Panvel

Panvel, located close to Mumbai, remains a perfect escape for city dwellers. People visit here not only for its nature wonders but also to explore various forts dotted here. Panvel is perfect to enjoy sights of hundred of bird all around.  Though the hill station seems small, it is impossible to explore all its attractions over a weekend.

Karnala Bird Sanctuary
Karnala Bird Sanctuary is located on the Mumbai-Pune highway. It sprawls over an area of 4.8 square km and is home to over 150 species of resident birds and 37 avian migrants. People visit here to enjoy its natural vistas apart from catching wildlife animals. Trekking lovers can even take a trek to this Sanctuary by following direction arrows on the trees.

Karnala Fort
Karnala fort is an ancient hill fort in Raigad district. It is around 10 km from Panvel city and is located within the Karnala Bird Sanctuary. The fort combines two forts and looks extremely beautiful due to its charming surroundings which become even more beautiful during monsoon months. Trekking to the fort is an easy one and can be enjoyed by both novice as well as veteran trekkers.  The fort features two inscriptions – one in Marathi and the other in Persian. It has influences from Muslim, Portuguese and Maratha rulers.

Prabalgad Fort
Prabalgad Fort stands 2,300 feet high in the Western Ghats. It is a major tourist lure in Panvel due to its historical significance as well as beautiful surroundings. Adventure lovers can take the tough trek up to the fort. Once you reach the top by climbing rock-cut stairs, views from there seem jaw dropping. The fort has numerous historical thoughts associated with it.

Manikgad Fort Trek
Manikgad Fort stands around 1,878 feet high. Even though most parts of the fort are in ruins today, it still lures many trekkers due to its incredible location. Within the fortifications you will spot a large stone gate apart from a small Shiva linga at the top. From here you can catch astonishing views of the valley around.

Best Time to Visit
Months from July to February are the best to visit Panvel.

How to Reach:
By Air: The nearest airports to Panvel are at Mumbai, Pune and Aurangabad. Mumbai Airport remains the most popular one.
By Rail: Travelling to Panvel by railway is the easiest way as Panvel is the last station on the Harbour line.
By Road: Panvel is accessible by road as buses are available to reach here from all nearby cities.