“Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So, throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
― Mark Twain.
A hamlet called Velas is located in Maharashtra, India’s Ratnagiri district. It is famous for being the birthplace of the powerful Maratha Empire politician Nana Phadnis. Velas is also known for its beautiful beaches and annual Turtle Festival, where visitors can witness the hatching of Olive Ridley Sea turtles. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to explore new places and create unforgettable memories. The Turtle Festival is a unique experience that allows visitors to witness the conservation efforts for these endangered species. The serene beaches and historical significance of Velas make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The festival takes place between February and April, coinciding with the turtle nesting season. Visitors can also participate in various eco-friendly activities and learn about the importance of marine conservation.
Recently, as a part of a group tour, I visited this townlet as the Turtle Festival went on. The tour was organised by a travel venture called Livebeforeyoudie in collaboration with a Mumbai-based support group for mothers called JAMMs. Every minute was exhilarating. I’m sure that you all will also want to visit the place so I am going to give information on the three unforgettable days of the trip.
Day 1: The Departure from Navi Mumbai
At around 10:30 at night, the tempo traveller arrived. It was a comfortable tempo traveller,
which thankfully had air conditioning on full blast to get relief from the sweltering heat.
At around 11:30, everybody had climbed on and settled in. Apart from stopping for fuel and a new tyre, the trip to Velas was smooth.
Day 2: Adventures Unfold
Turtles Hatching
At around 6 in the morning, I woke up to a foggy window and ahead I could see flora of every kind. There were dainty bougainvillaea, exotic flowers and differently shaped cacti on every cliff. As soon as we reached the Turtle Conservation Site, we all scrambled off the bus so as not to miss the turtles. After climbing down some stairs, there is a 15-minute walk to the main beach, where the whole hatching and travel of a turtle from the beach into the sea takes place. We were fortunate enough to see three turtles taking the first steps of their long life. The whole event was enthralling and euphoric. Later, we went to our homestay, where we indulged in a homely breakfast of Poha and then got ready to visit the Bankot fort. Located in the Ratnagiri area of Maharashtra, Bankot Fort is a historic fort that is 5 km from Velas One of Maharashtra’s mediaeval forts, it overlooks Bankot Creek. The Bankot Fort, also called Himmatgad, is located at the highest point at the confluence of the Savitri River and the sea. It is thought to have been founded to defend the Savitri River trade route. Occupying a tiny hilltop, the fort offers its guests a spectacular view of the surrounding village and the sea. The view from the cliff was just breathtaking. In the scorching heat, the ice sticks were a boon to suck on. The fort was the perfect place to take many pictures in the historic region. There were many staircases, hidden doors, etc.
We returned to the homestay after having a ball at the fort to eat a simple but filling meal. After a long and much-needed nap, we decided to go to Velas Beach again. Unfortunately, no hatching had happened then but our fun on the beach was just mind-blowing. The sun hadn’t set yet and was a beautiful hue. The waves came strong and it was just a delight to play in the water.
That night, we ate an authentic Konkani meal of pomfret fish, chickpea curry, hot chapatis and rice. The food was finger-licking good.
After a quick and exciting game of Housie/Bingo, we hit the sack for the night.
Day 3: Time to say goodbye
Sadly, it was the day to leave Velas. At 8 in the morning, we packed our bags and sat on the bus. After a 30-minute drive, we reached the point from where we boarded a jetty with our traveller to cross a river and reach the Harihareshwar Temple. Renowned for its beaches and temples, Harihareshwar is a popular tourist destination in Konkan. Furthermore, it is referred to as Temple Town or Devbhumi. The temple was intricately designed and beautiful. After offering prayers, we went to the little market adjoining the entrance of the temple to buy some local snacks.
There was a beach attached to the temple. Compared to the heat, the cool breeze was like ice to burn. A stall sold different flavours of iced sodas, which gave relief to our parched throats. While enjoying the sodas, we relaxed on chairs overlooking the beach. After doing some shopping around there and eating snacks like popcorn, fresh conkerberry (karvand), and white jamun, we boarded the bus again.
After another 1-hour drive, we stopped for lunch at Anand Bhavan in Gadchiroli. I ate a scrumptious lunch of prawn biryani, prawn fry, and lemon soda to wash it down. The food had the taste of the native delicacies. Following lunch, we again climbed onto the bus, and then we all stopped at our respective stops.
It was an amazing trip, filled with laughter, adventure, and unforgettable experiences. From exploring new places to trying local cuisine, everyone had a fantastic time and created lasting memories together. The breathtaking views, the shared moments of joy, and the bonds that were formed made this trip truly special. As they reminisced about their time together, they couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to have such wonderful experiences. This trip was a reminder of the beauty of exploring the world and creating memories that will be cherished forever because, after all, happiness lies in the smallest things. The simplicity of a village is a much-needed change from fast-moving city life. The modest homestays, the traditional food and the greenery give peace to the soul. Luxury is great but simplicity gives satisfaction…
Paulomi Babre
A perfect recapture of the 3 day adventure with all the loved ones. Will cherish this trip forever.
Wow Paulomi, your description makes me want to pack a bag and go see the turtle hatchlings. Well written.