Karnala fort in Raigad district about 10 km from Panvel city. Currently it is a protected place lying within the Karnala Bird Sanctuary. It was a fort of strategic importance as it overlooked the Bor pass which connected the Konkan coast to the interior of Maharashtra and was the main trade route between these areas.
To reach Karnala Fort, there are two ways up: one is easy and other is bit more difficult. Those who have not done trekking or consider themselves in good enough physical condition can take the former. Experienced trekkers would find the latter interesting - it is at par with some of the easy-medium Sahyadri treks like Tikona Fort.
For the easier route: Move left from the entrance. One can take this path, which starts from the water pump house. Follow the arrow marks displayed on the trees.
For the difficult route: Move right from the entrance. This path can be taken from man-made Steps near the entrance, which leads directly to the forest. This has a few streams (get ready to have your shoes wet!), small waterfalls and traverses through foliage. It's recommended you get a good pair of sports shoes, and plenty of water. The total elevation of this climb is around 375 m. While it's not difficult, there are some rocks and steep climbs to negotiate.
How TO REACH
From Mumbai - Karnala fort is 60 km from Mumbai, on the Mumbai-Goa Highway, NH-17. This is a 2-hour drive via Thane Creek and Panvel. Central Railway trains from CST Station stop at Panvel, 12 km from the Fort base; from here you can catch autorickshaws, taxis and buses. State Transport buses run from Mumbai Central to Karnala fort. You can hire a Taxi from Mumbai or Pune and shouldn't be very expensive.
From Vashi (Navi Mumbai) - Karnala fort is 32 km from Mumbai From Vashi, regular buses and autorickshaws (6 seaters) going towards Pen from Panvel will drop you at Karnala, but the frequency is very less after 6.00-7.00 PM. The fare is around Rs 15.00. Though this might be adventurous for a foreigner, it's not unusual and these rickshaws are generally safe.
Do Apart from Trekking
Apart from trekking, soaking in nature, and searching for birds, there is precious else to do at Karnala Sanctuary. However, along the way, you can also have a snack / lime juice at a little stall. There are also little shelters with corrugated roofs where you can sit and have a meal with your family
Major Attraction Spot
Karnala Bird Sanctuary is a major attraction to the visitors of Mumbai, Thane and other nearby towns. About one hundred thousand local tourists visit the sanctuary every year. Karnala is a paradise for bird watchers. One can also visit Nature Interpretation Centre and trek down to famous Karnala Fort located amidst sanctuary.
