- Turtle Nesting and Observation
- Guided Turtle-Watching Tours
- Bankot Fort
- Harihareshwar Temple
- Cultural Programs and Local Cuisine
- Community Engagement and Sustainable Tourism Initiatives
What is included in the tour
- Private Transportation from Pune to Pune
- Accommodation on multi-sharing basis in typical konkani homestay - Dormitary
- All meals (1 Dinners, 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches)
- Entry charges, permits & India Administration Charges if any
- Ferryboat Charges
What is NOT included in the tour
- Non-Veg Food
- Dinner on Friday Night & Sunday not included
- Anything not included in the what's included list.
- Any kind of Extra Meal/Soft Drinks ordered
- Any kind of Personal Expenses (Camera Fees)
The Velas Turtle Festival is an annual event held in Velas, a coastal village in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, India. The festival primarily focuses on the conservation of Olive Ridley turtles, a species of sea turtles that visit the shores of Velas for nesting. Typically taking place during the nesting season, which occurs between November and March, the Velas Turtle Festival attracts nature enthusiasts, tourists, and conservationists from various parts of the country. The Olive Ridley turtles are known for their synchronized nesting behavior, where several females come ashore at the same time to lay eggs. The festival aims to create awareness about the importance of sea turtle conservation and educate the public on the protection of these endangered species.
Visitors to the Velas Turtle Festival often get the opportunity to witness the nesting process, as well as the release of hatchlings into the sea. Local communities actively participate in organizing the event, and efforts are made to promote eco-friendly practices and sustainable tourism. Conservation workshops, guided turtle-watching sessions, and cultural programs are typically part of the festival, providing a holistic experience for participants.
Pickup locations from Pune:
- 08:00 PM: Novotel Hotel, Viman Nagar
Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ooiRmYvZeR8iL1ju5
- 08:30 PM: J.M. Corner, JM Road
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/AiFcddEyN29LNTjs6
- 09:00 PM: Bremen Chouk, Aundh
Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rQVD6gJyRMdMFLFYA
- 09:20 pm - Chandni chowk
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/WohdU94v34t8LbRP8
- 09:35 pm - Pick up at Wakad bridge
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/z4hEjPnA6gQiSeqA7
- 09:40 pm - Pick up at Hinjewadi chowk
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/XGThDv8LtgGzVCM99
- 09:50 pm - Pick up at Pirangut chow, Hinjewadi phase 3
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/jdajrUqLFm539wqe7
Day 1:
- 06:00 AM – Early morning arrival at Velas Village.
- 07:00 AM – Visit Velas Beach for turtle sighting.
- 08:30 AM – Breakfast.
- 10:30 AM – Explore Bankot Fort.
- 01:00 PM – Lunch followed by rest.
- 05:00 PM – Evening visit to Velas Beach for another turtle sighting.
- 08:00 PM – Dinner and overnight rest.
Day 2:
- 06:00 AM – Morning visit to Velas Beach for turtle sighting.
- 08:00 AM – Breakfast.
- 10:30 AM – Depart for Harihareshwar Temple.
- 01:00 PM – Lunch (Vegetarian).
- 02:30 PM – Departure for Pune from Harihareshwar.
- 11:00 PM – Approximate arrival at Pune.
Note: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather conditions, traffic, or other unforeseen circumstances. This itinerary can be customizable based on your preferences and the availability of activities for private batches. Also, it's important to follow safety guidelines and respect the environment while exploring the wilderness
Things To Carry :
✓ Things packed in a good rucksack, heavy rains are expected in the monsoon, so pack your things properly.
✓ Raincoat / Poncho / Wind cheater (Avoid umbrella only for monsoon)
✓ Complete spare set of extra clothes, raincoat, lightweight jacket & socks if required
✓ Water bottle (1-2 liters)
✓ Personal Medicines if any
✓ Wear comfortable clothes during treks (full sleeves recommended)
✓ Good trekking/sports shoes (chappals, sandals, floaters not permitted during the trek)
✓ Power Bank for mobile charging, as many places, don't have an electricity connection
✓ Torch Light for Night Treks/events
✓ Identity proof (must)
✓ Personal hygiene kit.
✓ Light Snacks - Dry fruits, chocolate, fruits biscuits.
Rules And Regulations:
- Alcohol, Smoking, or any intoxicant is strictly prohibited during the trek. If found participant will be terminated on the spot
- Throwing garbage on trails is strictly not allowed.
- Playing loud music in the mountains/Forest is prohibited.
- Trek Leader's decisions on any particular situation will be final for the mutual benefit of the participants.
- During the monsoon season and various rock patches on the trek route, we recommend you to please take care while walking/climbing/trekking.
- If the behavior of any trekker is likely to cause distress or harm to themselves, our member of staff or other team members, reserve the right to terminate their trip at any time and they will have to make their arrangements; we will not be liable for any expenses incurred as a result. We will not entertain any claims arising due to such action.
- In case of any injuries/illness on a mountain/river/waterfall during a trip/activity, Adventure Club Pune as a company or our local staff will not be responsible. We provide adequate human staff support in these areas to ensure the basic safety of the trekker. The participants must bear all the expenses that may arise in case of medical necessity or emergency conditions.
- Wearing any valuables, ornaments, jewelry, etc. is prohibited.
- You should strictly follow the code of conduct, to avoid troubling our fellow trekkers or other people from our group or outside.
