Karnala
is 120 km from Pune and 13 km from Panvel. Between Pune and Panvel lies the
Fort Karnala.
Just 10
km off the busy Mumbai-Pune highway a sign welcomes visitors to the Karnala
Bird Sanctuary. As the road winds up a little ghat on Mumbai-Goa highway,
travel-weary visitors feel a sudden freshness in the air as they enter this
pocket-sized Eden.
 Karnala
is dominated by a fort, which rises up from the sanctuary at its base. The
sanctuary is around 82 ft high from the sea level. On a clear day, the Mumbai
coastline, 30 km away is absolutely visible from the peak of the fort. To the
east of the fort, on the bank of the River Patalganga, is village Apte, on the
west is Ransai while on the north is Vichwan. The whole area is lush green and
rich with natural habitation of various birds like Red Vented, Bulbul, Horn
Bill, Myna, Owl, Robin McPie and many others.
Karnala is a bird watcher's paradise and even the casual picnicker is rewarded
with sights of colourful bird species.
The best
time to visit the place is between November to February for bird watching.
The fort
of Karnala and its steep rocks have always been a challenge for trekkers. Its
close proximity to Mumbai makes Karnala an ideal spot for a one-day picnic.
During the monsoons, the pathway leading to the pinnacle of the fort is almost
permanently wreathed in wisps of cloud and mist, giving you an absolutely
exhilarating feeling.
GENERAL INFORMATION
|
District |
:: |
Raigad |
Best
Season |
:: |
All |
|
Type |
:: |
Sanctuary |
Airport |
:: |
Mumbai
(49 km) |
|
Monsoon |
:: |
300 cm |
Railway
St. |
:: |
Panvel
(13 km) |
|
Climate |
:: |
Pleasant
& Humid |
From
Mumbai |
:: |
49 km |
Places
of Interest
- Karnala
bird sanctuary.
- Karnala Fort
Explore
Notes
-
Paradise for bird watchers and trekers.
-
Ideal for one day Picnic.
-
Better to carry binoculars.
-
Ideal for adventure sports at Karnala fort.
-
Avoid wandering in jungle after sunset.
|
