resorts located near Karnala Fort

The Karnala Fort trek is a popular day hike located inside the Karnala Bird Sanctuary near Panvel, making it a perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure. It is well-known for its distinctive thumb-shaped pinnacle, visible from a distance.

Trek Difficulty

The trek is rated as easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners, families, and even children. The trail is well-defined and takes you through a dense forest. The final ascent to the fort involves some steep rock-cut steps, but iron railings are in place to ensure a safe climb. It’s important to note that the trail can become very slippery during the monsoon season.

Trekking Route and Highlights

The trek to the fort takes approximately 2-2.5 hours to reach the top. There are two main trails:

• The Main Trail: This is the most popular and well-marked route that goes through the center of the bird sanctuary. It offers a rich experience of the area’s flora and fauna.
• The Alternate Route: This is a more challenging and steeper shortcut that should only be attempted by experienced trekkers.

At the summit, you’ll find the ruins of Karnala Fort, including a 125-foot-high basalt pillar known as “Pandu’s Tower” and a year-round freshwater cistern. The views from the top are breathtaking, with a panoramic vista of the surrounding Sahyadri hills and nearby forts like Prabalgad and Manikgad.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for the trek is during the monsoon (June to September) and winter (October to February) seasons. The monsoon brings lush greenery and waterfalls, but the trail is slippery. Winter offers clear skies and pleasant weather for the hike.

How to Get There

The base of the trek is at the entrance of the Karnala Bird Sanctuary.

• By Public Transport: The nearest railway station is Panvel. From there, you can take a local bus or a shared rickshaw to the Karnala Bird Sanctuary gate.
• By Private Vehicle: Karnala is located about 65 km from Mumbai on the Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH-17). You can drive directly to the sanctuary gate, where paid parking is available.

Entry Fees and Rules

• Entry Fee: There are varying reports on the exact price, but it is typically around ₹30-₹50 per person for entry into the Karnala Bird Sanctuary.
• Additional Fees: There may be charges for cameras and parking.
• Plastic Ban: The sanctuary has a strict policy against plastic. You may be required to pay a refundable deposit for any plastic water bottles you carry.

Important Tips

• Wear sturdy trekking shoes with a good grip.
• Carry plenty of water and some snacks.
• Do not feed the monkeys or other wildlife along the trail.
• Avoid cooking or smoking at the fort, as the smoke can attract and irritate beehives.
• It is advisable to go in a group, especially if you are a beginner.