Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mumbai
Facts and practical information
Nestled amidst the bustling city of Mumbai, Sanjay Gandhi National Park stands as a rare oasis of natural beauty and biodiversity. This verdant enclave, sprawling over 104 square kilometers, offers a much-needed respite from the urban sprawl of India's most populous city. The park is renowned for its rich flora and fauna, with over 1,000 plant species, 251 species of migratory and resident birds, 50,000 species of insects, and a wide array of reptiles and mammals, including the elusive leopard.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is not just a haven for wildlife enthusiasts but also a significant historical and cultural site. The park houses the ancient Kanheri Caves, a group of rock-cut monuments dating back to the 1st century BCE. These caves were once a center of learning and an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
The park's diverse topography, from rugged hills to dense forests, and its two lakes, Vihar and Tulsi, make it a popular destination for trekkers, nature lovers, and picnickers. The park's rich canopy provides shelter to an array of wildlife, while several well-marked trails invite visitors to explore its natural wonders. The highest point in the park, Gandhi Tekdi, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
In addition to its natural and historical attractions, Sanjay Gandhi National Park also features a toy train, Van Rani, that winds through part of the forest, and a boating facility on the Tulsi Lake. The park is also home to a lion and tiger safari, which is a major draw for visitors.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Bengal tiger
The Bengal tiger, scientifically known as *Panthera tigris tigris*, is indigenous to the Indian subcontinent. Regrettably, these majestic creatures face significant threats such as poaching, habitat loss, and fragmentation.
Mammals
Sambar deer
The sambar is a large deer species native to the Indian subcontinent, South China, and Southeast Asia. Since 2008, it has been listed as a vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List, primarily due to hunting, insurgency, and habitat destruction.
Mammals
Mugger crocodile
The mugger crocodile, also known as the marsh crocodile or broad-snouted crocodile, is a fascinating freshwater species native to regions spanning from southern Iran to the Indian subcontinent. Unfortunately, it has been listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List since...
Reptiles
White-rumped vulture
The white-rumped vulture, native to South and Southeast Asia, has faced critical endangerment since 2000 due to a dramatic population decline. This decline, primarily caused by diclofenac poisoning leading to kidney failure, has reduced what was once the world's most...
Birds
Four-horned Antilope, Chousingha
The four-horned antelope, also known as the chousingha, is a small and unique antelope species native to India and Nepal. What distinguishes this species is its four horns: one pair positioned between its ears and the other on its forehead.
Mammals
Maharashtra