Karnala Hill Station, Fort and Bird Sanctuary

Karnala is many things to many people. To a lot of visitors it is a picturesque hill station that is worth visiting. But there are those who come here for the old fort. There are actually two forts here – one at the higher level, and one at the lower. And finally, there are nature lovers and bird watchers who come here to see the Bird Sanctuary, which is now a protected place. Of course, most visitors to Karnala would see most of these attractions in their trip.

Karnala is located in Raigad district in Maharashtra. It is just 54 kilometers from Mumbai and 126 kilometers from Pune. Most visitors visit Karnala during the weekend. But there are some people, bird watchers and history students, who want to stay back for a few more days. Nature lovers love it because of the high mountain ranges all around this hill station and the dense forests. It’s one serene place as well. The scenic beauty is truly inspiring. It tells us how green and beautiful our world could be if only we stop cutting trees. All you’ll get in calmness everywhere, except for sounds of birds and falling leaves from trees. A word of caution – people who are not used to it may find it haunting. But the tired city souls can have the much needed respite in the lap of nature here.

Bird Watching In Karnala

Bird watching is a major attraction at Karnala. You will see many colorful birds flying against the blue sky. No, you don’t even have to venture deep into the forest with your notebook and binocular. The hills and valleys is also a favorite of many wild animals. You will see many varieties of deciduous trees such as mango, teak, kulu, kalam, and asana. Go on a walk early in the morning as the day wakes up. This is when the birds are in their best. You can walk the forest just before the sun goes down too. Find a local guide who can take you inside the forest. It might be risky to walk the tracks without a local.

There is a Nature Interpretation Centre that you can visit as well. You can learn about the birds, animals, trees and the biodiversity of this hill station and bird sanctuary.

Karnala Fort

Not much remains of the fort now. But it was important once as it protected the Bor Pass that connects the Konkan coast and the interiors of the state. The fort has changed hands a few times. See the Persian and Maratha inscriptions, water cistern and a huge basalt pillar.