Kaas Plateau : Maharashtra Flower Festival to begin on Sunday
Over 1 Lakh people visited Kaas plateau in 2023 so far
By: Pune Pulse
September 2, 2023
PUNE: The highly anticipated Maharashtra Flower Festival will commence on Sunday at the beautiful Kaas Plateau, which is often referred to as the ‘Valley of Flowers in Maharashtra.’ The plateau will be adorned with a diverse range of blooming flora expected to last until October 15.
Bookings for attending the festival can now be made online. The entry fee for each visitor is Rs 150 for a day’s visit. Those who wish to explore the plateau on a bicycle can rent one for Rs 50 per hour. The festival timings have been carefully planned to allow visitors to fully experience the magnificence of the annual blooming season. The forest department, Kaas Pathar Sanvardhan Samiti, and the district administration have made all the necessary arrangements for visitors.
While talking to Pune Pulse, Abhijit Mane, Probationary Range Forest Officer for Medha added, “Online and offline bookings have begun. Authorities are working to ensure a hassle-free experience for tourists, including the deployment of police personnel. We have also introduced a free bus service from the parking area to Kaas Plateau. A fee of Rs 50 per hour is charged for bicycle rentals from Rajmarg to Kumudini Lake. Students can avail of a special facility for Rs 40, provided they present a school letter. However, this service is not available to students on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. Additionally, we have guides available, and guided tours are charged at Rs 100 per hour and children below 12 can visit free of cost.”Â
The Valley of Flowers in Maharashtra is currently displaying a scattered bloom of various flower species. The reduced rainfall has created favourable conditions for flower growth, and by mid-September, the plateau is expected to showcase its most splendid floral display. Situated in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India, the Kaas Plateau, also known as Kaas Pathar, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This plateau stands as a remarkable testament to the beauty of nature, attracting tourists, botanists, and nature enthusiasts from around the globe.
Located at an elevation of 1,200 meters above sea level, the plateau is enriched with lateritic soil, which is crucial for the unique floral biodiversity it supports. Aside from the annual flower festival, the plateau offers breathtaking views of lush hills and intricate waterfalls. It serves as a sanctuary for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, as it is home to a variety of avian species and insects, including indigenous butterflies. This destination not only pleases the eyes but also serves as a living laboratory for researchers and conservationists.
The plateau is host to approximately 430 rare and colourful flower varieties, including various grass species. Among them, roughly 132 varieties have already bloomed. Visitors can expect to see wildflower blooms of Pinda, Smithia, Sonki, Ceropegia, Murdannia, and more.
The former deputy head of Kaas Pathar Samvardhan Samiti disclosed that a team of 120 volunteers is managing this year’s festival. To ensure the comfort of tourists, three sheds have been set up in case of sudden rain. Drinking water and bicycles are also available.
Guides and walkie-talkies are provided due to the absence of mobile network coverage. A temporary barrier has been installed to prevent vehicles from accessing the main plateau area, which will be removed once the festival concludes.
The forest department and Kaas Pathar Sanvardhan Samiti encourage tourists to visit the website www.kas.ind.in for further festival details.
