Five Gardens: A Peaceful Getaway From The City, In The City

Ever been to Five Gardens? A blissful spot in the heart of Matunga, also known as Mancherji Joshi Panch Udyan, this 20-acre establishment is an oasis of greenery.

This historical site has been around since the early 19th century and remained a Parsi social garden where five small gardens are integrated within (hence the name). Each of these beautifully interconnected gardens has something special to offer, be it floral areas brimming with colours, quiet shaded corners, or the well-constructed pathways.

Surrounded by the captivating Dadar-Parsi Colony, Five Gardens Matunga is ideal for morning walks, evening jogs, or just lazing around amidst nature. Families, fitness freaks, and history lovers have made it their most favourite spot to enjoy the serene environment you might not get otherwise in town.

Heading out to Five Gardens in Matunga makes for a very relaxing and a rather charming evening. Though it may be crowded, with children playing, and students roaming around, there’s space for everyone here.

One of the best things about this place is that many tiny food stalls crop up in the evenings – coconut vendors, peanuts and chaat sellers and much more. But if you're looking for full-fledged restaurants nearby Five Gardens Dadar, here's what we recommend.

Mani's Lunch Home: When you're in Matunga, you have to try the food at Mani's Lunch Home. Their comforting idlis, crispy dosas, and traditional filter coffee makes it a local favourite.

Mutuswami Cafe: Mutuswami cafe serves authentic and delicious Tamil-style meals with sambhar and crispy vadas. But their main highlight is the tangy chutney and spicy curries that they serve alongside.

Ram Ashraya: Matunga’s iconic Ram Ashraya is where you can enjoy steaming hot dosas, fluffy idlis, and their famous pineapple sheera.

Mamaji's: If you’re looking for something sweet and light, there’s always Mamaji’s, opposite Ruia college, serving delicious chocolate sandwich.

Subhash Sandwich: Subhash Sandwich, opposite Podar college, is a legendary sandwich stall serving ice-cream sandwich, lays filled sandwich and more at very affordable prices.

Cafe 792: And if you don’t mind walking a bit out of the Five Gardens Dadar, head over to Cafe 792, the quaint little Parsi cafe. A perfect spot to take your date here and end it with their chocolate eclairs.

If you’re a regular there, you’re probably aware of Hoopers – the caged courtyard like garden where one can play basketball and volleyball. If you’re on time, get your basketball and start playing.

Apart from this, walking around five gardens is truly the best way to spend your evening here. Developed by the Britishers back in the day, the garden has benches at every nook and corner, with rows of flowers lining the gardens. The Dadar Parsi colony surrounding the gardens, stands tall and proud with beautiful decor that has withstood time. Walk around, and if you like – get a bunch of lovely photographs for your Instagram.

It’s also a good place to work out, jog, walk, or exercise. In fact, you will find plenty of fitness enthusiasts here and given that there’s an open gym too, there’s enough provision made for you to stretch it out.

Five Gardens is generally open from 6 AM till 11 AM, and then from 4 PM to 8 PM. Its envious location near colleges, a beautiful residential area, and the quiet by lanes, make for a fitting getaway in the city, from the city.