Bhambavli Pushp Pathar (Flower Valley),

Bhambavli Flower Valley (Pushp Pathar) is in the western part of . It is located approximately 30 kms away from Satara city. It is situated high hill plateaus and grasslands turns into a 'valley of flowers' during monsoon season, particularly from August to early October. Bhambavli Plateau has more than 150 or more types of flowers, shrubs and grasses. The plateau is largely formed of basalt. The basalt rock is covered by a thin cover of soil formed due to erosion and has accumulated a layer of not more than an inch or so. The plants growing on Bhambavli plateau are typically of herbaceous nature of like grasses.

Apart from Bhambavli Vajrai Waterfall, a highest waterfall of , Bhambavli is also admired for its rich flora and fauna. Variety of flora and fauna found in surrounding dense forest and plateau of Bhambavli. The different and rare flowers make this place appear like a wonderland. Karvi, Sonki, Smitia, Balsam, orchids, are some of varieties that blossom in this plateau. The ideal period to visit this place is August and October. Bhambavli Plateau is rich in its Bio-diversity. Many species are observed on plateau which are new to the Botanical Science. Many of the endemic, endangered plants are found on Plateau. This place houses a wide range of birds.

Bhambavli plateau with charming natural flowers will definitely allure you. Bhambavli Flower Valley overlooks the lush green forests of the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, Koyana Sanctuary, water catchment area of Koyna , Urmodi backwaters, Sajjangadh, Kas Flower Valley, Chalkewadi Wind-mills, Vasota Fort, and Confluence of three rivers (Koyana, Solashi and Kandati). Bhambavli plateau is sincerely ideal location for nature lovers and photography aficionados.

It is a perfect weekend destination for all age groups. Just come here, enjoy the nature, have a delicious Maharashtrian food in the Home-stays and most importantly forget everything in the tranquility of this place. While you go back to your places you will carry a hell lot of energy and enthusiasm with you. The 2 days trip will rejuvenate you and will help you reconnect to yourself. So, all are invited, the flower valley is waiting for you.

Nearby other places to visit:

 Bhambavli Vajrai Waterfall‐ tallest waterfall of India  Kas Flower Valley in the month of August to September.  Bamnoli & Tapola – for boating.  Sajjangadh Fort – Samadhi of Saint Ramdas.  Thoseghar Waterfall.  Chalkewadi for Windmills,.  Mahabaalleshwar – Hill Station  Pachgani – Hill Station  Wai – Ganpati  Gondavale – Samadhi of Saint Gondvalekar Maharaj.  Koyna‐Chandoli Tiger Sanctuary

Precautions to be taken by Tourists while visiting Bhambavli Pushp Pathar (Flower Valley).

 Visit only between 8.00 am to 5.00 pm every day.  Avoid visiting this place in heavy rains and fog.  This is plastic free zone; don’t throw plastic bags, water bottles etc.  Prohibited consumption of Alcohol  Plateau is slippery in rainy season, be cautious.  Heavy rains with fog, unable to see stiff clips at Plateau, chances of fall, be cautious.  Be agile and cautious, as there are chances of encounters with reptiles like snakes, insects. Wild animals like tiger, bear etc. Trekking Precautions:  Wear appropriate footwear  Rock faces can get very slippery.  Streams as well as ponds are quite deep.  Don’t eat leaves, flowers and fruits, mushroom etc. unless you are sure that they are safe. They could be poisonous.  Be agile and cautious, as there are chances of encounters with reptiles like snakes, insects. Wild animals like tiger, bear etc. Route to reach Bhambavli Vajrai Waterfall:

By Air : is nearest place to reach to Satara and then to Bhambavli Vajrai Waterfall. From Pune you have to go by road to Satara – Kas – From Kas to Tambi (Bhambavli).

By Road: (1) Satara to Kas, Kas to Tambi (Bhambavli)

(2) to Tapola, Bambnoli‐ Kas, Kas to Tambi (Bhambavli).

Accommodation at Bhambavli Tourists may prefer to stay at village Bhambavli in their traditional homes or Home‐stays made available. This stay will give tourists a chance to live a rural life.

MOST IMPOROTANT:

Not to enter dense forest without a Guide. Guide is available in Village Bhambavli.