Overview

Recommended for ages 10-14 years

Discover the coastal wonders of Velas with Foliage Outdoors!
This 3-day program is a perfect blend of exploration, hands-on learning, and fun-filled adventures. From sandy beach trails to thriving mangrove forests, every moment presents an opportunity to discover the hidden treasures of nature.

With the guidance of our expert mentors, children will:

  • Explore diverse coastal habitats and their fascinating ecosystems.
  • Learn about marine life, mangroves, and vibrant coastal flora.
  • Develop observation, curiosity, and respect for the natural world.

The I Explore with Foliage Outdoors program goes beyond sightseeing—it’s about immersive experiences that spark curiosity and foster a deep connection with wildlife, geography, and the natural world.

Join us and let Velas unfold its secrets—one discovery at a time!

Know your Applicable Camp Fees :

Booking Type Camp Fee per participant
Early Bird + Group : Book 70+ days in advance • Group of 10 or more ₹10,600*
Early Bird (Individual): Book 70+ days in advance • Less than 10 participants ₹11,600*
Large Group only, Less than 70 days • Group of 10 or more ₹11,600*
Regular Booking (Individual): Less than 70 days • Individual booking ₹12,600*

*5% GST is applicable.

 

Know Before You Book: What to Expect

To ensure this experience is the right fit for you, please review these essential details before booking. The Velas Nature Camp is an immersive coastal experience focused on conservation and village life, not a luxury tour.

  • Nature & Conservation First: This is an educational nature camp. The focus is on the turtle nesting process, hands-on learning, and the outdoors, rather than resort-style amenities.
  • Authentic Homestay Experience: To support the local community, we stay in traditional village homestays. Facilities are clean and safe but basic, and not comparable to a commercial hotel or resort.
  • Dormitory-Style Living: In the spirit of a true nature camp, accommodation is in shared, basic dormitories. Sleeping arrangements are simple and typically include floor mattresses in communal spaces.
  • Personal Comfort & Hygiene: As we are staying in a natural, rustic village environment, the surroundings can be prone to natural dust. 
  • Electricity & Hot Water: Velas is a remote coastal village where power cuts are frequent. While geysers are installed, hot water availability depends entirely on the local power supply and cannot be guaranteed at all times.
  • Simple, Local Meals: We serve wholesome, healthy, and simple Konkani village meals designed to keep you energised for our beach walks and explorations.
  • Experiential Learning: This program prioritises "learning by doing." Expect to spend most of your time on the beach or in the field rather than indoors.
2 Nights 3 Days Available on request
Batch Dates and Charges
date & duration price
  • Sorry no more departures available. You could get in touch with us at info@foliageoutdoors.com if you'd like to make a booking.
    • Highlights
    • Guided nature exploration with a Wildlife Expert: Discover the coastal habitats in and around Velas with an expert from Foliage Outdoors.
    • Boat-based coastal ecosystem visit: Explore rich coastal ecosystems and observe a variety of aquatic flora and fauna from a boat, with life jackets and expert guidance.
    • Historic Bankot Fort exploration: Visit Bankot Fort and enjoy stunning sea views, especially around sunset.
    • Olive Ridley Turtle session: Expert-led session and documentary on Olive Ridley Turtles and ongoing conservation efforts.
    • Cosy homestay in Velas: Stay in a simple, comfortable homestay for an authentic coastal village experience.
    • Velas Beach nature trail: Walk along the beach to learn about coastal flora, fauna, shells, and shore life.
    • Hands-on nature activities: Engage in nature-orientation and field-based activities that make learning fun and practical.
    • Pune to Pune escorted trip by AC bus: Fully escorted travel from Pune and back, in a comfortable AC bus.

    What Participants Will Learn

    • Understanding coastal ecosystems
      Children will understand the difference between beach, mangrove, and open sea habitats, and how plants, birds, fish, and marine life depend on each other.

    • Basic nature observation skills
      They will learn how to spot and identify common coastal flora and fauna, and how to use all their senses (seeing, listening, and noticing patterns and signs) to understand nature better.

    • Marine and turtle conservation awareness
      Participants will learn about the life cycle and challenges faced by Olive Ridley Turtles, and why conservation and responsible tourism are so important along the coast.

    • Geography and history in context
      They will see how the Konkan coastline and forts like Bankot tell stories of trade, defence, and local culture, making geography and history come alive.

    • Confidence, curiosity, and independence
      Travelling with a group away from home in a safe, guided setting will help children become more confident, curious, and independent, while developing respect for the natural world.

    Itinerary
    Day 1

    Journey to Velas – Discover the Konkan Coast

    Pune-Velas
    +

    Assemble at the Foliage Outdoors office on Karve Road and begin the journey towards Velas, a charming coastal village in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri district. The road journey from Pune takes approximately 4-5 hours, with breakfast en route.

    On reaching Velas, check in at the homestay and take some time to rest and settle in. Enjoy lunch followed by a relaxing break before gathering for evening tea and refreshments.

    As the day progresses, head towards Velas Beach for an introduction to the coastal environment. Explore the sandy shoreline, discover interesting shells and observe marine life along the beach. Return to the homestay for dinner and a relaxing evening.

    Overnight stay at a homestay in Velas.

    (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks & Dinner)

    Day 2

    Explore Coastal Habitats – Discover Bankot Fort

    Velas – Coastal Habitat – Bankot Fort – Velas
    +

    Begin the day with an exploration of the coastal habitat and its fascinating aquatic ecosystems. Set out on a boat-based experience, accompanied by experts who will introduce participants to the diverse aquatic flora and fauna of the region. This guided experience offers an opportunity to understand coastal biodiversity and observe the natural environment from a different perspective.

    Following lunch, visit Bankot Fort, a historic coastal fortification overlooking the Konkan coastline. Explore its surroundings and appreciate the historical significance and scenic views of this heritage landmark.

    The evening is dedicated to learning about the Olive Ridley Turtle, one of the fascinating marine turtle species associated with India's coastline. An informative session followed by a documentary screening will introduce participants to these turtles and their natural history.

    Return to the homestay for dinner.

    Overnight stay at a homestay in Velas.

    (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks & Dinner)

    Day 3

    Coastal Nature Trail – Return to Pune

    Velas – Pune
    +

    Wake up early for a nature trail through the coastal surroundings of Velas. Explore the region's natural landscapes while observing its coastal flora and fauna. The morning walk offers a final opportunity to connect with the Konkan's diverse natural environment.

    Return to the homestay, freshen up and enjoy breakfast before checking out and beginning the return journey to Pune. Lunch will be served en route.

    Arrive in Pune by evening, bringing the three-day Velas Coastal Nature Camp to a close with new insights into coastal ecosystems, marine biodiversity and the natural heritage of the Konkan region.

    (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Evening Snacks)

    Inclusions/Exclusions

    What is included in the tour

    • Travel by private chartered AC coach.
    • 2 Nights stay in a homestay on a multiple-sharing basis.
      (Separate accommodation is provided for boys and girls.)
    • Food charges for the entire duration of camp (Pune to Pune).
    • Entry fees wherever applicable.
    • All activities as mentioned in the itinerary.
    • Services of Foliage Outdoors trained camp leader(s) equipped with First aid and knowledge of the region.
    • Travel Insurance for every participant

     

    What is NOT included in the tour

    • Cold Drinks / Personal expenses of any kind (Phone, Laundry, Room service etc.).
    • Medical Expenses, if incurred.
    • Camera Charges.
    • Any other charges not mentioned in the "Charges Include" list.
    • Goods and Services Tax.

     

    Camp Category
    Wildlife - Students
    Age Groups
    Students (10 to 14 yrs)