Karnala Fort Information
Karnala Fort, also called Funnel Hill, is a historic hill fort located in Raigad District, just 10 km from Panvel and 65 km from Mumbai, along the Mumbai-Goa Highway. It stands at 1,500 feet and is nestled within the Karnala Bird Sanctuary, making it a perfect trek for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The fort is known for its distinctive pinnacle, offering stunning panoramic views of the Sahyadris.
The trek is beginner-friendly, making it ideal for families, kids, and first-time trekkers. The trail takes you through dense forests, home to over 200 bird species, including migratory birds. Monsoons make the trail lush and scenic, while winters offer clear skies and pleasant weather. At the top, explore ancient ruins and enjoy breathtaking views.
Whether you’re a trekking enthusiast, a birdwatcher, or a history lover, Karnala Fort Trek is a must-visit one-day trek near Mumbai and Pune for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Karnala Fort Trek – One Day Adventure Near Mumbai!
Looking for an exciting one-day trek near Mumbai? The Karnala Fort Trek is a perfect mix of adventure, nature, and history. Walk through the lush Karnala Bird Sanctuary, soak in stunning views, and connect with a vibrant trekking community. Meet new friends, conquer the fort, and enjoy a well-planned trek with all logistics covered!
Train Timings to Panvel
From CSMT:
06:00 CSMT | 06:18 Vadala Rd | 06:29 Kurla | 06:49 Vashi | 06:58 Nerul | 07:20 Panvel
From Thane:
06:20 Thane | 06:37 Koparkhairane | 06:49 Nerul | 07:12 Panvel
Karnala Fort Trek Itinerary
07:30 AM – Meeting Point
Assemble at Panvel Station (near the ticket counter). Meet fellow trekkers and get set for an epic day!
07:45 AM – Breakfast & Transfers
Enjoy a quick breakfast before hopping into a Tum-Tum rickshaw to Karnala Bird Sanctuary.
09:00 AM – Trek Begins!
Arrive at the base village and start your trek through scenic forest trails. Expect lush greenery, chirping birds, and an exciting climb ahead!
11:00 AM – Summit & Explore
Congratulations, you’ve made it! Enjoy the stunning views from the fort, click epic pictures, and relax with your packed lunch.
12:30 PM – Descend Begins
We start our descent, retracing our steps through the forest.
03:30 PM – Return to Panvel
Hop back into Tum-Tums and head to Panvel Station.
04:30 PM – Trek Ends at Panvel
Say goodbye to your new trekking buddies, or plan your next adventure together!
Things to Keep in Mind:
✅ Missing the train means missing the trek – plan accordingly!
✅ Wear proper trekking shoes with a good grip.
✅ Carry packed lunch for a mid-trek meal.
✅ Parking available at the forest entry (with charges).
✅ Those who are coming by their own vehicle, reach at base village on time.
Karnala Fort History - A Strategic Sentinel Through Time
Karnala Fort, a 13th-century marvel, was likely built under the Yadavs and Tughluks before the 14th century. This hill fort held immense strategic significance, as it overlooked the Bor Pass, a crucial trade route connecting Konkan to the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. Controlling Karnala meant having dominance over the trade and movement of goods in the area.
By the 15th century, the fort fell under the Nizamshahi rule of Ahmednagar. Later, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj launched an aggressive campaign to capture it. His forces surrounded the fort, built temporary barricades, and after days of persistent attacks, successfully seized it. Over time, the fort changed hands between the Mughals, the Angres, and the Peshwas.
In 1818, the British East India Company took control under Colonel Brother, marking the fort’s final conquest. However, ancient water cisterns suggest the fort dates back even earlier, possibly to the 12th century.
Best time for Fort Karnala Trek
During the monsoons, you can see songbirds like the paradise flycatcher, magpie robin, and the Malabar whistling thrush. There is also the racket-tailed drongo that can be seen. The best time to see migratory birds at the Karnala is between the months of October and April.
A variety of colorful birds such as the ashy minivet, red-breasted flycatcher, blackbird, black-headed cuckoo-shrike, blue-throat, Green Bee-eater, chestnut headed green bee-eater, blue-tailed bee-eater, Purple Rumped Sunbird, Coppersmith Barbet, Tailor Bird, White Spotted Fantail, Golden Oriole, Red Vented Bulbul, Red Whiskered Bulbul, White-throated Kingfisher, Cattle Egret and the blue-headed rock thrush can be spotted. The surrounding landscapes are hauntingly beautiful as the pinnacle is draped by the clouds and mist during monsoon.
Karnala Trek Details
It is a wonderful trek of 2 hours from the bottom of the hill. Once you enter the bird sanctuary there are essentially two routes that wind through the forest and lead to the trail up the mountain. The main route is a well-defined trail and goes straight through the center of the forest. The alternate route is a crude track that encircles the sanctuary before rejoining the main trail. The final climbing steps near the entrance of the fort are made safe by iron railings
Karnala fort actually consists of two forts one at a higher level and other lower. At the center of the higher level is a 125 feet high basalt pillar. It is also called Pandu's tower. This structure was used as watchtower when the fort was occupied however now it is in a ruined condition. The presence of bee hives also makes it difficult to climb and have resulted in at least one casualty in recent times. It is not advisable to cook food at the base of the pinnacle, as the smell of smoke irritates the Honey Bees.
There is a water cistern which provides fresh water all year long. There is a temple dedicated to goddess Bhavani located at the bottom of the fort. Bhavani Temple.
Karnala Fort Trek – A Perfect Day Trek Near Mumbai & Pune
Looking for a quick getaway from Mumbai or Pune? The Karnala Fort Trek offers the perfect blend of adventure, history, and nature, making it a must-do for beginners and experienced trekkers alike!
Trek Highlights:
• Trek Difficulty: Easy to Medium – Ideal for first-time trekkers and families.
• Trek Distance: 3 km – A short yet rewarding climb.
• Height: 1500 feet – Enjoy panoramic views from the top.
• Location: Near Panvel, within the lush Karnala Bird Sanctuary.
• Base Village: Shirdhon, Raigad district.
• Facilities: Washrooms available at the base.
Hike through dense forests, spot rare birds, and explore the historical ruins of this 13th-century fort. Upon completing the trek, receive a Trekking E-Certificate as a memento of your adventure!
Karnala Fort Trek – Secure Your Spot Now!
✅ Without Transport: ₹599 per person
✅ With Transport: ₹999 per person (Panvel to Karnala Fort & back)
Limited slots available! Booking in advance helps us plan better and ensures a seamless experience for you. Don’t miss out on this thrilling trek through nature and history—reserve your spot today!
Karnala Fort Trek Highlights
Step Into History – A 13th-century fort that has witnessed the reign of the Nizamshahi, Mughals, Angres, and Peshwas.
Strategic Marvel – Overlooking the Bor Pass, once a crucial trade route connecting Konkan to Maharashtra’s heartland.
Birdwatcher’s Paradise – Spot migratory birds from October to April as you trek through the lush Karnala Bird Sanctuary.
Scenic & Safe Trek – A two-hour hike through a dense forest, with iron railings ensuring a secure climb.
Explore Ancient Ruins – Discover the fort’s two levels, including Pandu’s Tower and a year-round freshwater cistern.
Spiritual Touch – Visit the temple dedicated to Goddess Bhavani at the summit.
Perfect Day Trek – A mix of adventure, nature, and history, just a short drive from Mumbai and Pune
What is included in the tour
- 1 veg Breakfast
- Panvel to Panvel travel by private non-vehicle
- Entry fee
- Trek Leader Expertise Charges
- E-certificate
- Foreign nationals are required to pay the additional entry fee difference at the venue.
What is NOT included in the tour
- Lunch for the trek
- Travel till base village and back (without transport option)
- Entry fee for foreign nationals
- Camera fees for Dslr
- Video camera fees for Dslr
- Deposit for Plastic carried inside the forest
- Mineral water/lime water/ purchased for personal consumption
- All kinds of Extra Meals / soft drinks ordered
- Any kind of personal expenses
- Any kind of cost which is not mentioned in the cost includes above
- All expenses incurred due to unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances like roadblocks, bad weather
- Any medical / Emergency evacuations if required
- 2/3 liters of water.
- Lunch for the trek.
- Trekking Shoes provide more grip and comfort on trek.
- One Day Backpack 20 to 30 liters.
- Good Torch must with extra battery.
- Some Dry fruits / Dry Snacks / Energy Bars.
- Glucon D / ORS / Tang / Gatorade sachets.
- Sun Cap and Sunscreen.
- Personal First aid and Personal Medicine.
- Identity Proof.
- Please wear Full sleeves and Full Track Pant this will protect from Summer Sun / Thorns / Insects / Prickles.
Cancellation Policy
- 75% refund if notified via phone conversation 8 or more days prior to the event date.
- 50 % refund if notified via phone conversation 4 to 7 days prior to the event date.
- No refund if the cancellation requested is less than 3 days prior to the event date
- No show No Refund.
- Event Tickets cannot be transferred to another date against cancellation.
- Event Tickets cannot be transferred to another person against cancellation.
- If the event gets canceled we will refund "Trek Amount" only.
- If the event is canceled due to any natural calamity, political unrest or other such reasons beyond our control the same cancellation policy will apply.
- Refunds won't be issued if you cannot attend the event due to heavy rains, floods, traffic jams, car breakdowns or a personal medical emergency.
- Your booking cannot be shifted to another date if you cannot attend the event due to heavy rains, floods, traffic jams, car breakdowns, or a personal medical emergency.
- If your area is prone to flooding, traveling from a flooded area, heavy traffic, heavy rains, missing the train, or any other reason, if you cannot attend the event, we won't issue a refund or shift you to another date.
- Management won't be held responsible if you are stuck due to heavy rains, traffic jams, personal emergencies or floods during the event.
- If you are bringing kids, please understand the possibility of getting stuck or delayed. You might have to stay back due to heavy rains, floods, bus breakdowns, and rush at the trekking destination. We won't be able to refund or shift you to another date. You will have to wait it out till the weather clears.
- Due to bad weather, floods, sudden changes in government rules, and overcrowding at the destination trek, the organizer has the right to change the trekking destination.
- During the trek , due to any circumstances seen or unseen trek leader has the right to cancel the trek for safety reason. No refund shall be issued.
Treks and Trails Event Rules
- Kindly carry one Identity proof, at least for the trek with your address.
- We all are going for an adventurous and exciting trekking expedition; please Do Not misinterpret it as a PICNIC or LEISURE TOUR.
- The leader's decision will be final, and all the members should abide by it.
- We do not destroy or dirty the archaeological, historical monuments, natural habitat on the trek.
- Swimming is not allowed in the lake or water tank on the forts. Locals use that water for drinking.
- Putting your feet in water tanks or on the canon is not allowed on our treks.
- Any addiction is strictly prohibited, e.g. drinking, smoking, chewing tobacco anyone caught doing it will have to exit the trek without a refund and travel back on own expense.
- People caught smoking or drinking alcohol will be asked to exit the event on an immediate basis.
- Please do not carry or wear any valuables, ornaments, jewellery, etc. If carried, then we Do Not take any liability for the same.
- Rock Climbing, Rappelling, Trekking, or any adventure activity is potentially risky. For all these events, you are at your own risk. Organizers are not responsible for any accident or compensation in whatsoever manner.
- We should strictly follow the code of conduct to avoid troubling our fellow trekkers or other people from our group or outside.
- Listening to music on earphones or Bluetooth speakers is not allowed while trekking.
- Bluetooth speaker not allowed inside the homestay or camping tents.
- Drinking/smoking,/eating is not allowed inside the tents.
- If you damage the tent, break the tent poles, you will have to pay us for the whole new tent on MRP.
- If you are late for the bus pickup and are not reachable on the phone during your bus pickup, the trek leader will leave without you, and we will provide no refund.
- Please check things to carry and wear trekking shoes on our treks.
Are you an adventurer who loves trekking? Completing a trek can be a life-changing experience that leaves you with unforgettable memories. To commemorate your achievement, Treks and Trails provides e-certificates to all participants who successfully complete their trek. These e-certificates include your name, the name of the trek you completed, the date of completion, and a digital signature from TreksandTrails. They are a perfect way to showcase your accomplishment to the world and share your trekking journey with your loved ones. By receiving an e-certificate from Treks and Trails, you can proudly display your achievement on your social media platforms and inspire others to embark on their own adventures.
Here are some FAQs about our e-certificates:
Q: What is an e-certificate for trekkers and hikers?
A: An e-certificate is a digital certificate awarded to participants upon completion of a trek or hike. It serves as proof of participation and achievement.
Q: How do I receive an e-certificate from TreksandTrails?
A: Upon completion of your trek or hike with TreksandTrails, you will be sent an email with a link to your e-certificate. You can download it from the link and save it on your device or share it on social media platforms.
Q: Can I share my e-certificate on social media platforms?
A: Yes, you can share your e-certificate on all social media platforms. The e-certificate is designed to be easily shareable, so you can show off your achievement to your friends and family.
Eligibility Criteria for a Trekking Certificate:
To be eligible for a trekking certificate, individuals must demonstrate adherence to safety rules, teamwork, and cooperation.
Participants must achieve the following requirements for earning a trekking certificate: completion of the trek; physical fitness; teamwork and cooperation; knowledge of safety rules; environmental awareness; a positive attitude; great attendance; and punctuality. We appreciate their commitment to the sport of trekking and acknowledge their achievements.
Karnala Trek 2024 | Karnala Fort Trek from Mumbai & Pune
Monsoon Trek to Karnala Fort by Treks and Trails India. Karnala Bird Sanctuary is one of the scenic getaways, not very far from the city of Mumbai.
Karnala fort is a hill fort in Raigad district about 10 km from Panvel city. Currently it is a protected place lying within the Karnala Bird Sanctuary.
Karnala fort also known as the Funnel Hill is a hill fort in Raigad district, about 10 km from Panvel city and 65 km from Mumbai.
Karnala is a refreshing break from the big city - come here to watch the birds and wildlife, come here to picnic and to trek, and while you are enjoying all this, do spare a thought for preserving the ecology and tranquillity of the sanctuary.
How to Reach Karnala Fort or Karnala Bird Sanctuary ?
For Participant Travelling from Mumbai or Pune for Karnala Trek
- Need to reach Panvel Railway Station or Panvel Bus Depot
- We will board local bus to Karnala Bird Sanctuary or Hire Rickshaw
- You can also drive to Karnala Bird Sanctuary using Google maps gps.
- Any bus travelling on the Mumbai-Goa highway can take you there.
How can I reach karnala?
Central Railway trains from CST Station stop at Panvel, 12 km from the sanctuary; from here you can catch autorickshaws, taxis and buses. State Transport buses run from Mumbai Central to Karnala. You can hire an Taxi from Mumbai or Pune and shouldn't be very expensive.
How do I get to karnala bird sanctuary?
To reach Karnala Bird Sanctuary in Raigad, Maharashtra, you can avail of the Central Railway trains from VT Station to get down at Panvel, situated 12 km from the sanctuary. Auto rickshaws, taxis and buses are available from Panvel. State Transport buses run from Mumbai Central to Karnala.
Who built karnala fort?
HIstory of Karnala Fort. The Karnala Fort was built the Devagiri Yadavs and the Tughlaq rulers before 1400.
How do you get to karnala Fort Trek?
The nearest train station to this picturesque location is Panvel. From Panvel you can hire an auto rickshaw, bus or a taxi to reach Karnala. Not many direct buses are available to the Funnel Hill, you can board a bus going to Alibag, Pen or Roha to reach Karnala.
Karnala is famous tourist destination in Maharashtra. Located near Mumbai on Mumbai- Goa highway, this place is best a must visit for weekend holidays spot.
Weekday trek to Karnala fort is the prefect trip where you get a chance to trek to the top of the hill forts and witness the wildlife of this region.
A renowned fort city, Karnala is set in the Raigad district within the state of Maharashtra. It is located at an escalation of about 439 m above sea level and is surrounded by dense green forests and lofty mountain ranges on either side.
Karnala is a quaint fort overlooking a sprawling bird sanctuary. It is an absolute beginner's trek amidst the natural flora and fauna.
Perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers and history buffs - an exciting trek to the famous Karnala fort in Maharashtra along with a birding experience.
Sign up for a monsoon trek to Karnala, where you'll hike through a green bird sanctuary and explore an ancient fort.
Serene trek to Karnala !! About the Karnala Trek : Karnala is a famous bird sanctuary located on Mumbai Goa Highway. It also houses a small fort at top.
Karnala fort is counted as one of the best winter treks since the weather is pleasant and you can see a lot of bird activity in the jungle.
The karnala bird sanctuary is located in panvel taluka of raigad district, outside mumbai, india near matheran and karjat.
A little away from the Mumbai-Pune Expressway is the Karnala Bird Sanctuary filled with species of both flora and fauna that are sure to astound you.
How do I get to karnala bird sanctuary?
Central Railway trains from CST Station stop at Panvel, 12 km from the sanctuary; from here you can catch autorickshaws, taxis and buses. State Transport buses run from Mumbai Central to Karnala. You can hire an Taxi from Mumbai or Pune and shouldn't be very expensive.
The sprawling Karnala Bird Sanctuary and Nature Park in Panvel is home to over 222 species of birds. If you are a nature lover – this place is paradise!
Popular with bird-watchers and trekkers, Karnala Bird Sanctuary lies 60 km from Mumbai and 12 km from Panvel.
Unveiling Karnala's Charms
Karnala Hotels: To enhance your stay, we'll guide you through some of the finest hotels in close proximity to Karnala Fort, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Karnala Fort Haunted: Explore the legends and stories that shroud Karnala Fort in an air of mystery. Is it truly haunted? We'll uncover the myths and facts.
Karnala Fort from Pune: Discover the most convenient ways to reach Karnala Fort from Pune, making your journey hassle-free and filled with scenic beauty.
Karnala Resort: If you prefer a luxurious stay, we'll introduce you to the top resorts near Karnala Fort, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Karnala Bird Sanctuary Entry Fees: Plan your visit to the Karnala Bird Sanctuary with insights into the entry fees, contributing to the conservation of diverse avian species.
Karnala Fort Events: Stay updated on the exciting events held at Karnala Fort throughout the year, from cultural festivals to historical reenactments.
Karnala Camping: Experience the thrill of camping near Karnala Fort, immersing yourself in nature's beauty and tranquility.
In case your question is not listed above, you can email us at highfive@treksandtrails.org
Whatsapp 8828004949 ( Monday to Saturday, 11.30 am to 7.00 pm only )
