About
Karnala was declared a bird sanctuary in the year 1968. Located in the Panvel Taluka of Raigad district, Maharashtra, this sanctuary covers a small area of around 12 square kilometers. We all need a breath of fresh air once in a while, we all need a break from our daily routine. The perfect way to get a break from your computer screens and experience the magic of nature is to go out in nature.
India is blessed with various bird sanctuaries and wildlife sanctuaries where you can catch a glimpse of some stunning species in the arms of nature, their natural habitat. Karnala Bird Sanctuary is one such sanctuary where you can witness several winged beauties.
A paradise for both, Bird lovers and Nature lovers, Karnala is located in the mountain range of Western Ghats. Surrounded by mountains and greenery, the sanctuary attracts several tourists every year.
Flora and Fauna
The vegetation here mostly consists of moist deciduous forests and is characterized by species such as Koshimb, mango, nana, kulu, kalam, asana, lumbar, and teak in the top canopy. The ecological conditions of the tract favor a large variety of bird populations.
The sanctuary witnesses the beauty of birds throughout the year, but the season when the place comes to life is during the Monsoon season. The lush green environment, pleasant weather makes it the perfect place for bird species such as Paradise Flycatcher, Magpie Robin, Malabar Lark, Small Sunbird, Nilgiri Woodpigeon, Slaty Legged Crake, Malabar Whistling Thrushes, Bluethroat, Ashy Minivet, and Red-breasted Flycatcher. These are just a few of the many birds that visit the sanctuary or are permanent residents.
Although Karnala is primarily considered to be a bird sanctuary, animals such as Wild Boar, four-horned antelope, muntjak, and langur can also be spotted here.
Climate
The beauty of birds is experienced throughout the year by Karnala. During the monsoon season, birds like paradise flycatchers spread their magic in the air. In winters, the sanctuary is chirping with the sounds of migrating birds.
Although the monsoon season might tempt visitors into visiting the sanctuary because of the lush greenery and the pleasant weather, monsoons are very severe in this part of the country and hence it is advisable to not visit Karnala Bird Sanctuary during the monsoon season.
The best time to visit the sanctuary is between October and April.
What can you do in the Sanctuary?
The perfect picnic spot with a mesmerizing view. Karnala Bird Sanctuary has various things to offer to visitors.
Trek: 12th-century Karnala Fort is a popular place among visitors and considered to be a must-visit place when in Karnala. The trek to this place is not very hard. The trek will also offer views of the hills.
Bird Watching: Everyone saw this one coming, right? Birds are the life of this region. Clear your mind, put your phone on silent, and just enjoy the beauty of birds.
Photography: Make sure you pick an appropriate outfit because this is a very picturesque location! Hills, trees, beautiful birds, and you! Do not forget to pack your camera as you will get some amazing shots of birds and nature, and yourself!
Picnic: A cute little picnic with family or friends would sum up an entire weekend. Karnala Bird Sanctuary might just be the place for that. Pack your homemade lunch and have the perfect time in the lap of nature.
