ESSENTIALS : ID Proof, Water Bottle, Power Backup, Wallet, Backpack. 

CLOTHING : Full sleeve shirt/top & full pants for Trek, Extra pair of Clothes as per need, Raincoat /Jacket / Sweater, Trekking shoes, Quick Dry Towel, Cap.

ADDITIONALS : Energy Drinks/Supplements, Dry Snacks, Facewash, Sunscreen, Brush & Toothpaste, Sunglasses, Hankerchief, Gloves, Camera, Torch, Personal medicines if any, etc.

• Step 1: Scroll down & tap on "BOOK NOW"
• Step 2 : Select your departure date from the calendar and proceed.
• Step 3 : Select your ticket type & no. of participants. (At this step you can use the coupon code if you have any)
• Step 4 : Fill your details and proceed.
• Step 5 : Tap on review & Payment to select your payment type (UPI, Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking) and proceed.
• Step 6 : Once your tickets are booked, you will receive confirmation mail. WhatsApp us the booking ID details on  8799856476 & fill the google registration form.  

OR 

• Step 1 : Make Payment on PhonePay/Google Pay   8799856476 (Maharashtra Gadkille)
• Step 2 : Send a screenshot of the payment on WhatsApp number  8799856476 for confirmation.
• Step 3 : Fill the registration form for the final booking procedure.

• 10:00 PM : Ch. Shivaji Nagar in Front of Bank of Maharashtra 
• 10:30 PM : Aundh
• 10:45 PM : Wakad Bridge
• 11:00 PM :  Hinjewadi Chowk

• Please confirm on call about the seats availability before paying.
• Kindly note that incase of no sighting zero refund is applicable as hatching is a natural phenomenon and Maharashtra Gadkille does not hold any control on the same.
• Once the payment is completed, inform our team via sharing a screenshot/copy of the payment confirmation. Make sure the date, time, and UTR number are visible in the copy and please fill the registration form to confirm your seats, names & age with the team.
• Do note that your registration will be confirmed only after the acceptance of complete trek/tour charges.
• Please note that the advance amount paid would not not refunded in any case, except if the trek/tour departure is cancelled by us. Do check cancellation policy in case any refunds or cancellations.
• First two seats will always be reserved for leaders to lead & show route to the driver. 
• Seats arrangement will be on first come first serve basis at the time of pickup and it will be same throughout journey. (Any disputes regarding seating arrangement would result in dismissal of both the parties and would not be liable for any refunds.) 
• Please make sure you are added in the whatsapp group 6-8 hours prior to the trip as all the pickup & lead details would be shared in the group. 
• Food and Stay arrangements are done as per the availability of the locations so kindly don't expect too luxurious. 
• Backpacking trips are arranged for the people who are looking out for pocket friendly trips and are more about chasing experiences. 
• We need at least 12-14 Travellers to manage our Trip, so our team reserves all the rights to cancel the Trip if the minimum batch size is not enough.
• Your payment implies that you have read & complied with all our terms and conditions.

https://www.maharashtragadkille.com/cancellation-policy

About Olive Ridley Turtles

• The Olive Ridley turtles were classified as 'endangered' long ago. In 1992, Sahyadri Nisarga Mitra (SNM), a non-profit organization, collaborated with the Marine Conservation Society and the local community to dedicate efforts towards conserving this unique turtle species.
• Primarily during February and March, numerous Olive Ridleys migrate to the western coast of Maharashtra to lay eggs, with 40% choosing the Velas beach. Arriving late at night, each female deposits around 80-120 eggs, which dedicated volunteers protect from predators and poachers.
• Previously, eggs were sold in markets or destroyed by dogs, but conservation endeavors have led to a notable increase in the Ridley population. Volunteers carefully relocate the eggs to safer nests in the sand. After an incubation period of 40 days, the hatchlings emerge and embark on their journey to the ocean.
• The release of hundreds of turtles into the ocean is a captivating spectacle, attracting nature enthusiasts, first-time visitors, and photographers alike. Releases occur twice daily, once in the morning sunlight and again in the sultry evenings.
• Complementing this unique experience is the unforgettable eco-village immersion, where visitors reside in local homes and engage with coastal villagers.

Eco-tourism Trip and Awareness

• The Velas Turtle Festival transcends beyond the hatching season and picturesque beaches; it serves a more profound purpose. Olive Ridley Turtles, an endangered species, find refuge at Velas, where the Marine Conservation Society hosts an annual festival to raise awareness and promote eco-tourism.

Where can Olive Ridley Turtles be found on the Konkan coast?

• Besides Velas, Olive Ridley Turtles inhabit various beautiful beaches along the Konkan coast, including Guhagar, Harihar, Velas Agar, Anjarle, and Wayangani. Notably, some of the finest beaches include Diveghar, Shirvardhan, Harihareshwar, Bankot, Kelshi, and Ganapatipule. We will cover Harihareshwar and Velas Beach due to tour constraints. Limited turtle conservation projects are accessible for tourist visits, facilitated by the forest department and conservation teams.

Is mobile connectivity available at Velas Village?

• Mobile network coverage is sporadic near the village. Idea sim cards offer reliable reception. However, power outages are common, necessitating the use of power banks. Bankot has better mobile connectivity than Velas Village.

What activities can be enjoyed at Velas Turtle Festival?

• Velas Village offers a range of activities during the Kasav Festival. Bird watching enthusiasts can spot diverse avian species and participate in identification competitions. Evening bonfires illuminate specific spots, providing a cozy atmosphere. Explore the historical significance of Bankot Fort, indulge in the turtle festival, embark on coastal walks, relax by the beach, and witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Dolphin watching is possible from Velas and Harihareshwar beaches. Nearby, Anjarle hosts its turtle festival, boasting untouched beauty. Suvarnadurg Fort boat rides and fish auctions at Harney Beach are memorable experiences. Visit Harihareshwar Temple and peruse local markets for authentic produce.

What are the timings for the Velas Turtle Festival and hatchling releases?

• Arrive at Velas Beach by 6:30 am for morning releases and 5:30 pm for evening ones. Velas Turtle Festival dates are coordinated by the forest department and the Kasav Mitra Mandal Velas conservation team, releasing baby Olive Ridley Turtles around sunrise and sunset daily.

​Are washrooms available on the trek?

• Washrooms are available at the base village only. No facility is available during the trek.  

Is this trek safe for girls?

• This trek is completely safe for girls And have separate changing rooms.

What about extra baggage?

• You can safely keep your extra bags in bus

Are changing rooms available?

• ​Changing rooms and washrooms are available at the base village

What are the pickup points?

• Pick up is available if your location comes in between our route for this you have to contact us before.

What is the type of bus?

• The bus is NON/AC Tempo Traveler with decent seating comfort.

Velas Turtle Festival Blog

 A Day Trip from Pune: Velas Turtle Festival, Bankot Fort, and Harihareshwar Temple and Beach

Escape the hustle and bustle of Pune for a day and embark on an enchanting journey to discover the natural wonders and historical landmarks nestled along the Konkan coast. In this blog, we'll take you on a thrilling one-day itinerary covering three must-visit destinations: the Velas Turtle Festival, Bankot Fort, and the serene Harihareshwar Temple and Beach.

Velas Turtle Festival: Start your day early and head towards Velas, a quaint village located approximately 200 kilometers from Pune. The Velas Turtle Festival, held annually between February and April, offers a unique opportunity to witness the nesting and hatching of endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles. As you arrive, you'll be greeted by the warm hospitality of the locals and the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore.

Visitors are taken on guided tours to observe turtle nesting sites, where volunteers work tirelessly to protect the vulnerable eggs from predators and environmental threats. Witnessing the tiny hatchlings make their way to the sea is a heartwarming experience that leaves a lasting impression on visitors of all ages. Don't forget to capture this unforgettable moment on your camera!

Bankot Fort: After bidding farewell to the adorable turtle hatchlings, embark on a scenic drive to Bankot Fort, situated atop a hill overlooking the picturesque Suvarnadurg Creek. This fort offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding lush green landscape.

Take a leisurely stroll through the fort's ramparts and ancient ruins, as your guide narrates tales of valor and conquest from centuries past. Marvel at the intricate architecture of the fort's bastions and gateways, which stand as a testament to the region's rich heritage and strategic significance.

Harihareshwar Temple and Beach: Conclude your day trip with a visit to Harihareshwar, a serene coastal town renowned for its sacred temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated on the tranquil shores of the Arabian Sea, the Harihareshwar Temple exudes an aura of spirituality and tranquility, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike seeking blessings and solace.

Take a moment to offer prayers at the temple and soak in the serene ambiance of the surroundings. Afterward, unwind on the pristine shores of Harihareshwar Beach, where golden sands meet the azure waters of the Arabian Sea. Whether you're lounging under the shade of a coconut palm or indulging in water sports like swimming and jet skiing, the beach offers the perfect setting to relax and rejuvenate.

As the sun sets on your day of exploration along the Konkan coast, take a moment to reflect on the myriad experiences and memories you've gathered. From witnessing the wonder of nature at the Velas Turtle Festival to delving into the region's storied past at Bankot Fort and finding peace amidst the divine aura of Harihareshwar Temple and Beach, this day trip from Pune promises to be an unforgettable journey filled with adventure, history, and spirituality.