Sanjay Gandhi National Park

About Sanjay Gandhi National Park

The Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a lush green paradise located in the northern part of Mumbai, India. Covering an area of 104 square kilometers, this national park is one of the most visited parks in the country and is a popular destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and wildlife enthusiasts. The park is named after Sanjay Gandhi, the son of former Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi.

Location and Geographical Overview

The Sanjay Gandhi National Park is situated in the suburban district of Mumbai, covering areas of Borivali and Thane. The park is surrounded by hills and forests, providing a serene and peaceful environment for visitors to enjoy nature at its best. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a biodiversity hotspot in the region.

Open and Closing Time

The Sanjay Gandhi National Park is open to visitors from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm every day of the week, including weekends and public holidays. The park closes at 6:30 pm, and visitors are not allowed to enter after this time.

Entry Fee

The entry fee for the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is INR 68 for adults and INR 38 for children. Senior citizens above the age of 65 can enter the park for free with a valid ID card. Foreign tourists have to pay INR 338 for entry.

Species-Flora/Fauna Availability

The Sanjay Gandhi National Park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The park is famous for its rich biodiversity, with over 1,300 species of plants, 251 species of birds, 40 species of mammals, and 38 species of reptiles. Some of the animals found in the park include leopards, spotted deer, macaques, langurs, and Indian flying foxes.

Activities Performed

Visitors to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park can indulge in a range of activities such as nature walks, trekking, picnicking, bird watching, and cycling. The park also offers boating facilities at the Tulsi Lake and Vihar Lake, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful boat ride amidst the serene surroundings.

Jeep Safari Charges

The park also offers jeep safari rides for visitors who want to explore the park's wilderness and spot rare wildlife. The jeep safari charges are INR 800 per person for a 30-minute ride, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the park's inhabitants.

Age Criterion for Male, Female, Children and their Entry Fee

The entry fee for the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is INR 68 for male adults, female adults, and children above the age of 5. Children below the age of 5 can enter the park for free. Senior citizens above the age of 65 can enter the park for free with a valid ID card.

Senior Citizen Facilities

Senior citizens above the age of 65 are entitled to free entry to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park with a valid ID card. The park provides special facilities for senior citizens, including wheelchair accessibility, resting areas, and designated walking trails for a comfortable and enjoyable visit.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is during the winter months of November to February when the weather is pleasant and cool. The park is lush and green during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting.

Nearby Places to Visit

There are several attractions near the Sanjay Gandhi National Park that visitors can explore, including the Kanheri Caves, a group of ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves dating back to the 1st century BC. Other nearby attractions include the Global Vipassana Pagoda, Film City, and Yeoor Hills.

Vehicle Parking Facility

The Sanjay Gandhi National Park provides ample parking facilities for visitors, with designated parking areas available near the park's entrance. Visitors can park their cars or bikes securely and conveniently while they explore the park's attractions and activities.

Rules and Regulations

Visitors to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of wildlife and maintain the park's ecological balance. Some of the rules include not feeding the animals, not littering, not making loud noises, and not plucking flowers or plants.

How to Reach and Other Related Information

The Sanjay Gandhi National Park is easily accessible by road and public transport. Visitors can take a taxi, bus, or auto-rickshaw to reach the park from various parts of Mumbai. The nearest railway station to the park is Borivali, which is well-connected to other parts of the city. The park also has facilities like restrooms, food stalls, and information centers to cater to the needs of visitors.

Overall, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers looking to experience the beauty of Mumbai's natural landscape. With its diverse flora and fauna, exciting activities, and serene surroundings, the park offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.