Velas, with its quiet beaches and compatible climate, has also proved to be a popular destination for the notoriously recluse marine turtle. This preference of the endangered marine reptile has allowed for Sahyadri Nisarga Mitra to set up a successful conservation model in the village through the Turtle Festival.
The Turtle Festival of Velas is annually organized by Sahyadri Nisarga Mitra (SNM) and the Kasav Mitra Mandal (KMM), during the period of February to March. This festival is attended by nature lovers, marine turtle enthusiasts, volunteers, known personalities in the field of conservation, tourists and people who just want to witness this moment, at least once in a lifetime!
To ensure a source of alternate livelihoods through conservation, Sahyadri Nisarga Mitra established the Kasav Mitra Mandal, a local body involved in turtle conservation in the village. This initiative for marine turtles is unique throughout India.The Gram Panchayat of Velas has been actively involved in marine turtle conservation activities since the outset of the conservation programme. The Forest Department is also an important partner, and their keen interest has helped the project tremendously.
Home stay programme
Home-stays are provided by the members of the Kasav Mitra Mandal (Friends of the Turtle), a committee dedicated to conserving marine turtles. Here, the members host tourists at a nominal cost, and 10% of the proceeds go towards the 'Velas Marine Turtle Conservation' fund.
Tariff: For dormitory type shared accommodation, the daily rate is Rs.320 per person inclusive of stay and simple vegetarian food.
Special items like puran poli and modaks and non-vegetarian food including fish, chicken and mutton are available at prior request at an extra cost.
Mr. Milind Nijsure has a simple separate room. The daily rate is Rs.400 per person (inclusive of food).
Mr. Omkar Upadhye has a provision for three special rooms equipped with modern facilities. The daily rent is Rs.500 for each room. Rent charges do not include food.
He also provides dormitory style shared lodging at a daily rate of Rs.345 per person (inclusive of food).
Do check out the Velas blog at http://www.villageofturtles.blogspot.in/
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