Karnala & Shelar: Monsoon Jewels of the Western Ghats
Two rare sightings. One unforgettable photographic pursuit.
Overview
For a few brief weeks each year, the forests around Karnala come alive with colours and activity that wildlife photographers wait all year to capture.
This EcoLenz journey is designed around two of the most sought-after monsoon subjects—the elusive Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher and the vibrant Vernal Hanging Parrot—across carefully selected habitats including the renowned Shelar Farms.
Over 2 nights / 3 days, experience a focused, high-intensity photography setup where timing, positioning, and patience come together to create truly rewarding frames.
Karnala: Monsoon Jewels of the Western Ghats
₹14,999.00
Species Information
Birds: 320+ Species
Ashy Prinia
Baya weaver
Crested bunting
fantail
gray babbler
melanistic sparrow
millets and sunflower
plum headed parakeet
Prinia
red vented bulbul
Scaly-breasted munia
tricolored munia
Vernal hanging parrot
Mammals: 50+ Species
Indian Leopard
Leopard Cat
Indian Giant Squirrel
Indian Flying Fox
Small Indian Civet
Common Palm Civet
Ruddy Mongoose
Indian Grey Mongoose
Wild Boar
Barking Deer (Indian Muntjac)
Sambar Deer
Hanuman Langur
Bonnet Macaque
Indian Hare
Indian Crested Porcupine
Other Wildlife: 200+ Species
Bamboo Pit Viper
Malabar Pit Viper
Indian Rock Python
Spectacled Cobra
Common Krait
Bengal Monitor Lizard
Bombay Bush Frog
Malabar Gliding Frog
Southern Birdwing Butterfly
Blue Mormon Butterfly
Sample Itinerary
Day 2 — Dual Focus Day
Morning:
- ODK session—refining technique, improving composition, anticipating behaviour
Afternoon Break:
- Rest, review, and learning session
Evening:
- Optional second ODK attempt or exploratory birding
- Depart for Shelar farm stay
Day 3 — Parrots & Precision
Early morning at Shelar Farms:
- Vernal Hanging Parrot photography
- Focus on sharp, clean, well-lit compositions
- Capturing behaviour and interaction
Wrap up and depart.
What Makes This Journey Special
- Dual-species focus
Two rare, high-demand subjects in one compact itinerary. - Monsoon-exclusive window
A short seasonal opportunity—miss it, and it’s gone for the year. - Access to proven locations
Forest trails for ODK and Shelar Farms for consistent parrot activity. - Designed for photographers
Every session planned around light, angles, and clean compositions. - EcoLenz philosophy
Ethical practices, minimal disturbance, maximum respect for wildlife.
The Subjects
Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher (ODKF)
- A monsoon jewel of the Western Ghats
- Found along shaded streams and forest undergrowth
- Known for its brilliant colours and unpredictable appearances
Capturing the ODKF is about patience—and being ready in the moment.
Vernal Hanging Parrot
- Small, fast, and strikingly vibrant
- Often seen feeding, preening, or nesting
- Best photographed in soft morning light
At Shelar Farms, opportunities arise for clean, well-composed frames in a natural yet accessible setting.
Tour Cost
Inclusions
- Accommodation (twin-sharing)
- All meals during the stay
- Guided photography sessions
- Access to ODKF habitats and Shelar Farms
- EcoLenz mentoring and field guidance
- Transfer from Mumbai to Panvel and Panvel to Shelar farms
Exclusions
- Personal expenses of any kind
- Optional add-ons
Terms & Guidelines
- Limited seats for personalized attention
- Confirmation only after advance payment
- Respect for wildlife and ethical photography mandatory
- Participants must carry required photography equipment
- Refund policy shared upon registration
Photography Opportunity
This journey is about skill, patience, and precision:
- Bird photography in challenging forest conditions
- Managing low light and complex backgrounds
- Capturing fast-moving subjects
- Achieving sharpness, colour accuracy, and storytelling
Perfect for photographers aiming to level up their bird photography game.
Stay & Comfort
- Comfortable stay near Panvel
- Fresh, simple meals
- Efficient logistics for quick access to locations
- A focused, no-distraction environment
Who This Is For
- Wildlife and bird photographers
- Enthusiasts targeting ODK season
- Photographers wanting high-value output in short time
- Creators building a niche, standout portfolio
Why This Journey
Because some moments…
last only seconds.
It’s about:
- Waiting in silence for a flash of colour
- Being ready when it appears
- Capturing something rare and fleeting
- And walking away with frames that truly stand out
Three days. Two rare species. One serious upgrade to your portfolio.
If you’re ready to make the most of the monsoon window—
Join EcoLenz. Capture what few get to see. Find Yourself in Nature.