10th – 14th Sep 2025
(4 Nights/5 Days)
GROUP SIZE: 7-10 pax
COST: 57,000 per person
Snapshot
Overview
The Deccan and the surrounding laterite plateaus of the Western Ghats form a vast and ancient landform that dominates southern India. This region holds a rich and layered history that dates back to prehistoric times. Once a part of the ancient Gondwana supercontinent, the plateau’s volcanic origins have shaped its distinctive geography and the fertile black soils that define much of the landscape. Over the millennia, it has been home to some of India’s earliest civilizations and powerful dynasties.
It harbours a unique and diverse range of ecosystems shaped by elevation, climate, and geological history. From dry deciduous forests and scrubland to remnant patches of moist evergreen forest in the Western Ghats, the region supports a remarkable variety of flora and fauna, much of it endemic. This ecological wealth, layered with centuries of human presence, has resulted in a landscape where the natural and the cultural are deeply interwoven.
Our tour through these plateaus takes us into the countryside of Maharashtra—exploring the rolling hills and tablelands of Satara, the Kaas Plateau, Bhigwan, and Pune. We’ll be tracking key wildlife species of the region: Indian Grey Wolf, Striped Hyena, Leopard, Indian Fox, Indian Gazelle, Indian Courser, Painted Sandgrouse, Satara Gecko, Western Indian Leopard Gecko, Ghate’s Bush Frog, Calamaria Reed Snake, and Indian Saw-scaled Viper, among others. We’ll also be witnessing botanical phenomena like the blooming of Strobilanthes, insectivorous Ceropegia, and Sundews.
Location
Highlights
- Explore the ancient landscapes of the Deccan and Western Ghats
- Look for iconic species such as the Indian Grey Wolf, Striped Hyena, and Painted Sandgrouse
- Experience seasonal floral events, including Ceropegia and Sundew blooms
- Visit diverse habitats from dry scrub to lateritic plateaus and ephemeral wetlands
- Travel through rural Maharashtra with expert naturalists and local trackers
Expected Weather
Daytime highs: 22–32°C
Nighttime lows: 10–18°C
Physical Level
Easy to moderate. Expect some walking on uneven terrain, warm daytime temperatures, and open country travel.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 – Pune to Satara
Pickup at Pune Airport and drive to Satara (approx. 3 hrs). Breakfast en route, with a short stop at the Baramotichi Vihir stepwells. Orientation on arrival in Satara. After lunch, drive to Chalkewadi Plateau for macro, wildlife, and landscape photography until dusk.
Overnight at Hotel City Inn, Satara
Day 2 – Kaas Plateau
Early breakfast followed by a morning drive to the Kaas Plateau to explore its rich flora, fauna, and seasonal blooms. Lunch at Kaas or back in Satara, depending on timing. Post lunch, visit Thoseghar and enjoy high tea at Sajjangarh Fort.
Dinner and overnight at Hotel City Inn, Satara
Day 3 – Satara to Bhigwan
Early morning exploration near Ajinkyatara, return to the hotel for breakfast. Post breakfast, drive to Supa, with lunch en route. In the afternoon, explore the grasslands of Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. Continue onward to Bhigwan, check-in at the lodge. Night walk for nocturnal fauna.
Dinner and overnight at Suyash Palace Lodge, Bhigwan
Day 4 – Bhigwan
Morning birding and mammal watching in the Bhigwan grasslands, return to the camp for a late breakfast. After lunch, evening drive or boat ride at Bhigwan for wetland birding.
Overnight and dinner at Suyash Palace Lodge, Bhigwan
Day 5 – Bhigwan to Pune
Morning safari at Bhigwan, followed by breakfast. Post breakfast, transfer back to Pune for onward travel. Option to visit geological sites and Deccan lava tube formations, depending on time, sightings, and guest preference.
Note that day-wise plans are subject to change based on weather conditions and wildlife activity. Final decisions on the day’s schedule will be made by the guides on the ground, based on their expertise and real-time assessment.
Logistics
Place of Stay
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Transport
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Booking Info
COST
₹ 57,000 + 5% GST per person on Double/Twin sharing
SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT:
₹ 8,500* + 5% GST
DATES
10–14 September, 2025 (4N/5D)
GROUP SIZE
7 to 10 pax
* Rates are subject to availability and tax changes
Trip Inclusions:
- Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary
- All permits and entry fees
- All listed activities
- Travel in Innova for the entire trip
- Tour Leader and local guides at various locations
Trip Exclusions:
- Flights
- Items of personal nature such as gratuities, phone calls, shopping, laundry, alcohol, beverages, snacks, and any additional charges not covered in the package
- Any additional chargeable activity opted for
- Any expenses arising due to unavoidable circumstances beyond our control
PLEASE NOTE:
- Arrive on the morning of September 10th at Pune Airport (or stay near the airport on the night of the 9th)
- We depart latest by 7:30 AM from Pune Airport
- Return flights from Pune can be booked for the late afternoon on September 14th
Article by the Tour Leader on Exploring this Region
https://www.swarovskioptik.com/us/en/outdoor/stories/a-monsoon-exploration
PAYMENT TERMS:
- Booking confirmation on receipt of 50% advance
- Full payment must be made 30 days prior to the trip start
cancellation policy:
- 70% refund of trip fee for cancellations up to 60 days before the start of the trip
- 50% refund of trip fee for cancellations between 30 to 60 days before the start of the trip
- 25% refund of trip fee for cancellations between 15 to 30 days before the start of the trip
- No refund for cancellations within two weeks from the start of the trip