Mumbai is known for many things: its vibrant culture, its bustling economy, its glamorous Bollywood industry, and its iconic landmarks. But did you know that Mumbai is also home to one of the largest and most diverse urban parks in the world? Yes, we are talking about Sanjay Gandhi National Park, or SGNP for short.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a sprawling green oasis that covers an area of 104 square kilometers in the northern suburbs of Mumbai. It is a haven for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and history buffs alike. It boasts of a rich biodiversity that includes over 1,000 species of plants, 274 species of birds, 40 species of mammals, 50 species of reptiles, and 150 species of butterflies. It also houses some of the oldest rock-cut caves in India, dating back to the 1st century BC.
Whether you want to explore the ancient Kanheri caves, enjoy a thrilling safari with tigers and lions, take a scenic toy train ride, go boating on a serene lake, visit a colorful butterfly garden, or simply relax in the lap of nature, Sanjay Gandhi National Park has something for everyone. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about this amazing park and how to make the most of your visit there.
History of Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park was originally known as Borivali National Park until 1996, when it was renamed after Sanjay Gandhi, the son of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The park has a long and interesting history that spans several centuries and civilizations.
The park was once part of the ancient trade route that connected India with Europe and Asia. The Kanheri caves, which are located within the park, were carved out by Buddhist monks between the 1st and 10th centuries AD. The caves served as monasteries, temples, schools, and living quarters for the monks. They also contain some of the finest examples of Buddhist art and architecture in India.
The park was also a witness to some of the major events in Indian history, such as the Mauryan Empire, the Mughal Empire, the Maratha Empire, the British Raj, and the Indian Independence Movement. The park was used as a hideout by freedom fighters such as Lokmanya Tilak and Chandrashekhar Azad during their struggle against the British rule.
The park was declared a protected area in 1974 under the Wildlife Protection Act. Since then, it has been under the management of the Maharashtra Forest Department. The park faces several challenges due to its proximity to a densely populated city. These include encroachment, poaching, pollution, fire hazards, and human-animal conflicts. However, the park authorities have been making efforts to conserve and restore the park’s natural resources and wildlife.
Main Attractions of Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park offers a variety of attractions that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are some of the main attractions that you should not miss when you visit the park:
Kanheri Caves:
The Kanheri Caves are the most prominent and popular attraction of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. They are a group of 109 rock-cut caves that showcase the ancient Buddhist culture and heritage. The caves are located on a hillside overlooking a lush valley. They contain various sculptures, paintings, inscriptions, stupas, chaityas (prayer halls), viharas (monasteries), and cells (living quarters) that reflect the artistic and architectural styles of different periods. The caves also offer a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and are ideal for photography.
Tiger and Lion Safari:
If you want to experience some adrenaline rush and get up close with some majestic predators, then you should try the tiger and lion safari at Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The safari is conducted in a specially designed bus that takes you through a fenced area where tigers and lions roam freely. You can see them from a safe distance as they laze around or hunt for their prey. The safari lasts for about 20 minutes and costs Rs. 61 per person (excluding entry fee). The safari timings are from 9 am to 1 pm and from 2:15 pm to 5:30 pm on all days except Mondays.
Toy Train Ride:
If you want to enjoy a leisurely ride through the scenic beauty of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, then you should hop on the toy train that runs inside the park. The toy train is a miniature version of a steam engine that takes you on a circular track of about 2.5 kilometers. The train passes through some of the most picturesque spots of the park, such as the lake, the forest, and the hills.
The train ride lasts for about 15 minutes and costs Rs. 36 per person (excluding entry fee). The train timings are from 9 am to 1 pm and from 2:15 pm to 5:30 pm on all days except Mondays.
Boating Facility:
If you want to relax and unwind on a serene lake, then you should try the boating facility at Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The park has a beautiful artificial lake that offers boating options such as paddle boats, row boats, and shikaras (Kashmiri-style boats). You can enjoy the calm and soothing atmosphere of the lake and admire the flora and fauna of the park. The boating facility is open from 9 am to 5:30 pm on all days except Mondays.
The boating charges are Rs. 36 per person for paddle boats, Rs. 61 per person for row boats, and Rs. 91 per person for shikaras (excluding entry fee).
Butterfly Garden:
If you want to witness the colorful and delicate beauty of butterflies, then you should visit the butterfly garden at Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The butterfly garden is a specially designed area that attracts and nurtures various species of butterflies. The garden has a variety of plants and flowers that provide nectar and host plants for the butterflies. You can see hundreds of butterflies fluttering around and landing on the flowers. The butterfly garden is open from 9 am to 5:30 pm on all days except Mondays. The entry fee is Rs. 15 per person (excluding park entry fee).
Nature Interpretation Center:
If you want to learn more about the natural history and ecology of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, then you should visit the nature interpretation center at the park. The nature interpretation center is a museum that displays various exhibits, models, dioramas, charts, posters, and videos that explain the park’s biodiversity, wildlife, conservation, and management. The center also organizes various activities and programs for visitors, such as nature walks, birdwatching, workshops, lectures, film shows, etc. The nature interpretation center is open from 9 am to 5:30 pm on all days except Mondays. The entry fee is Rs. 15 per person (excluding park entry fee).
Vanrani Mini Bus:
If you want to explore the park in a comfortable and convenient way, then you should take the Vanrani mini bus that operates inside the park. The Vanrani mini bus is a small bus that takes you on a guided tour of the park’s main attractions, such as the Kanheri caves, the tiger and lion safari, the toy train ride, the boating facility, etc. The bus also stops at some of the best viewpoints and picnic spots of the park. The bus tour lasts for about two hours and costs Rs. 61 per person (excluding entry fee). The bus timings are from 9 am to 1 pm and from 2:15 pm to 5:30 pm on all days except Mondays.
Also check out: Bombay Boscage - A day at Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Activities to Do in Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is not just a place to see but also a place to do. There are many activities that you can indulge in at the park that will make your visit more fun and memorable. Here are some of the activities that you can do in Sanjay Gandhi National Park:
Trekking:
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a paradise for trekkers who love to challenge themselves and explore new terrains. The park has many trekking trails that range from easy to difficult levels. Some of the popular trekking trails are Shilonda Trail, Malad Trail, Yeoor Trail, Nagla Block Trail, etc. These trails take you through dense forests, rocky hills, grasslands, streams, waterfalls, etc.
You can also spot various wildlife along the way, such as monkeys, deer, peacocks, squirrels, etc. Trekking in Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a great way to experience nature at its best and test your stamina and endurance.
Cycling:
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is also a great place for cycling enthusiasts who want to enjoy a smooth and scenic ride through the park. The park has a dedicated cycling track that runs along the periphery of the park for about 10 kilometers. You can rent a cycle from the park entrance and pedal your way through the greenery and freshness of the park.
You can also stop at some of the attractions or viewpoints along the way and take some pictures or rest for a while. Cycling in Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a great way to exercise your body and mind and have some fun.
Birdwatching:
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is also a haven for birdwatchers who want to observe and admire some of the most beautiful and exotic birds in India. The park has over 274 species of birds, both resident and migratory, that can be seen throughout the year. Some of the common and rare birds that can be spotted in the park are kingfishers, hornbills, woodpeckers, barbets, sunbirds, flycatchers, eagles, owls, parakeets, etc. Birdwatching in Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a great way to appreciate the diversity and splendor of nature and learn more about the avian world.
Camping:
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is also a perfect place for camping lovers who want to spend a night under the stars and enjoy the tranquility and serenity of the park. The park has a designated camping site near the Kanheri caves that offers basic facilities such as tents, mattresses, toilets, etc. You can also bring your own camping gear and pitch your tent at any suitable spot in the park.
Camping in Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a great way to experience the wilderness and adventure of the park and bond with your friends or family.
Photography:
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is also a paradise for photography enthusiasts who want to capture some stunning and memorable shots of the park and its inhabitants. The park has a plethora of photogenic spots and subjects that can make your camera go crazy. You can take pictures of the ancient Kanheri caves, the majestic tigers and lions, the colorful butterflies, the scenic lake, the lush forest, the sunrise and sunset, etc. Photography in Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a great way to express your creativity and passion and preserve your memories of the park.
How to Reach Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is easily accessible by various modes of transport from different parts of Mumbai. Here are some of the ways you can reach the park:
By road:
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is located on the Western Express Highway (NH 8) near Borivali East. You can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus from any part of Mumbai to reach the park. The park entrance is about 1 kilometer from the highway. The park has a parking facility for private vehicles near the entrance. The park entry fee is Rs. 61 per person for adults and Rs. 25 per person for children (below 12 years). The parking fee is Rs. 15 per two-wheeler and Rs. 100 per four-wheeler.
By rail:
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is also close to Borivali railway station, which is one of the major stations on the Western line of Mumbai suburban railway network. You can take a local train from any station on the Western line to Borivali station. From there, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus to reach the park entrance. The distance from Borivali station to the park entrance is about 3 kilometers.
By air:
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is also not far from Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, which is the main airport of Mumbai. You can take a flight from any domestic or international destination to Mumbai airport. From there, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus to reach the park entrance. The distance from Mumbai airport to the park entrance is about 19 kilometers.
Nearby Hotels Near Sanjay Gandhi National Park
If you want to extend your stay at Sanjay Gandhi National Park and enjoy its beauty and charm for longer, then you can choose from some of the best hotels near the park that offer comfortable accommodation and amenities. Here are some of the nearby hotels that you can consider:
The Fern - An Ecotel Hotel: This is a 5-star hotel that is located about 2 kilometers from Sanjay Gandhi National Park. It offers luxurious rooms and suites with modern facilities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, minibar, etc. It also has a restaurant, a bar, a coffee shop, a spa, a gym, a swimming pool, etc.
The hotel also follows eco-friendly practices such as water conservation, energy efficiency, waste management, etc. The hotel charges Rs. 5,000 per night for a standard room.
Hotel Granville: This is a 3-star hotel that is located about 3 kilometers from Sanjay Gandhi National Park. It offers cozy rooms with basic facilities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, etc. It also has a restaurant, a banquet hall, a conference room, etc. The hotel charges Rs. 2,000 per night for a standard room.
Hotel Honest: This is a 2-star hotel that is located about 4 kilometers from Sanjay Gandhi National Park. It offers clean and comfortable rooms with basic facilities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, etc. It also has a restaurant, a terrace, a garden, etc. The hotel charges Rs. 1,500 per night for a standard room.
Hostel Mantra: This is a budget hostel that is located about 5 kilometers from Sanjay Gandhi National Park. It offers decent and affordable rooms with basic facilities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, etc. It also has a restaurant, a laundry service, a travel desk, etc. The hotel charges Rs. 500-700 per night for a standard dorm room.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and wildlife. It is a rare and precious gem that offers a refreshing and rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai. It is also a place where you can learn about the rich and diverse heritage and culture of India.
Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, education, or entertainment, Sanjay Gandhi National Park has something for you.
You may also like to check out: Travel Diary: Sanjay Gandhi National Park
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Sanjay Gandhi National Park today and experience its beauty and charm for yourself. You will not regret it.
