Karvat–Kusavade Ecotourism Zone
Karvat, Taluka Patan, District Satara | Zone 3
Overview
The Karvat–Kusavade Ecotourism Zone is located in Patan tehsil of Satara district, along the eastern part of the Koyna (Shivsagar) Reservoir. A proposed tourism complex at the buffer-zone entry point is situated near the scenic Karvat village. The zone is characterised by distinctive plateau ecosystems, where the endemic fan-throated lizard can be observed, along with windmills and seasonal flower-rich plateaus.
The zone can be accessed through Karvat on the Patan side and Chalkewadi on the Satara side. Major attractions include panoramic views of Shivsagar Lake, particularly the sunset viewpoint at Kathi village, the sunset point at Vele, and waterfalls at Kusavade, Awasari and Sandavali.
Van Kusavade Plateau is especially attractive from September to November when seasonal flowers are in bloom. Visitors can experience windmill and plateau safaris using four-wheel-drive vehicles and bicycles. Proposed visitor experiences also include eco-meditation points, tent stays and homestays, supporting nature-based and community-oriented tourism.
Tourism Destinations and Proposed Tourism Facilities
| Tourism Destinations | Proposed Tourism Facilities & Activities |
|---|---|
| Plateau Safari: Karvat to Vele APC Plateau | Vehicle safari |
| Nature Trek: Karvat PH to Ghera Dategad; Vele APC to Dhen–Mayni | Cycle safari |
| Cycle Safari: Vele–Chalkewadi to Vele; Vele to Kusavade; Windmill; Karvat to Kathi | Nature trail |
| Waterfalls: Dhareshwar; Kusavade (reverse); Sandavali; Dhuilwadi; Misalwadi; Tamakne | Information Centre |
| Forts: Ghera Dategad; Gunwantgad (Morgiri) | Tent accommodation, youth hostel and canteen |
| Nature Education Centre | |
| Devrai (sacred groves): Bhairavban Devrai–Bharsakhle; Injai Devrai–Ambavne | 3D map and wildlife statues |
| Caves: Karvat; Kathi–Avasari | Information boards |
| View Points: Shivsagar Viewpoint (Neckles Point)–Kathi; Windmill Point–Kusavade | Souvenir shop |
| Other Attractions: Tamakne Buddhist caves; Elephant Illusion Point–Karvat; Chandghal–Kathi; Van and Kusavade Plateaus | Nature library |
| Safari vehicles | |
| Waiting room for tourists | |
| Seating arrangements | |
| Bird and butterfly watching | |
| Water tourism | |
| Programmes and competitions | |
| Nature education camp | |
| Cycle safari and plateau safari | |
| Children’s play area | |
| Adventure sports | |
| Butterfly garden | |
