Overview:

Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), located in Borivali, Mumbai, is one of the most visited national parks in Asia and serves as a green lung for the bustling metropolis of Mumbai. Spread over an area of approximately 87 square kilometers, it is a rich natural haven known for its dense forests, diverse wildlife, scenic landscapes, and historical significance. It offers a refreshing escape for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and trekkers, right in the heart of one of the world’s largest cities.

History and Significance:

The park, originally known as Borivali National Park, was established in 1969 and later renamed after Sanjay Gandhi in 1981. The park holds significant historical value, with the Kanheri Caves, a complex of ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves dating back to the 1st century BCE, situated within its boundaries. The park serves as a critical green space in an otherwise urban environment, contributing to the biodiversity of the region and providing recreational and spiritual solace to the city's residents.

Wildlife:

Sanjay Gandhi National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, making it an important ecological hotspot:

• Leopards: The park is known for its population of leopards, which are occasionally spotted by visitors.
• Deer: Including spotted deer (chital), sambar deer, and barking deer.
• Birds: The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 250 species of birds, such as the white-browed bulbul, kingfisher, hornbill, and the Malabar whistling thrush.
• Butterflies: SGNP is also home to around 150 species of butterflies, including the blue Mormon and the striped tiger.
• Reptiles: Various snakes, including the Indian rock python and cobra, as well as several species of lizards.
• Other Mammals: Monkeys (including rhesus macaques and bonnet macaques), porcupines, hyenas, and civet cats.

Flora:

The vegetation in Sanjay Gandhi National Park includes tropical moist deciduous forests and small areas of semi-evergreen forest. Its rich flora provides an ideal habitat for the park’s fauna and includes:

• Teak and Bamboo: Major tree species found throughout the park.
• Kadamba and Ashoka: Common trees that add beauty to the park’s diverse ecosystem.
• Medicinal Plants: The park is also home to numerous medicinal plants that are significant for their therapeutic properties.

Attractions and Activities:

Sanjay Gandhi National Park offers a variety of activities for visitors, combining nature, history, and adventure:

• Kanheri Caves: A significant archaeological site within the park, featuring more than 100 Buddhist caves with intricate carvings and stupas, dating back over 2,000 years.
• Lion and Tiger Safari: The park organizes guided safaris in enclosed areas where visitors can observe lions and tigers in their natural habitat.
• Cycling: Bicycle rentals are available for exploring the park’s scenic trails.
• Boating: A lake inside the park offers boating facilities, making it a popular spot for a leisurely escape.
• Trekking and Hiking: SGNP is a hub for trekking, with popular trails leading to Kanheri Caves, Shilonda, and Yeoor Hills. The Jambhulmal trek is especially popular, leading to the highest point in Mumbai.
• Bird Watching: With its rich bird population, the park is an excellent spot for birdwatchers, especially during the migratory season.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Sanjay Gandhi National Park is during the cooler months from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The monsoon season (June to September) transforms the park into a lush green paradise, but some trails may be inaccessible due to rain. Summer months (March to May) are hotter but offer better chances of spotting wildlife near water bodies.

Accommodation:

While Sanjay Gandhi National Park is primarily a day-trip destination, there are a few accommodation options available nearby:

• Eco Lodges: Several eco-lodges and guesthouses located near the park offer sustainable and nature-friendly lodging options.
• Resorts and Hotels: There are various mid-range hotels and resorts located in and around Borivali and other nearby suburbs for those wishing to stay close to the park.

Accessibility:

Sanjay Gandhi National Park is easily accessible from various parts of Mumbai:

• By Road: The park is located on the Western Express Highway, around 40 km from South Mumbai, and can be reached by taxis, buses, or private vehicles.
• By Rail: The nearest railway station is Borivali, on the Western Line of Mumbai’s suburban train network, just 2 km from the park’s main entrance.
• By Air: The nearest airport is the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, located approximately 20 km away, making it convenient for tourists arriving by air.

Conservation Efforts:

The park is actively involved in various conservation efforts to protect its wildlife and environment:

• Leopard Conservation: SGNP is known for its urban leopards, and the park authorities work closely with local communities and conservationists to manage leopard-human interactions and protect the leopard population.
• Eco-tourism: The park promotes sustainable tourism practices, encouraging responsible behavior from visitors to minimize their ecological footprint.
• Afforestation Programs: Efforts are being made to restore degraded areas of the park and enhance its biodiversity through afforestation and habitat restoration projects.

Travel Tips:

• Park Timings: The park is open from 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM, with specific timings for safaris and cave visits.
• Advance Booking: Safaris and certain activities require advance booking, especially during weekends and holidays.
• Respect Wildlife: Visitors are advised to maintain silence, avoid littering, and respect the park’s wildlife by not disturbing animals or feeding them.
• Best Time for Leopards: Early morning or late evening visits offer the best chance to spot leopards and other wildlife.