Last Updated on July 19, 2024 by asoulwindow
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About Kaas Plateau of Flowers
Kaas Plateau of Flowers is very popular tourist destination near Pune and Mumbai. The nondescript town of Satara suddenly witnesses an influx of tourists every year in September end. This post monsoon phenomenon turns the meadows of Kaas plateau into a carpet of tiny flowers in every direction one can see. Bold colors like Purple, white, red, blue, bright yellow highjack the green fields. For those who have no time or stamina to go through the strenuous trek of Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand, its counterpart in faraway Maharashtra is a cushy walk in open fields.
Not only is it easy to reach but also can be done in one day. Thanks to its height of 1200 metres, the cherry on the cake is the pleasant misty weather in the plateau which is also known locally as Kaas Pathar. The undulating meadows are speckled with flowers of all hues possible. Some are so small, you have to bend down to admire their true beauty.
Lately, the authorities have rightfully put up barricades and ropes so that people don’t trample the natural heritage. The place does attract its share of unruly tourists who do not behave responsibly. However, you can stroll inside the protected areas, though under the watchful eyes of the security personnel.
It should not be a surprise to know that it has been declared a Biodiversity World Heritage site by UNESCO owing to its visual grandeur and geographical uniqueness
The walk through the ‘garden’ was surreal. The hills wore layers of different colors as if someone had made a rainbow of flowers on Earth. As if a grandmother forgot her carpet on the hills! I could identify species like Utricularia purpurascens (blue), Senecio graham (yellow) etc.
My Experience of visiting Kaas Plateau: Valley of Flowers in Maharashtra
What is the experience of Kaas Plateau? As I forayed into terra incognita, I didn’t know what to expect! But I am aware that the ground below me is a precious UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, tender and fragile. I tread carefully, so I don’t trample on a flower or insect. I arrive at a point where I see huge carpets of tiny flowers in shades of purple, fuchsia, white and what not! A shepherd walks past nonchalantly with his goats, taking caring not to harm the flowers. Just as I turn the bend, more such carpets come into view. I had never seen anything like this before!
As I continued languorously ambling on the grassy knolls, I notice small details such as colorful mushrooms in all sizes, interesting insect life (great for macro shots), the smaller uncelebrated flowers, the works! Some flowers are so small, I hunkered down to admire their true beauty. On further exploration, I came across fields with entirely white flowers. Another was entirely pink. This can’t be real!
Located near Satara, I was overwhelmed with the spectacular sight of undulating fields of flower carpets in all hues possible. Several endemic species of butterflies hovering languorously around the flowers only added to the spectacle. Till date, my visit to Kaas remains one of the favorites of all my peregrinations.
The biodiversity hotspot of the Kaas Plateau Reserved Forest comes alive every August and September. No wonder, Kaas Pathar attracts tourists in large numbers, thanks to this unique annual phenomenon. The ethereal beauty of the place is enhanced by the vast Kaas Lake shielded by verdant Sahyadris mountain ranges. August and September are also when the weather is perfect and Western Ghat glows in the lush greenery aided by monsoon.
Hitchhike from Kaas to Satara
I was accompanied by my friend Madhabendu Hensh from Kolkata. He is a photographer (par excellence) with whom I am friends thanks to a Nat Geo Traveler India Magazine travel photo contest we won together. We spent some quality time in the fields admiring what seemed like some other planet. Owing to the soothing weather, we decided to walk down the road for at least the first 11 kilometers.
Thankfully, it worked in our favor. We experienced what other tourists miss while visiting Kaas. For example, I was delighted to spot a unique mushroom species. It was so unusual that I stared at it and examined from all possible angles, even clicking more pictures than I should have.
Buffaloes filled the fresh mountain air with music from the bells tied carelessly to their neck. Young girls tended to herds of goats without a care in the world. Exotic butterflies and birds I had never seen before, whizzed by. They vanished so quickly as if they were in a hurry to complete household chores.
A little detour to the narrow path down the hill took me to a point from where I soaked in the views of vast lakes surrounded by small villages. Famished after all the walk, we took a tea break at a makeshift tea stall. He made tea for us on his traditional Choolha (earthen oven). We walked a little further and when we could not take it any further, we took lift from a lorry and completed the next 11 kilometers to Satara. In the backseat of the lorry, sitting on hay and cardboards, that is! Rs. 20 only!
Excursion to Thosegar Waterfall
A trip to Kaas is not complete without an attendance at the nearby Thosegar waterfall. While returning, I made a diversion to this popular picnic spot after a hearty lunch of the best Thalipeeth, Jhunkha Bhakhri and Kandi Peda I ever had at a random restaurant on the highway.
Pouring out of mountain top in all its monsoonal glory, I stood there, stunned and impressed at the nature’s grandeur! What makes this waterfall dramatic is that there are not one but several waterfalls ranging between 15 to 200 meters in height. July to November is when the waterfall is at its most voluptuous. Birdwatchers may want to carry their telephoto lens too.
The next morning after visiting Kaas was spent downing the melt-in-the-mouth kandi peda, a local sweet. On a previous trip I clubbed Thosegar waterfalls with other activities around Kaas. I along with 10 more whacky people headed to the famous waterfalls. It is some 20 kilometers away from Satara. It is towards the other direction from Kaas plateau.
I passed by windmills on the hills and spine tingling views of the valley to arrive at the falls. I was worried to see it had ended up as a tourist magnet. Not much impressed with the mob jostling for best space in the viewing balcony, I moved on to a spot to peacefully soak in the beauty of waterfall. The fall was a tall one. Cascading violently from a height of 500 meters, it astonishes with its grandeur. The milky white water poured rapidly down the mountain. A bold sound of gushing water added to the background music.
At times I looked at waterfalls, sometimes at the opportunist monkeys perched precariously on the trees and sometimes my eyes wandered at a row of windmills on mountains far away. The area is dotted with many smaller waterfalls, however this one clearly is the most impressive one.
जास्त नको विचार करूस , हे guide वापर आणि फिरून येय!
A filling lunch of perfect monsoon foods kanda bhajji (fried onion fritters) and misal pao, we bid adieu to the paradise with fond memories. The allure of Kaas pulled me towards it 2 times! And I am the same person who never repeats his destinations. The previous trip was with my Mumbai friends Geet Hukerikar and Abhijeet Shenolikar.
Top Tip
I suggest that one should get away and explore more in the areas near the main venue where all flock to view the spectacle. There are many hidden gems lurking in places around it. One needs to walk patiently and be a good observer to understand and appreciate the biodiversity of the region. If you are lucky, you can also spot many species of birds, butterflies and insects.
Best time to visit Kaas Plateau and Satara?
In my opinion, September last week is the best time to visit Kaas Plateau. I visited Kaaas Pathar two times, both in August and September. Details are as below:
24th September, 2011 – You can literally see the carpet of flowers of different colors. This was not visible in August. Weather was sunny and mountain air, crisp and fresh. Tourists were large in number. Go in weekdays, if possible.
31st August, 2015 – The flowers were there but not as much as I saw in September. Also the landscape was not as dramatic. It alternated between sunny and cloudy with little drizzling. There was no carpet of flower. Very few tourists.
Can we visit Kaas Pathar in December?
Visiting Kaas Pathar in December is possible, but I do not recommend it because it is not the ideal time to experience the plateau’s famed wildflower blooms. So, which time is best for Kas Pathar? The peak blooming season when most of the tourists visit Kaas starts from late August to early October. This is the time when the Kaas plateau is covered in vibrant carpets of flowers.
What is the season of Kas Pathar flowers? In my opinion, late September is the best time to visit Kaas plateau. I also visited in August and was slightly disappointed because the flowers had not bloomed fully yet.
In December, the landscape is relatively dry, and the floral display is minimal. However, you can still enjoy the scenic beauty and tranquility of the area, but the primary attraction of the blooming flowers will be absent. Thus, I feel it makes no sense to visit Kaas in December.
How To Reach Kaas Plateau and Satara?
To reach Kaas, you need to reach Satara first. Satara can be easily reached by Mumbai and Pune.
Mumbai to Satara distance – 4 hrs, 30 minutes ( 257 kms)
Pune to Satara distance – 2 hrs, 48 minutes (115 kms)
How To Reach Kaas Plateau Of Flowers From Satara On a budget ?
From Satara, one can take an autorickshaw for Rs. 500 (1 way)
Buses also ply the route but the frequency is low.
Ask the rickshaw wala to wait for you or else you might get stuck.
Stranded, we eventually walked for 11 kms and then took lift in a lorry. Though I enjoyed it but will not recommend the same. There are risks involved.
How do I go to Kaas Valley? Alternatively, you can drive from Mumbai or Pune on the smooth highway. One can also reach Satara by train. Book at least 2 months in advance on Irctc website. (The scenery you will pass through will keep you hooked throughout the journey). My favorite is – Sleeper class, side lower, window seat, emergency window preferred.
Kaas Plateau of flower. Satara, Maharashtra. Incredible India! Not to be confused with Valley Of Flowers in Uttarakhand
ऐ कास की अब होश में हम आने न पाएं !
Souvenir Shopping in Kaas and Satara
Buy packets of the ‘melt in mouth’ kandi peda, a local sweet. Take back loads of it!
What to eat in Kaas Plateau and Satara?
Since you are in rural Maharashtra, try the Maharastrian delicacies like Kanda Pohe, Misal pav, Vada pao etc. They taste different than what you get in urban spaces. The Thalipeeth I had on the way to Satara was the best I have ever had. I tried to find that taste again but failed. Sorry, I forgot the restaurant’s name. And yes, try tasting thecha if you can manage, very spicy chilly chutney.
Why is Kaas plateau famous?
Why has the Kaas Plateau become popular? What is the speciality of Kaas Plateau? Well, let me answer that in this detailed post. Kaas plateau, the biodiversity hotspot in the Western Ghats is known for its annual flowering phenomenon. Did you know that more than a whooping 850 different varieties of flowering plants bloom during the months of June, July, August and September?
Is Kaas Pathar worth visiting? Yes, thanks to its incredible biodiversity, stunning views, breathtaking vistas and the UNESCO World Heritage Site tag, Kaas Plateau is a place which is on the checklist of not only residents of Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Pune but all over the world. I was lucky to visit Kaas Plateau twice when it was not even that popular.
What is Kas Pathar famous for? Here is an interesting fact. The topography of Kaas Pathar keeps transforming because new flowering plants bloom every fortnight or so. In this step-by-step guide to Kaas plateau, I have shared many more reasons which make Kaas so famous.
Is Kaas Plateau a World Heritage Site?
Is Kas Pathar a World Heritage Site? Yes, owing to its unique topography and biodiversity, Kaas Plateau was declared an UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in the year 2012. Ever since Kaas Plateau earned this tag, I have observed that it has received better attention and protection from the Government authorities.
What is the flora of Kaas?
Have flowers bloomed in Kaas Plateau? This is a frequently asked question. Well August, September and some days of October is when you can see lots of endemic flowers in Kaas Plateau. Spread across 1792 acres, I spotted not only various types of climbers, herbs, ephemerals, shrubs, tuberous and bulbous plants but also epiphytic orchids, Parasitic, Saprophytic and even insectivorous plants. Some rare and endemic, plants found here are Flemingia Isachne, Chrysopogon, Rotala, Arisaemas, Glyphochloa, Ceropegias, Aponogeton, Dipcadi and Murdannia.
Did you know that some of the plants which grow on these plateaux are even endangered and threatened? I also spotted many species of visually stunning mushrooms growing in wild here.
What is the fauna of the Kaas Plateau?
Which animal is found in the Kaas plateau region? I was delighted to spot several micro & macro-organisms, caterpillars, insects, arachnids, mammals, reptiles and amphibians in Kaas plateau. Snails are also commonly seen during monsoon. You can also spot funnel-weaving spider (family Agelindae), the Crested Lark (Galerida crestata), leaf piercer etc. However, butterflies are hard to spot when it is raining because they are protecting their delicate wings.
Besides the flowers, wildlife enthusiasts also flock to Kaas plateau because during monsoon you can expect to take pictures of many unique endemic birds, amphibians, insects and reptiles such as snakes and lizards. I never had an anthropocentric viewpoint which is why I take great interest in all lifeforms, including the invisible. If that excites you as well, Kaas is your kind of place too!
Nomenclature/Etymology of Kass plateau
Kass plateau is called as Kaas Pathar in the Marathi language. The name Kaas is derived from the Kaasa tree which belongs to the rudraksha family. The botanical name of the Kaasa tree is Elaeocarpus glandulosus.
Where is Kass plateau located?
Which district is the Kaas Plateau in? Where is the location of the Kaas Plateau? People often ask me these questions. Kaas Plateau which is locally called as Kaas Patthar is situated in the Satara district of Maharasthra. Falling under the Sahyadri Sub Cluster of the Western Ghats, it makes for a great weekend escape from Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Pune, all of which are located nearby.
The Kaas plateau is connected to the town of Satara by a hill ridge that passes through villages such as Andhali, Yavateshwar, Petri and Kamathi. The majority of the plateau consists of Reserved Forests, encompassing forest areas from the villages of Kas, Phalani, Sawali, Andhari, Kamathi, Atali and Akiv.
Places to see in Kass plateau
What else to see in Kaas? There are many interesting places to see in and around the Kass plateau such as Satara, Kaas Lake etc. You can also trek in the lush green Sahyadris, or do a village walk.
Kaas Lake
The gorgeous Kaas Lake is located on the south of the plateau. While descending down from the ‘valley of flowers’, on foot, I came across breathtaking views of the Kaas Lake. Here is a secret tip. If you are coming by a private car, cab or auto-rickshaw, do stop at such vantage points en route for spectacular views of the huge lake.
Top things to do in Kass plateau
What are some of the most popular things to do in Kass plateau? Below are some of the best things to do in and around the gorgeous Kass plateau:
- Trek in the Sahyadris
- Go on a village walk
- Observe seasonal flowers
- Sample local Maharashtrian cuisine such as Misal Pao, Kandi Peda, Thalipeeth, Jhunka Bhakhri, Pitla Bhakhri, Vada pao with thecha, Kanda Pohe etc.
- Go on a botanical expedition
- Indulge in macro photography
- Go on long leisurely walks
- Do cycling from Satara to Kaas and back
- Picnic (away from the flowers please and carry back your trash)
- Read a book
Excursions from Kass plateau
There are many interesting tourist places near Kass plateau. Some of the best tourist attractions around Kass plateau are listed as below:
- Thosegar waterfall
- Vasota Fort
- Sajjangarh Fort
- Ajinkyatara Fort
- Vajrai waterfall
- Kanher Dam
- Chalkewadi Wind Mill Farm
- Bamnoli Boat Club
- Koyna Dam
- Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
- Ghatai Devrai
- Dak Bunglow
- Shri Kshetra Yewateshwar
- Ekiv Waterfall
- Tapola Lake
- Kumudini Lake
- Mahabaleshwar
- Panchgani
- Wai
Night Life in Kass plateau
There is no nightlife in Kaas Plateau. It is an open field surrounded by villages. In fact, visitors are not allowed in Kaas Plateau after dark.
Is it safe to visit Kass plateau?
Yes, it is very safe to visit Kass plateau. During my years of peregrination across India and beyond, I have realized that in general most destinations in Maharashtra are very safe to visit. Thanks to the friendly Maharashtrian people, I never felt unsafe even in the remotest of the corners.
What currency is used in Kass plateau?
INR is the only currency which is accepted in Kass plateau and Satara. This is the most comprehensive travel guide to Kass plateau which is why I am sharing every small detail here.
ATM in Kass plateau
There are no ATMs in Kass plateau and Thoseghar waterfall. However, there are some functional ATMs in Satara. I highly advise you to carry some cash and petty change, coins etc because digital payment is not accepted in Kass plateau. There are some tea stalls here where you may want to pay.
Photography Tips for Kaas plateau
I had carried a telephoto lens with my DSLR camera. Not only did it help me take sharp portraits of the local people but it also helped me take more detailed pictures of the flowers, insects and the far away verdant valleys. What’s more? Telephoto lenses are also great for lovely portrait pictures. Here is an interesting trivia. Kass plateau was my first trip where I used the recently bought 55-250 mm telephoto lens (my first) for the first time.
Languages spoken in Kass plateau
Marathi is the most commonly spoken and written language in Kass plateau and Satara. Hindi is understood by many people in both Kass plateau and Satara. English may not be understood in Kass plateau. However, the urban Indians visiting Kass plateau may help you with any queries in English. In Satara, you may find some English-speaking people more easily.
Soul Window Travel Tips on Kass plateau
Toilet facility in Kass plateau
There are no toilets in Kass plateau. It is a raw, open field. Some shops may have a provision for toilets. Just ask around. Satara, of course has many toilets.
Entry fee for Kass plateau
What is the charges of Kaas Pathar? The Kaas plateau entry fee charges are as below:
Rs. 100/- for Saturday, Sunday and Government holidays, per person for 3 hours.
Rs. 50/- per person for 3 hours on weekdays
The good part is that there there is no entry fee charged at Kaas plateau for
It is a smart thing to carry your age proof ID such as Aadhar card, Pan Card, Driving License etc. Only 3,000 tourists are allowed per day in Kaas plateau dur to the fragile landscape of the Kaas plateau.
During both my visits to Kaas plateau, I was not charged any entry fee. I took a free self-guided walking tour in Kaas plateau for hours on both the visits.
Is it mandatory to book Kaas Pathar online?
Since only a limited number of passes for Kaas Pathar are doled out every day, it makes sense to do online booking. The passes sell out weeks in advance, especially on weekends. Passes for weekdays are still more easily available. You may try your luck as a walk in as well.
Hire a local tourist guide in Kass plateau
Personally, I feel if you are a regular tourist and don’t want to dive deep in the botany of the flowers of Kaas plateau, then a guide is not required. I did self-guided walks in Kaas plateau on both my visits. However, f you want to go deep, ask the security guard for a guide or book one in Mumbai or Pune, way before the trip.
How To Book a trip to Kass plateau?
There are many tour agencies and travel agents who will happily arrange the trip for you to Kaas plateau. However, both my trips were self-arranged. My first trip to Kaas plateau was in a 12-seater tempo traveler with friends. We had booked the vehicle locally and made a day trip from Navi Mumbai via Pune.
On my second trip, I had simply boarded a cheap Maharashtra State Transport bus with my friend from Vashi in Navi Mumbai to Satara. From Satara, we booked an autorickshaw to Kaas Plateau and hitchhiked on our way back.
Where to stay in Kass plateau?
There are no places to stay in Kaas Plateau. Most tourists stay in Satara and make a day trip to Kaas Plateau. On both the trips to Kaas Plateau, I didn’t stay in either Kaas Plateau or Satara. On my first trip, we slept at our friend’s house in Pune. On the second trip, we returned to Navi Mumbai on the same day.
If you have time at end, better stay at Satara and include more nearby excursions. There are many hotels in Satara. However, do not expect ultra luxury here.
Backpacking Budget Travel Tips for Kass plateau
Both my trips to Kaas Plateau were done on a very low budget. On both trips, I travelled with my friends and split cost. Hitchhiking, taking auto-rickshaws, eating delicious food at small places (I had amazing low-cost poha at a random restaurant in Satara), not hiring a guide, walking for many kilometers, taking only Maharashtra State Transport buses saved us a lot of money. It is thus very cheap to visit Kaas. This is a great advantage for solo travelers like me.
Solo Trip Tips for Kass plateau
I always had a company to Kaas but I observed that it is very easy (if not cheap and convenient) to arrive at Kaas plateau. All you need to do is arrive at Satara, head to Kaas and return back. You don’t really need 15 people or even 2 people do enjoy this trip. Having said that, a company is recommended (purely for your entertainment) because it is a lonely place.
Luxury travel Tips for Kass plateau
You can skip the buses and take a hired car or self-drive car for a more comfortable journey to Kaas. For added luxury, there are some luxury hotels and resorts in and around Satara where you can stay and make day trips to Kaas Pathar, Thoseghar falls etc.
Books on Kaas plateau
There are not many books on Kaas. However, you can read Kaas Plateau Of Flowers by Dr. Sandeep Shrotri for further understanding of the place. The Marathi version by Sandeep Shrotri is known as Pushpa Pathar Kaas or पुष्पपठार कास.
What to wear in Kass plateau?
It makes sense to carry some protection against the rain even if it looks all sunny when you start. It may rain unannounced and you will not have any place to hide because it is an open field.
It did drizzle a little when I visited Kaas for the second time. Luckily, I was carrying an umbrella and my friend was carrying raincoat. I avoid raincoat because once it stops raining, storing the wet raincoat in the bag without wetting other items is a pain. Umbrellas are still easier. But if you are OK with raincoats, go for it.
Wearing shorts, water-proof sandals etc over Jeans and shoes is also preferrable. It doesn’t get cold in August and September, so you can easily wear comfortable cotton shirts in this weather. The fashionista in you may also choose the color of the clothes considering that the background for most pictures will be white, green, violet, pink, etc. White shirts sound the most apt to me.
Timings of Kass plateau
Timings for Kaas Plateau is from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Only 3 hours per person are allowed in this restricted area. Factor in another hour or two for other activities. This is why I suggest that you come here early morning like I did on both the trips. This way you can not only beat the crowds but you can also do lot of birdwatching, insect spotting because they are the most active in the mornings.
Which time is best for Kas Pathar? I recommend that you arrive at Kaas latest by 8 a.m. Reaching early has another benefit. In case, you are a solo, budget traveller and want to hitchhike you have more options available in the day light. You may even get stranded after dark as hardly any vehicle plies on this road and there are no street lights here.
Duration of Visit in Kass plateau
How many days to spend in Kass plateau? This is a frequently asked question. What can I do in 1 day in Kass plateau? One day is sufficient to visit all the main places of Kaas Plateau. Both my trips were one day weekend breaks from Pune and Mumbai. Anyways, the authorities allow only few hours to spend at the Kaas Plateau.
What can I do in 2 days in Kass plateau? There are many places of interest in and around the Kaas Plateau. Some of these places are easily accessible, low cost and visually stunning, especially in monsoon. If time and money is not a constraint, I highly recommend that you extend the trip to at least 2 days and include more excursions from Kaas Plateau and Satara.
Is it worth going to Kaas Plateau? Yes, whether you choose one day, two days or more, the visit to Kaas Plateau is highly rewarding. Do not miss this opportunity.
Quick Itinerary for Kass plateau
Below is a one-day quick itinerary for Kaas Plateau
Day 1: Travel from Mumbai/Vashi (Navi Mumbai) or Pune to Satara
Day 1: Arrive in Satara on same day and head straight to Kaas. Spend 2-4 hours here.
Day 1: Return back to Satara and onwards to Mumbai/Vashi (Navi Mumbai) or Pune
You can’t include the visit to Thoseghar falls in this itinerary. You will also have to miss the early morning visit.
Below is a two-day quick itinerary for Kaas Plateau
Day 1:Travel from Mumbai/Vashi (Navi Mumbai) or Pune to Satara
Day 1:Stay overnight in Satara.
Day 2: Head straight to Kaas early morning. Spend 2-4 hours here.
Day 2: Return to Mumbai/Vashi (Navi Mumbai) or Pune to Satara after paying a visit to the Thoseghar waterfalls en route. This is also the best day to sample the local Maharashtrian food at the stalls. We also visited the nearby Lavasa in this itinerary.
Local Transport for sightseeing in Kass plateau
Autorickshaws are easily available from Satara. However, be warned that while returning, I was unable to find an autorickshaw from Kaas Plateau to Satara. This is why we had to walk for long distances (the views were amazing) and finally had to hitchhike in a passing lorry.
What is the altitude of the Kaas?
How high is Kaas Plateau? The Kaas Plateau is situated at an altitude of approximately 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) above sea level. This elevation contributes to its unique climate and biodiversity, making it a renowned spot for seasonal wildflower blooms.
What type of soil is Kaas Plateau?
I was told that much of the Kaas Plateau is volcanic rocks. The soil of the Kaas Plateau is predominantly lateritic, characterized by its rich iron and aluminum content. This type of soil is well-drained but can be nutrient-poor, supporting the unique seasonal flora that blooms during the monsoon season.
The lateritic soil, combined with the plateau’s specific climatic conditions, contributes to the area’s rich biodiversity and the vibrant carpets of wildflowers for which Kaas is famous.
The view from my Soul Window is floral!
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Responsible Tourism at Kaas Plateau
- You are in an ecologically sensitive zone. Don’t litter or even leave your cigarette butts in the meadows. I personally keep the butts in a cigarette box and dispose them off responsibly.
- Don’t make noise. Many species of birds, reptiles and mammals live here. IT IS THEIR DOMAIN. Think how you will feel if a bunch of hooligans create nuisance at your ‘home sweet home’.
- This is not the place where you should be drinking beer and dancing on ‘Why This Kolaveri Di? The flowers may ask you back in frustration, “Why This Kolaveri Di?’”
- Don’t pluck flowers or trample on them. Again, it is much like a monkey pulling the hair on your head.Got the drift, eh?
- No, it’s not a picnic ground where you can roll a mat and set up a food buffet! Carry light and handy food items though since there are no food shops nearby. Eat well before you head here.
- Kaas Pathar is under Government’s jurisdiction because this is how they can control the footfalls in this fragile landscape. This is why I request the readers to kindly stick to the tracks which are constructed for visitors for observation so that they don’t end up trampling over the flowers.
Conclusion: Is Kass Plateau worth a visit?
Why visit Kass plateau during flowering season? Here is an overview. Every year in September end, the sleepy, lazy town of Satara becomes alive with influx of curious travelers. Everyone makes a beeline to witness nature’s artistic impressions on undulating meadows. For a brief time post monsoon, the Kaas plateau is carpeted with all hues of tiny flowers in every direction one can see.
Purple, white, red, blue, bright yellow are some of the colors that dominate the fields. While the valley of flowers in Uttarakhand is strenuous, its counterpart in faraway Maharashtra is a cushy walk in open fields, as if you are strolling in a park in your city.
I also walked down the hills and soaked in views of vast Kaas lake and small villages around it. Thanks to its spell binding beauty and geographical uniqueness, it has been declared a Biodiversity World Heritage site by UNESCO. It was indeed surreal to walk in a landscape with such unparalleled beauty! I was equally mesmerized by the Thosegar waterfall near Satara, which poured down the Sahyadri range of mountains rapidly with copious amount of milk white water making a bold sound of gushing water
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Note : Marathi translation by Marathi mulgi Pradnya Kalindi
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This is for the keeps 🙂 Never knew such a place existed. Thanks for such a detailed travelogue
Glad you liked it 🙂
This post reminded me of my trip to Kaas last year. It’s an amazing place and has so much to offer to everyone. Love the pictures. 🙂
Thank you. I agree. No wonder I have been here twice. 🙂
This is one of your best posts. Thank you for sharing. Loved the information and amazing photos.
Thanks Svetlana. Glad you liked it. I feel like going back again!
This is floral heaven. I will have to plan a visit here the next time I go to Pune. It is a photographer’s paradise. Loved your clicks.
Thank you. It’s an easy trip from Mumbai and Pune. 🙂
Wow! Those pictures are breathtaking. Keep up the great work!
Thank you so much 🙂
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I just realised, it was the first time I had been to a UNESCO Biodiversity world heritage site myself! Haha!
Thanks for sharing such great tips! I am not sure, but I think I haven’t been to any UNESCO Biodiversity world heritage site. This must be so cool! I like the fact that there were wind turbines and waterfalls in the background. Of course, lovely flowers, too!
Gorgeous! The Kaas plateau has been on my wishlist for awhile now, but I just haven’t had the time to make it. Your pics just make me wish I was there. Hope next year works out well! Thanks for sharing.
You must go next year. You will remember it for a lifetime!
Gorgeous! The Kaas plateau has been on my wishlist for awhile now, but the timing just hasn’t worked out so far. Hope I get to see it next year…your pics just make me wish I was there!
Thank you. You must plan next year!
Aah those momeories of Shahyadr monsoons! It’s been a while since I’ve visited the Western Ghats. Maybe next monsoon. Excellent guide BTW.
I’ve never heard of this place, thanks for sharing! It looks amazing! So many colorful flowers at one place! Greta that it got under the UNESCO protection. It reminds me a bit about this forest near Brussels where in the spring there are purple flowers everywhere.
Yes, It is very important for ecologically sensitive places like these to receive long term protection.
This looks like such a wonderful experience. I love reading about places that are off the beaten path, as that is always what I seek when I’m abroad. Nothing can ruin a moment more than sharing it with 75,000 other picture snapping tourists! The photos in your post are beautiful as well. Have you clicked these pictures? You are talented indeed! 🙂
Thank you! I am glad you liked it! Yes, I have clicked these pictures!
Timing is really the key here. We visited in the first week of October in 2014 but there were very few flowers. Nonetheless it is was a great experience. Your pics are excellent Abhinav; really makes one smile!
Thank you. I agree, if your timing is not right, you might be disappointed.
Fantastic guide to an offbeat location. This definitely deserves Biodiversity World Heritage status. Thanks for sharing such a heavenly place in Maharashtra.
Glad you liked it. Agree with you! Well deserved tag!
Been planning this trip since last 2 years and it didnt happen and wont for atleast 3 more years now 🙁 damn! Your post and those amazing pics just transported me straight to Kaas!
Never mind! I hope it happens to you soon. Glad you liked my blog!
After reading your post I just want to go there right now. Loved he way you have described the place and also given so many valuable tips.
Thank you. Feels great that the purpose of this blog is solved.
Now you have made me fall in love with Kaas. Can’t wait to explore the colourful carpet of flowers. Let’s plan it this year.
Yes, its easy to reach especially from Pune and Mumbai. September end is the good time.
Thank you. Why not, let’s go. I won’t mind doing it one more time.
Excellent reference! Bookmarking this. Planning a trip since last year. Hope to visit this year:) great pictures, helpful info. Thanks for sharing Abhinav:)
Pls do go Divyakshi. It is unique and once in a year phenomenon which you must not miss. Responsible travelers like you should also help raise awareness about the fragility of the place. Hope you have a good time.