Adventure Geek invites you for Karnala Fort
Karnala Fort Trek (also called Funnel Hill) 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. The sanctuary is quite small with an area of 4.27 square kilometers. It is home to over 150 species of residents and 37 species of migratory birds who visit the sanctuary during winter. Two rare birds i.e. Ashy Minivet and Malabar Trogon have been sighted here.
Karnala fort actually consists of two forts one at a higher level and the 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 a watchtower when the fort was occupied.
Why Karnala Fort Trek is One of the Best Treks Near Mumbai
Looking for an easy trek near Mumbai that combines history, nature, wildlife, and breathtaking views? The Karnala Fort Trek checks all the boxes.
Nestled within the lush Karnala Bird Sanctuary near Panvel, this scenic fort trek is one of the most popular weekend getaways for adventure seekers, nature lovers, families, and first-time trekkers. Just a short drive from Mumbai and Pune, Karnala offers the perfect escape from the city's hustle without requiring extensive trekking experience.
The trail takes you through dense forests filled with vibrant birdlife, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. As you ascend through the sanctuary, the sounds of traffic fade away and are replaced by the calls of exotic birds, rustling leaves, and cool mountain breezes.
Standing proudly at an elevation of approximately 1,500 feet, Karnala Fort rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the surrounding Sahyadri ranges, lush valleys, and the Konkan region. The fort's most striking feature is its iconic basalt pinnacle, popularly known as Pandu's Tower, which dominates the skyline and attracts trekkers from across Maharashtra.
What makes Karnala truly special is its accessibility. Unlike many challenging Sahyadri treks, Karnala Fort is ideal for beginners, families, children, corporate groups, and solo travellers seeking a rewarding outdoor experience. The moderate trail offers enough adventure to keep things exciting while remaining approachable for newcomers.
During the monsoon season, the entire forest transforms into a vibrant green paradise. Mist-covered trails, seasonal waterfalls, moss-covered rocks, and fresh mountain air create an unforgettable trekking experience. It is no surprise that Karnala is often regarded as one of the best monsoon treks near Mumbai.
Whether you are planning your first trek, a weekend outing with friends, or simply want to reconnect with nature, the Karnala Fort Trek promises an unforgettable journey through history, wilderness, and the timeless beauty of the Sahyadris.
You may also check out our upcoming treks near Mumbai
Check out other treks. Aadrai Jungle Trek
Andharban Jungle Trek
Nanemachi Waterfall
Kalu waterfall Trek
- Easy Trek
- Fort Exploration
- One day Trip
- 360* View of Sahyadri Range
Karnala Trek | Karnala fort trek 2026
Karnala Fort Trek Details:
- Karnala fort Trek Trail: Hiking
- Karnala fort Trek Base Village: Karnala Bird Sanctuary
- Karnala fort Trek Difficulty: Easy
- Karnala fort Trek Endurance: Medium
- Karnala fort Trek Duration: 4-6 hrs (both sides)
- Karnala fort Trek Best Time: Monsoon
- Karnala fort Trek Distance from Mumbai: 90 km
Itinerary for Karnala Fort Trek
06:00 am - Board Bus and Start Journey for Karnala Fort Trek from SGNP Borivali
There are multiple Pickup points on the way:
07:00 am - Sion East near Sion Lunch Home
( Dadar participants place join from here)
07.30 am - K- Star Mall, Chembur
08.00 am - Vashi below the bridge
08.30 am - Kalamboli, Panvel
09:00 am - Reach Karnala Bird Sanctuary and have breakfast.
09:45 am - Start Trekking towards Karnala Fort.
11.30 am - Reach the top & Explore the fort, click photos
12.30 pm - Start descending.
03.00 pm - Start the return journey.
08:00 pm- Reach Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Borivali
(all timings mentioned above are tentative.)
-
Booking Procedure:
- Click on the "BOOK NOW" button.
- Select your date & proceed.
- Select the Number of Tickets. (If you have a coupon code, apply at this stage.)
- Fill in our personal details and proceed.
- Select your payment type (UPI, debit card, or credit card) and proceed.
- Once your tickets are booked, you will receive a confirmation email and WhatsApp on your number.
- WhatsApp group will be made, and you will be add to the Group one day prior to the departure.
- Further details about the trip will be shared on that WhatsApp group 1 day prior to the trip.
-
Tips :
- A haversack to put in all the things to be carried so that one has one`s hands-free while trekking.
- Please do not carry sling bags or Jholas. Avoid wearing Gold and other ornaments.
- Smoking and the consumption of alcohol are strictly prohibited.
-
Step-2: After payment, you will be requested to fill up the Mandatory disclaimer form online where you have to fill in relevant details including your complete address.
Step -3: Now your participation is confirmed & Organizer will create a WhatsApp group on the event day for coordination, We will coordinate through SMS/ Call if the participant is not available in WhatsApp.
For Details/Bookings Drop Whatsapp
https://wa.me/919004675388
Health & Fitness:
For instant energy carry glucose powder or energy drinks or chocolates. Though trekking is a fun-filled activity, it demands a good amount of physical fitness. If you are under medication, please carry your medicines. During the trek, leaders will have over-the-counter medication for temporary treatment, so do give a heads-up to them if you need any medical assistance.
Monsoon Precautionary Measures:
- Use trekking shoes with a good grip to avoid slipping.
- Take precautions against bugs.
- Carry First Aid & Necessary Gear.
- Protect your valuable items like cameras, phones, IDs, etc with an extra plastic cover and then put them in your bag.
- keep in touch with a friend and family member.
- Important to make note of all emergency contacts and numbers.
-
- Name: Adventure Geek
- A/c type: Current account
- Bank: Saraswat Bank
* Branch: Mahavir Nagar - A/C no.: 610000000013647(8 times 0)
- IFSC: Srcb0000146
-
NEFT – Deposit the Amount into the Following Account:
You can make payments using any of the following modes
- UPI – vinaykg05@okaxis
- Google Pay – 9004675388
- PhonePay - 9004675388
-
Step -1: - Send your money to the following account ---
√ Payment details:
NOTE:
- While online transferring, please provide your name in the notes section.
- Once payment is done, please send an email to adventuregeekk@gmail.com with the transaction id, name, and mobile number.
FAQ
Karnala Fort Trek
Where is KarnalaTrek Located?
Karnala Fort is Located in Pen near Panvel
How do we Travel to Karnala Trek?
You can take the Train to Panvel station from your near Station and then the bus or Rick goes to Karnala Fort
Why is Karnala Fort Famous?
Karnala is famous for its Bird Sanctuary it is called Karnala Bird Sanctuary.
Who can Trek to Karnala Fort?
Beginners, kids, couples, and solo travelers who are willing to trek Karnala fort
Are Washroom Facilities Available at Karnala Fort Trek?
Yes, Washroom Facilities are there at the Base of Karnala Fort
How far is Karnala's Bird Sanctuary from Mumbai?
Karnala bird sanctuary is 90km from Mumbai and famous for bird watching and trekking
monsoon treks near Mumbai
Monsoon Trekking
What is included in the tour
- Travelling from Mumbai - Mumbai by Pvt Non AC bus
- Morning Tea/Coffee, Breakfast and Lunch
- Karnala Entry Charges
- Expertise Charges
What is NOT included in the tour
- Any meals/services not mentioned in the inclusions
- Any charges for video cameras, still cameras, etc.
- Water, soft drinks, beverages, etc.
- Extra pair of clothes
- Photo ID card
- Lunch
- Some ready to eat food (chips, cakes, biscuits)
- Drinking water Backpack to keep things
- camera(optional)
- Personal medication if any
- Since it is not a luxury trip, do not expect any luxury.
- All food is hygienic and authentic local delicacy.
- You are joining an outdoor activity where any incident, reasons beyond control like Natural calamities, landslides, bad road conditions, riots, political uncertainty, public transport failure etc.; Man-Made calamities, Vehicle breakdown, vehicle dysfunction can happen & you agree that the organizer/leader shall not be held responsible for any accident, mishap (including death) caused by any circumstances.
- Adventure Geek is not responsible for any loss of illegal substances or items being carried by the participant.



