My Weekend Odysseys

Karnala about 61kms from Mumbai on Mumbai - Goa highway is famous for thumb shaped pinnacle (Karnala fort) at the top and bird sanctuary around it. It is also stone throw away from Panvel station provided you could throw stone at about 14kms. Home to migratory birds during winter season and heaven to birds watchers, trekkers and nature lovers. The sanctuary is said to be home to around 140 resident birds and 40 migratory birds during winters. So from November to February is best time to visit the place if you would like to spot birds and if you wish to enjoy the greenery then monsoon season is the best time when the forest area is lush green. Entrance to Sanctuary Fort from base point Karnala Fort history: The fort was built during the 12th century. Karnala was of strategic importance because of its command of the highroad between Bhor Ghat and the rivers of Panvel and Apta, watching the trade route. Between 1248 and 1318, it was under DevgYada. From 1318 to 1347, it was under Daulatab

Elephanta caves are network of sculpted caves off the coast of Mumbai in Arabian sea. Its 10kms from Gateway of India and takes approx 45minutes by ferry ride. The caves architecture dates back from 5th to 8th century. The total of 7 caves are UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE divided into 2 sections, 5 larger ones devoted to Lord Shiva and 2 smaller ones are devoted to Lord Buddha. These caves are architectural marvel and heritage that every Mumbaites is proud of. The island earlier called as Gharapuri in local language but during the Portuguese rule, It was named as Elephanta after finding a rock cut elephant sculpture which is now placed at Bhau daji lad museum at Byculla. The island has two hills called Stupa hills with thick forest cover on them. There are three small hamlets or small villages of fisherman folks on three different corners of the island but being strategically located off the coast of Mumbai, Its also a part of restricted area which comes under Indian Navy. The island is