Kaas Plateau

Kaas Plateau, Panchgani Overview

Declared as the UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites of India in 2012, Kaas Plateau in Panchgani is a magical place with landscapes with lakes, flowers and butterflies all around. Kaas Plateau is a biodiversity hotspot situated at a mighty altitude of 1200 metres and is a major biodiversity hotspot owing to the many varieties of endemic flowers and butterflies that are found here.

Housing about 850 species of beautiful wildflowers, the 1000 hectare area of the plateau is now a reserved forest which is famous for its natural beauty and flora, Kaas Lake and how it turns into a valley of flowers during monsoon. Recently, the place has started gathering a bit of tourist rush and popularity for all the natural treasures that it holds. However, to preserve the virgin charms of this location, the number of visitors have been restricted to 3,000 per day. State Transport buses ply from the parking area to Kaas Plateau and cost INR 10 per person each side.

The months beginning from August to October witness the Kaas Valley transforming into a blooming beauty of endemic flowers such as Anjani, Paner, Sonki, Kondal, Deepkadee and Kaasa. The sheer variety of colours, shapes and sizes is a delightful sight to behold and makes Kaas Valley an undeniable hit among scientists, naturalists and adventure lovers alike. The many blossoms of the valley stand in stark contrast to the azure of the sky with numerous delicate butterflies fluttering their way through this kaleidoscopic maze.

Kaas Lake

Adding another shimmering dimension to the beauty of the Kaas Plateau is the Kaas Lake, which is situated quite close to the valley itself. Interestingly, the lake has a number of flowers that are not even present in the valley area. Underwater flora is quite abundant here as well, which makes the Kaas Lake a delightful expedition for both amateur and professional botanists. The Kaas Lake is also a perennial source of water for the western part of Satara City.

Entry Tickets and Timings

Visiting details for Kaas Valley can be summarised as follows:-

Weekdays: INR 50 (for visitors above 12 years of age)
Weekends/ Government Holidays: INR 100 for three years (for visitors above 12 years of age)
Senior Citizens: Free, Government ID proof required as proof of age
Parking is free and only 3,000 guests are allowed per day

Best Time To Visit Kaas Plateau

The best time to visit Kaas Plateau is right after the monsoons, that is, in September and October, while the flowers are in full bloom. Blooming is in full force starting from a week or two after the rain stops, if there is continuous sunshine, so keep on the lookout for the weather.

The administration managing the tourism maintains a surprisingly updated website where they upload the photos from the recent few days - we would suggest you to give that a read before leaving.

The temperature is also pleasant for sightseeing during these months - the temperature is in the comfortable range of 20-25 degrees, with overcast conditions - perfect weather to sit among millions of flowers and enjoy the beauty!

Traveling Around Kaas Plateau

Travelling within the area is largely by foot. However, be careful and try not to trample upon the flowers here in the Kaas Plateau.

Activities At Kaas Plateau

Given the unique and beautiful terrain and landscapes, Kaas Plateau tends to be quite a favourite for photography. In addition to being an amazing photography destination, Kaas Plateau also doubles up as a quaint picnic spot where you can spend some quality time with your friends and family.

Sample Itinerary For Kaas Plateau

Taka a day trip to Kaas Plateau from Satara. Follow it with a trip to the Kaas Lake towards an early evening.

Tips For Visiting Kaas Plateau

1. Visit towards the end of the monsoon season, it being the best season to watch the flowers in full bloom
2. Carry your own rain coat, umbrella, sports shoes compulsory, an extra pair of clothes and socks, cap, goggles, water bottle and sweater
3. Washrooms are not available near the Kaas Plateau
4. Mobile network is bleak in this region
5. Although parking facility is free, it is quite far from the actual Kaas Plateau site
6. Do not litter the premises

How to reach Kaas Plateau

Kaas Plateau lies on NH 4 and easily reachable by a taxi or public buses. The plateau is just 22 km from Satara city and can be reached through a hired taxi or public buses - there are a few state buses that ply on the route from Satara to Kaas. If you are driving your own car, you would need to park a little ahead of the main flowing area and walk for about 1km.

Air: The nearest airport is at Pune which is 127 km from Satara and is well connected by road. One can easily get a cab for Kaas Plateau or catch a bus for Satara and take a taxi for Kaas Plateau from Satara.
Rail: The nearest rail head is at Satara which is 22 km from Kaas Plateau. The plateau can be easily reached by hiring a cab .
Road: Kaas Plateau lies on NH 4 and easily reachable by a taxi or public buses. The plateau is just 22 km from Satara city and can be reached through a hired taxi or public buses - there are a few state buses that ply on the route from Satara to Kaas. If you are driving by your own car, you would need to park a little ahead of the main flowing area and walk for about 1km.