Sanjay Gandhi National Park is tucked between the neighbourhoods of Mumbai and Thane. This spot is amazing for picnicking or a weekend getaway from city noise and traffic. This national park is one of the most popular, attracting many people to see the Leopard, Macaques, Bears, Lions, Flying Fox, Kingfisher, Sunbirds, and various flowers. A big draw for tourists inside the park is the Kanheri caves, over 2,000 years old. The holes are cut into the rocky cliffs.
Wildlife and Flora
The Lion and Tiger Safari is one of the best things to do in SGNP and one of the top places to visit in Mumbai. It began with the goal of encouraging ecotourism. A twenty-minute ride through a fenced-in forest area lets you see lions and tigers up close. There are about twenty lions and four tigers in the park.
The park's animals thrive in the thick underbrush and along the tree-lined views. Royal leopards stalk in silence while groups of langurs chat loudly in the trees. Each species plays a vital role in this ecological tapestry, attracting visitors worldwide to experience the park's vibrant wildlife.
Attractions within the Park
This is an old toy train in the park. They call it Van Rani, meaning "jungle queen," which runs on a narrow track. The train goes along the base of the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial on Pavilion Hill, over Deer Park, and through a few bridges and tunnels during its 15-minute ride. There may be a lot of deer around the local people's huts.
Lakes: Two artificial lakes can be found in the parks. Their names are Vihar Lake and Tulsi Lake. When the monsoons come, the clouds are almost as high as the Western Ghats' peaks, making for a beautiful setting.
You can also rent boats near the Van Rani starting point, which offers a delightful experience. Head to the small lake alone or with your family for a peaceful evening. From the bridge, you can enjoy watching the boats glide across the water. Boats can only go on one side of the bridge.
Best Time to Visit
April to May are good months to see spotted deer, Indian flying fox, Indian hare, porcupines, and crocodiles. However, the weather can be hot and uncomfortable for trekking. A lush green blanket covers the hills as the rainforest basks in the monsoon showers. The gorgeous scenery may tempt you to relax.
The SGNP offers ideal trekking conditions from July to September as the park comes alive despite the wet and treacherous terrain. November to February are good birdwatching months. Trekking and woodland exploration are also enjoyable in this climate, making it a perfect addition to any Mumbai tour package.