Masai Plateau, Protected plateau in Kolhapur district, India.
Masai Plateau is a protected highland area in Kolhapur district, covering about 534 hectares at an elevation of 900 meters. The landscape features seasonal wildflowers, orchids, and various plant species adapted to this elevated environment.
Maharashtra government designated Masai Plateau as a conservation reserve in October 2022 under the Wildlife Protection Act. This official protection marked a significant step in preserving the area's natural diversity and ecosystem within the Panhala forest ranges.
The Masai Devi temple draws local visitors during Dasara, when the community gathers to honor both the divine and the natural landscape. This practice reflects how the plateau holds spiritual significance for people in the region.
The plateau is located roughly 30 kilometers west of Kolhapur city, with several villages including Bandivade, Badewadi, and Injole situated within its boundaries. Visitors should prepare for elevated terrain and bring appropriate clothing for the altitude and seasonal weather patterns.
The plateau is home to specialized carnivorous plants like Utricularia and Drosera indica, which trap and digest insects to obtain extra nutrients. This unusual adaptation allows these species to thrive in the nutrient-poor highland environment.
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