A Complete Guide To Enjoying The Best Of Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) or Borivali National Park is like New York City’s Central Park for Mumbai – except it’s not really in the centre (it’s a suburban gold mine) but works the same way – it provides Mumbai the green space it badly needs.

Originally known as Borivali National Park, the SGNP was established as a protected national park in 1969. It's home to the ancient rock-cut Kanheri Caves that are over 2,000 years old.

While it may not be as large or exotic as some of the other national parks in India, its accessibility makes it very appealing for both residents and tourists. To enjoy nature at its best in the middle of the concrete jungle, you must plan a day trip to Sanjay Gandhi National Park.

As many attractions here close over lunchtime, we'd recommend you plan your trip in a way in which you don't have to head back disappointed. We've made it simpler for you- here's a complete guide on exploring Sanjay Gandhi National Park and what all must be on your itinerary to walk out at the end feeling great about spending your day here.

Please note, due to Covid-19 restrictions, only certain sections of the park are currently open to visitors. 

If you think that the National Park is only known for its greenery, caves and wild trails, you are highly mistaken. Being one of the protected national parks of this country, it is also host to tigers, lions and a lot of other wildlife which is very rare (some which you might not even have heard of). Take a mini jungle safari in a closed jeep or a caged bus to check out tigers and lions in their natural habitat- the jungle. Experience the grandeur of these wild cats roaming freely, in person. Safari in a jungle that lies in the middle of a city definitely sounds like a lot of fun! 

Pro-Tip: The queue to buy the tickets on the spot may take up to almost one hour on a weekend.

Timings: 9am to 4.30pm

Price: Combined tiger and lion safari costs INR 98 for adults.

If you've been meaning to get out, get fit and cycle, but just don't know which road to ride on, head straight to Sanjay Gandhi National Park where you can ride all the way up to Kanheri Caves through SNGP itself. However, if you're looking for an even better route, start riding to Sanjay Gandhi National Park from Aarey Milk Colony, as early in the day as possible. You can cross over Powai Lake to get to the Western Express Highway which will lead you to the national park. A lot of cycling groups organize meetups over the weekend and yes, you can be a part of them! Check out the Mumbai Cycling Group on Facebook that organizes cycle trails and meetups with fellow cyclists and posts about them on social media too, so you'll always be in the loop of what's being planned.

Deep inside the park, are the beautiful ancient Buddhist caves, Kanheri Caves. These caves provide a rich Buddhist history – from the carvings on the wall to the beautiful statues and tombs that still stand there. It is perfect for a beginner's trek and if you're in the mood for some cultural exploration.

As you close in on the route that takes you to the lion safari, keep your eyes open for a tiny pine hut that rests on your right. Yes, that's right. It's cute, cozy and you can spend a night here. As there is only one pine hut, you will have to plan your stay here much in advance and the entire pine hut can be yours for the night for only INR 7,000 and it can accommodate upto 5 people easily. Wake up to the birds chirping and sun shining through the trees; definitely not something you experience every day in the concrete jungle so you must check this out!

Sanjay Gandhi National Park is easily accessible via Western Railways services from Borivali Station. From the station, you can hire an autorickshaw or taxi to the park. If you are driving, you can access the main entrance from Borivali East from the Western Express Highway.

Being a national park, there are many rules and regulations one must adhere to while visiting Sanjay Gandhi National Park. We'd recommend you don't venture off the park's main roads and designated areas as that can attract a heavy fine. 

However, a visit to Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a must- it allows you to experience nature at its best without having to travel too far away from home.

The park is open from 8.30 am to 6.30 pm. Private vehicles are not allowed within the park. Pay and park is available outside the park and BEST bus services are available inside the park premises.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park is closed on Mondays.

While the park is open to visitors, the tiger lion safaris, boat rides, toy train and Kanheri Caves remain closed. Visitors are allowed to go up to the Tumnipada gate only. Visitors are expected to maintain social distancing, wear masks and following all COvid-19 Protocol.