Attractions in Panvel
Karnala Fort
Located just 10 kilometers away from Panvel City, in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, Karnala Fort, also referred to as Funnel Hill, stands as a specimen of the 13th century constructions. The fort was extensively used by various Karnala rulers such as Mudhan, Angres and Peshwas until 1818, following which Karnala Fort was apprehended by British. The fort surrounds a steep rock in the midst of the green surroundings and throws a great challenge towards adventurous trekkers. It has been a great attraction among the fans of trekkers. The main door of this fort is decked with various carvings of elephants and tigers.
Karnala Bird Sanctuary
Located in Panvel Taluka of Raigad district, close to Matheran and Karjat, The Karnala Bird Sanctuary is spread over 12.11 square kilometers and is centered around the famous Karnala Fort. Home to over 150 species of resident and 37 species of migratory birds, The Karnala Bird Sanctuary is a popular destination for the avid bird watchers and hikers in the Mumbai area. Three famous & rare birds-Ashy Minivet, three toed kingfisher and Malabar Trogon-have been sighted here.
Bhavani Temple
Popularly known as Bhavani Khadageshwar Temple, Bhavani Temple, located at Devale near Karnala, enshrines goddess Lakshmi as their main deity. The temple located at the peak of Karnala Hill and is surrounded by rock cut Buddhist caves and ancient water tanks. The temple is located close to the Karnala Fort.
Shiva Temple
An ancient temple located in Ambarnath, close to Karnala, Shiva Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, was constructed by Manmuniraja of Shilahara Dynasty in 1060 AD. The temple is well-known as the religious sect of both Shivaites and Vaishnavites. While the interiors of this temple exhibit various ancient carvings, the exteriors flaunt sculptured images of various stories from Shiva and Vishnu Purana. It is mostly visited on the festival of Shivaratri.