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Touching the Nature's Soul: Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai

Sanjay Gandhi National Park was earlier known as Krishnagiri National Park.

By Akshatha Vinayak

An increase in the city area often results in limiting the forest area. Most cities have atleast one wildlife destination which serves as an ecological spot. Over the years, there are been good efforts in restoring and increasing such forest regions within the city limits. The Sanjay Gandhi National Park is one such famous destinations that has been well-restored in the city of Mumbai.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai

Aerial View
PC: Arijit Patra

Sanjay Gandhi National Park which was earlier known as Borivali National Park occupies the Northern part of Mumbai. Rich flora and fauna within precincts of such an urban setup is exciting for sure. Hence, it is also one of the most visited urban national parks in India.

Attractions of Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Originally, the park was much smaller in size but it was merged with the neighbouring forests to form the present area. Now, Sanjay Gandhi National Park occupies many portions of Northern Mumbai and some regions of Thane. It acts as an ozone layer for the heavly populated city.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai

PC: Manoj K

The vast limit of Sanjay Gandhi National Park comprises of rich flora and fauna, hilly regions, dense forests, lakes and even the historical monuments.

The national park is a home to a number of animal species like deer, four-horned antelope, rhesus monkey, lion, leopards, chital and so on. Even reptiles like crocodiles (Tulsi Lake) and various snake species are found in this forest.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai

Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher
PC: Prateik Kulkarni

Lake beds and the lush green vegetation houses varieties of avifauna (both resident and migratory birds). Sunbirds, woodpeckers, jungle owlets, robins, magpies, hornbils, etc. are spotted here. Vibrant butterflies along with these birds beauty the forest.

Kanheri Caves are one of the major attractions of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. These ancient Buddhist cave monuments to the time of 1C BCE to 10 C BCE.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai

Trimurti Jain Temple
PC: Marco Zanferrari

Trimurti Jain Temple is one of the prominent Jain religious places inside the park. It is also called as Trimurti Digambar Jain Temple which has the idols of Lord Adinath, Lord Bahubali and Lord Bharata.

Lion and Tiger Safari is one of the most interesting things to do in Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The park has a good population of lions but only few are visible during the safari.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai

Safari
PC: supersujit

Vanrani Narrow Gauge Train is a 'toy train' which gives a ride around the beautiful green vegetation of the park. This fun train ride is one of the best attractions in Sanjay Gandhi National Park.

Interesting Facts About Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai

Intially, it was known as Krishnagiri National Park. Later, it was changed to Borivali National Park. In 1981, it was renamed in the memory of Sanjay Gandhi, the son of ex-PM of India Indira Gandhi.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai

Vanrani Toy Train Railway Track
PC: Mohit S

The park consists of two large lakes named Tulsi Lake and Vihar Lake which is the major source of water for the wildlife.

The biodiversity of Sanjay Gandhi Park is similar to that of Sahyadri Hills. Hence, it consists of decidious forest , evergreen forest and bamboo forest.

Interestingly, it is a place where Karvi Shrub can be found. Karvi is a unique flowering shrub which only blooms once in 8 years. The lavender coloured Karvi flowers spread across the landscapes of the forest is a visual treat. This phenomenon happens only once in 8 years.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai

Karvi Flowers Bloom Once in 7 years
PC: Manoj K

Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a home to a number of leopards. In fact, many leopards of the forest have strayed out of the territories in search of prey. Since the park is surrounded by urban settlements, people have been killed by leopards. In recent years, the forest department has brought initiatives to deal with this issue.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park has a zoo, many public parks and trekking trails. It is one of the ideal destinations for nature walks in the city of Mumbai. Many adventure enthusiasts love to try these trekking trails in the hilly terrains of the park. Therefore, Sanjay Gandhi National Park is one of the top tourist places in Mumbai.

These are some of the most interesting facts about Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai which will surly make you visit!

Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai

Leopard at the park
PC: Maheshshinde

How to Reach Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Sanjay Gandhi National Park is situated in Boravali of Mumbai. It is well-connected to the other parts of the city. City buses are also available from other parts of the city to reach the park.

The Mumbai Suburban Railways are one of the easy ways to reach the park. Visitors should get down at Borivali Railway Station and then take auto-rickshaws or even walk to the park.

Click - How to Reach Mumbai

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