultural odyssey for all who partake in its splendor.
Please be advised that the content presented in this article serves exclusively for educational purposes, drawing from previous festival occurrences. For the latest and most accurate updates, we strongly recommend consulting the official authorities of the local turtle festival.
Know More on Velas Turtle Festival:
Olive Ridley turtles were classified as ‘endangered’, prompting the collaboration of Sahyadri Nisarga Mitra (SNM), a nonprofit organization, alongside the Marine Conservation Society and the local community, to initiate conservation efforts for this remarkable species.
In the months of February, March, and April, a significant influx of Olive Ridley turtles graces the western coastline of Maharashtra, with a notable 40% choosing the shores of Velas for nesting. Arriving under the veil of night, each female turtle delicately deposits a clutch of 80-120 eggs, safeguarded thereafter by vigilant volunteers against the threats posed by predators and poachers.
Previously, these precious eggs faced the risk of being traded in open markets or consumed by roaming dogs. However, through dedicated conservation endeavors, the Olive Ridley population has witnessed a substantial resurgence. Volunteers carefully relocate the eggs to secure nests in the sandy shores, where, after an incubation period of 40 days, hatchlings emerge, commencing their journey to the vast expanse of the ocean.
The sight of hundreds of hatchlings embarking on their maiden voyage into the ocean is a spectacle of unparalleled beauty, drawing nature enthusiasts, first-time visitors, and photography enthusiasts alike. This awe-inspiring event unfolds twice daily, against the backdrop of the radiant sunrise, casting a magical allure over the coastal landscape.
Complementing this natural marvel is the enchanting eco-village experience, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the warmth of local hospitality by staying in the homes of coastal villagers and engaging in authentic cultural exchanges.
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- The nearest airports are Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport and Pune International Airport.
- Veer, Mangaon, and Khed are the closest rail station to Velas. From these stations to Velas, buses and taxis are available, and the journey takes about 2 hours.
- Velas can be reached by car via the Mumbai-Goa highway NH-17. The journey from Mumbai to the village takes about 5 hours. It is 210 kilometers from Mumbai and 200 kilometers from Pune.
- Buses to Velas depart from Mumbai, Panvel, and Pune.
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A 2-3 day itinerary is ideal for those who want to witness the entire process of turtle breeding, hatching, and release into the sea, as well as enjoy the eco-tourism activities offered by the village community.
Visit the beach in the early mornings or late evenings to see baby turtles taking their first steps into the ocean. The hours are 7 a.m. to 7.30 a.m. and 6 p.m. to 6.30 p.m.
You can enjoy authentic Konkani meals at Green Cliff Homestay; the small village is well known for its fresh and delectable coastal preparations. One can eat organic, local fruits, interact with locals, and relax in a tranquil setting. For city visitors, the experience of a peaceful rural lifestyle is a memorable part of the trip.
Several multi-day packages for the ‘Velas Turtle Festival’ are available from travel agents and tour guides. The Sahyadri Nisarga Mitra NGO offers volunteering opportunities for one week or more.
There are several places in Velas that visitors should see.
- Bankot Fort is an important site in Ratnagiri because of its history and breathtaking view of Velas beach. The fort is reached via a trail that begins on a hill west of the nearby Bankot village. It is made of Lateritic rocks and has breathtaking views of the sea.
- Take a stroll along Velas Beach to take in the breathtaking sunset view.
- Two beautiful beaches to visit during the trip are Harihareshwar and Shrivardhan.
Where to Stay?
Visitors can stay at Green Cliff Homestays, 3 mins walk from the eco-village of Velas. At affordable rates, simple no-frills Konkani style beachfront ocean view rooms are available for accommodation. The accommodations are typically simple, homey dormitory-style rooms.
Accommodations
Rising more than 50 feet on a hill with the spectacular beachfront vista and the best experience to catch the majestic sunset by the beach.
Campground
Unplug and savour the great outdoors for an ultimate spellbinding adventure to connect and be one with nature.
Ecotourism
Come across a one-of-a-kind annual festival for turtles* and immerse yourself in a natural retreat through Velas’s fragile and undisturbed nature.