How to Reach Karnala Fort & Bird Sanctuary – Complete Monsoon Guide

Hidden Nature Getaway Near Panvel, Mumbai – Just 60 KM Away

Lesser-Known Monsoon Escape in Maharashtra

Karnala Fort and Bird Sanctuary is a peaceful, green paradise hidden just 60 km away from the chaos of Mumbai. Nestled in the Western Ghats near Panvel, this place is not just a trekker’s delight but also a haven for bird lovers.

Imagine walking through misty forest trails, the chirping of rare birds in the background, and the ruins of a hilltop fort emerging from the clouds — that’s Karnala during monsoon! 🌿

Whether you're a solo traveler, a group of friends, or planning a family weekend outing, Karnala Bird Sanctuary + Fort trek is the perfect mix of nature, history, and adventure.



How to Reach Karnala Fort from Mumbai & Pune

📍Start Point/Base Village: Karnala Village, Near Panvel, Maharashtra
🛤️ Nearest Railway Station: Panvel Railway Station (Central Line)
🛣️ By Road from Mumbai:

  • Distance: ~60 km
  • Route: Mumbai → Sion → Vashi → Belapur → Panvel → Karnala

🛣️ By Road from Pune:

  • Distance: ~120 km
  • Route: Pune → Lonavala → Khopoli → Pen → Karnala

🚗 Private car, bike ride, and ST buses from Panvel are available

📍Google Map Location:
Click here to open on Google Maps


What is Significance of Karnala Fort & Bird Sanctuary?

  • Historical Fort: Dates back to the 14th century, built under Devagiri Yadavas, later used by Shivaji Maharaj.
  • Sanctuary: Over 150 species of resident and 37 migratory birds. A must-visit for birdwatchers.
  • Fort Trek: ~2.5 km one-way, medium difficulty trek, scenic and safe for beginners too.
  • Photography Spot: Dense jungle, monsoon mist, and panoramic views from the top.


🥾 Trek Route & Total Guide

🧩 Section✅ Info
Trek Start PointKarnala Forest Checkpost
Trek TypeHill Fort Trail
Duration1.5 to 2 hours (one-way)
DifficultyModerate (Beginner-friendly in monsoon)
Entry Fees₹60 for Indian citizens, extra for camera
Trek Timing7 AM to 4 PM (Last Entry)
Guide Required?Optional, trail is well-marked


     Best Time to Visit Karnala Fort

    • Monsoon Season (June to September): Lush greenery, birds, waterfall streams
    • Winter Season (October to February): Ideal for birdwatching and photography

    🚫 Avoid in heavy rains or late evening.


    📸 Is Camera or Drone Allowed?

    • DSLR / Mobile Photography: Allowed (Entry fee applicable)
    • Drone: ❌ Not permitted (Sanctuary area - forest regulation)


    🎯 Things to Do at Karnala Fort & Bird Sanctuary

    ✅ Trek to Karnala Fort
    ✅ Bird watching with binoculars
    ✅ Picnic in nature
    ✅ Forest trail walk
    ✅ Photography
    ✅ Watchtower with panoramic views
    ✅ Visit the Interpretation Centre


    🍱 Facilities Available

    FacilityAvailability
    Parking✅ Available (Paid)
    Drinking Water✅At Base canteen, Water Tank
    Toilets✅ Available at the entrance
    Food Canteen at Base.
    First Aid✅ Forest staff at entry

      Note - Drinking Water - A refundable deposit of ₹100 if you carry a plastic bottle. It will be refunded when you bring the bottle back

      Budget (Per Person – Approx.)

      ItemCost
      Entry Ticket₹60
      Travel (Local Train + Rickshaw)₹100–₹200
      Food₹100 (packed)
      Total₹300–₹400 max (Budget-friendly trip!)


        Nearby Places to Explore

        • Prabalgad Fort
        • Kalavantin Durg (for experienced trekkers)
        • Kharghar Hills & Pandavkada Waterfall (30 km)
        • Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary (for nature lovers)


        Suitable For:

        • Solo travelers
        • Nature photographers
        • Birdwatchers
        • Weekend bikers
        • School/College groups
        • Family-friendly (kids above 7 years)


        Can Be Clubbed With Other Treks?

        Yes! You can club Karnala Fort trek with:

        #KarnalaFortTrek #BirdSanctuaryNearMumbai #WeekendTrek #MonsoonTrekMaharashtra #PanvelTravel #SahyadriFort #Lets2GetherExplore

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