Karnala Bird Sanctuary: Dos, Don’ts, Costs, and Things to Take with You

Have you had enough of city life? Does taking a quick break sound good? What about a spot
where the only sounds you hear are those of birds and the gentle rustling of the air through the
trees? Take the Mumbai-Goa highway, and you’ll find the Karnala Bird Sanctuary about 12
kilometres from Panvel, making this a realistic option. It’s a 24-hour metropolis like Mumbai, but with a twist. At this location, you’ll find the daytime antics of flying beauties and the night time
antics of nocturnal animals.

 

 

As the third sanctuary in the vicinity of Mumbai, it joins Sanjay Gandhi National Park and the
Tungareshwar Hills. It’s a somewhat small sanctuary, covering only 12.11 square kilometers. As
it’s located on the main route between Mumbai and Goa, getting there is a breeze. The sanctuary
has grown in popularity over the years, drawing not only serious birdwatchers and ornithologists
but also hikers and picnickers, including notable families from Mumbai and the surrounding
areas. In 1968, the state government of Maharashtra recognised the ground-breaking work of Dr.
Salim Ali by designating Karnala as the state’s first official bird sanctuary. Currently, about 150
species of native birds and 37 species of migratory birds make the refuge their winter home.

 

 

While visiting the sanctuary, here’s a list of certain dos and don’ts that you must take note of
while planning your trip to this breath taking site:
Since this sanctuary is looked after by the forest department, the rules ordained are to be very
strictly followed. The “No Plastic Policy” is followed very religiously in the sanctuary. The act
of roaming around in the forest after sunset is a strict no-go.

 

Make sure you carry enough water inside the forest. Although there are food joints situated
inside the forest serving breakfast and lunch, it is still advisable to carry ample water with you.
For your convenience, dress comfortably and wear walking shoes when visiting the sanctuary.
Carry with you a functional torch and a good pair of binoculars to get a better view of the various
species present in the sanctuary.

 

The city enjoys a moderate temperature and humid climate almost throughout the year.
Nevertheless, the months of July–August and October–February are considered the best times to visit the place.

Don’t wait until after 5:00 p.m.; it could be dangerous due to wild animal attacks.

•  Adult Indian Nationals: ₹ 30/-; Child: ₹ 15/-
•  Foreign Nationals Adult: ₹ 60/-; Child – ₹ 30/-
•  Parking for two-wheelers is ₹ 25/-, light-wheelers are ₹ 100/-, and buses are ₹ 150/-.
•  Camera fees: ₹ 100/- for Indian tourists; ₹ 200/- for foreign tourists
•  Video Camera for Indian Tourists: ₹ 250/-
•  Video Camera for Foreign Tourists: ₹ 500/-

Visitors can visit the sanctuary from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Make a reservation at a resort close
to the sanctuary for ease of travel. You can check out the rooms at Visava Amusement Park and Resort to enjoy a relaxing stay at Panvel.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q1. What is the best time to visit Karnala Bird Sanctuary?

Ans. Although the weather remains moderate for most of the year, the months of July–August and October–February are considered the best times to visit Karnala Bird Sanctuary.

 

Q2. What is Karnala Bird Sanctuary famous for?

Ans. Karnala Bird Sanctuary is famous for its wide variety of birds such as: Grey-fronted Green-pigeon, Nilgiri Woodpigeon, Malabar Parakeet, Malabar Grey Hornbill, White-cheeked Barbet, Malabar Lark, Small Sunbird, Vigor’s Sunbird, the ashy minivet, three-toed kingfisher, Malabar trogon, Slaty-legged Crake, and Rufous-bellied Eagle.

 

Q3. How many birds are there in Karnala Bird Sanctuary?

Ans. There are 222 species of birds that live inside Karnala Bird Sanctuary. Out of these, 161 are resident species while 61 are migratory birds.

 

Q4. What attractions are near Karnala Bird Sanctuary?

Ans. The Karnala Fort, Central Park Kharghar, Kalavantim Durg, SMART Eco-park, Utsav Chowk are all close to Karnala Bird Sanctuary and located within 12-15 Kms of it.

 

Q5. Where is Karnala Bird Sanctuary located and what is its address?

Ans. Karnala Bird Sanctuary is located on the Mumbai-Goa highway and its address is: NH 66, Karnala, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 410206.

 

Q6. What are the entry charges, opening and closing times of Karnala Bird Sanctuary?

Ans. Visitors can visit the sanctuary from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The charges are as follows:

Adult Indian Nationals: 30/-; Child: 15/-

Foreign Nationals Adult – $60; Child – $30

Parking for two-wheelers is $25, light-wheelers are $100, and buses are $150.

Camera fees: 100 rupees for Indian tourists; 200 rupees for foreign tourists

Video Camera for Indian Tourists: 250/-

Video Camera for Foreign Tourists: 500/-