Velas is 200 km away from Mumbai and 230 km away from Pune. Situated in Ratnagiri, this place is famous for the Olive Ridley Turtle Festival. Olive Ridley turtles were considered nearly extinct. To preserve them from outer threats, the people in Velas have taken this important step. An NGO, Sahyadri Nisarg Mitra, has since then decided to protect this species. Since 1992, they have collaborated with the Marine Conservation Society. Their volunteers work with all their might to save the turtles.

The celebration here is spectacular! There is a beautiful decoration of the beach and visitors come here in huge numbers. Mother turtles lay around 80-120 eggs at midnight. This phenomenon occurs nearly in February-March. The estimated best time to visit here is between March and April, as the eggs hatch in this period. These tiny beauties start running towards the ocean once out of the egg. To watch this enthralling scene, you must attend the Velas beach’s turtle festival.

Expected time to visit: March-April

Unusual activity: Olive Ridley Turtle Festival

Location: Velas, Ratnagiri

Accommodation: Locals provide homestays at affordable prices.

Transport: You can reach Velas through private vehicles from Chiplun.