Sanjay Gandhi National Park at Borivali – Mumbai

“Mumbai boasts a sprawling forest area known as the ‘Sanjay Gandhi National Park’, covering a total of 103.84 square kilometers. This magnificent jungle has been around for 150 years and occupies approximately 20 percent of Mumbai’s entire area. It serves as an idyllic weekend getaway for many locals, offering a perfect spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and invigorating jogs. Moreover, the park provides the purest air quality in the city’s suburban region..”

Park Main Entry Gate National Highway
Park Main Entry Gate National Highway

National Park Since 1870

Let’s explore the reasons why countless individuals flock to this extraordinary park every single day. Known as the ‘Borivali National Park’ and ‘Krishnagiri National Park’, it has now evolved into Mumbai’s largest and most diverse park. This park offers an abundance of attractions, such as the National Information Center (NIC) activities, seven renowned nature trails, and official contacts for any inquiries you may have. You can also find comprehensive information about the park’s operating hours, entrance fees, and other charges. Moreover, there are strict rules and regulations in place to ensure the safety of everyone, with fines and penalties for those who do not comply. For those who wish to extend their visit, the park even provides accommodation and camping options.

The Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a mesmerizing destination that enchants visitors from every corner of the world with its abundant wildlife and wide range of attractions.

During the British colonial rule in India, the two main sources of drinking water for Mumbai, Tulsi & Vihar lakes, were built within what was known as ‘Krishnagiri National Park’. This area was quickly designated as a protected forest.

Only 5 years prior to gaining Independence, BMC assumed control of Aarey Jungle along with the 2 catchment areas of the lakes, designating the entire area as a protected forest zone. This vast and diverse park is now known as ‘Sanjay Gandhi National Park’, stretching from Borivali to Goregaon and Thane on the opposite side.

Park Timings, Entry Fees & Other Charges

Updated Entry Fees

Updated Charges
Updated Charges

Old Charges

Entry Fees and Other Charges Displayed
Entry Fees and Other Charges Displayed
  • Timings : 7:30 Am to 6:30 Pm.
  • Entry fees, Cars, Bike & Other Vehicle Entry Charges : Kindly refer Entry Fees & Other Charges for other fees like Walking & Jogging, Boating Charges, Mini Train Ticket Cost, Kanheri caves bus Tickets fees & Others.

Wildlife Species Inside This National Park

Park During Coronavirus Lockdown
Park During Coronavirus Lockdown

There is an abundance of wildlife and natural beauty to explore at the National Information Centre (NIC) ‘Butterfly Garden’ in Sanjay Gandhi National Park. With over 250 species of local and migratory birds, as well as 140 to 160 species of butterflies, nature enthusiasts will be in awe. Not only that, but you can also spot crocodiles in Tulsi & Vihar lakes, along with over 50 other wildlife species. The park is also home to a stunning array of flora and fauna, with more than 1450 plants and trees waiting to be discovered with the assistance of the NIC department.

But that’s not all! The park offers a range of attractions and activities to keep visitors entertained. Hop aboard the famous and historic Mini Train, known as ‘Vanrani’, for a delightful ride. Take a boat trip along the artificial river and soak in the serene surroundings. Explore the fascinating Kanheri Caves, steeped in history and mystery. For a thrilling experience, embark on the Wild Lion & Tiger Safari and witness these majestic creatures up close. And if you’re eager to learn more about nature, there are various nature trails to choose from, such as Shilonda, Kashimira, Gaumukh, Malad, Nagda Block, and the Kanheri’s Upper trails.

Main Attractions of Borivali National Park

What is it about this park that draws in the crowds? And what exciting activities can you experience in the untamed wilderness of Mumbai city? Keep in mind, the National Park Rules are stringent to ensure the preservation of the environment and other regulations. Remember, failure to comply with these rules or committing serious errors can result in a hefty fine of up to Rs.25000 and even a 3-year jail term in extreme cases.

Here is what you can expect inside.

>Vanrani, The Mini Train

Vanrani Mini Toy Train
Vanrani Mini Toy Train

Climb aboard the Vanrani, lovingly called the ‘Forest Queen’, for a delightful mini train ride with 4 coaches. Enjoy a leisurely 20-minute tour through the park’s greenery, spotting deer and exotic birds along the way.

Updated ticket charges of this mini toy train is Rs.55 (Adults) & Rs.21 (Children between 5 to 12 years age).
Train Timings : 9:00 Am to 5:30 Pm (Lunch Break 12:30 to 1:30 Pm). Minimum 20 People required to start the train.
Monday Closed.

For Complete details, see Vanrani Mini Train page.

Boating Inside Artificial River

Sanjay Gandhi National Park River
Sanjay Gandhi National Park River
Boating Location
Boating Location

One of the main highlights of Sanjay Gandhi National Park are the delightful Row-Row boat rides. You can choose between two types of manual boats: the cozy 2-seater boats, with a total of 9 boats available, or the spacious 4-seater boats, with a total of 4 boats. Embark on a 20 to 30-minute journey along the picturesque artificially created river within the park.

For a 2-seater boat, the charge is Rs.64, while for a 4-seater boat, it is Rs.130. It’s important to note that on weekends and public holidays, this attraction tends to have long queues, just like the popular mini train ride. So, make sure to plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your experience at the park.

Boating Timings: 9:00 Am to 5:30 Pm (Lunch Break 12:30 to 1:30 Pm).

Wildlife: Lion and Tiger Safari

Spotting a Tiger Inside Park Safari
Spotting a Tiger Inside Park Safari
Lion Tiger Safari Bus
Lion Tiger Safari Bus

On weekdays, taking a 20-minute bus ride to see lions and tigers in a separate safari zone is a great experience for kids. However, weekends and holidays are very crowded with long queues at the National park. There are 2 lions and 4 tigers in cages at the safari location. The animals are healthy and interesting to watch, but it may not be worth spending 2 hours there during busy times.

Safari timings: 9:00 Am to 1:00 Pm and 2:20 pm to 5:30 pm (Monday Closed).

Kanheri Caves

Kanheri Caves Entry Ladders
Kanheri Caves Entry Ladders
Inside National Park
Inside National Park

The old caves of Kanheri, located at the highest peak of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, are just a 16-minute bus or car ride away from the main gate. These caves are one of the park’s top attractions and a great example of archeology, showcasing the Basalt Rock cut black mountain in Mumbai. The name Kanheri is derived from its original Sanskrit word, ‘Krishnagiri’, which was the park’s old name.

Kanheri Caves During Monsoon
Kanheri Caves During Monsoon

Gautam Buddha and his followers resided in this place for an extended period. The Buddha Stupa at Nalasopara and the National Park are two crucial sites where Buddha stayed in Mumbai.

Kanheri Caves Full View
Kanheri Caves Full View
Kanheri Caves Carvings
Kanheri Caves Carvings

The unearthing of 7 additional ancient caves in the Kanheri region in February 2015 was a momentous achievement for the Archaeological department. Collaborating with a group of enthusiastic students from Sathaye College in Mumbai, who are dedicated to studying and researching the rich ancient cultures of India, the team embarked on an extraordinary journey.

Amidst the dense wilderness, filled with prickly cacti and entangled creepers, they stumbled upon a breathtaking waterfall nestled behind the renowned Kanheri caves. After overcoming numerous obstacles, they discovered five remarkable caves situated at the pinnacle of this majestic waterfall. To their astonishment, a stone ladder led them further down to unveil two hidden caves.

These seven concealed caves served as Viharas, or dwelling quarters, for Buddhist Monks during ancient times. One of the caves even boasted the presence of a Harmika, a sacred architectural element.

Due to their remote location within the depths of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park Forest, special buses have been arranged for visitors. The cost of these buses is Rs. 64 for adults and Rs. 34 for children aged between 5 to 12 years old.

Bambusteum – The Bamboo Garden

Bamboo Trees
Bamboo Trees

Hidden within the sprawling expanse of this National park lies a truly remarkable sight – ‘Bambusteum’, a one-of-a-kind garden spanning 2.5 acres (3 Hectares) dedicated solely to the majestic Bamboo. Since its inception in 2018, this enchanting oasis has become a must-visit destination, located just 2 Km away from the park’s main entry gate. With an impressive collection of 97 distinct species of Bamboo trees, ‘Bambusteum’ stands as the sole garden of its kind in Mumbai. Don’t let this extraordinary gem slip through your fingers when exploring the wonders of this National park.

For more details, Read Bamboo Garden of Borivali national park.

National Information Center (NIC)

Park Nature Information Centre
Park Nature Information Centre

Visitors often flock to this Mumbai park for a relaxing day out and to immerse themselves in the diverse biodiversity. However, for those looking to learn more about the wildlife, plants, butterflies, forest ecosystem, birds, insects, and creatures within the park, reaching out to the National Information Center (NIC) Department is a must.

These experts have an in-depth understanding of the wildlife, nature trails, and excursions in Mumbai’s forest land. They offer guided tours, night camping experiences, and bird watching activities to help visitors fully appreciate the beauty of this natural haven. NIC, the department responsible for forest and related education in the park, organizes numerous nature trails, night camping sessions for stargazing, and guided tours throughout the year. These initiatives aim to educate groups of people, bird watchers, school students, and nature enthusiasts about the captivating wilderness of this forest park.

Butterfly Garden

National park in Mumbai is a must-visit destination for butterfly enthusiasts, boasting a wide variety of species to admire. With around 170 different types of butterflies fluttering around, it’s truly a paradise for butterfly lovers. See Butterfly parks in Mumbai.

7 Nature Trials of Sanjay Gandhi National Park

SGNP Top View
SGNP Top View

1. Kanheri Trail, also known as ‘Upper Trail’, is a popular guided trek organized by the NIC department. The breathtaking view from Borivali National Park is a highlight, along with the opportunity to explore dense forests, waterfalls, and bird watching sites.

2. Shilonda Trails is another must-visit location within Mumbai’s National Park. This nature trail offers a unique experience of walking through water streams and dense forests. It is located just before the Kanheri route and used to be home to a small village and tribes, now transformed into a wild paradise.

3. Malad Nature Trail, situated on the western outskirts of the park, is known for its diverse vegetation along the trek. Many activists and trekkers have spotted footprints of wild animals like leopards near artificial ponds. The trail also offers a view of the urban cityscape of Mumbai suburbs at the end of the trek.

4. Gaumukh Trail is located around 1000 feet above sea level, at the highest peak of Kanheri caves. It has natural water holes that flow all year round, attracting various birds and wild animals like leopards. To stay overnight and truly experience the wildlife, special permissions from the forest department are required. There are also a couple of watch towers for wildlife watching.

5. The peak location in this park is known as the Highest Point. It is a wild and dense area that is even higher than Gaumukh. The experience is exciting, and the reward is the breathtaking view of three major lakes in Mumbai – Powai, Vihar, and Tulsi – all at once. This place also holds mythological significance with a landmark called ‘Ashok van’ and stories related to Ravana and Sita at this peak point area of Mumbai city, hence it is called the Highest Point nature trail.

6. Kashimira Trek is a short nature path in the park close to the Lion safari area. It’s a quiet trail heading north where you can enjoy the peace, bird songs, and various plants and animals.

7. Nagla Block is situated near National Highway 48, in the Sasunavghar area, beyond Vasai Creek (Bhayandar Creek) towards the north. This forest location is peaceful, secluded, and not well-known, even though it is part of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park range. The remote location of the Nagla Block trail attracts only a small number of cycling enthusiasts, forest explorers, and nature lovers, who visit infrequently.

14 Important Things to Know While On Nature Trial

1. Walk in small groups.
2. Avoid carrying disposable items. If you do carry them, do not throw them around.
3. Keep all documents related to nature trail or any trail-related permissions.
4. Do not attempt to adventure on non-regular trail routes. Use only existing and established trails and roads.
5. When trail roads are muddy or wet, walk in a single file.
6. Take note of the locations of tents and accommodations arranged by park authorities for overnight stays.
7. Do not litter anything. Bring back all leftover food, packaging, and any other waste.
8. Use public toilets whenever possible and avoid using the wild.
9. Historic structures, buildings, and artifacts are precious. While on trails, do not touch them. Just examine and take pictures if necessary.
10. Keep a safe distance from wildlife. Do not try to touch or approach them as it can be dangerous.
11. Always allow wild animals to go first.
12. Do not feed wild animals as it is a punishable offense. Store and keep your food securely to prevent monkeys from getting to it.
13. Enjoy the wild nature and allow others to enjoy it too. Be courteous to others.
14. If you notice anything unusual, immediately contact the park authorities or forest department staff using the provided numbers.

Office Contact of National park Authorities for any of the above nature trails is +91-22-28847800.

Overnight Stay & Accommodation Inside National Park

Accommodation Guest House Tents
Accommodation Guest House Tents

Visitors from near and far can spend the night here and enjoy camping under the stars. During the day, they can go bird watching and explore the wilderness of the forest park. Accommodation options inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park include Pine Huts, Guest Houses, and Tents. There is plenty of parking space available for both small and large vehicles. Take a break from the outside world and rejuvenate in the midst of nature and the wild forest by renting these tents, Pine Huts, and guest houses.

Inside these beautiful wooden Pine Huts, guest houses, and tents, you will find all the necessary facilities and services, such as English toilets and air conditioning. The surroundings are filled with lush greenery, the sound of birds in the early morning, and fresh air to breathe.

Pine Hut (Timber House) Stay Option

Pine Hut Stay Inside National Park
Pine Hut Stay Inside National Park

Enjoy the unique experience of staying in a charming wooden hut surrounded by the natural scent of pine, located in the lush forest area of Mumbai. Pine huts are two-story timber houses, with the ground level featuring a living and sleeping area along with a toilet. A lovely ladder leads to the upper level, which includes a bedroom and another washroom. Both levels of this pine hut are equipped with air conditioning.

Waking up early in the morning in this lovely wooden house and taking a stroll to breathe in the fresh air, while listening to the birds chirping by a small flowing river, is a special experience offered by Sanjay Gandhi National Park.

Tents for Overnight Accommodation

There are two types of tents available: 3 AC tents and 3 Non-AC tents. The first type is suitable for larger groups and is more budget-friendly. It can accommodate up to 24 people with 12 bunk beds. Toilet and washroom facilities are located outside in a common area. This type of tent does not have air conditioning and is known as a NON-AC dormitory.

The second type of tent has a double bed and a sofa, making it ideal for 3 to 4 people. It includes AC and an indoor washroom. The cost of these tents ranges from Rs.2500 to Rs.3000.

For exact pricing and other details, contact the official number +91-22-28868686 as costs may vary depending on the season and holidays.

Food Options Inside Camping Area

Food options are available at Canteen inside, Menu below (Price may vary) :

1. Basic Food Plate (Bhojan Thali): 3 Chapatis OR 2 Bhakris, 3 Green vegetables, Dal, Rice & Pickle Papad. Approximate price: Rs.100
2. Special Food Plate: Along with the Basic food plate, you will also be served 1 extra Sweet dish. Approximate price: Rs.120
3. Breakfast: Choose from Sheera, Upma, or Onion Poha. Price: Rs.30
4. Regular Tea: Rs.10
5. Special Tea: Rs.15
6. Coffee: Rs.20
7. Batata Wada (Potato Vada, 2 pieces): Rs.30
8. Onion Bhajiya Plate: Rs.40
9. Vegetable Biryani: Rs.100
10. Zunka Bhakri: Rs.60

NOTE : Smoking & Non Vegetarian Food is Strictly Prohibited.

This camping site is located within the park, just before the Lion and Tiger safari, and next to a small river. The address is National Park Flyover, Gandhi Nagar, Rajendra Nagar Society, Borivali, Mumbai 400066. The camping accommodation has an overall rating of over 4 stars. You can find more pictures and reviews by clicking here.

Picture Courtesy : Abhijit Ekbote & Neel Patel.

Important Rules (Do’s & Don’t) Inside National Park

DO’s

1. Please maintain silence in the park area to avoid disturbing the natural inhabitants like animals and birds.
2. The speed limit for all types of vehicles is 20 KMPH.
3. Remember to follow the park timings from 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM and leave the premises by 6:30 PM.
4. If you plan on commercial photography or shoots, make sure to get special permissions from the main gate entrance.
5. Park your vehicles only at the dedicated parking lots.
6. Help keep the park area clean by using dustbins, and remember that plastics are strictly prohibited.

DON’Ts

1. No smoking or drinking allowed on the premises.
2. Avoid animals, do not bother or feed them.
3. Pets are not permitted in the park (no pet zone available).
4. No roadside parking allowed, fine up to Rs.2000.
5. Lighting fires is prohibited.
6. Do not exit your car in isolated lanes while driving, it can be unsafe.

National Park Offences & Fines / Penalties

1. Smoking or carrying inflammables: Rs.500
2. Disturbing wildlife or feeding them: Rs.1000
3. Reckless driving, honking: Rs.500
4. Possessing banned substances or alcohol: Rs.1000
5. Littering or using plastics: Rs.500
6. Violating park rules or time limits: Rs.500
7. Exceeding speed limit of 20 KMPH: Rs.500
8. Entering water bodies: Rs.500
9. Spitting: Rs.200

SGNP Office Contact & Forest Emergency Helplines

Address : Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Main Gate, Adjacent to National Highway 48, Borivali (East), Mumbai 400066.
Main Entry & Official Contacts : +91-22-28860362 & +91-22-28860389
Maharashtra Forest Helpline : 1926
National Park Control Room : +91-22-28866449
Camping & Accommodation : +91-22-28868686
Thane Forest Division Control Room : +91-22-25445459
Nature Information Center (NIC) : +91-22-28868686
Official Website : SGNP

How to Reach This Park

By Road: If you are coming from outside Mumbai, you can reach Borivali Highway via NH 48. The main entry gate is on the left side, connected to the Highway. Just before a flyover, make sure to keep an eye out for the National Park turning sign on the highway. Inside, there is parking available for cars and other vehicles.

By Train: If you are arriving in Mumbai from outside states, most major trains halt at Borivali Railway Station on the Western Railway Route. Once you get down, head towards the east side and take an auto-rickshaw, which will only take around 5 minutes to reach the National Highway Entry Gate. If you prefer to walk, it’s just a 15-minute distance from the railway station. You can also take Bus No.188, which goes to the National Park.

By Air: The nearest airports are Andheri (International) and Santacruz (Domestic), which are adjacent to each other. The distance from Mumbai Airport to the National Park is 15.6 km, and it usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes to travel during regular traffic conditions.



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Greetings, I am Deven, the founder of Mumbai77. With immense passion, I have dedicated my full-time efforts to continuously learn and update important information about Mumbai city. Currently, I am a full-time blogger residing in Mumbai. Since its establishment on July 7, 2007, Mumbai77 has attracted millions of pageviews. Our website aims to provide valuable information, including my personal reviews and experiences, to assist individuals worldwide in their search for updated information about Mumbai city.

2 Replies to “Sanjay Gandhi National Park at Borivali – Mumbai

  1. Can i go to Sanjay gandhi national park at 6:30 AM for Morning Cycling but i dont have any pass then Can i get entry???

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