Famous for its bird sanctuary and fort, Karnala is a small town in the district of Raigad of Indian state of Maharashtra. Adorned with natural beautiful surroundings and serene environment, Karnala is a major picnic spot for many tourists and bird lovers. Nestled with dense forests and other attraction of the nature, Karnala is the ideal place for nature lovers. Marathi is the main language of the region. Temperature ranges from 20 to 32c in winter while it can reach up to 43c in summer. The best time to visit the place is from September to March. How to get there: Panvel is the closest railway station to Karnala. It is just 10km away from Karnala. Panvel railway station comes under the Mumbai railway divisions and well connected through Mumbai to other many cities and towns of the country. Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport at Mumbai is the nearest airport situated about 60kmaway from it. The airport is well linked by many domestic as well as international flights to other major cities of India and other countries. Many state-run buses and other private vehicles like cars and luxury buses are available from other parts of the state. Places of interest: Built in 13th century and surrounded by thick green forest, Karnala Fort is the major attraction in Karnala. The fort also provides a trekking site to visitors. The doorway of the fort is has beautiful carvings of tigers and elephants. Karnala bird sanctuary is one of the best places for bird lovers. The sanctuary is located at the bottom of the fort and it is home to about 180 species of birds. Resident and migratory birds as well are found here. The sanctuary is also home to many rare species of birds like ashy minimet and spotted heart wood peckers. Bhavani temple is situated in Devale near Karnala. The temple is also known as Bhavani Khadgeswar temple. This religious significance place is visited by many devotees and tourists. It is surrounded by beautiful mountains and natural sites. Situated at Abernath near Karnala Shiva Temple is another religious significance place. The temple is believed to be built in 1060AD. Karnala also provides its visitors who like adventurous activities the exciting experience of rock climbing. Many climbers take the challenge of steep rocks of the fort. Other details: There are not many things to buy if you are in the forest but two nurseries situated of highways sell pots, frames, gift items etc. Hotel Ekvira, situated at the entrance of Karanala Bird sanctuary, offers its visitors vegetarian and non-vegetarian food, cold drink and snacks.
