"कास" khaas hai!! (कास पठार)

Often called Maharashtra’s ‘valley of flowers’ (even though it is a rocky plateau), Kas plateau is in the western part of Maharashtra. Located approximately 25 kms from Satara city, this laterite plateau will definitely allure you with its charm. Towards the end of the monsoon (usually late September till early October), the barren plateau dons a mantle of green dotted with variegated flowers. Beds of yellow, pink, white, blue, even mixed-hued blooms stretch as far as the eye can see. But what was known to a handful of researchers and nature lovers for decades turned into a popular attraction since 2012, when the Western Ghat hills were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as a biodiversity hotspot.

This plateau overlooks the lush green forests of the Sahyadri Tiger reserve that also serves as a water catchment area of Koyna Dam. This picturesque plateau is an ideal location for nature lovers and photography aficionados. Kas is particularly admired for its rich flora life. The different hues of the wide assortment of flowers make this place appear like a wonderland. "चवर, तेरडा, दगड़ी फूल, गेंद (धनगर फेटा), कंदीलपुष्प" are some of flowers that grow here. You can catch a glimpse of more than 850 varieties of flowers during this period. This place also houses a wide range of birds like Bonelli’s Eagle, Oriental White –eyes, et al. The idyllic environment is sure to put your mind and body at serenity.

PC :- Asmita

If you prefer beautiful, serene and virgin spots of nature and hate those run of the mill commercialized tourist locations, then a visit to Kas is highly recommended. Your trip is bound to leave you invigorated and to leave beautiful lingering memories.

Best time to visit: Last week September till mid october. (Recommended online booking as only 3000 visitors allowed a day and Morning time will be more pleasant).

Places to explore nearby :

1.Vajrai waterfall

2.Kaas lake

3.Sajjangad fort

4.Thoseghar Waterfall

5. Ajinkyatara.

A word of Appeal:

As exposures sometimes ruin the beauty of nature. It happened with Kas pathar since declaration as Heritage platue. It has been observed that visitor's irreverence towards nature made many damages to extinct species of kas valley. It is kind appeal to those who are visiting the place for party/ hangouts and spend time for reels and bottleblasts, not to destroy nature. Instead nurture it by following discipline and instructions at place and feel real nature in proximity by reverence to those tiny flora and fauna of valley and make them blossom in abundance.

Remember, "Kas khaas hai"!!

Visit website: https://www.kas.ind.in/ for Slot booking.