| - By Megha Chaturvedi
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
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