|
Karnala is a word synonymous with Bird watchers paradise.
Situated 120km from Pune and 13km from Panvel, this
is an absolute treat to the senses.
Karnala’s closeness to Mumbai makes it an ideal
spot for a weekend getaway. The place is actually known
for the Bird Sanctuary it houses.
Prime Attractions
Karnala Bird Sanctuary - The sanctuary which is around
25 meters above the sea level lies at the bottom of
Karnala fort. It is 10 km off the Mumbai-Pune highway.
Pollution levels drop and excitements rise as one enters
this area.
The Sanctuary is home to about 150 species of resident
birds. Apart from these 37other species of bird migrate
to this safe haven in winters. There are two separate
seasons for bird watching.
In the mirthful monsoons one can see the Paradise
Flycatcher, Magpie, Robin, and the Malabar Whistling
Thrush, which are among some of the most melodious avian
singers. An array of other birds like the Racket-Tailed
Drongo, Horn Bill, Red Vented Bulbul, Owl, Myna, Ashy
Rain War Blur, also two rare birds Ashy Minmet and Spotted
heart Woodpeckers have been sighted here. During winters
many species of migrant birds like Throat, Shrike, Blue
and Large Cuckoo are seen among the others.
The sanctuary is chiefly known for its birds but sometimes
one can also find Antelopes, Panthers, Langur, and African
monkeys.
This place is also known for the variety of trees
found here. Asana, Kalam, Koshimb, Kalam, Mango, Teak
and Umbar are seen at the top canopy. A normal walk
through the forests, listening to the chirping birds
is a delightful experience.
Karnala Fort – The fort on whose foothills this
sanctuary lies is a hit with the revelers. The fort
which stands 370 metres above the sea level was originally
used by the Marathas as its location makes lies around
countryside visible. On any clear day, the Mumbai coastline,
30 km away is totally noticeable from the crest of the
fort.
The fort with its steep rocks has always challenged
trekkers. In the monsoons, the path leading to the summit
of the fort is permanently adorned in strands of mist
and cloud. This is a truly elating experience.
The citadel is also known for its small Bhavani Temple
at the peak which is surrounded by rock cut caves and
water tanks built by the Buddhists.
Best Time to Visit:
Karnala is worth visiting all year round except between
March and June. However the best time to visit the place
is between November to February.
How to Get There
Air: Nearest airport is Mumbai, at
70 km
Rail: Nearest railway station is
Panvel, at 12 km on Diva-Panvel section of Central Railway.
The distance between Mumbai and Panvel is 69 kms. Many
trains from Mumbai’s C.S.T halt at Panvel.
Road: Karnala is suitably positioned,
at a two hour drive from Mumbai. Buses work frequently
between Mumbai and Panvel and taxis and auto rickshaws
cover the 12 km distance from Panvel effortlessly.
Accomodation:
Karnala, promising tourist areas has many hotels and
resorts suiting all budget like:
Kshanbhar Vishranti
Rishi Resorts
The Wood Holiday Resort
Also available are MTDC's rent-a-tent facilities for
visitors who wish to spend the night. The forest department
has cottages for hire.
Reminder:
Carry powerful binoculars
Avoid wandering in the jungle after sunset
| 
