Kaas Pathar is famous for its Myriad flowers and lush greenery. It is also known as the Valley of Flowers. The route to Kaas plateau itself is also scenic, making it a very popular one day picnic spot. This famous tourist destination is located about 25 km west of Satara city, 37 km from Mahabaleshwar and 50 km from Panchgani.
About Kass Pathar
Pathar in Marathi means plateau. This plateau comes to life in the month of August to December when many wildflowers bloom on this plateau. In turn, attracting a lot of butterflies and birds.
Features of Kaas Pathar
- It is formed from volcanic rocks
- This is UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site
- Has more than 850 different species of flowering plants of which 624 are listed on the IUCN Red List
- Kaas Plateau overlooks the dense evergreen forests of the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary and serves as the catchment area of the Koyna Dam
Our Experience:
A visit to Kaas pathar was on our travel bucket list for quite some time. But somehow it didn’t happen. Finally we got a chance to visit the place in the month of October. The road to the pathar was also scenic with few rain showers in between.
Since this was not a planned trip for us, we had not done any advance booking through their website. Upon reaching we paid an entry fees of Rs. 100/person. No fees were charged for kids. At the base there was ample space for car parking. Also there were few stalls for snacks and tea.
From the parking, we had to take buses to Kaas plateau which charged Rs. 20/person. In case you plan to visit other places ahead of Kaas pathar like Vajreshwari waterfall, Bamnoli etc. then you can take your own vehicle but you won’t get any parking at the pathar. Only designated buses are allowed to stop at the pathar.
The view of the kaas pathar was mesmerizing. The flowers had just started to bloom. To control possible damage by tourists, the number of visitors to the plateau has been restricted to 3,000/ day. Also, pathway is made so that tourist can walk on without disturbing the nature. There is ample staff at the pathar to guide you during your journey and also to check that the beauty of Kaas plateau is not spoiled.
The walk through these flowers and nature was a treat for eyes and mind. One can easily spend 3 to 4 hours here. One can get a view of Kaas lake located at the the south of the Kaas Plateau which is surrounded by dense forest.
Insider tips:
- Best time to visit: August to December is the season when the flowers bloom. In summers its mostly dry grassland.
- How to reach: Kaas plateau is located about 25 km west of Satara city, 37 km from Mahabaleshwar and 50 km from Panchgani.
- Via road: It is recommended to take your own vehicle to kaas pather. The plateau is accessible vai NH4.
- Via Rail: Satara Railway Station is the nearest station for Kaas pathar. After which you can take a bus to Bamnoli from Satara bus stand.
- Via Air: Flying to Pune is the fastest way to reach Kaas Pathar. After which one can take the road trip.
- Other tips:
- Plan well in advance: Since there is a limit of 3000 tourist per day. Book the time slot well in advance through their website. Also there are limited hotels nearby so booking them in advance is recommended.
- Carry umbrella: Since the weather during the season of bloom is mostly rainy or of mild showers. Carry raincoats and umbrellas.
- If possible take your own vehicle since the road is scenic and also if you want to visit nearby spots like Vajreshwari waterfall, Bamnoli etc.
In nutshell:
Kaas Pathar is a beautiful one day tourist destination to visit. It takes you close to nature and is a treat for your eyes and mind. Not only ss the pather beautiful but the road to the Kaas pathar is also scenic
Don’t forget to read about Thoseghar waterfall. Another mesmerizing tourist destination near Satara.
