Surrounded by evergreen, dense forests, Sanjay Gandhi National Park is situated between Mumbai and Thane, two suburbs of Maharashtra, its natural beauty and peaceful environment attracts many foreign and domestic tourists.
History of Sanjay Gandhi National Park
On turning the pages of history, it is discovered that Sanjay Gandhi National Park has existed since pre-independence days. In the early days, the park was known as 'Krishnagiri National Park'. However, in 1974 the name of this park was changed to 'Borivali National Park' and in 1981 to 'Sanjay Gandhi National Park' to pay tribute to late Indian leader Sanjay Gandhi.
Animal species found in the park
During the wildlife safari in Sanjay Gandhi National Park, you will be able to see leopards, tigers, macaques, bears, lions, flying foxes, kingfishers, sunbirds, and various species of butterflies. The forest is especially known for its dense population of lions, the national park is home to twenty lions and four tigers.
Lions are often spotted in the park during a wildlife safari, which is considered quite rare to be spotted during a wildlife safari in other forests. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the park through Lion Safari. This safari is about 30 minutes long.
Enjoy the natural beauty of the forest by boat and toy train
Apart from lion safari, you can also see and feel the natural beauty and wildlife of different species present in the forest by boat or toy train. This train, which runs for about 15 minutes, will take you from Pavilion Hill to Deer Park. On the other hand, you can spend some solitude in the park by boating in Vihar Lake and Tulsi Lake and can see animals and birds having fun and drinking water in the lake. This lake is also very good in terms of photography, from the bridge over the lake, you can capture the beautiful views of the lake with your camera.
What is the suitable time for a wildlife safari in Sanjay Gandhi National Park?
If you want to get acquainted with the natural beauty of the forest, then visit the park in the month of mid-October. Because in this monsoon month, the forest gets filled with greenery and the smell of rain spreads all around. However, if you want to go for trekking and camping, then the winter season is better for you.
The area around Sanjay Gandhi National Park is surrounded by beautiful tourist spots.
There are many places worth visiting around Sanjay Gandhi National Park, which every tourist must visit. These tourist places include historical caves, buildings, and beaches.
Kanheri Caves
The "Kanheri Caves" carved out of a group of rocks are decorated with ancient sculptures, carvings, paintings, and inscriptions, tourists visiting here will be able to get acquainted with the ancient history of the 10th century.
The Gateway of India
The Gateway of India, built in the 20th century, is also known as the "Taj Mahal" of Mumbai. Every tourist who comes to Mumbai definitely comes to see this beautiful place once. Being situated on the banks of the Arabian Sea enhances the beauty of this gate.
Elephanta Caves
The Elephanta Caves, located in Gharapuri Island, about 11 km from Mumbai, have been built in medieval times with the help of rock-cut art and architecture. In 1987, this cave was given the status of World Heritage by UNESCO.
Juhu Beach
If you want to spend some time away from Mumbai in a quiet environment then Juhu Beach is the best place for you. Here you can enjoy the view of the beautiful sea as well as the famous cuisine of Mumbai.
Where to stay in Sanjay Gandhi National Park?
You will find many low and high-budget hotels to stay in in Mumbai nearby Sanjay Gandhi National Park. You can choose any of these hotels according to your budget. You can book hotels online.
How to reach Sanjay Gandhi National Park?
By Air- To reach Sanjay Gandhi National Park by flight, you have to take a flight from any major city of the country to Mumbai and take a taxi from there to reach Sanjay Gandhi National Park.
By Train- To reach Sanjay Gandhi National Park by Train take a train from your nearest railway station to Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Railway Station and from there by cab or auto reach the park which is 38 km from Shivaji Terminus Railway Station.
By Bus or Taxi- You can also travel to Sanjay Gandhi National Park by bus or taxi as Mumbai is connected by road to almost all the cities of the country.
