Karnala is a well-known fort city in the Raigad District of Maharashtra, situated at an altitude of 475 m above sea level. Marked by dense forests and high mountain ranges, this city is an ideal weekend getaway from Mumbai, which is located 61 km towards the north. Lying on the Mumbai-Goa highway, Karnala is equidistant from Pen and Panvel, both of which are located at a distance of 10 km.
Maharashtra Government in 1968-69 declared this 4.5 Sq.Km. region as the bird sanctuary. Rich with natural habitats for various kinds of birds, in the sanctuary one can find around 150 species of birds. Specially, you can watch for Red Vented Bulbul, Horn Bill, Myna, Owl, Ashy Rain War Blur, Paradise Fly Catcher, RobinMcPie.
On the east of the fort, on the bank of the river Patalganga, is village Apte, on the west is Ransai, while on the north is Vhichwan. The whole area is full of greenery. The fort of Karnala and its famous steep rock always has been challenge for trackers. Bird watchers are advised to bring powerful binoculars to avoid disappointment. Karnala is worth visiting all year round except between March and June.
The best season to travel to Karnala is during the monsoons; however, the best time for birdwatchers is between October and April.