Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai (Timings, History, Entry Fee, Images, Built by & Information)
Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai Entry Fee
- 58 per person Adult Entry fee
- 31 per person Child Entry fee
- 50 per person Adult Mini Train
- 19 per person Child Mini Train
- 70 per person for Tiger safari for Adults
- 28 per person for Tiger safari for Children
- 81 per person for Combined Tiger & Lion safari for Adults
- 32 per person for Combined Tiger & Lion safari for Children
- 97 for 4-seater boat
- 48 for 2-seater boat
- 60 for Cycle rent
- 60 per person for shuttle bus that runs from the park entrance to the caves
- 50 for Still Camera
Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai Phone
022 2886 6449, 022 2886 0362, sanjay gandhi national park mumbai timings.
Links: Website | Map
Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai Address : Borivali East , Mumbai , Maharashtra , 400066 , India
When in Mumbai, a visit to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) becomes imperative. The national park is also called the lungs of the city and is the only national park in the world known to be present within a city’s premises. Far from the bustle of the city, the environment inside the national park is completely peaceful and offers serenity.
Spread across a total area of 103 square kilometres, the governing body of the national park is the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the footfall of visitors each year rounds up to a little over 2 million. The entire area of the national park forms approximately 20% of Mumbai’s geographical area.
The park is home to over 40 species of mammals, 254 species of birds, 150 species of butterflies, 78 species of reptiles and amphibians and last but not the least and most important, over a surprisingly high population of 1300 species of plants.
At the exit gate of the park, there is a souvenir shop that offers artefacts, coffee table books on SGNP Biodiversity, trekking gears and apparel, books on tribes of Maharashtra, organic consumables and forest produce.
History of Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
The history of Sanjay Gandhi National Park dates back to 4th Century BCE when ancient civilizations of Sopara and Kalyan had a 45-kilometre trade route between each other and kingdoms of these trade capitals exchanged trades with Greece and Mesopotamia.
The trade route between Sopara and Kalyan passed through Kanheri Caves which was a site of learning as well as pilgrimage for Buddhists. The caves were sculpted out of one single basalt rock by Buddhist monks between 9th and 1st Century BCE.
What was earlier known as Krishnagiri National Park during the pre- independence era (1942), was later known as Borivali National Park in 1974 and was spread across an area of 20.26 square kilometres only. This was done in 1942 under the Bombay National Park Act.
However, later on the park area was expanded twice. Once in 1976 and later again in 1981. During the expansion of 1981, the area that came under the National Park measured 82.25 Square kilometre.
The park was named as Sanjay Gandhi National Park, after the elder son of ex- Prime Minister of India, Ms. Indira Gandhi in 1996 and the park area was further expanded to 103 square kilometres simultaneously.
Location and Geography of Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is sandwiched between the northern suburbs of Mumbai and the city of Thane. Except for its northern part, that lies in Thane, the rest of the park area is located in Mumbai. There are two man made lakes inside the park premises, Tulsi Lake and Vihar Lake that meet the water needs of the city’s population.
Due to its green cover, the temperature inside the national park is always on the lower side as compared to that of the city and also receives sufficient rainfall during monsoon. The elevation of the area is between 30 metres and 480 metres.
Timings and Entry Fees of Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
Timings: Sanjay Gandhi National Park is closed on Mondays. On the rest of the days, it is open from 5:30 AM to 7:30 AM for morning walkers with monthly or annual passes. For day visitors, it is open from 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
Entry Fees or Tickets: The entry fee to visit Sanjay Gandhi National Park is Rs. 58 for adults and Rs. 31 for children. There is a shuttle service that operates between Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Kanheri Caves that costs Rs. 60 per person. The Camera fee is Rs. 50.
Online Booking at Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
The tickets for activities inside the national park like Toy Train Ride, Boating and Safari can be booked only through the official website of the park.
All online tickets booked should be verified at the ticket counter.
P. S – There is a minimum requirement of participants for the toy train and the safari rides.
Image Gallery of Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
Biodiversity of sanjay gandhi national park mumbai.
The biodiversity of Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai is mostly an influence of the Sahyadris. The flora and fauna belong mostly to the ones indigenous of the hill ranges of Western Ghats. The dense forest has an estimated 800 types of mauves widespread across the length and breadth of the park from Karnala to Yeoor hills to Tungareshwar to few parts of Film City.
The forest habitat being the most dominating habitat of the national park, there is an estimated 1300 species of flowering plants alone in SGNP. Karvi (flowers that bloom once every 8 years) shrub dominates most of the space and are denser in the inner parts of the forest that mostly remains out of reach from visitors and hence, is the most beautiful part during full blossom.
Bamboo is another flora that is quite widespread in the entire lower area of the national park.
The dense forest habitat includes trees belonging to mixed-deciduous type, which specifically include the Tectona, Albizzia, Terminalia, Holarrhena, Firmiana, Dalbergia, Garuga, Grewia, Adina, Ficus, Madhuca, Caraya, Butea.
WildLife at Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
Spotted deer are a common sight at the national park while one is strolling around. The major fauna of SGNP is the big cat, i.e the large leopard and are in large numbers here. Striped Hyenas can be spotted around Yeoor hills side of the national park.
Black-naped hares, porcupines, palm civet are also among the inhabitants of the national park but are seen very rarely. The four-horned Antelope is also a rare sight given their shy nature. Hanuman langur, Bonnet Macaque and Rhesus Macaque are among the monkey species.
There are 17 species of bats that inhabit the national park, out of which, the Indian flying fox is the biggest of all.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a treasure trove for any birder. The Gaumukh Trail gives one a great experience with regards to bird watching. There are a significant number of species of woodpeckers and kingfishers along with the Paradise flycatcher and the much elusive Trogon. The brown-headed Barbet and Parakeets can’t just keep mum and one would be delighted to hear the calls of Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher or the Malabar Whistling Thrush singing melodiously and low voices of the Spotted babbler.
Reptiles, Amphibians and Butterflies
There are a total of 170 species of butterflies out of 1500 species in all of India. Out of these the most common is the Blue Mormon, which is also the state butterfly of Maharashtra. Others include the Blue Oak Leaf, Jezebels, Yellow and White Orange Tips, Sailors, Monarchs and many more.
When it comes to reptiles, crocodiles dominate the scenes of Tulsi Lake of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Apart from the crocodiles, snakes are second highest in numbers spread across the length and breadth of the national park. The varieties include, Pythons, Cobras, Bamboo-pit Vipers, Russell Viper and the Ceylonese Cat Snake, a very rare species recently discovered by Bombay National History Society.
Giant Wood Spiders are a common sight during monsoon with large designer webs. Silk Cotton bugs and beetles are also found in abundance here.
Tiger and Lion Safari at Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
The safari rides inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai are 30 minutes long and done between 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM with a one-hour lunch break between 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM. There is a minimum requirement of 15 people for the safari rides to commence.
The cost of tiger safari alone is INR 70 for adults and INR 28 for kids between the age group of 5 to 12. The cost of combined tiger and lion safari is INR 81 for adults and INR 32 for children aged 5 to 12 years.
The safari tickets are non- refundable and non- transferable.
The safari can also be booked only through the official website of Sanjay Gandhi National Park and can be verified at the ticket counter.
Kanheri Caves in Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
The Kanheri Caves located inside the Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai are listed among the heritage sites and are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The caves date back to around 1st Century BCE making them over 2400 years old. The name of the Kanheri Caves is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Krishnagiri’, meaning ‘black mountain’ due to the volcanic basalt rocks that form the base of the mountains.
The caves are a cluster of 109 caves in total. Not all caves are accessible. The caves contain Buddhist relics, carvings, paintings and inscriptions. Most of the caves represent ‘Buddhist Viharas’ that were used for living, studying and meditating. The larger caves are called Chaityas’ that were used as prayer halls that have rock cut pillars and stupas. There are caves that depict a dining hall too.
There are rock cut stairs on the mountains to make way for traveling from one cave to another.
Treks and Nature Trails at Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
Being situated at a higher altitude, the national park offers quite a few options for treks as well as nature trails. Some of the most common trails are listed here.
Kanheri Upper Trail
The most sought-after trail is the Upper Kanheri trail, especially a favorite of Sunday walkers. The trail starts from the park gate to the top of Kanheri Caves. The trail requires quite a bit of legwork however, offers beautiful views of the rich diversity of the jungle. Most of the hike is well shaded and passes through rocky edges of the mountain and also involves a short climb just before one reaches the top. The view of the entire national park is totally worth the huffing.
Gaumukh Trail or Bamboo Hut Trail
This trail is a long one however, is famous for its birding trail and ends at the highest point of the park at 1000 feet ASL. The end point of the trail is called the Gaumukh point located at the top of Kanheri Caves.
Highest Point Trail via Ashok Van
This common trail passes through the ‘Ashok Van trail’ which is a part of the thick part of the forest lined with huge Ashoka trees. While negotiating through this trail one comes across rocky hill slopes and streams. As the name of the trail suggests, the end point of the trail takes one to the highest point of Mumbai from where one gets a 360-degree view of the entire city including its 3 lakes, Vihar Lake, Tulsi Lake and Powai Lake .
Shilonda Trail
The base of the trail is located just before one reaches the foothills of Kanheri Caves and leads towards the north. The trail is around 4 kilometres long.
Malad Trail
The Malad Trail is towards the western edge of the national park where one can find a varied vegetation starting from dry-deciduous to much greener patch as one progress on the trail. The dry-deciduous vegetation mostly comprises Teak, Red Silk Cotton, Palash, Bamboo, etc. The end of the trail opens at the Malad.
Other jungle trails have also been introduced by the park officials, namely- Kashimira Trail and Nagla Block Trail, and Yeoor Trail. The Nagla Block Trail starts at Sasupada village along the Mumbai- Ahmedabad highway and ends at the Vasai Creek.
The Nature Trials through Nature Information Centre (NIC) of the park can be booked a day or two in advance. There is a fee involved that ranges between INR 75 to 300 and an additional charge for a naturalist who would accompany the visitors on the trail. The charge for hiring a naturalist ranges anywhere between INR 400 to 1000. NIC also arranges butterfly walks, birding excursions and overnight camping.
Additionally, the local conservation bodies and NGOs like the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) and World Wide Fund for Nature - India (WWF-India) also arrange guided walks. One of the most famous nature walks organized by BNHS and WWF India is the Karvi Trail which happens once every eight years since that’s how often the Karvi flowers are in full bloom.
Activities at Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
Butterfly garden.
There are a total of 170 species of butterflies at the butterfly garden of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The Nature Information Centre (NIC) arranges guided butterfly excursions at the national park.
One can explore the greatest number of butterflies between the months of September to January when they happen to be more vibrant. NIC provides a pocket guide to identify the butterflies.
The huge area of the park allows cycling enthusiasts to fulfil their desire to cycle through a relatively empty patch, which is otherwise impossible given Mumbai’s traffic snarls.
One can either get their own bicycles or even rent them inside the park at a mere fee of INR 60 for 2 hours. One needs to pay a deposit of INR 300 along with their ID proofs. There are a limited number of bicycles available in the park hence, it is recommended to either go early or one would need to wait till one is available.
Weekends are usually demanding days.
Boating timings are between 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM with lunch break between 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM. The tickets for boating can be booked online and verified at the ticket counter.
Charges for 2-seater boats are INR 48 and charges for 4-seater boats INR 97. Each boat ride lasts for 15 minutes.
Toy Train Ride
The Toy Train inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai is called Vanrani. The narrow-gauge train ride tickets can also be booked online and need to be verified at the ticket counter. The timings of the train ride are between 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM with lunch break between 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM.
Each ride lasts for 20- 25 minutes. The charges are- INR 50 per journey for adults (12 yrs and above) and INR 19 per journey for children aged between 5 to 12.
The one condition for the train ride to commence is that the minimum number of 20 people should be available for the ride.
There are over-night campings arranged by Nature Information Centre (NIC), SGNP. They offer all types of accommodation ranging from tents to pine houses to guest houses to dormitories.
Places to visit near Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
Kanheri Caves, Vihar Lake, Tulsi Lake, Film City , Chota Kashmir , Crocodile Park, Tikuji- ni-Wadi and Essel World and Water Kingdom are located nearby.
How to Reach Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
Nearest Railway Station to Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai- Borivali (Western line)
The national park is at a walking distance from Borivali Railway Station (East). If anyone isn’t willing to walk, one can also hire an auto rickshaw or a taxi to reach the park.
All intercity buses going towards Borivali East stop at the gate of the park.
One can also rent a cab from top car rental companies in Mumbai to reach the national park.
Mumbai has a lot to offer to its visitors in the form of beaches, parks, temples, caves, amusement parks and what not. To help you plan your trip so that you cover all the important tourist attractions of Mumbai , we at Mumbai Tourism, a division of Holidays DNA offer Mumbai Tour Packages that are quite affordable. To make the best of your Mumbai tour, book a package with us and we will make sure you have a great holiday experience. So, what are you waiting for? Please fill the Contact Us form for further details.
Location Map for Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
Top Tourism Places to Visit in Mumbai
- Gateway of India Mumbai
- Elephanta Caves Mumbai
- Marine Drive Mumbai
- Shree Siddhivinayak Temple Mumbai
- Haji Ali Dargah Mumbai
- Bandra-Worli Sea Link Mumbai
- Essel World Mumbai
- Nariman Point Mumbai
- Juhu beach Mumbai
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Mumbai
- Asiatic Society Mumbai, Town Hall
- Colaba Causeway Mumbai
- Nehru Planetarium Mumbai
- Girgaon Chowpatty Mumbai
- Chor Bazaar Mumbai
- Mount Mary Church Mumbai
- Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
- Kanheri Caves Mumbai
- Raj Bhavan Mumbai
- Jehangir Art Gallery Mumbai
- Taraporewala Aquarium Mumbai
- Bombay High Court
- Bandra Bandstand Mumbai
- Versova beach Mumbai
- Churchgate Mumbai
- Aksa beach Mumbai
- Worli Sea Face Mumbai
- Chhota Kashmir Mumbai
- Malabar Hill Mumbai
- Prithvi Theatre Mumbai
- ISKCON Temple Mumbai
- Wankhede Stadium Mumbai
- St. Michael's Church Mumbai
- St. Thomas Cathedral Mumbai
- Hanging Garden Mumbai
- Mani Bhavan Mumbai
- Elephanta Island Mumbai
- Dhobi Ghat Mumbai
- Babulnath Temple Mumbai
- Global Vipassana Pagoda Mumbai
- Flora Fountain Mumbai
- Water Kingdom Mumbai
- Powai Lake Mumbai
- Mahalakshmi Temple Mumbai
- Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum Mumbai
- Marve Beach Mumbai
- Gorai Beach Mumbai
- Mumba Devi Temple Mumbai
- Nehru Science Centre Mumbai
- Kamala Nehru Park Mumbai
- Fort Bassein / Vasai Fort Mumbai
- Rajabai Clock Tower Mumbai
- Suraj Water Park Mumbai
- Shangrila Water Park Mumbai
- Snow World Mumbai
- Yazoo Park Mumbai
- Tikuji-ni-Wadi Mumbai
- Ammu Water Park Mumbai
- Shivganga Water Park Mumbai
- Sargam Water Park Thane
- Paradise Funland Mumbai
- Mati Hill County Resort Mumbai
- Snow Kingdom Mumbai
- Imagicaa Theme Park Mumbai
- Imagicaa Water Park Mumbai
- Snow Park at Imagicaa Mumbai
- Eyelusion at Imagicaa Mumbai
- House of Stars at Imagicaa Mumbai
- Rainy Resort & Water Park Mumbai
- The Great Escape Water Park Mumbai
- Pali Beach Resort & Water Park Mumbai
- Castella de Aguada / Bandra Fort Mumbai
- Royal Garden Resort & Water Park Mumbai
- Anand Sagar Resort & Water Park Mumbai
- Panoramic Resort and Water Park Mumbai
- Shanti Sagar Resort & Water Park Mumbai
- Magic Mountain Amusement Park Lonavala
- Vardhman Fantasy Amusement Park Mumbai
- Wet N Joy Water & Amusement Park Lonavala
- Mumbai Film City/Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagri Mumbai
- Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Mandai / Crawford Market Mumbai
- Mumbai Zoo / Veer Mata Jijabai Bhonsale Park / Byculla Mumbai
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya/ Prince of Wales Museum Mumbai
- Glowmagica at Imagicaa Mumbai
- Tour Enquiry
- Sign up | Login
- My Bookings
- New User? Sign-up
- Domestic Tours
- South India
- Maharashtra
- Golden Triangle
- North India
- North East India
- International
- Maldives (Discontinued)
- All Domestic Tours
- All International Tours
- Offbeat Tours
- Domestic Cruise Tours
- Jungle Lodges by JLR
- Kabini River Lodge
- Bandipur Safari Lodge
- JLR Kings Sanctuary
- River Tern Lodge
- Kali Adventure Camp
- Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort
- K Gudi Wilderness Camp
- Car Rentals
- Destinations
- Tourist Places on Drive
- Driving Directions
- * Workation
- * Tour Plans
- List Property
Please wait... the destination details are being loaded
- Maharashtra Tourist Places
- Places to Visit in Mumbai
- Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mumbai - Timings, Safari Cost, Best Time to Visit
India | Maharashtra | Mumbai
#22 of 34 places to visit in mumbai, distance (from chhatrapati shivaji terminus): 35 kms, visited from: chhatrapati shivaji terminus, trip duration (including travel): 6-8 hours, place location: near borivali, transportation options: bus / cab / train, website: na, phone no: na, place address: na, travel tips: none.
At a distance of 35 km from Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), earlier known as Borivali National Park, is a large protected area near Borivali in the northern part of Mumbai. It is one of the prominent places of wildlife in Maharashtra , and among the must include places in Mumbai tour packages . The park was named Krishnagiri National Park in the pre-independence era. At that time the area of the park was only 20.26 sq. km. In 1969, the park was expanded to 104 Sq. km by acquiring various reserve forest properties adjoining the park and was renamed as Borivali National Park in 1974. In 1981, it was re-dedicated as 'Sanjay Gandhi National Park' in memory of Sanjay Gandhi, the son of ex-Prime Minister of India Indira Gandhi, who was killed in an air crash in 1980. It is one of the famous places to visit in Mumbai . The park is known for its dense forests, vast birdlife, butterflies, and small population of tigers. The Kanheri Caves in the center of the park were an important Buddhist learning center and pilgrimage site sculpted by Buddhist monks between the 9th and the 1st centuries BCE. They were chiseled out of a massive basaltic rock outcropping. There is a Jain Temple with three huge carved idols is situated on the way to the caves. Besides, the park also has two lakes, namely Tulsi Lake and Vihar Lake, the deer park, the lion safari, and the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi. The rich flora and fauna of Sanjay Gandhi National Park attracts more than 2 million visitors every year and is one of Asia's most visited parks. More than 800 types of flowering plants have been recorded here, which include karvi, a flower that blossoms once in eight years. The rich fauna of this park includes 36 mammal species, 62 varieties of reptiles, and 5000 kinds of insects. The fauna of the park includes Mongoose, Four-horned antelope, Sambar, Atlas Moth, Wild boar, Languor, Monkey, Magar, and Panthers. The park also boasts of 251 species of birds and a large variety of butterflies. Inside the park, there is also a small zoo, Gandhi Smarak on Pavilion Hill, and a Toy train, Vanrani (Jungle Queen) that runs on a narrow-gauge rail line. There are facilities for Lion Safari and Tiger Safari in fenced areas. The trip lasts for about half an hour. There are about 6 tigers and 25 lions in the respective enclosures and they can be viewed as close as six feet away. Park Timings: 7.30 AM to 5.30 PM, Closed on Monday Safari Timings: 9 AM - 1 PM and 2.20 PM - 5.30 PM. Entry Fee: Rs. 30 for Adult, Rs. 15 for Child, and Rs. 100 for Car. Lion & Tiger Safari: Rs. 50 for Adult, Rs. 20 for Child, and Rs. 500 for Video. Toy Train: Rs. 25 for Adult and Rs. 10 for Child.
10 Must Visit Places in Mumbai
Other Places to Visit in & around Mumbai
Top 3 mumbai packages, most popular tours, mumbai related pages.
100% SECURE PAYMENTS
Domestic & International Cards Accepted
Our WhatsApp Numbers
Kerala, Tamilnadu, AP & TG Tours
Karnataka Tours
Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat Tours
North India Tours
Rest of India
International Tours
Request Quote
Travellers #
Explore Tour Packages
Discover Affordable Tour Packages
Need Customized Tour? Request Quote
Login / sign-up.
Your Sign in was successful! Itinerary will be downloaded shortly.
Sign up with Trawell.in
Already Created Account? Login Here
Sign in with Trawell.in Account
Forgot Password?
New User? Sign Up Here
Activate Your Trawell.in Account
Your account is activated successfully. Login Here
Reset Your Trawell.in Password
Your password has been reset successfully. Login Here
Booking Policy
Sanjay Gandhi National Park – History, Timing, Entry Fees
Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai is nothing more than a stunning natural wonderland covering a sizable size of 87 km. This park was opened in the year 1996 and welcomes more than two million visitors each year. The park was formerly known as Borivali National Park before Sanjay Gandhi, the ex-prime minister of India, passed away tragically.
One of the most popular national parks in Asia is, without a doubt, the National Park Sanjay Gandhi , which is bursting with amazing flora and fauna. This national park is essentially a gold mine for suburbs.
This location has a long, rich history that dates to the fourth century BCE. The Kanheri Caves , which were dug into the rock over 2,000 years ago, continue to be this area’s top attraction despite the numerous amazing sites that visitors can experience.
History of Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park’s origins may be traced to the fourth century BCE when the ancient civilisations of Kalyan and Sopara had a 45-kilometre trade route between them and their respective kingdoms, which traded with Greece and Mesopotamia.
The Kanheri Caves, a Buddhist pilgrimage and study centre, were on the commerce route connecting Sopara and Kalyan. Between the ninth and first centuries BCE, Buddhist monks carved the caverns out of a single piece of basalt rock.
Borivali National Park, which was only 20.26 square kilometres in size, replaced the older name of Krishnagiri National Park during the pre-independence era (1942). Following the Bombay National Park Act, this was done in 1942.
However, the park’s area was twice enlarged in the future. Twice, first in 1976 and once more in 1981. The area that became a part of the National Park in 1981 was 82.25 square kilometres.
In 1996, the park was renamed Sanjay Gandhi National Park in honour of the senior son of former Indian Prime Minister Ms. Indira Gandhi, and its size was simultaneously increased to 103 square kilometres.
The Architecture of Kanheri Caves
The Kanheri Caves feature viharas, stupas, prayer halls, and other structures of old-style Buddhist architecture. These caves’ carving out of a single bedrock is their most distinctive feature.
The caves’ construction is relatively straightforward, but they are expertly planned with functional elements like stone platforms for sleeping, channels to collect and store rainwater, lofty pillars, walkways, and other things.
The several caverns here each have their unique features, such as Cave 1’s incomplete chaitya griha and Cave 2’s three stupas and carved Buddha statues. A stupa, lofty pillars, and a sizable statue of Lord Buddha may be found near the entrance to Cave 3.
The caverns also include several Devanagari and Brahmi inscriptions, the majority of which are still unrevealed.
Where is Sanjay Gandhi, National Park
It is located in Borivali, northern suburbs of Mumbai. It is also known as Borivali National Park.
Below is the complete address of the National Park and Map Location: Western Express Highway, Rajendra Nagar Society, Kulupwadi, Borivali East
Timings and Entry Fees of Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
On Mondays, Sanjay Gandhi National Park is closed.
For morning walkers with monthly or annual passes, it is open from 5:30 AM to 7:30 AM on the other days.
It is open for daytime guests from 8:00 AM to 05:30 PM during Tuesday to Friday. During Saturday, it is open from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Entry Fees or Tickets:
Sanjay Gandhi National Park admission costs Rs. 85 for adults and Rs. 45 for kids. Between Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Kanheri Caves, a shuttle service is available for Rs. 10 per person.
Interesting Facts about Sanjay Gandhi National Park
● The first tourist destination in this tourism area, which lies in the middle of the national park, is the Kanheri Caves. This cave served as a significant Buddhist educational hub between the ninth and first centuries BCE.
● In the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, you may find a lot of endangered plant and animal species.
● In Sanjay Gandhi Park, there are more than 1,300 different types of plants.
● The Sanjay Gandhi National Park’s main draw is an uncommon plant called Karvi, a lavender-coloured plant that blooms just once every eight years.
How to Reach Sanjay Gandhi, National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park’s closest train station is Mumbai-Borivali (Western line)
At Borivali Train Station, you can stroll to the national park (East). If someone doesn’t want to walk, they can alternatively use a cab or an auto-rickshaw to get to the park.
At the park’s entrance, all intercity buses heading in the direction of Borivali East stop. To go to the national park, one can also hire a taxi from one of Mumbai’s leading car rental businesses.
Things to do at Sanjay Gandhi National Park
- Butterfly Garden
In total, 170 different species of butterflies can be found in Sanjay Gandhi National Park’s butterfly garden. At the national park, the Nature Information Center (NIC) organises escorted butterfly trips.
From September through January, when they are at their most brilliant, is when one can see the most butterflies. A compact guide on butterfly identification is available from NIC.
Cycling lovers can finally realise their dream of Sanjay Gandhi national park cycling through a largely vacant area thanks to the park’s expansive size, which is otherwise impossible due to Mumbai’s traffic jams.
Bicycles may be purchased or even rented inside the park for just INR 80 for two hours. A 300 INR deposit is required, along with identification documents. Since there are only a few bicycles available in the park, it is advised to arrive early or prepare to wait until one becomes available. Weekends are typically busy days.
The hours for boating are from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with a break for lunch from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM. Boating tickets can be purchased directly from counter or online and validated at the national park ticket counter.
Boats with two seats cost INR 85, while those with four seats cost INR 173. The length of each boat ride is 15 minutes.
- Ride the Toy Train
Vanrani is the name of the toy train in Mumbai’s Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Tickets for rides on narrow-gauge trains can also be purchased online, but they must be confirmed at the ticket counter. The train runs from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with a break for lunch from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM.
Every ride takes 20 to 25 minutes. The cost is INR 50 for adults (12 years and older) and INR 19 for youngsters (5–12 years old) for each voyage. The only prerequisite for the train ride to start is that at least 20 passengers must be available.
The NIC, SGNP, and the centre for nature information have organised overnight camping. They provide a variety of lodging options, including tents, pine huts, guest houses, and dorms.
Places to visit near Sanjay Gandhi National Park
- Kanheri Caves
The tallest mountain in Mumbai, known as the Kanheri caves, is located deep inside the Sanjay Gandhi National Park and is made up of old Buddhist caves. The Archaeological Survey of India looks after it. Particularly on weekends, both domestic and foreign tourists frequently visit the caves.
The largest lake in Mumbai is called Vihar Lake. It is situated inside the Sanjay Gandhi National Park close to the Mithi River’s Vihar settlement. To help the residents of southern Bombay with their drinking water problems, the British administration constructed the lake between 1856 and 1860. The Powai-Kanheri hill ranges in the catchment area provide it with water.
A freshwater lake in northern Mumbai is called Tulsi Lake. It is reportedly Mumbai’s second-largest lake and provides some of the city’s potable water. The other two lakes on Salsette Island are Powai Lake and Vihar Lake, and this one is one of them.
The Sanjay Gandhi National Park’s (SGNP) Tulsi Lake is frequently the first to overflow.
- Chota Kashmir
Amid the concrete and steel high rises and remote from all the hustle and bustle of Bombay, lies the small green strip of Aarey Colony that contains a parkland called ‘Chhota Kashmir’. The lake and Chhota Kashmir Garden are on opposing sides of the street. The lake has been the setting for countless Bollywood song filming and provides boating opportunities.
There is a lot more to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park than one might think. In addition to the element of adventure, one can also find calm in the dense forest cover. It is nothing short of a blessing to hear the wind blow and the birds chirp.
But given the state of the world today, it might be difficult to maintain a positive connection to nature. During a vacation to Mumbai, one should undoubtedly visit this park, which will let them reaffirm their connection to their heritage.
Keep me signed in until I sign out
Forgot your password?
A new password will be emailed to you.
Have received a new password? Login here
Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai, Tickets, entry fees, Timings
While you are exploring Mumbai what comes to your mind is the happening city life. But do you know there is a huge national park located just within the premises of the city. Also this national park is the only national park in the world that is present within the city premises? The national park that I am talking about is the Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai . And if you are wondering Sanjay Gandhi National Park in which state then the state is Maharashtra. This is a must visit location in Mumbai and in this article I will mention all Sanjay Gandhi National Park information that you might need. So keep on reading this article and plan a trip to this national park as soon as you can.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
Sanjay Gandhi National Park location : Borivali East, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Sanjay Gandhi National Park timings : The Park is open from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm on all days from Tuesday to Sunday. Monday is closed. Also the park is open for morning walkers from 5:30 am to 7:30 am from Tuesday to Sunday.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park tickets : The Sanjay Gandhi National Park entry fees are Rs. 58 for adults and the Sanjay Gandhi National Park ticket price for children is Rs. 31.
For Mini Train the fee is Rs. 50 for adults and Rs. 19 for children. There are shuttle buses running from the entrance of the park to the caves and the charge is Rs. 60 per person. And for the camera there is an additional fee of Rs. 50.
How to reach
The most convenient way to reach this national park is by train. The Borivali Railway Station is at a walking distance away from the national park. You can also opt for local transport like taxis or auto rickshaws to reach the park. Or you can also drive through your own vehicle to reach here as well.
Spreading across 103 square kilometer this national park is one of the popular tourist destinations in Mumbai. Under the governance of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change this park marks a footfall of 2 million visitors annually. Previously the name of this park was Krishnagiri National Park in 1942. Later the name was Borivali National Park in 1974 and then the area of this park was 20.26 sq km. Later there was expansion of this park twice in 1976 and 1981. In 1996 the park was finally named as the Sanjay Gandhi National Park and the area of the park was extended to 103 sq kms.
This beautiful national park is a home to varied flora and fauna. Also due to the substantial green cover the temperature of this park always remains on the lower side. There are two man made lakes inside the park namely the Vihar Lake and the Tulsi Lake.
Read More : Imagicaa Theme Park, Water Park, Timings, Ticket Price, Rides
Sanjay Gandhi National Park Animals
One of the major attractions in the Sanjay Gandhi Park is the wildlife here. Animals in Sanjay Gandhi National Park include a good number of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and butterflies.
Amongst mammals the most common animal is the spotted deer which are mostly visible here. Also there are large leopards, striped hyenas that you can spot near the side of the Yeoor Hills in the park. Other animals are porcupines, black naped hares, and four horned antelope. However these are rare sights in the national park but are major attractions for the tourists as well. Among monkey species Rhesus Macaque, Hanuman Langur and Bonnet Macaque are common here. Along with that the park houses almost 17 different species of bats as well.
For bird watchers this national park is like a treasure trove for the huge variety here. The Gaumukh Trail in the park especially provides a unique experience for bird watching. You can find a good number of woodpeckers and kingfishers here along with other birds. Also there are Brown Headed Barbet, Parakeets, Paradise Flycatcher, Trogon, Malabar Whistling Thrush, Spotted Babbler, Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher etc.
In the category of reptiles, a huge number of crocodiles are present in the park. The Tulsi Lake of the national park is the area that houses the crocodiles. Along with that there are snakes here which are also present in huge numbers. From Cobras to Pythons, Russel Viper, Bamboo Pit Viper, Ceylonese Cat Snake you can find it all here.
Butterflies
This park is also popular for housing a total of 170 butterfly species which is huge. Some of the common variants are Blue Oak Leaf, Blue Mormon, Jezbels, Yellow and White Orange Tips, Monarchs, Sailors etc.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park Safari
The Tiger and the Lion Safari in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park are undoubtedly one of the major attractions for the visitors here. These safaris are available from 9 am in the morning to 4:30 pm. However they do have a lunch break from 12 pm to 1:30 pm. Each Safari is of 30 minutes duration and there is a minimum requirement for the safari of 15 people for the ride to start. You can opt to get the tickets for the safari from the official website of the park as well. But keep in mind that the tickets are non refundable as well as non transferable. If you are getting the tickets online they will verify the tickets at the ticket counter once you reach there.
Ticket price for Tiger Safari in Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai
The ticket price for Tiger Safari is Rs. 70 for adults and for children from 5 years to 12 years of age it is Rs. 28. However for a Combined Tiger and Lion Safari the ticket price is Rs. 81 for adults. And for children from 5 years to 12 years of age the ticket price is Rs. 32.
Kanheri Caves Sanjay Gandhi National Park
The Kanheri Caves are located inside the premise of this national park and these caves are also one of the important heritage sites under the list of Archeological Survey of India. Dating back to 1 st century BCE these caves are more than 2400 years old. The name of the caves came from Krishnagiri that literally translates to Black Mountain. Due to the volcanic basalt salt the mountain base is black in colour. In total the Kanheri Caves are a cluster of 109 caves. Majority of these caves here represent the Buddhist Viharas. The visitors can travel from Sanjay Gandhi National Park to Kanheri Caves through the rock cut stairs. It is also one of the popular trails in this national park.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park Trails
The location of the national park is an advantageous location because of its higher altitude. And therefore there are quite some good trekking trails here which the visitors love exploring.
Kanheri Upper Trail
This is the most popular trail in this park and especially for Sunday walkers. It starts from the entrance of the national park and goes up to the Kanheri Caves. The trekking level is not very easy and requires effort, however the beautiful view is worth some effort. Most of the trail passes amidst the rocky edges of the mountains. And the view from the top is enough to relieve you from all the hard work.
Highest Point Trail via Ashok Van
This is yet another common trail passing through the Ashok Van. With rocky hills, streams and a forest lined with huge Ashoka trees this is one of the most interesting trails too. And as the name suggests already this trail will lead you to the highest point of Mumbai as well. The all encompassing panoramic view from the top is breathtaking to watch. Also you will get to see three lakes from here namely the Tulsi Lake, Vihar Lake and the Powai lake.
Gaumukh Trail
Also popular as the Bamboo Hut Trail this is yet another popular trail here that ends at 1000 feet height. This point is located on the top of the Kanheri Caves and the end point is the Gaumukh Point.
There are some other trails as well like the Malad Trail, Shilonda Trail, Nagla Block Trail, Yeoor Trail etc. You can book these nature trails through the Nature Information Centre in advance one or two days before. The charge ranges from Rs. 75 to Rs. 300 and there is an additional charge for the guide as well. If you wish to hire a naturalist then the charges would be between Rs. 400 to Rs. 1000. Other than these nature trails you can also enjoy overnight camping, birding excursion or butterfly walks here.
Things to do in Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park Cycling is one of the most popular tourist activities. The huge area of the park is appropriate for a cycle ride. You can either take your own cycle here or else you can hire it too. If you are renting a cycle the charge is Rs. 60 for 2 hours. Also there is a deposit fee of Rs. 300 along with ID proofs. Keep in mind that there are a limited number of cycles here so you might have to wait till your turn.
This is again a very popular activity here that the tourists enjoy. The timings for boating in this park is from 9 am to 1:30 pm. For a 2 seater boat the charge is Rs. 48 and for a 4 seater boat the charge is Rs. 97. The time duration for each boat ride is for 15 minutes.
The Toy Train in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a popular attraction especially among children. Popular as Vanrani, this is a narrow gauge train that operates from 9 am to 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm. The charge of the toy train is Rs. 50 per person for adults and for children it is Rs. 19. However there is a minimum requirement of 20 people for the train to start.
Wrapping Up!
Now that you have all the information about Sanjay Gandhi National Park Borivali, plan a trip to this location as soon as you can. Let me know if this article is helpful for you in planning a trip to this beautiful location in Mumbai.
Leave a comment Cancel reply
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Recent Posts
Yazoo Park Virar Mumbai, Ticket Price, Contact, Timings
Tikuji Ni Wadi Mumbai Ticket Price, Entry Fees, Water Park
Hanging Garden Mumbai Timing, History, Entry Fee, Location
Chhota Kashmir Mumbai, Timings, Location, Distance
Ammu Water Park & Resort Mumbai, Entry Fee, Price and all
Durga Puja in Mumbai Locations| Best Bengali Durga Puja 2024
Asiatic Society Mumbai Town Hall, History, Library, Entry Fee
Jehangir Art Gallery Mumbai, Timings, Entry Fee, Ticket Price
Marve Beach Malad Mumbai, How to Reach, Resort, Distance
Disclaimer | Privacy Policy | Terms and Conditions
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Label : Fun For Kids
Tags : National Park
Timings : National Park - 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Closed on Mondays Kanheri Caves - 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Time Required : 3-4 hours
Entry: INR 85 per adult. INR 45 for children above five. Kanheri caves: INR 5
Planning a Trip? Ask Your Question
Borivali national park
Ways to experience this attraction, sanjay gandhi national park, mumbai overview.
Squeezed between the two suburbs of Mumbai and Thane, Sanjay Gandhi National Park is ideal for picnics and weekend getaways offering respite from the chaos and buzz of the city. Famed to be one the most liked national parks, visitors throng in thousands to spot Leopards, Macaques, Boars, Lions, Flying fox, Kingfisher, Sunbirds and a significant number of butterflies here. Kanheri caves, which are more than two thousand years old are also a major tourist attraction inside the park premises. The caves have been carved out of the rocky cliffs.
The Sanjay Gandhi National Park, previously known as the Borivali National Park covers approximately 20% of Mumbai's geographical area and is home to a staggering thirteen hundred species of flora and more than five hundred species of fauna respectively. Covering an area of 104 square kilometers, it is one of Asia's most visited National Parks with over 2 million visitors every year. The park is also said to be the largest park in the world located within city limits. There are two artificial lakes within the forest thriving with crocodiles and migratory birds all year. The lakes supply drinking water to the city. The park was first introduced in 1974 and helps to have a change from the usual sights, attractions, and rush of the big city. The Sanjay Gandhi National Park is known for its evergreen dense forests, bird population, butterflies, and the small population of tigers.
Sanjay Gandhi National park Highlights
1. kanheri caves, mumbai.
Read More on Sanjay Gandhi National park
History of sanjay gandhi national park, main attractions in sanjay gandhi national park., sanjay gandhi national park lion safari, sanjay gandhi national park cycle on rent, how to reach sanjay gandhi national park, top hotel collections.
Near Airport
5 Star Hotels
Nearby Resorts
Bandra Hotels
Best Hotels
Top Hotels Near Sanjay Gandhi National park
8.6 (1093 reviews)
7 kms
₹ 14,000 onwards
8.1 (955 reviews)
9 kms
₹ 13,000 onwards
7.6 (871 reviews)
₹ 6,500 onwards
7.0 (558 reviews)
8 kms
₹ 10,000 onwards
8.0 (496 reviews)
₹ 15,999 onwards
7.7 (475 reviews)
6 kms
₹ 5,134 onwards
Sanjay Gandhi National park Reviews
Arohita Koyel
deepak nimbalkar
Have a Question on Sanjay Gandhi National park?
Popular Questions And Answers on Sanjay Gandhi National park
Q. what are the visiting timings for morning walk yearly pass ? rate & documents?
Other Top Ranking Places In Mumbai
Nearby places.
Related Posts
12 Best Water Parks in Mumbai for a Summer Retreat
Sightseeing
42 Best Things to Do in Mumbai
Beaches & Islands
Best Beaches in Mumbai
Food & Drink
20 Cafes in Bandra That Are Perfect Hangout Spots In The City
Bhuleshwar Market - Things to Buy, Timings & More
Mulling Over Malls in Mumbai? Check Out The List of Best Shopping Malls in Mumbai
Chota Kashmir - Aamchi Mumbai's Kashmir Connection
Mumbai Darshan - Buses, Places, Packages and All You Need To Know
Travel Tips
Bike On Rent In Mumbai - Your Guide To Riding Out
Bike Rental In Mumbai - Best Operators, Prices & Documents Required
10 Places in Mumbai To Enjoy Monsoon!
Art & Culture
The Dabbawalas of Mumbai: A Unique Lunch Delivery System
Similar Places
Get the best offers on Travel Packages
Compare package quotes from top travel agents
Compare upto 3 quotes for free
- India (+91)
*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.
Log in to your account
Welcome to holidify.
Forget Password?
Share this page
Tickets for sanjay gandhi national park.
Travellers of India
Indian travel diaries, suggestions.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai: Exploring Nature’s Oasis in the Heart of Mumbai
Sanjay Gandhi National Park, located in Mumbai, India, is a sprawling oasis of natural beauty amidst the bustling cityscape. Also known as Borivali National Park, it is a verdant expanse of wilderness that serves as a precious haven for both flora and fauna. Spanning over 100 square kilometers, the park offers a refreshing escape from the urban chaos, providing visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature. From dense forests and serene lakes to ancient caves and captivating wildlife, Sanjay Gandhi National Park showcases the rich biodiversity that coexists with the vibrant city of Mumbai. Whether you are a nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil retreat, this national park offers a unique and rejuvenating experience right at the heart of Mumbai.
Must Read: Top 20 National Parks in India That You Need to Visit!
Geographical Location and History of Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai: Sanjay Gandhi National Park is situated in the northern part of Mumbai, Maharashtra, stretching from the suburbs of Borivali to Thane. The park encompasses the ancient forests of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity. Established in 1969, the park was initially called Borivali National Park and was later renamed to honor Sanjay Gandhi, the son of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The park’s primary objective is to protect the region’s fragile ecosystems while providing recreational opportunities for the city’s residents.
Flora and Fauna in Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai: Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a treasure trove of flora and fauna, boasting more than 1,300 plant species, including rare and endemic ones. The park’s vegetation ranges from moist deciduous forests to evergreen forests, creating a diverse habitat for a wide array of animal species. Some notable flora includes teak, shisam, karanj, and wild jasmine. The park is also home to over 270 bird species, including the rare Malabar pied hornbill and the elusive paradise flycatcher. Visitors might catch a glimpse of other fascinating creatures such as leopards, macaques, deer, wild boars, and reptiles like the Indian rock python and the monitor lizard.
Timings of Sanjay Gandhi National Park: Sanjay Gandhi National Park is open to visitors from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm every day, including weekends and public holidays.
The entry fee for Sanjay Gandhi National Park was as follows:
- For Indian visitors: Rs. 53 per adult and Rs. 36 per child (age 5-12)
- For foreign visitors: Rs. 106 per adult and Rs. 53 per child (age 5-12) Please note that these fees are subject to change, and it’s advisable to check the official website or contact the park authorities for the most up-to-date information
Attractions and Points of Interest of Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai: Sanjay Gandhi National Park offers a plethora of attractions and activities to engage visitors of all ages.
Here are some highlights:
Kanheri Caves: Within the park, the ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves of Kanheri provide a glimpse into Mumbai’s rich historical and cultural heritage. With over 100 caves dating back to the 1st century BCE, Kanheri Caves showcase magnificent sculptures, intricate carvings, and meditation halls.
Lion and Tiger Safari: The park features a Lion and Tiger Safari, where visitors can embark on a guided tour to observe these majestic big cats in a protected environment.
Nature Trails: Numerous walking trails crisscross the park, allowing visitors to explore its scenic beauty while immersing themselves in nature. The most popular trail is the Shilonda trail, known for its picturesque landscapes and abundant birdlife.
Boating at Tulsi Lake: Tulsi Lake, one of the park’s three lakes, offers boating facilities for visitors. It is a perfect spot to unwind and appreciate the serenity of the surroundings.
Conservation and Environmental Education: Sanjay Gandhi National Park plays a vital role in preserving Mumbai’s fragile ecosystems and raising awareness about environmental conservation. The park authorities conduct various initiatives, including nature camps, wildlife awareness programs, and workshops for students and nature enthusiasts. The Van Rani initiative encourages women from local communities to participate in conservation efforts and provides livelihood opportunities through eco-tourism activities.
Conclusion: Sanjay Gandhi National Park stands as a testament to the remarkable coexistence of a thriving metropolis and a thriving natural ecosystem. With its diverse flora, fauna, historical caves, and recreational activities, the park offers a unique experience for residents and tourists alike. By providing a sanctuary for wildlife and promoting environmental education, the park serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and appreciating nature in an urban setting. A visit to Sanjay Gandhi National Park is an immersive journey into the beauty and biodiversity that exists within the heart of Mumbai.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai:
What are the timings of Sanjay Gandhi National Park? Sanjay Gandhi National Park is open from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm every day, including weekends and public holidays. What is the entry fee for Sanjay Gandhi National Park? The entry fee for Indian visitors is Rs. 53 for adults and Rs. 36 for children (age 5-12). Foreign visitors pay Rs. 106 for adults and Rs. 53 for children (age 5-12). Can I bring my own vehicle inside the park? Private vehicles are not allowed inside the park. Visitors can either walk or use the park’s internal transportation facilities. Are there any guided tours available in the park? Yes, guided tours are available for various attractions within the park, including the Lion and Tiger Safari and the Kanheri Caves. Can I go for trekking in Sanjay Gandhi National Park? Yes, trekking is allowed in designated areas of the park. The Shilonda trail is a popular trekking route known for its scenic beauty and birdlife. Are there any boating facilities available in the park? Yes, boating facilities are available at Tulsi Lake, one of the lakes within the park. Visitors can enjoy boating amidst the serene surroundings. Is it possible to spot wildlife like leopards in the park? Yes, Sanjay Gandhi National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards. However, sightings of leopards are rare as they are elusive creatures. Are there any food options available inside the park? Yes, there are food stalls and refreshment centers available within the park where visitors can buy snacks and beverages. Are there any restrictions or guidelines for visitors in the park? Visitors are expected to follow the park’s rules and guidelines, such as not littering, not feeding animals, and staying on designated trails for safety and conservation purposes. Can I visit the Kanheri Caves within the park separately without entering the entire national park? Yes, the Kanheri Caves can be visited separately without entering the national park. There is a separate entrance and ticket for the caves. Please note that the information provided is based on my knowledge up until September 2021. It’s recommended to verify the current details and guidelines from official sources or the park’s website before planning a visit.
How useful was this post?
Click on a star to rate it!
Average rating 5 / 5. Vote count: 2
No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.
"Travellers of India is a hub bringing globetrotters around the world together so as to reveal interesting and entertaining things about a destination, its people, and their culture. We aim to inspire Travellers around the world to delve deep into the world around them, bringing the world closer to everyone, and in doing so, making a difference in the travel genre. At Travellers of India , we focus on helping Travellers get an understanding about various destinations, things to do, travel plans, and so on. In doing so, we believe to make it simpler for everyone, and in turn, helping them experience a great and memorable journey! Here I found the best Quote about travelling “There are a Lot of stories out there waiting for you to live them” Happy Travelling".
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published.
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
You might be interested in
The Top 10 Best Places to Spot Tigers in Indian Forests
Encounter with the Runner – A Journey to Chenap Valley by Asis Mukherjee
A Comprehensive Guide to Kaziranga National Park, Assam – Exploring the Wilderness
Anant Ambani’s Visionary Initiative: 3000-Acre Animal Sanctuary in Jamnagar
You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .
- Sanjay Gandhi National Park: Take A Walk With Nature & Rejuvenate Yourself!
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is nothing but a beautiful natural spell spread over a massive area of 87 km square in Mumbai. Established during the year 1996, this park invites more than two million tourists to come to see it every year. Before the unfortunate demise of Sanjay Gandhi, the son of India’s ex-prime minister, the park was called Borivali National Park.
The Sanjay Gandhi National Park , blooming with incredible flora and fauna, can be justifiably considered to be one of the most visited national parks in Asia. This national park is basically a suburban gold mine. This place holds up a great historical significance that dates back to the 4th century BCE. Despite the many remarkable sights that tourists enjoy in this gorgeous piece of land, the ancient rock-cut Kanheri Caves that are over 2,000 years old, still remain to be the greatest attraction here.
Exploring Sanjay Gandhi National Park
The adventures one can withstand at Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai are endless. The long walks in the cold and dense forests here are the perfect escape from the noise and pollution of the concrete jungles we live in. Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai is not as huge and grand as other national parks in India, yet it is laden with visitors all the time. Be it the endless wild trails or the amazing safaris, this national park has got it all to leave your jaw dropped.
Things To Do In Sanjay Gandhi National Park
There are ample of things to do in Sanjay Gandhi National Park, and some of these are discussed here.
1. Witness Van Rani
Van Rani, meaning “jungle queen,” is a narrow-gauge train one can spot inside the park. It worked for about twenty-five years before it stopped in 2001. Although it does not run anymore, looking at it is an experience in itself.
Must Read: 24 New Year Parties In Mumbai: Top Venues & Events
Near Van Rani, one can find the pleasurable boating services. There is a small lake inside in which you can find the perfect tranquility as your boat. It is fun if you want to row the boat with your family or friends, and it is romantic as well if you are there with your partner.
Suggested Read: 15 Breathtaking Pre-Wedding Photoshoot Locations In Mumbai
3. Tiger & Lion Safari
To promote ecological tourism, this protected jungle offers a thrilling tiger and lion safari. The lion safari is about twenty minutes long and is done by a green bus that travels along the fences. The concept of green buses that take the tourists for safaris is beautiful. These buses are caged so as to safeguard the people from any potential attacks because the animals roam freely in the wild, marking their territory. Hereby, the park is making suitable arrangements to provide us with the safety we need and the natural habitats that animals deserve.
Timings: 9 am to 4.30 pm Price: INR 98 for adults
Suggested Read: 42 Best Resorts Near Mumbai For A Quick Relaxing Getaway!
4. Trekking
The park sports some really grand treks and wild trails that one can take. Groups and solo trekkers take regular walks here. Anyone can join them for a shared enthralling experience. One of the treks that you must not miss at any cost is the one from the central gate of the park to the Kanheri Caves, which are 7 kilometers long. Imagine sighting 30 kinds of butterflies, and this park will make your dream come true as it is home to around thirty different types of butterflies. There are authorities that organize several nature walks to educate the visitors about the amazing flora and fauna here.
Suggested Read: 50 Super Amazing Things To Do In Mumbai On Your Vacay
5. Visit The Ancient Kanheri Caves
One just can’t come to this wholesome park and leave without visiting the Kanheri Caves. They are the perfect spot if you take an interest in culture and history. They are not just beautiful structures, in fact, these caves were sculpted by Buddhist residents around the 1st century BCE. That is how old they are. The area was once a colony that once provided for accommodation for travelers, and today, it is a tourist attraction. These caves will make you realize how far along we have come as a civilization.
Suggested Read: 11 Romantic Beach Restaurants In Mumbai For A Dreamy Dinner Date
6. Wake Up In A Pine Hut
On the way to the lion safaris that you must not forget to take, there lies a little pine hut. It is quite unbelievable that a national park lets you stay inside its premises for an entire night. What is more incredible is the price you pay for a life-altering experience. A pine hut can be yours for the whole night for 7000 INR and can accommodate up to five people.
Suggested Read: 27 Honeymoon Destinations Near Mumbai For Those Romantic Short Trips
Timings of Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sadly enough, you can’t go to this park on Mondays as it closed then. However, it is open on all other days in a week. The timing of Sanjay Gandhi National Park is 7.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. every day.
Suggested Read: Top 38 Weekend Getaways From Mumbai For The Love Of Traveling
Entry Fee of Sanjay Gandhi National Park
The entry fee of Sanjay Gandhi National Park is 58 INR per person for adults and 31 INR per person for children.
Travel tips for visiting Sanjay Gandhi National Park
- On a Sunday or Saturday, the queue for tickets might take up an hour or two of your time. So, make sure you reach early to avoid waiting for hours.
- The Park is closed on Mondays. This is something that you must remain mindful of while visiting for the first time.
- If you walk away from the main roads and designated areas, you might have to pay a hefty fine.
- The safaris, boat ride, and train ride can all be booked online.
Further Read: Nightlife In Mumbai: 20 Coolest Experiences That Will Make You Fall In Love With The City!
The Sanjay Gandhi National Park has a lot more to offer than one can imagine. Apart from the adventure part, one can even discover peace amidst the thick forest covers. To listen to the bird’s chirp and the wind blow is nothing short of a blessing. However, the way our world has turned out, it is tough to stay connected to nature and its positivity. One should definitely check out this gem of a park to reconnect and rejuvenate with their roots on their trip to Mumbai .
Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.
Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sanjay Gandhi National Park
How many days are required to plan for Sanjay Gandhi National Park Visit?
You don’t need days. You only need three to four hours of a day’s time. In fact, not much planning is required to visit this lovely place.
What is the best season to visit Sanjay Gandhi National Park?
The best time to visit this national park is any day from September to March.
What is the nearest railway station?
The nearest railway stations to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park are Borivali and Goregaon on the Western line (Mumbai Suburban Railway).
Do they allow animal rides as well in the park safari?
No. Although one can witness the lions and tigers in the Park from a safe distance, no animal rides are provided inside.
Is outside food allowed?
No. It is not advisable to bring eatables.
Anjana is a writer, journalist, and a full-time wallflower. She holds a Master’s degree in Media and Mass Communication and firmly believes that travel blogging is nothing less than art. Combining her love for writing with her passion for globetrotting, she brings to you some amazing tips on traveling perfectly, be it any season of the year! In her spare time, she loves reading, listening to obscure indie bands, and writing poetry – all of this while being a crazy dog lady.
Places to Visit In India
- 30 Best Places To Visit In Bangalore In...
- 64 Best Places To Visit In Kerala For...
- 39 Best Places To Visit In October In...
- 101 Places To Visit In India Before You...
- 20 Places To Visit In Sakleshpur In 2024...
- 35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In...
- 32 Best Places To Visit In January In...
- 20 Best Places To Visit In Meghalaya For...
- 12 Places To Visit In Punjab To Witness...
- Unravel Places To Visit In Uttarakhand For A...
- 26 Best Places To Visit In Jammu For...
- 29 Places To Visit In Monsoon In India...
- Best Places To Visit In August In India...
- 36 Beautiful Places To Visit In Kashmir One...
- 55 Fascinating Places To Visit In Hyderabad In...
- 35 Ultimate Places To Visit In July In...
- 72 Places To Visit In Rajasthan In 2024
- 42 Best Places To Visit In Pondicherry In...
- 33 Spectacular Places To Visit In Mumbai On...
- 43 Places To Visit In West Bengal In...
- 41 Best Places To Visit In June In...
- 35 Best Places To Visit In Mysore In...
- 35 Places To Visit In Coorg For A...
- 54 Best Places To Visit In India In...
- 8 Places To Visit In Jibhi For A...
- 64 Best Tourist Places To Visit In Goa...
- 25 Best Places To Visit In Visakhapatnam In...
- 16 Places To Visit In Lucknow That Showcase...
- 60 Best Places To Visit In Kolkata That...
International Places To Visit
- 35 Best Places To Visit In Japan That...
- 40 Best Places To Visit In Canada In...
- 28 Places To Visit In October In World...
- 28 Stunning Places To Visit In South Korea...
- 25 Places To Visit In Manila In 2024...
- 19 Best Places To Visit In Morocco In...
- 34 Best Places To Visit In Austria In...
- 82 Best Places To Visit In Turkey That...
- 10 Breathtaking Places To Visit In The World...
- 22 Best Places To Visit In Netherlands: The...
- 24 Fabulous Places To Visit In Ireland: The...
- 19 Best Places To Visit In London In...
- Discover 24 Places To Visit In Switzerland In...
- 17 Mystical Places To Visit In Egypt In...
- 15 Places To Visit In United Kingdom That’ll...
- 33 Best Places To Visit In Amsterdam On...
- 19 Best Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur...
- 42 Best Places To Visit In Bangkok In...
- 11 Popular Places To Visit In Doha For...
- 26 Places To Visit In Germany In 2024...
- 32 Places To Visit In Belgium That Make...
- 15 Places To Visit In USA That Reflect...
- 37 Best Places To Visit In Dubai At...
- 15 Top Places To Visit In Asia To...
- 20 Must-See Places To Visit In Milan In...
- Top 27 Places To Visit In Greece In...
- 31 Places To Visit In Abu Dhabi In...
- 25 Places To Visit In August In The...
- 15 Best Places To Visit In Chicago That...
- 14 Places To Visit In Berlin You Must...
Things To Do
- 40 Things To Do In Pondicherry In 2024...
- 12 Best Things To Do In Matheran In...
- 23 Intoxicating Things To Do In Turkey In...
- Top 14 Interesting Things To Do In Kanyakumari...
- 38 Things To Do In Gokarna To Escape...
- 12 Best Things To Do In Varanasi For...
- 21 Remarkable Things To Do In Krabi In...
- 16 Things To Do On Honeymoon In 2024
- 23 Things To Do In Chennai To Explore...
- 20 Things To Do In Ahmedabad For An...
- 30 Best Things To Do In Wayanad For...
- 37 Amazing Things To Do In Kerala For...
- Top 39 Things To Do In Jaipur
- 19 Things To Do In Mussoorie For A...
- 33 Best Things To Do In Kolkata In...
- Top 25 Things To Do In Kodaikanal For...
- 32 Things To Do In Ooty That Will...
- 15 Things To Do In Srinagar That Will...
- 20 Things To Do In Darjeeling
- 27 Kickass Things To Do In Malaysia
- 25 Best Things To Do In Phuket That...
- 18 Awesome Things To Do In Kasol On...
- 27 Exciting Things To Do In Chikmagalur
- 9 Things To Do In Mathura For An...
- 23 Things To Do In Lonavala For A...
- 10 Best Things To Do In Lakshadweep For...
- 30 Joyful Things To Do In Bhutan
- 38 Exhilarating Things To Do In Udaipur In...
- 18 Best Things To Do In Chandigarh
- 29 Amazing Things To Do In Shimla
- 30 Things To Do In Dehradun In 2024
- 7 Incredible Things To Do In Vrindavan For...
Recent Posts
A Guide On Jungle Safaris In Rajaji National Park To Embark On A Wildlife Adventure
Visit Neora Valley National Park In 2024 To Explore The Eastern Gem In Kalimpong
Your Comprehensive Guide To Visit Freycinet National Park In 2024
2024 में भारत में 16 शीतकालीन हनीमून स्थल
Discover The Wildlife Wonders Of Nagarhole National Park In Karnataka In 2024
Your Ultimate Guide To Harz National Park In 2024
Trending Blogs
20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2024 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle
10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare
108 Best Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 In 2024
35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation
64 Top Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024
95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2024 For A Romantic Escape!
Best Places To Visit In India By Month
Best places to visit outside india by month.
- TravelTriangle
- Romantic Travel »
- Tour Packages
- Honeymoon Packages
- Family Packages
- Budget Tour Packages
- Luxury Tour Packages
- Adventure Tour Packages
- Group Tour Packages
- Kerala Tour Packages
- Goa Tour Packages
- Andaman Tour Packages
- Sikkim Tour Packages
- Himachal Tour Packages
- Uttarakhand Tour Packages
- Rajasthan Tour Packages
- Tour Packages From Delhi
- Tour Packages From Mumbai
- Tour Packages From Bangalore
- Tour Packages From Chennai
- Tour Packages From Kolkata
- Tour Packages From Hyderabad
- Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
- Kerala Tourism
- Goa Tourism
- Sikkim Tourism
- Andaman Tourism
- Himachal Tourism
- Uttarakhand Tourism
- Rajasthan Tourism
- Hotels in Kerala
- Hotels in Goa
- Hotels in Sikkim
- Hotels in Andaman
- Hotels in Himachal
- Hotels in Uttarakhand
- Hotels in Rajasthan
- Travelogues
- Tour Operator
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a vast protected forest reserve in Mumbai, India. It is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, ancient rock formations & the Kanheri Caves.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park Images
Explore Sanjay Gandhi National Park through captivating images that showcase their rich culture, history, and charm.
1 Tourists who already explored Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Himanshu Sarpotdar
Where Sanjay Gandhi National Park located
How to reach sanjay gandhi national park.
The nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, which is approximately 15 km away.
The nearest railway station is Borivali Railway Station, which is 1 km away from Sanjay Gandhi National Park.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is well connected with Mumbai major places by road.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Sanjay gandhi national park timings.
7:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Sanjay Gandhi National Park Ticket Price
- Adults: Rs.64
- Children (Ages 5 to 12 Years): Rs.34
- Two Wheelers (Bikes): Rs.44
Places to Visit Near Park
- Kanheri Caves
- Shilonda Trail
- Nature Trails
How to Reach
By Air : The nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai. By Train : The nearest railway station is Borivali Railway Station.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park information
Address : Borivali East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400066 Phone : (022) 2886 0362 and 022-28860389 Email : [email protected]
Add Reviews
🗓 Best Time To Visit: June to October during the monsoon season.
⏰ Open Hours: 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM, all days of the week.
🚩 Things To Do: Trekking, bird watching, wildlife spotting, visit Kanheri Caves, boating, and nature walks.
💰 Entry Fees: ₹53 for adults, ₹28 for children. Additional charges for boating and tiger/lion safari.
🧳 Traveller Types: Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, history buffs.
🔍 Known For: Housing the world's largest statue of Buddha carved out of a single rock, rich biodiversity, Kanheri Caves, and a toy train ride.
🚉 Distances: Approximately 19 km from Mumbai Airport, 7 km from Borivali Railway Station, and 40 km from Mumbai Central.
🦜 Wildlife: Home to 274 species of birds, 5,000 species of insects, 40 species of mammals, and 150 species of butterflies.
🚶 Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible routes and facilities are available.
📷 Photography: Allowed, but drone photography requires special permission.
💡 Tips: Carry water and snacks, wear comfortable footwear, and avoid littering.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park: A Guide to Mumbai’s Green Oasis
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:
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
Tiger and Lion Safari at Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai. The safari rides inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai are 30 minutes long and done between 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM with a one-hour lunch break between 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM. There is a minimum requirement of 15 people for the safari rides to commence.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park. A 2,000-year-old complex sits within the park, housing more than 100 caves cut out of rock forming a protected archaeological site. There is a butterfly garden within the NIC premises so that one can have the wonderful experience of sighting and trying to identify the myriad types of butterflies.
In 1969, the park was expanded to 104 Sq. km by acquiring various reserve forest properties adjoining the park and was renamed as Borivali National Park in 1974. In 1981, it was re-dedicated as 'Sanjay Gandhi National Park' in memory of Sanjay Gandhi, the son of ex-Prime Minister of India Indira Gandhi, who was killed in an air crash in 1980.
On Mondays, Sanjay Gandhi National Park is closed. For morning walkers with monthly or annual passes, it is open from 5:30 AM to 7:30 AM on the other days. It is open for daytime guests from 8:00 AM to 05:30 PM during Tuesday to Friday. During Saturday, it is open from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Sanjay Gandhi National Park Timings Entry Fees or Tickets:
Also the park is open for morning walkers from 5:30 am to 7:30 am from Tuesday to Sunday. Sanjay Gandhi National Park tickets: The Sanjay Gandhi National Park entry fees are Rs. 58 for adults and the Sanjay Gandhi National Park ticket price for children is Rs. 31. For Mini Train the fee is Rs. 50 for adults and Rs. 19 for children.
The lakes supply drinking water to the city. The park was first introduced in 1974 and helps to have a change from the usual sights, attractions, and rush of the big city. The Sanjay Gandhi National Park is known for its evergreen dense forests, bird population, butterflies, and the small population of tigers.
5 (2) Sanjay Gandhi National Park, located in Mumbai, India, is a sprawling oasis of natural beauty amidst the bustling cityscape. Also known as Borivali National Park, it is a verdant expanse of wilderness that serves as a precious haven for both flora and fauna. Spanning over 100 square kilometers, the park offers a refreshing escape from the urban chaos, providing visitors with an ...
Timings of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Sadly enough, you can’t go to this park on Mondays as it closed then. However, it is open on all other days in a week. The timing of Sanjay Gandhi National Park is 7.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. every day. Suggested Read: Top 38 Weekend Getaways From Mumbai For The Love Of Traveling.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a vast protected forest reserve in Mumbai, India. It is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, ancient rock formations & the Kanheri Caves. Sanjay Gandhi National Park Timings. 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM. Sanjay Gandhi National Park Ticket Price. Adults: Rs.64; Children (Ages 5 to 12 Years): Rs.34; Two Wheelers (Bikes ...
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 ...