Karnala sanctuary is located on the Bombay Goa Highway - look for the prominent right turn shortly after Panvel. The time taken to get out of Bombay is always dependent on traffic conditions, so unless you leave before 7am, estimate upto 2hrs travel time even though the distance is so short.
Monsoon is the best season as there are many streams and small waterfalls running through the sanctuary. After the monsoons it is wildflower and butterfly season, and a must visit for all nature lovers. Summers even though very warm and humid, are the best time to spot birds and other fauna [if lucky].
Cars can be safely parked nr the forest office inside the sanctuary. They will give you a rough map of the various trails. The adventurous can take the shortcut very steep climb straight to the "Thums Up" pinnacle and Karnala fort. Carry a bamboo stick and wear sturdy walking shoes as the trail is quite slippery from loose scree in the dry weather and moss in the rains. There is a much longer trail along a more gradual route for those wishing to reach the pinnacle. Watch out for bees on the summit.
We have been often and much prefer the Mortaka trail which goes around the sanctuary. It is a wildflower and butterfly lovers delight, interspersed with waterfalls and streams in the monsoons. You can walk as long as you wish or just sit at some pleasant spot en route and enjoy the peace of nature. Go early for birdwatching, as later in the day you can hear but not see them easily. Look out for flowering wild epiphytic orchids from Feb to July, and flowering ground orchids in June and July. From about September to November there is a small meadow in the sanctuary which becomes a mini Valley of Flowers.
If you are spending some time here, carry your packed meal, tea and water. Alternately there are several dhabas and resorts on the highway, including a few just outside the Sanctuary where you can eat. The forest is equally dense on the other side of the highway and also worth a short hike.
If driving, watch the traffic on the highway, the road is not that broad, some drivers are very rash and there have been lots of accidents in the vicinity. Best to reach by 7 or 8am especially in summer as it gets quite warm as the day goes by. Carry a hat and Odomos! Dont forget your binocs and camera and Please Do Not Litter.
All in all, this is a pleasant worthwhile destination for a day trip close to Bombay for nature lovers. If you want more excitement, visit the nearby resorts instead.