Karnala Fort Trek overview
Karnala Fort trek is one of the closest treks to Mumbai, and is located only 10 km from Panvel. It is one of the prime locations for trekking around Mumbai due to its close proximity to the city. Karnala Fort is located inside the Karnala Bird Sanctuary. This is a protected area, and attracts bird watchers and naturalists from the region all the time
You’ll be trekking through the bird sanctuary and might be able to spot some of the 200 species of birds, colorful birds like ashy minivet, three-toed kingfisher, golden oriole, and many other exotic and migratory birds that live here. You will climb way high on top of a hill, and enter a protected fort which was once ruled by the Mughals, the Marathas and the Peshwas.
The view from Karnala Fort is spectacular, overlooking the Bor Pass, and the thickly forested slopes all around. You will also get great views of the valley below, as well as Prabalgad, Chanderi Fort, and Manikgad. The fort has a fascinating structure, with a pinnacle that juts out, long ramparts that stretch out and give you many scenic views.
The ruins of the fort lend it a historic feeling. Look around and all you can see is far stretched views of beautiful forests and mountains. This is an easy trek suitable for beginners. The fort combines two forts, with one lying lower than the other, and with iron railings at the top to make it safe for climbers.
There is a Bhavani temple at the bottom of Karnala Fort, which can be visited by the trekkers and locals. Because it is located so close to Mumbai, most trekking groups arrive here by public or private transport. You’ll park in the parking spot just outside the gates of Karnala Bird Sanctuary and then begin the route upwards. You’ll trek along a thickly forested trail, and up to the top of a ridge.
From the ridge, you’ll get views of the valley on one side, which used to be a trade route at one time. The trail continues along the top of the ridge for a long way, and is a great spot for photography and birdwatching as it looks over the treetops below.
The trek takes about 2 hours one way, and you’ll arrive at the fort, at the end. You can explore the ruins here, and eat lunch. You’ll descend after lunch, and will return to the parking lot. You’ll arrive in Mumbai by late evening.
The trek to Karnala is good during the monsoon and the winter. In the monsoon, you’ll walk through the sanctuary, with bird calls and thriving greenery all around. From the ridge leading to Karnala fort, you’ll be able to see the dark rain clouds gathering around the rocky tower of the fort. However, do be prepared to get soaked and muddy!
Karnala Fort trek is popular in winter too, when the morning mist takes longer to clear, and you’ll have cool climbing weather. For your Karnala fort trek, you should take appropriate rainwear and trekking shoes. Do carry your essentials like water, snacks, insect repellent, first aid kit, ID proof, and camera in a small day pack.
Don’t forget to pack a rain cover for your bag, or pack your belongings in plastic to protect it from getting wet. Also, carry a change of dry clothes and a long-sleeved jacket or sweatshirt to keep you warm on your return.
Karnala Fort trek summary
- State: Maharashtra
- Nearest city: Mumbai
- Total days: 1 day
- Grade: Easy
- Max altitude: 1440 ft
- Total trekking distance:4 km
- Season: Monsoon and winter
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