Weekend Getaway from Pune | Kaas Plateau – Maharashtra’s Own Flower Valley and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Introduction
Nestled in the Sahyadri Sub Cluster of the Western Ghats, the Kaas Plateau, also known as Kaas Pathar or Kas Sadas, is a picturesque plateau located just 25 kilometers west of Satara city in Maharashtra, India. Declared a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2012, the Kaas Plateau is Maharashtra’s own flower valley and an ideal weekend getaway from Pune during the months of September to October. With a distance of 120km from Pune, the plateau offers an incredible experience for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
The best time to visit the Kaas Plateau is from September to December. A two-day trip can be planned to visit Kaas, Mahabaleshwar, and Panchgani, known for their beautiful flower valleys and picturesque landscapes. In this article, we will explore the top attractions of the Kaas Plateau and its surrounding areas.
Kaas Plateau – Maharashtra’s Flower Valley
During September and October, the Kaas Plateau transforms into a vibrant, colorful landscape adorned with a carpet of tiny, colorful wildflowers. Home to over 850 different species of flowers and plants, the plateau boasts a unique, rare, and natural habitat. Visitors must follow the rules set by the authorities and avoid plucking flowers or littering.
Kaas Lake
Just beyond the Kaas Plateau lies the serene Kaas Lake, surrounded by mountains and hills. Visitors can enjoy a lakeside picnic or embark on a scenic trek around the area. Local restaurants near the lake offer delicious local cuisine such as zunka-bhakri, kanda bhaji, vada pav, and Maggi. Swimming in the lake is not recommended due to potential dangers.
Homestay in Kaas Village
Approximately 3 km from the Kaas Plateau, the Kaas village offers quaint homestays with picturesque views of the lake. This is an excellent option for visitors seeking a relaxing experience and wanting to enjoy the local cuisine cooked on traditional chulhas.
Vajrai Waterfall
An extended trip to the Vajrai Waterfall is worth the effort when visiting the Kaas Plateau and the lake. A trail from the Kaas village leads to a panoramic view of the valley, waterfall, and low floating clouds. The waterfall is best viewed from a distance, and visitors are advised not to trek down the cliff or the waterfall’s base.
Bamnoli
Located 15 km from the Kaas Plateau, Bamnoli is a sleepy village on the banks of the Shivsagar Lake. Popular among trekkers as the base point to Fort Vasota, the village offers boating services for tourists to explore Shivsagar Lake, Tapola (also known as Mini Kashmir), and the Nageshwar Shiv temple.
Thoseghar Waterfall
Situated around 20 km from Satara and 35 km from Kaas Plateau, the Thoseghar Waterfall marks the origin of the Tarali River. One of the most scenic waterfalls in the area, the Satara Forest Department has made it accessible to tourists. However, entering the falls or trekking down the valley is prohibited due to the waterfall’s rough and dangerous nature, reaching almost 200m in height. The path from the entrance to the viewpoint passes through beautiful patches of forest.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kaas Plateau
Q1: Do I need to obtain a permit to visit Kaas Plateau?
A: Yes, you need a permit to visit Kaas Pathar. Permits can be obtained on-site on most days. However, during weekends and public holidays, permits are available only online. The reason behind this is to avoid excessive footfall. With a fee of Rs100, visitors are allowed to spend three hours on the plateau. The available time slots are: 7am-10am, 10am-1pm, 1pm-4pm, and 4pm-7pm. Please note that only 3,000 visitors are permitted daily, so it’s recommended to book in advance.
Q2: What is the best time to visit the Kaas Plateau?
A: The optimal period for a visit to the Kaas Pathar/Plateau is from late August to early October. The plateau welcomes visitors from 8:00 A.M. till 6:00 P.M.
Q3: Is it worth going to Kaas Plateau?
A: Absolutely! Kaas Plateau, often referred to as ‘the Kaas Valley of Flowers of Maharashtra’, is a hidden marvel situated in the Western Ghats of India. Being a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, it is a haven for both nature aficionados and photographers.
Q4: How far is Kaas Pathar from Mumbai?
A: Kaas Pathar is 176 km away from Mumbai if you consider the distance to Kas Plateau Reserved Forest. However, the driving distance is roughly 278 km.
Q5: What is the Specialty of Kaas Plateau?
A: Known as Maharashtra’s counterpart to the Valley of Flowers, Kaas Plateau is celebrated for its vast expanses of flowers that bloom towards the end of the monsoon season. During this season, the plateau experiences an average rainfall of 2000 mm. A significant amount of this rainfall seeps through the permeable laterite rocks present there.
We hope this FAQ provides a comprehensive overview of the Kaas Plateau for interested visitors. Safe travels!
Conclusion
The Kaas Plateau and its surrounding areas offer a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers alike. With its vibrant flora, serene lakes, and stunning waterfalls, this UNESCO World Heritage Site and Maharashtra’s own flower valley is truly a must-visit destination in the state. A visit to the Kaas Plateau will leave you mesmerized by the region’s natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and captivating landscapes. Whether you are looking for a relaxing retreat, an adventurous trek, or simply to immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of the flower valley, the Kaas Plateau has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable weekend getaway to Maharashtra’s very own flower valley, the enchanting Kaas Plateau.
