Velas Turtle Festival

Velas Turtle Hatchling Site is famous for its conservation efforts. Every year, baby turtles make their journey from nest to sea, an awe-inspiring event known as the Velas Turtle Festival.

Bankot fort is most visited place of Velas Village after Turtle festival. Located on the south bank of the Savitri river overlooking it’s mouth. It is one of the smaller forts but one of the few that have been restored by the state archeological survey. Bankot fort was captured by the Portuguese from Adil Shah in 1545 and then the Marathas took it over under the leadership of the great Kanhoji Angre. The fort came under the Maratha rue in the 1700’s and then went to British ruling in 1755.

Situated atop the Harihareshwar Hill, the architecture of the temple is unique and attractive. Inside the main sanctum of the temple, there are idols of Lord Shiva, Parvati, Vishnu, and Brahma. The Yogeshwari Temple is also situated in proximity. A pradakshina path goes around the temple, along the seashore. It is not advisable to go on this route during high tide. There is also a huge boulder divided into two segments just behind the temple. It is believed that Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers, broke a huge boulder into two separate pieces since it stood in the way to the temple. There is also a viewpoint situated near the temple that offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea, and Harihareshwar Beach.