About Karnala Fort
Karnala Fort, also known as Funnel Hill, is a historic hill fort located within the Karnala Bird Sanctuary in Raigad district, Maharashtra, approximately 10 km from Panvel. Dating back to the 13th century and built by the Devagiri Yadavas and Tughlaq rulers, it served as a strategic outpost overlooking the Bor Pass trade route connecting the Konkan coast to the Deccan Plateau. The fort ruins are now a protected site and popular trekking destination offering panoramic views of surrounding forts and the Sahyadri range.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a moderate trek through dense forest trails inside the Karnala Bird Sanctuary to reach the fort ruins at an altitude of 439 meters. The ascent typically takes 1 to 2 hours via a well-defined path with resting places and iron railings near the summit. At the top, visitors can explore ancient rock-cut water cisterns and enjoy clear views of nearby forts like Prabalgad, Manikgad, and Matheran. The sanctuary environment offers opportunities for birdwatching and butterfly spotting along the trail.
Key highlights
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13th-century hill fort ruins built by Devagiri Yadavas and Tughlaq rulers
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Located inside Karnala Bird Sanctuary with over 123 bird species
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Panoramic views of Sahyadris and neighboring forts from the summit
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Ancient rock-cut water cisterns with potable water in the southernmost tank
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Well-marked trekking trail with resting places and safety railings
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Strategic historical significance overseeing the Bor Pass trade route
History of Karnala Fort
Built before 1400 by the Devagiri Yadavas and Tughlaq rulers, Karnala Fort was strategically vital for controlling the Bor Pass trade route between Konkan and the Deccan. It later passed through Nizamshahi, Maratha, Mughal, Angre, Peshwa, and British East India Company control, with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj capturing it after persistent attacks. Ancient water cisterns suggest origins possibly dating to the 12th century.
Route
| By train |
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