Velas Turtle Hatching Festival

Slow and steady wins the race!

Join us to witness the extremely delightful phenomenon of hatching an olive ridley turtle at the most beautiful and serene beach of Velas, Ratnagiri.

The experience is all about visiting the Turtle Village - Velas, being part of a phase where life begins, living the most peaceful Konkani village life, having mouth-watering Konkani food and exploring some unique places at Harihareshwar Beach.

About Turtle Hatching :

The extremely appreciative move taken by Government in association with villagers; led by local environmentalists. The early roots of this movement go back in 2002. Since around 18 years with continuous efforts and dedication Velas today converse one of the most unique breeds, observed in India named Olive Ridley Turtles.
These efforts lead to the increase in the population of these turtles which were on the verge of extinction from our country. Normally observed in the coastal areas of Maharashtra and Odisha, Olive Ridley Turtles can be considered as the National Turtle Breed of India. Let's come together to witness and appreciate these beautiful and amazing efforts and to be part of the turtle hatching Festival.

About Olive Ridley Turtles :

The olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), also known commonly as the Pacific ridley sea turtle, is a species of turtle in the family Cheloniidae. Growing to about 2 ft (61 cm) in carapace length (measured along the curve), the olive ridley sea turtle gets its common name from its olive-coloured carapace. Hatchlings are dark grey with a pale yolk scar, but appear all black when wet. The olive ridley sea turtle rarely weighs over 50 kg. Although these are the most abundant species of turtle it has seen that the population has decreased globally by 30%. The olive ridley is classified as vulnerable according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN).

Velas - Kasavanche Gaon (Turtle Village): An Eco Village.

A small, yet beautiful village located in the coastal area of Maharashtra in Ratnagiri District is now blessed with Turtles.
The village is very small but extremely welcoming and full of happy go lucky people. The major occupation being farming and tourism. A typical Konkani place with lots of mouth-watering dishes seafood and fruits like Kaju, Jackfruit, Mango and others. One can visit local Shankar temple, Bankot fort or just relax and have a chit chat with villagers in this amazing place.

If you are lucky you will witness fireflies and bioluminescence phenomenon happening in this village. Also don't forget to have mouthwatering local food like solkadhi, ukadiche modak, fanasache gare, kokam and other delicious food items along with seafood!