We all are well acquainted of the pristine, pretty Valley Of Flowers in the northern state of Uttarakhand in India. But do you know of the Valley Of Flowers of Maharashtra?
Situated in the Western Ghats in the Satara district of Maharashtra is the Kaas Plateau. An extensive flatland, Kaas is quite popular amongst the people of the state.
Known for its colorful blossoms, and often compared to the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand, this flatland turns into vibrant, picturesque carpets of flowers all over, and to witness this vivid beauty is a treat to the eyes indeed.
Pre-booking your visit
I have been wanting to visit the place for quite a while now, and the perfect season to enjoy the blooms is soon after the festive Ganesh season. Since this is a seasonal phenomenon, pre-booking has been made mandatory to visit Kaas, and there is quite a vigilant check at the site. Much obviously, the weekend slots get booked faster than ever, so make sure you pre-plan your visit well in advance. It is a nominal fee of INR 100/- per person, and you can get your tickets here. There are 3 slots per day to choose from, and I got the last one, which I absolutely loved because of the brilliant colors of the setting sun. It made for a gorgeous backdrop for some lovely pictures we clicked.
The drive
Although Kaas is located in the city of Satara, it is almost a 20km drive uphill from the city center and takes about 45 minutes to reach. So take into consideration this while you plan your journey from your home town. Well done roads, beautiful valleys, the clouds descending on you as you drive through, the journey uphill is quite enticing, setting the mood for what lays ahead. Something that I did not, anticipate your pitstops for some lovely photos along the way, and aim to reach the 'pathar' in time for your slot - there is quite a bit to explore and some very scenic spots at the top.
Exploring Kaas
Home to a wide variety of wild flowers, the plateau comes to life soon after the monsoons. Sitting at an altitude of 1200 meters, this place is no less than any other hill station in the surrounding area. Walking around with cloudy skies and chill in the air, the occasional peek-a-book of the sun rays lighted up the area making it shine like gold.
The area is well designated into sections and have gate numbers at each entrance. With more or less flowers and colors than others, each area has its own charm. There are paved pathways for the tourists to wander about and fencing on either side of the walkway keeping the land open and untrodden. A team of local patrol is on guard for any trespassers stepping on the flowers beds ensuring the beauty of the place is preserved, and not ruined by some people for the sake of their perfect photos.
Shades of green, pink, purple, yellow, orange, and then some more of white tiny tots of flowers abound for as long as your eyes can see. Silhouettes of trees, wooden posts marking pathways, and a small lake in the middle of the flatland make up for some photogenic spots.
The true fun of exploring Kaas, though, lies in walking along the walkways, admiring the beauty of nature. The joy of spotting small colorful patches of tiny wild flowers as you bend over to admire the creation, will definitely bring a smile on your face washing away the chaos and stress of our everyday lives. The pretty flowers swaying along the cool breeze will make you want to sit and soak in the calm and peace and be grateful for the moment you are witnessing.
UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site
Declared as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2012, Kaas Pathar is rightfully being preserved so. It is our duty and moral responsibility to ensure we do not litter the surroundings, do not tread and stamp on the little beauties, respect Mother Nature as we enjoy and admire the splendid color show put up for us and maintain the sanctity of the place. Local patrolling team is doing their job to the best of their capability, but we, as responsible citizens, need to make sure we co-operate and make their job easier for them.
With flora species specific to the location, Kaas will always be fondly known as Maharashtra’s Valley of Flowers and tourists flock in greater numbers today than ever before. Kaas Paththar with Kaas Lake, Ajinkyatara Fort and other neighboring attractions is perfect for a day out with friends and family.
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