Welcome to
Karnala Bird Sanctuary
123+ Bird species and a historic fort. A top trekking and birdwatching destination
About Karnala Bird Sanctuary
Where History Meets Nature’s Harmony
A Green Escape in the Heart of Maharashtra
Welcome to the “Holy Grail” of bird lovers. Karnala Bird Sanctuary is one of Maharashtra’s most precious protected areas, established in 1968 to preserve the incredible biodiversity of the Sahyadri range. Spanning 12.11 sq. km around the base of the historic Karnala Fort, this sanctuary is a lush, plastic-free paradise located just 12 km from Panvel on the Mumbai-Goa Highway.
Quick Facts Did You Know?
Maharashtra’s 1st
Established in 1968, it is the state’s very first bird sanctuary
123+ Bird Species
A diverse range of resident bird species recorded within the sanctuary
56+ Butterfly Species
A rich variety of butterflies thriving across the forest ecosystem
Activities at Karnala
What Can You Do?
Bird Watching
Explore the Hariyal Trail for a chance to spot the Paradise Flycatcher
Hiking to the Fort
Take a fun walk up the mountain to see the ancient Karnala Fort
Butterfly Watching
Spot over 56+ species, including the giant
Blue Mormon
Trek Distance
4–6 km (Total round trip)
Trek Altitude
1,440 feet (445 meters)
Trek Type
Forest Trail / Hilltop Fort Trek
Trek Duration
2–3 hours (Total time)
Difficulty Level
Easy-moderate
Location
Karnala, Panvel (Raigad District)
Distance from Mumbai
55 km
Distance from Pune
120 km
Guide
The Trail Guide Preparation & Arrival
Valid government ID + booking receipt (hard copy)
Energy snacks (fruits, protein bars, dry fruits)
Backpack (small to medium size)
Sufficient cash (for guide fees, entry, etc.)
Camera/binoculars (optional, avoid flash)
Water bottles (minimum 2 Ltr)
Sunscreen, cap/hat, sunglasses
First-aid kit & personal medications
Insect repellent & wet wipes
Extra clothes for post-trek change
Visitor Reviews
What our visitors say
My experience at this place was truly memorable and overall very positive. As an international traveler, I always look for destinations that offer a mix of culture, atmosphere, convenience, and authenticity, and this place delivered a well-rounded experience.
The location is easy to access and well-connected, making the journey smooth and comfortable. Upon arrival, I noticed that the surroundings are generally well-maintained and organized. The staff and people here were polite, helpful, and willing to guide whenever needed, which added to the overall comfort of the visit.
The atmosphere of the place reflects its unique identity. Whether it is a historical site, restaurant, airport, cafe, or tourist attraction, it has its own charm and character. There is a sense of local culture that you can clearly feel, which makes the visit more meaningful and engaging. It gives a good opportunity to observe and understand the lifestyle and environment of the region.
In terms of facilities, basic needs are mostly covered well. Cleanliness is maintained in most areas, and essential services are available. Depending on the time of visit, it may get slightly crowded, but it is manageable and does not heavily impact the overall experience.
What I liked most was the overall vibe and the experience of simply being there and observing everything around. It is a good place for both short visits and relaxed exploration. It may have small areas for improvement, but nothing that significantly affects the overall enjoyment.
Overall, I would definitely recommend visiting this place. It is worth the time and provides a satisfying experience whether you are a local visitor or an international traveler exploring new destinations.
The location is easy to access and well-connected, making the journey smooth and comfortable. Upon arrival, I noticed that the surroundings are generally well-maintained and organized. The staff and people here were polite, helpful, and willing to guide whenever needed, which added to the overall comfort of the visit.
The atmosphere of the place reflects its unique identity. Whether it is a historical site, restaurant, airport, cafe, or tourist attraction, it has its own charm and character. There is a sense of local culture that you can clearly feel, which makes the visit more meaningful and engaging. It gives a good opportunity to observe and understand the lifestyle and environment of the region.
In terms of facilities, basic needs are mostly covered well. Cleanliness is maintained in most areas, and essential services are available. Depending on the time of visit, it may get slightly crowded, but it is manageable and does not heavily impact the overall experience.
What I liked most was the overall vibe and the experience of simply being there and observing everything around. It is a good place for both short visits and relaxed exploration. It may have small areas for improvement, but nothing that significantly affects the overall enjoyment.
Overall, I would definitely recommend visiting this place. It is worth the time and provides a satisfying experience whether you are a local visitor or an international traveler exploring new destinations.
It's good place to enjoy with family & friends, better if you visit in rainy season
It was a fantastic nature trail cum trekking experience. Even if you don't want to trekking which takes approximately 2 hours each way, one can just have nice nature's trail, have some local food. Please remember to take drinking water if you are trekking. There's no supplies on the way to top.
This place is peaceful and refreshing getaway for nature lovers. The entry charges are quite reasonable: ₹60 per adult, ₹30 per child, and parking costs ₹195. The sanctuary offers a serene environment with lush greenery and plenty of birdwatching opportunities.
However, a word of caution - be mindful of monkeys and langoors around the area, as they can be mischievous. Carry your belongings securely and avoid feeding them. Overall, it’s a great spot for a short trek and relaxation away from the city hustle.
However, a word of caution - be mindful of monkeys and langoors around the area, as they can be mischievous. Carry your belongings securely and avoid feeding them. Overall, it’s a great spot for a short trek and relaxation away from the city hustle.
Good place to spend quite and peaceful time with nature among chirping birds. Best time to visit is early morning.
Adult entry fees is 60 rs.
Bike parking charge is 50 rs.
Very high Car Parking charge of 195 rs.
I visited on 06-12-2025.
PFA photo showing both the entry fees and parking charges.
Enough parking space is available for parking the vehicles.
You can enjoy both nature trails as well as trek to karnala fort.
Easy to medium grade trek.
Toilets
Available at distributed places in the sanctuary.
Picnic area
Good place for family picnic. But beware of monkeys though.
Adult entry fees is 60 rs.
Bike parking charge is 50 rs.
Very high Car Parking charge of 195 rs.
I visited on 06-12-2025.
PFA photo showing both the entry fees and parking charges.
Enough parking space is available for parking the vehicles.
You can enjoy both nature trails as well as trek to karnala fort.
Easy to medium grade trek.
Toilets
Available at distributed places in the sanctuary.
Picnic area
Good place for family picnic. But beware of monkeys though.
Today I took a solo trip from Mumbai to Karnala Bird Sanctuary on my scooty and it turned out to be a refreshing experience.
I left early morning and reached by 8:30 AM, though I’d highly recommend reaching before 7:00 AM for the best experience—cool weather, calm surroundings, and active birds.
🎟 Entry Details
• Ticket: ₹60 per person
• Bike parking: ₹50
Once you enter, a smooth road leads you to the base point of the trek. This short walk itself is peaceful—birds chirping all around, instantly calming your mind. Clean washrooms are available right at the start, which is a great initiative.
🥾 The Trek
The trek is only 445 meters, but don’t underestimate it. The incline is steep and it truly tests your endurance.
If you’re a non-trekker, go with someone experienced. Also, be cautious of monkeys along the trail.
⏱ It takes around 1.5 hours to reach the top.
🏰 At the Top
The view makes every step worth it. You’ll find the ruins of the fort, with the buruj still intact. From the top, you get stunning views of:
• The Sahyadris
• Panvel city
• The National Highway
You’ll also notice multiple old water tanks once used for storage—avoid drinking or entering the water.
☀️ Important Tip
Start your return journey soon after sightseeing. As the sun rises, the heat can drain your energy quickly.
Carry your water with you since no drinking water is available.
Please keep this place free of plastic as a responsible citizen.
✨ A short but powerful trek, perfect for a peaceful solo escape into nature.
I left early morning and reached by 8:30 AM, though I’d highly recommend reaching before 7:00 AM for the best experience—cool weather, calm surroundings, and active birds.
🎟 Entry Details
• Ticket: ₹60 per person
• Bike parking: ₹50
Once you enter, a smooth road leads you to the base point of the trek. This short walk itself is peaceful—birds chirping all around, instantly calming your mind. Clean washrooms are available right at the start, which is a great initiative.
🥾 The Trek
The trek is only 445 meters, but don’t underestimate it. The incline is steep and it truly tests your endurance.
If you’re a non-trekker, go with someone experienced. Also, be cautious of monkeys along the trail.
⏱ It takes around 1.5 hours to reach the top.
🏰 At the Top
The view makes every step worth it. You’ll find the ruins of the fort, with the buruj still intact. From the top, you get stunning views of:
• The Sahyadris
• Panvel city
• The National Highway
You’ll also notice multiple old water tanks once used for storage—avoid drinking or entering the water.
☀️ Important Tip
Start your return journey soon after sightseeing. As the sun rises, the heat can drain your energy quickly.
Carry your water with you since no drinking water is available.
Please keep this place free of plastic as a responsible citizen.
✨ A short but powerful trek, perfect for a peaceful solo escape into nature.
The trek will take around 4 hours . It is a relatively easy Trek with the challenges being the incline and generally climbing up and down the boulders at few places. If you have decent knees strength you can easily do the trek. It gets very hot by noon so target to start the trek at 7am. Not recommended to do this trek in monsoon as the path can get pretty slippery. Respect the trail and nature . Do not litter. Do not play loud music through speakers you will miss to sight beautiful birds. Wear comfortable stretchable clothes and shoes that are appropriate for trekking.
Very beautiful place to visit with friends and young family members. Diversity isn't that much good but the trek is fantastic for beginners to learn. You will enjoy a lot.
Keep enough water and food items and medicines as there are no shops in trek. You can have food after coming down at very affordable prices there itself. Be aware of snake etc hidden in small holes and gaps in between rocks.
You should go early morning, so that you can finish your trek early and explore everything out there. Don't forget to explore the trails as well. Worst part is that the bird and butterfly diversity is reducing day by day.
Please don't litter and don't feed monkeys.
Keep enough water and food items and medicines as there are no shops in trek. You can have food after coming down at very affordable prices there itself. Be aware of snake etc hidden in small holes and gaps in between rocks.
You should go early morning, so that you can finish your trek early and explore everything out there. Don't forget to explore the trails as well. Worst part is that the bird and butterfly diversity is reducing day by day.
Please don't litter and don't feed monkeys.
Karnala Bird Sanctuary is a peaceful green escape just a short drive from Mumbai. The place is beautifully maintained, surrounded by dense forest and chirping birds — a perfect spot for nature lovers, photographers, and trekkers. The trail to Karnala Fort is moderate and rewarding, offering scenic views from the top.
The sanctuary is clean, and I really liked that they check plastic bottles at the entry and refund the deposit when you bring them back — a good initiative to keep the area litter-free. Best time to visit is early morning if you want to spot birds or enjoy a quieter walk.
Facilities like parking and restrooms are available, though it’s better to carry your own water and snacks. Overall, a refreshing day trip that gives you a real feel of nature and calm away from the city.
The sanctuary is clean, and I really liked that they check plastic bottles at the entry and refund the deposit when you bring them back — a good initiative to keep the area litter-free. Best time to visit is early morning if you want to spot birds or enjoy a quieter walk.
Facilities like parking and restrooms are available, though it’s better to carry your own water and snacks. Overall, a refreshing day trip that gives you a real feel of nature and calm away from the city.
Karnala Bird Sanctuary is a peaceful green escape just a short drive from Mumbai. The place is beautifully maintained, surrounded by dense forest and chirping birds — a perfect spot for nature lovers, photographers, and trekkers. The trail to Karnala Fort is moderate and rewarding, offering scenic views from the top.
The sanctuary is clean, and I really liked that they check plastic bottles at the entry and refund the deposit when you bring them back — a good initiative to keep the area litter-free. Best time to visit is early morning if you want to spot birds or enjoy a quieter walk.
Facilities like parking and restrooms are available, though it’s better to carry your own water and snacks. Overall, a refreshing day trip that gives you a real feel of nature and calm away from the city.
The sanctuary is clean, and I really liked that they check plastic bottles at the entry and refund the deposit when you bring them back — a good initiative to keep the area litter-free. Best time to visit is early morning if you want to spot birds or enjoy a quieter walk.
Facilities like parking and restrooms are available, though it’s better to carry your own water and snacks. Overall, a refreshing day trip that gives you a real feel of nature and calm away from the city.
Must visit place if you love being closer to nature or enjoy trekking or just want to spend some time in a serene green environment near Mumbai region. You may not get to see many birds as the name may suggest. It has entry fees and offers a number of trails apart from the trek to the fort. Trek to fort cam be challenging for beginers. There are clean washrooms inside along with eateeiws offering snacks & lunch options. Please do visit in monsoon or after the monsoon as greenery is best enjoyed then. Paid parking is available.
It is close to the Mumbai Goa Highway hence you can travel by own vehicle or take auto from Panvel.
It is close to the Mumbai Goa Highway hence you can travel by own vehicle or take auto from Panvel.
Location- Karnala, Panvel Taluka, Raigad District, Maharashtra.
Nearest Cities-
Panvel: ~12 km.
Mumbai: ~50 km.
Pune: ~120 km.
By Road- Located directly on the Mumbai-Goa National Highway (NH 17/NH 66). Private vehicles are recommended for convenience, and parking facilities are available for a stipulated charge.
Public Transport-
Train: The nearest railway station is Panvel.
Bus/Taxi: State Transport (ST) buses from Panvel station or shared cabs can be used to reach the sanctuary entrance.
Note: Ensure arrival early (sanctuary typically opens at 07:00 AM) to beat the heat and increase your chances of spotting rare birds.