Are you looking for a refreshing and adventurous getaway from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai or Pune? Do you want to explore a hidden gem that offers a rich history, stunning scenery, and diverse wildlife? If yes, then Karnala Fort is the perfect destination for you!
Karnala Fort is a hill fort in Raigad district, located within the Karnala Bird Sanctuary. It is one of the most popular trekking spots in Maharashtra, as it offers a moderate and enjoyable climb to the top of the fort. Along the way, you can witness the beauty of nature, as well as the variety of birds and animals that inhabit the sanctuary. From the top of the fort, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding hills, valleys, and forests.
But Karnala Fort is not just a natural wonder. It is also and cultural treasure, as it has witnessed many historical events and battles over the centuries. It has been ruled by various dynasties, such as the Devagiri Yadavs, the Tughlaqs, the Gujarat Sultanate, the Nizam Shahs, the Mughals, the Marathas, and the British. It has also been a strategic point for trade and commerce, as it lies on the ancient trade route between Deccan and Konkan.
The fort has a unique and impressive architecture, as it consists of two levels of fortification. The lower level is a hexagonal bastion, while the upper level is a funnel-shaped pinnacle. The pinnacle is also known as Pandu’s tower, as it is believed to have been built by the Pandavas during their exile. The fort also has several water cisterns, temples, and inscriptions that reveal its past glory.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Read About Darshak's Karnala fort & bird sanctuary Jungle trek
How to Reach Karnala Fort
Karnala Fort is easily accessible by different modes of transport from Mumbai or Pune. Here are some of the options you can choose from:
By Train: The nearest railway station to Karnala Fort is Panvel, which is about 10 km away from the fort. You can take a local train from Mumbai or Pune to Panvel, and then hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus to reach the fort. The train journey takes about an hour from Mumbai and two hours from Pune.
By Bus: There are many state and private buses that ply between Mumbai or Pune and Panvel. You can board a bus from any of the major bus terminals in these cities, and get down at Panvel. From there, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus to reach the fort. The bus journey takes about two hours from Mumbai and three hours from Pune.
By Car: If you prefer to drive your own car, you can take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and exit at Shedung Phata. From there, you can follow the signboards to Karnala Bird Sanctuary, which is where the fort is located. The car journey takes about an hour and a half from Mumbai and two and a half hours from Pune.
You can also use online maps or navigation apps to find the best route and directions to Karnala Fort. Here is a map that shows the location of Karnala Fort.
Best Time to Visit Karnala Fort
Karnala Fort can be visited throughout the year, as it offers a different charm and experience in each season. However, depending on your preference and convenience, you may choose the best time to visit Karnala Fort as per the following factors:
Weather: The weather at Karnala Fort varies according to the season. In summer (March to May), the temperature can rise up to 40°C, making it hot and humid. However, this is also the time when you can see some of the rare and exotic birds that migrate to the sanctuary. In monsoon (June to September), the temperature drops to around 25°C, making it pleasant and cool. However, this is also the time when the trek becomes slippery and risky due to heavy rainfall. In winter (October to February), the temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C, making it ideal and comfortable. However, this is also the time when the trek becomes crowded and busy due to high demand.
Birdwatching: If you are a bird lover and want to see some of the most amazing and colorful birds in India, then Karnala Fort is a paradise for you. The fort is located within the Karnala Bird Sanctuary, which is home to over 200 species of birds, including some endangered and endemic ones. The best time to visit Karnala Fort for birdwatching is from November to February, when you can spot some of the migratory birds that flock to the sanctuary from different parts of the world. Some of the birds that you can see at Karnala Fort are Malabar Whistling Thrush, Paradise Flycatcher, Ashy Minivet, Indian Pitta, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, and many more.
Trekking: If you are an adventure enthusiast and want to enjoy a thrilling and rewarding trek to Karnala Fort, then you need to consider some factors before planning your trip. The trek to Karnala Fort is of moderate difficulty level and takes about two hours to complete. The trek starts from the entrance of the bird sanctuary and goes through a forest trail that leads to the base of the fort. From there, you need to climb a steep and rocky path that takes you to the top of the fort. The trek is suitable for beginners as well as experienced trekkers, as it offers a mix of challenge and fun. The best time to visit Karnala Fort for trekking is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and dry, and the trail is clear and safe.
Based on these factors, you can decide what suits you best and plan your trip accordingly. However, no matter when you visit Karnala Fort, you will surely have a memorable and enjoyable time there. Here are some photos or videos of how Karnala Fort looks like in different seasons.
Also Read: Exciting Treks in Maharashtra To Explore Gorgeous Forts
Tips for Visiting Karnala Fort
If you have decided to visit or trek to Karnala Fort, you need to keep some things in mind to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. Here are some tips for visiting Karnala Fort that will help you plan your trip better:
Entry Fee: The entry fee for Karnala Fort is Rs. 35 per person for adults and Rs. 15 per person for children. This includes the entry fee for the bird sanctuary as well. You need to pay the fee at the entrance of the sanctuary, where you will also get a ticket and a map of the trail.
Timings: The timings for Karnala Fort are from 7 am to 6 pm, every day of the week. However, it is advisable to start your trek early in the morning, as it can get hot and crowded later in the day. You should also try to finish your trek before sunset, as it can get dark and dangerous on the trail.
Difficulty Level: The difficulty level of Karnala Fort Trek is moderate, and it takes about two hours to complete. The trek is suitable for beginners as well as experienced trekkers, as it offers a mix of challenge and fun. However, you need to be physically fit and mentally prepared for the trek, as it involves climbing a steep and rocky path that can be exhausting and risky. You should also wear comfortable shoes and clothes, and carry enough water and snacks for the trek.
Things to Carry: Apart from water and snacks, you should also carry some essential items for the trek, such as a backpack, a cap, sunglasses, a raincoat, a torch, extra clothes, personal medicines, and a camera. You should also carry some cash, as there are no ATMs or card machines near the fort. You should also carry some plastic bags or bins to dispose of your waste properly, as you should not litter or harm the environment.
Precautions to Take:
You should also take some precautions to ensure your safety and well-being during the trek. Some of them are:
- Check the weather forecast before planning your trip, and avoid going during heavy rainfall or thunderstorms.
- Follow the instructions and guidelines given by the authorities or guides at the sanctuary or the fort.
- Stay on the marked trail and do not wander off or take shortcuts, as you may get lost or encounter wild animals.
- Do not touch or feed any of the birds or animals that you see on the way, as they may be harmful or endangered.
- Do not damage or deface any of the structures or inscriptions at the fort, as they are of historical and cultural value.
- Do not smoke or drink alcohol at the fort or on the trail, as it is prohibited and disrespectful.
Attractions to See:
Karnala Fort is not only a trekking destination but also a sightseeing destination. There are many attractions that you can see at or near the fort, such as:
- The funnel-shaped pinnacle, which is the most prominent feature of the fort. It is also known as Pandu’s tower, as it is believed to have been built by the Pandavas during their exile. You can climb up to the top of the pinnacle and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding hills, valleys, and forests.
- The water cisterns, which are located at various places on the fort. They are used to store rainwater for drinking and other purposes. Some of them are still in good condition and have clear water in them.
- The temples, which are dedicated to various deities such as Bhavani Mata, Shiva, Ganesh, and Hanuman. They are situated at different levels of the fort and have idols and sculptures of these gods and goddesses. They are also places of worship and meditation for devotees and visitors.
- The inscriptions, which are carved on stones or walls at various places on the fort. They reveal some information about the history, architecture, and rulers of the fort. Some of them are written in Devanagari, Marathi, Persian, and English scripts.
- The bird sanctuary, which is spread over an area of 12 sq km around the fort. It is one of the best places to see some of the most amazing and colorful birds in India. The sanctuary has over 200 species of birds, including some endangered and endemic ones. Some of the birds that you can see at the sanctuary are Malabar Whistling Thrush, Paradise Flycatcher, Ashy Minivet, Indian Pitta, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, and many more. You can also see some other animals such as monkeys, wild boars, langurs, and leopards at the sanctuary.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Karnala Fort today and experience the historical and natural treasure of Maharashtra! And don’t forget to share your experience with us on Tripoto!
