I wanted to get back to travel-writing today, after a self-imposed break of more than five months. Travelling is still a far flung dream and I do not believe that it is okay to travel just yet, no matter the precautions you take. It is just not worth it. But my heart is aching for the outdoors now – for lush green valleys and sandy beaches, for historical old towns and the stories they narrate. Though I still have no clue on when travel will come back to life, it is carefully collected memories that bring solace, albeit for a short while. Kaas Plateau
Reminiscing about a trip to Kaas Plateau, valley of flowers in Maharashtra today. Though it has been a few years since my visit, monsoons always remind me that I have to plan once again. Among many destinations that I had in mind for 2020, this is yet another unfulfilled dream. I hope 2021 will be better to us.
Kaas Plateau gets it’s name from the tree of the same name that is found in abundance at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. During monsoon, these grasslands turn colorful with wild flowers blooming all around in plenty. Only 1000 visitors are allowed inside the valley per day, so the foot-fall doesn’t alter the ecology of this UNESCO World Heritage site. A few hours from Pune, Kaas Plateau( or Kaas Paththar, as the locals call it) is a perfect day trip from the city, though I can bet that you won’t want to come back so soon. And that’s exactly why I want to plan another trip.
The drive to Kaas was as beautiful as the destination, with Western Ghats unfolding to reveal hidden lakes and waterfalls. The misty weather added to the charm of that drive, making it so surreal that it still brings back fond memories.