Article Published On - 06-02-2025
Karnala Fort Trek, called Funnel Hill, is a hill fort in Raigad District about 10 kilometers from Panvel City, 65km from Mumbai city, along the Mumbai-Goa highway. Presently, it is a secured area existing within the Karnala Bird Sanctuary. The fort of Karnala is well-known for its unusual pinnacle and the bird sanctuary established amidst the forest. Today, the ruins of the fort are a popular location for hiking and tourism. This Fort goes to a height of approximately 1500 ft. It is an excellent trek for novices and for moms and dads who intend to present their youngsters to trekking and Mother Nature.
This stunning, enchanting fort is among the best specimens of 13th-century constructions. It is likely to have been created under the regulation of Yadavs and Tuglaq before the 14th century. This fort was of great critical value as it forgot the Bor Pass, which attached Konkan to the Vidharba area of Maharashtra. This pass was the major trade route of these locations, and a person who managed Karnala had an ‘eye’ on the trade. Till the 15th century, the fort was under Nizamshahi guidelines. When Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj intended to capture the defense, his military surrounded the fort. They built momentary blockages and remained to attack. After a couple of days, they caught the guard. After that, the Mughal Empire, the Angres, and Peshwas ruled the reason. In 1818, Colonel Brother of the British captured it. Lastly, the tricolor was furled right here. However, the cisterns here show that the fort is old and dates back to the 12th century.
During the monsoons, you can see songbirds like the heaven flycatcher, magpie robin, and the Malabar whistling yeast infection. There is also the racket-tailed drongo that can be seen. The best time to see migratory birds at the Karnala is October and April. A selection of vibrant birds, such as the ashy minivet, red-breasted flycatcher, blackbird, black-headed cuckoo-shrike, blue-throat, Green Bee-eater, chestnut-headed eco-friendly 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 bordering landscapes are hauntingly stunning, as the clouds and mist curtain the pinnacle throughout the gale.
It is a beautiful trek of 2 hours from the all-time low of the capital. When you reach the bird sanctuary, two courses wind via the forest, resulting in the trail up the mountain. The primary route is a distinct trail that goes straight to the center of the woods. The alternate way is an unrefined track that encircles the refuge before rejoining the main course. Iron barriers ensure the last climbing steps near the entry of the fort. Karnala Fort includes two regiments, one at a greater level and various others at a lower. At the center of the greater degree is a 125-foot-high lava pillar. It is also called Pandu’s Tower. This structure was used as a watchtower when the fort was occupied; nevertheless, it remains a spoiled problem. The existence of bee hives makes climbing difficult and has resulted in a minimum of one casualty. Preparing food at the base of the peak is not recommended, as the smell of smoke aggravates the Honey Bees. There is a water cistern which supplies fresh water all year long. A temple is committed to the goddess Bhavani at the end of the fort. Bhavani Temple.
Morning: Depart from your initial area (e.g., Mumbai) and proceed toward the base of Karnala Fort.
Late Morning: Arrive at the village near Karnala Fort base or the entryway of Karnala Bird Sanctuary. The trek typically begins from this point.
Start of Trek: Begin your trek early in the early morning. The trail for trekking is noted.
Exploration Along the Way: You will undoubtedly pass through various forested areas and open courses while ascending. Enjoy the natural charm and opportunities for birdwatching, as Karnala is a bird refuge.
Lunch: Enjoy a packed lunch during your journey or at a suitable area on the trail.
Afternoon: Continue your ascent and get to the top. The trek typically takes about 2-3 hours to arrive, depending upon your speed and the weather.
Summit Exploration: Discover the fort’s historic structures, including worn-out buildings and a holy place.
Evening: If you intend to stay overnight, set up your camp or begin your descent.
Morning: Rise early and absorb the incredible dawn views from the strongholds.
Breakfast: Enjoy a morning meal.
Descend: Begin your descent and pull back to the base village.
Afternoon: Arrive at the base village
Lunch: Savor a meal at a regional dining establishment or in the base village.
Afternoon: Return to your starting factor or advance to your
The following location notes the completion of your Karnala Fort trek.
The Karnala Fort is simply a one-day trek. You will require the following
Operations Manager
Nanda Rawat holds a Master’s degree in Tourism & Hospitality and brings over 16 years of experience in adventure and leisure travel. He has led multiple Himalayan expeditions, contributed to ATOAI, and is trained in first aid by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation. A strong supporter of sustainable and ethical tourism, he plays a key role at Trekup India. Write to him at: nanda@trekupindia.com
