Planning a one-day trip this weekend? Consider Mumbai's iconic Sanjay Gandhi National Park!

Mumbai, a bustling metropolis, is often associated with the chaotic rhythm of city life, traffic snarls, and towering skyscrapers. However, hidden amidst this urban jungle lies an oasis of tranquillity and natural beauty – the iconic Sanjay Gandhi National Park.

This magnificent green expanse, located in the northern reaches of the city, offers visitors a respite from the cacophony of city life. Here, you can expect 274 species of birds, 35 species of mammals, 170 species of butterflies and 1300+ tree varieties - as per park officials. So read on to know all the details!

Sanjay Gandhi National Park, formerly known as the Borivali National Park, is a sprawling 104 square kilometres of protected area. It is often hailed as one of the most significant national parks in the world ,located within city limits. Established in 1969, the park is named after late Sanjay Gandhi.

The park has a rich historical background, with archaeological finds indicating human habitation dating back to the Stone Age. Ancient Kanheri Caves, nestled within the park, were carved out by Buddhist monks over two thousand years ago and offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's past.

The park's lush greenery serves as a refuge for a diverse range of wildlife. Leopard sightings are relatively common here, and it's home to several other mammals, including spotted deer, barking deer, and macaques. For bird enthusiasts, the park is a paradise with over 170 species of birds recorded here, including the elusive and threatened species like the Malabar pied hornbill.

The park's rich biodiversity extends to its flora. It houses over 1,300 plant species, many of which are rare and endemic. The Karvi, a beautiful purple wildflower, blooms en masse every eight years, attracting nature enthusiasts from all over India.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park offers a number of activities for visitors to enjoy, including cycling through picturesque trails, boating on serene lakes, taking mini train rides for a scenic tour, and exploring the enchanting butterfly garden within the park's diverse ecosystem.

Ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking a convenient escape in the heart of Mumbai, Sanjay Gandhi National Park offers easy accessibility via bus or bicycle, with the added convenience of golf cart rentals for the elderly. Visitors can enjoy fresh and delicious food options such as corn and fruits within the park premises.

Bike rental shops, located near the temple, are readily available, and their representatives are always close at hand. Additionally, the park's proximity to the metro makes it a hassle-free destination, with services like buses and autos readily available after 9 am.

It won't be wrong to state that Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a testament to the fact that even in the midst of a bustling megacity, nature can thrive and inspire. This national park remains a green oasis, beckoning all those in need of a break from the city's relentless pace, inviting them to reconnect with the beauty and serenity of nature.

Address- Western Express Highway, Rajendra Nagar Society, Kulupwadi, Borivali East

Timings: 8:00 AM- 5:30 PM (Tuesday- Friday), 8:00 AM- 11:00 AM (Saturday)

Entry Fee: 85/- (Above 12 years) 45/- (Children aged 5-12 years)

- With inputs from Srishti Pansari