Karnala Bird Sanctuary

Karnala Bird Sanctuary covers just over 12 square kilometres in Panvel taluka of Raigad district and was the first bird sanctuary in Maharashtra. It lies around the historic Karnala Fort, just off the Mumbai-Goa highway about 12 km from Panvel, and is one of the few protected areas within easy reach of Mumbai. Buses run from Panvel every half hour, and the state runs two rest houses within its boundary.

The sanctuary is popular with birdwatchers and hikers. More than 222 bird species have been recorded, of which 161 live here year-round and 46 arrive for the winter. Eight Western Ghats endemics occur, including the grey-fronted green pigeon, Nilgiri wood pigeon, Malabar parakeet, Malabar grey hornbill and white-cheeked barbet. The sanctuary is open to visitors from 7 am to 3 pm.