Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP)
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Mumbai is the only metropolitan city to have a national park within the city. SGNP is spread over 103 sq.kms, almost covering 20% of Mumbai’s geographical area. It’s a perfect getaway destination from the chaos of the city life. There are a lot of activities that one can do here.
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- Tiger and Lion Safari: Try taking the morning safari between 9.00 to 10.am and you can watch the big cats from the safety and comfort of a closed vehicle.
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- Boating: Just a few steps from the main gate is an artificial water body where you can use pedal boats and go peddling to experience this scenic and refreshing lake.
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- Mini Train: This is one of the oldest attraction at SGNP. While riding on this train, one can see peacocks and deer as you go past the Gandhi tekdi hillock.
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- Nature Treks and trails: They organize nature walks and tours for a group of people on prior bookings. This includes watching bees, birds, animals, insects, trees, and plant-spotting and ends with a picnic by the Tulsi river. You need to carry your own hamper, though.
- Kanheri Caves: Situated deep inside SGNP, is the highest peak of Mumbai called the Kanheri caves. It comprises of ancient Buddhist caves which have paintings and shrines of Buddha. It is 6 kms from the main gate, one can walk all the way up and enjoy the scenic beauty with lush green forests and waterfall (during monsoons) or drive up to the caves. A one-day picnic to this place will surely build memories that are etched in your hearts.
- Stargazing: Observing stars and planets from a city like Mumbai is difficult due to cloud cover and pollution. But Sanjay Gandhi National Park offers the citizens a unique chance to do that. The Nature Interpretation Centre (NIC) of SGNP organises stargazing sessions. With the help of knowledgeable experts and powerful telescopes, one can see and learn about the stars and planets and admire the night sky from the heart of the city.
Timings and Days:
The Lion/Tiger safari, mini train and Boating is closed on Mondays.
The entry to the park is open on all days.
Timings:
Mini train: 9.30 am to 5.30 pm
Lion/Tiger Safari : 9.00 am to 4.30 pm
Boating : 9.30 am to 5.30 pm
