sgnp highest point trek

Complete Guide to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park

A GREEN PARADISE AMIDST THE CONCRETE JUNGLE.

Believe it or not, there isn’t any other metropolitan city in the world which boasts of a green cover as huge as SGNP within its’ municipal boundaries. If you want to have a quick and cheap getaway from the chaotic city, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) (aka Borivali National Park) is the place to go! It is not only a visual treat for wildlife photographers and trekkers but also suitable for fitness enthusiasts and children! The toy train, rented cycles available for cycling and the well laid out road makes the park suitable for all age groups.

Here’s everything you need to know about the SGNP (click on the section to see further details) :

The Park is a 104 sq. km protected forest area in Mumbai and consists of various nature trails and treks with gorgeous sights of wildlife, valleys, streams, lakes, flora and fauna. It is home to a varied species of vegetation, birds, mammals, butterflies, insects and amphibians. SGNP is known as the lung of the Metropolitan city, purifying much of the air pollution of Mumbai. A breath of fresh air from the concrete jungle, the park covers most of the western and northern borders of the city and is wedged between Borivali and Thane. The SGNP extends to areas such as the IIT Powai campus ,Aarey Colony, Ghodbunder village in Thane and the Nagla block. The two largest lakes of Mumbai -Tulsi and Vihar; which are the source of water to most of the South Mumbai residents are located in this national park.

The 2000 yrs old Kanheri Caves are a prime attraction and are located at a distance of 6kms from the SGNP main entrance at Borivali. The Gandhi Tekdi, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi is also popular.

* The Ancient Sculptures inside Kanheri Caves.

LOCATION & TIMINGS

• The park is easily accessible and well connected by road and railway networks. The main entrance gate to the SGNP is at Borivali East (on the Western Express Highway), which is approximately 40 kms to the north of South Mumbai. The closest railway station is Borivali Station on the Western line.  The Park remains closed on Mondays while there are public buses plying from Mumbai to the National Park on Sundays and public holidays.
• While the 5.5 sq.km Krishnagiri Upvan area serves as a public recreation zone within the park, the core areas have restricted access i.e they require permits/ trail passes from the Forest Department.
• The gates open at 7:30 am and close at 5:30 pm. From the SGNP entrance, you can take your own private vehicle up to the Kanheri Caves, from where most trails start. Alternatively, BEST Bus. No 188 operates inside the park which takes you till the caves. (ONLY ON SUNDAYS) Early trekkers will need a private vehicle, as the bus services are not available in the early morning hours. There is also an option to rent a seat in one of the many Omni shuttles which take you to the destination. A one way transfer costs you approx 50-60 Rs per person. The caves can be visited between 9 am to 12.30 pm and 2 pm to 5.30 pm.

* An internal road map of the Borivali National Park.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The SGNP is rich in biodiversity and thus every season has it’s own charm, bringing in a variety of experiences.

( GO FOR : Spotting wild animal species and various flora & fauna .)

The months from April to May are suitable for spotting wild animals such as spotted deers, Indian flying fox, Indian hare, porcupines and crocodiles. That being said, the climate does get quite hot and may not be as pleasant for trekking. But early morning trails will nonetheless be beautiful as the silk cotton and gulmohar burst into crimson hues, spreading a flame-of-the forest vibe.

( GO FOR : The lush greenery spread around and gorging waterfalls .)

As the jungle basks in the glory of the monsoon showers, a thick green blanket seems to spread across the hills and make a gorgeous landscape.  The beautiful surroundings might entice you to spend a long time at leisure. July to September are the best time to go for treks at the SGNP – it’s wet and slippery but the park does come alive

WINTER : ( GO FOR : Chilly Morning treks and Bird-watching .)

The months from November to February are ideal for birdwatchers. The climate is also quite suitable for treks and exploring the forest. Raptors and bird species such as the Shikra (Accipiter badius), ubiquitous Black Kites (Milvus migrans), Crested Honey Buzzard (Pernis ptilorhyncus) and the Crested Serpent Eagles (Spilornis cheela) can be spotted.

TREKS AND TRAILS IN SGNP

There are 5 major trails which can be explored with the guidance of naturalists, guides and tour agencies. The liveliness of the forest and wildlife can be experienced through these trails. All the trails require special permits from the Forest Department as they form a part of the core areas. The lesser known Nagla block trail near Thane is a favorite amongst the wildlife enthusiasts. (Details in the article. The BNHS ( Bombay Natural History Society), World Wide Fund for Nature and SGNP itself, conducts regular nature trails through the forest area. We advise you to read the safety tips in this article to have a safe and enjoyable nature trail.

1) SHILONDA TRAIL

a) Start and End points :   Located at a distance of 3 kms from the Borivali National Park gate. It runs along the              Northern end of the SGNP.

b) Distance to be covered :  Approx 1.5-2 kms.

c) Time required :  30-45 minutes.

d) Difficulty level :  Easy.

e)  Suitable for : Beginners, Old age groups as well as for experienced Wildlife Explorers.

f)   Time to visit :  MONSOONS, WINTER.

In the monsoons there is a stark rise in the spotting of various wild species; as they are granted respite from the summer heat. One can walk through the rippling streams or relax by the rocks while dipping their feet into the crystal clear water.  Bird watching is an enjoyable wildlife activity during the winter season.

a) Start and End points :  Located at a distance of approx 4-5 from the SGNP gate at Borivali, this trail runs along the western edge of the national park.

b) Distance to be covered : Approx 5 kms.

e)Suitable for : Beginners and experienced Wildlife trekkers.

The start of the trail is marked by the deciduous forest which later gives way to evergreen vegetation. The months of October to April are most suitable for seeing various bird species while butterflies can be spotted from August to November. There is an artificial water hole on the way where one can encounter some wildlife activity. The trail further leads to the suburb of Malad where crowded urban settlements have cropped up.

3) KANHERI CAVES ( Lower)

a) Start and End points :  Trail starts from near the entry point of SGNP itself and ends at the Kanheri Caves ( The place served as an educational centre for Buddhish Monks is approximately 2000 yrs old.)

b) Distance to be covered : Approx 5-6 kms.

c) Time required :  45 minutes-1 hour.

e) Suitable for : Beginners.

f)   Time to visit :  Throughout the Year.

This is a gradual climb through the jungle of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP). It is the perfect time to see birds like Shikra, Grey Junglefowl, Eagles, butterflies and wild flowers. The trail leads through various kinds of vegetation. The Kanheri caves is excellent for viewing various bird species and spectacular views of the National Park on a clear day. The caves and structures are carved out of volcanic rocks and possess unique views of the biodiversity around the area.

4) Gaimukh trail ( Upper Kanheri trail / Highest Peak trail) 

a) Start and End points :  Trail starts from near the entry point of Kanheri Caves and ends at Jambulmal point. ( The highest peak in Mumbai and is approx.1600  ft above sea level.)

c) Time required :  3-4  hours.

d) Difficulty level :  Medium

e) Suitable for : Basic Fitness level required.

f)   Time to visit :  Monsoon and Winters.

The trek starts at the foothills of the Kanheri caves. The terrain can get steep with rock patches and slippery routes during the monsoon, and hence may not be suitable for beginners.  Although a bit challenging, it is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling trails of SGNP. The trail itself is beautiful, through thick forests where a variety of birds, plants, butterflies and even spiders, crabs can be spotted. The naturalist guiding your trek can help you spot these unique sights along the trail. The view from the highest point in Mumbai at the end of the trek (Jambulbal) and the waterfalls make this a unique trail, well worth the exertion. There is also a watchtower which can be used to look at the stunning view of the city and the lakes in the forest. You will also pass through a plateau ¾ distance along the trail, where a startling view of the city beyond the park can be seen. It is worthwhile to spend some time here.

5) THE NAGLA BLOCK TRAIL.

a) Start and End points :  Located near the Fountain Hotel on Ghodbunder Road, Thane.  Accessible from Thane Station on the Central line and from Bhayandar on the Western Line.

b) Distance to be covered : 3 kms

c) Time required :  2-2.5 hours.

d) Difficulty level : Easy.

e) Suitable for :  Beginners and All Age Groups.

f)   Time to visit :  Throughout the year.

You have to purchase tickets at the entrance, prices for which range from 30-50 rupees. This relatively unknown opening has an off-road path which is great for trekking and cycling. and quite easy to complete. You get a peek of the beautiful and vast Vasai lake after the journey through the lush green path which has an abundance of birds, shrubbery and other vegetation. You have to contact the NIC to obtain permission for this trail. ( Tel no : 022-28847800)

LESSER KNOWN ROUTES

There are various paths which lead into the forest but are lesser known due to the dearth of information available to the public. So in case, you find travelling till Borivali inconvenient, you can choose the closest entry points of SGNP near you. The National Park is accessible from Goregaon (BNHS, Filmcity) and Malad on the western side. On the eastern side, Mulund, Bhandup, Thane and some other suburbs have gateways into the forest. But their access is being more monitored and restricted due to sightings of leopards in the areas. The lesser known areas such as Pachwad village, Yeoor and Yogi hills which are near the suburbs of Mulund and Thane are a regular picnic spot for the locals, as they sit by the waterfalls and enjoy the chilly monsoon breeze during the showers. ( The Yogi hills entrance in Mulund has shut down recently due to a recent Leopard attack in the area.) The Tikujiniwadi entrance and Yeoor at Thane don’t require a naturalist or guide, unless you are venturing deep into the forest beyond the SGNP guards gate, which is at the top of the hill. ( Both the routes coincide. You can go from the Tikujiniwadi route to Yeoor at the Upwan side.)

ENTRANCE TO YEOOR HILLS, THANE. ( NEAR UPVAN LAKE ROAD)

*Waterfall at the top of Yeoor Hills.

YEOOR HILLS  :

The SGNP can also be explored from two routes in Thane. One is Yeoor near Upvan lake and the other is Tikujiniwadi. Yeoor Hills near Upvan lake has a large number of visitors from neighboring areas and is a regular spot for fitness enthusiasts, cyclists and walkers. You can easily reach the place using Public transport, in case you don’t have a private vehicle.

1) From Thane station, the ‘PATONAPADA BUS’ takes you straight up the Yeoor hill to the last village, via Upvan lake road.There are also “PAWAR NAGAR’ buses which can be hailed to go to Yeoor. Get down at Gandhi Nagar, and then take a rickshaw or walk upwards to the hills.There is also a Bus till Upvan lake, which is at a distance of 5-8 minutes from the hills.

2) From Mulund, Bus number 110 takes you straight on top of Yeoor.

3) There is a Tikujiniwadi Bus from Thane Station which will take you to the forest area. The SGNP entrance is located 5-8 minutes away from the Bus stop.

PERMIT PROCEDURE

If you go with a travel organization or conservation NGO, the permit arrangements will typically be made by the travel organization for the group and you do not need to contact the Forest Department separately.

If you are bringing your own vehicle inside the park, you will need to purchase a parking ticket at the gate separately.

In case, you are going on your own or with your family or friend, the permit procedure is simple and just requires you to call the NIC 1-2 days in advance, ( NATURAL INFORMATION CENTRE) to make the arrangements for the day of the trail. You are assigned a naturalist to guide you through the forest area. The rates for these trails are priced reasonably and are quite affordable with the passes ranging from 100-350 Rs. The naturalist is to be paid an additional Rs 250 per hour. ( FIXED RATE)

You can contact the NIC (Natural Information Centre) through the number –  022-288-686-86  .

WHAT TO CARRY

1) Wear comfortable outfits and full length trek pants to prevent mosquito bites. (Mosquitoes bites are quite an issue during the longer forest trails.)

2) Mosquito repellent.

3) Good shoes to have a proper grip while trekking on rocks or slippery patches.

4) A hat/ cap, windcheater. (During  Monsoons.)

5) At least 1-2 liters of water.

6) Some packed food or snacks for the journey/ trail.

7) A bag to collect your garbage and litter.

8) A Basic First Aid Kit. (Adhesive tape, Bandages and Antibiotic ointment, etc)

9) Any ID proof such as Aadhar, Passport or PAN Card which you may require for the trail permission.

10) Photography equipment as per your preference  (Recommended: 360 * Camera or a DSLR with a wide angle lens or macro lens if interested in clicking the small flora and fauna)

11) Backpack/ Daypack (less than 30 lit)

12) Trekking Pole, especially for people with weak knees.

13) Binoculars, especially if you are going all the way up the peak or the plateau

SAFETY & SECURITY

A lot of people venture into the wild alone and without guidance. There have been instances of wild creatures lurking around the areas and people getting lost in the forest. Venturing near the streams and waterfalls during the monsoons without proper guidance is also a risk.

• You are advised to contact the NIC ( Nature Information Centre) to get in touch with a naturalist or go with a group, as some trails are quite isolated and venturing into the wild alone can prove to be dangerous. Remember that the SGNP has many animals and even plants that can cause you harm, if you donot know what you are doing.
• In the monsoons especially, donot go on treks with steep slopes (especially the Gaimukh Trek) without shoes that cover your toes and provide good grip. Regular running shoes are sub optimal but manageable.
• Cover yourself as much as possible to protect from mosquitoes (seasonal issue) as also nettles, thorns etc. There are plants at the SGNP that can give you a major itch in case of direct exposure with the skin, not to speak of crabs, ants etc.
• For any trek longer than an hour, ensure that you atleast have 1 liter of water per person on you – more in summers.
• A basic first aid kit and a whistle to raise an alarm can com in handy in emergencies
• SPOTTED A LEOPARD? HERE’S WHAT TO DO :
• Always stay in a group. While in the group, flap your arms as if they are wings, make loud noises and do high jumps. Leopards usually are wary of groups and there is less likelihood of an attack. Leopards are good runners, swimmers and climbers so your only option out is by trying to scare him.
• After spotting the leopard, back down and leave the area as soon as possible. He is not up in your space, you are in his territory. Do not venture alone into the jungle or stare at the leopards. They take it up as a challenge. Pretend to ignore their sight in case of an encounter.

Have a safe and enjoyable trip to the National Park and do let us know if you have any additional queries regarding the same!

ADDITIONAL PICTURES OF THE SGNP

Photo Credit: Manan Shah, Sumati Sahgal, Smita Jain

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Treks And Trails

103 sq.km. of pure wilderness area forming roughly 20 % of Mumbai’s geographical area. The Sanjay Gandhi National Park has always been the perfect getaway destination for Mumbaikars in search of some respite from the chaos of this densely populated metropolis. But there is so much more to the park than a haven away from the noise. It is a breathing ecosystem with much to offer.

Shilonda Trail

This peaceful trail starts along the plains just before the Kanheri foothills and winds along gently into a good long hike heading northwards. Once the home of a tribal settlement that has now moved away, nature has completely reclaimed this territory. The trail reveals the gradual gradation in the vegetation: from scrub-land at the beginning to dense, tall evergreen forest ahead. This route is met – at more than one point – by rapid forest streams and wading through this knee-deep crystal clear water is nothing less than therapeutic for the city-weary soul.

Malad Trail Line

This trail runs along the western edge of the park and is dotted with varied vegetation beginning with dry-deciduous (Teak, Red Silk Cotton, Palash, Laburnum tree, Bamboo thickets, to name a few) and gradually gives way to evergreen growth. Another gentle trail, this one ambles along to an artificial water hole where you might be able to witness signs of wildlife activity from the previous night. But walk along further, and you find yourself at the very edge of the forest in the suburb of Malad, where the conflict between forest and this ever-expanding city is strikingly apparent.

Kanheri/ Upper Trail

If you’re up for some Sunday morning legwork, this one is for you. This trail provides great opportunities for birding and exploring natural habitats as these evergreen forests are host to a rich diversity of life forms. Well-shaded for the most part, this hike takes you to a small opening along a rocky edge of the mountain, a bit like a balcony. The astounding view from here is a sight for sore eyes. Cross the gurgling waterfall along the way (watch your step on the moist, moss-covered rocks), and a short climb later, you’ll be at the top of Kanheri Caves. The view juxtaposes the crowded suburbs of Mumbai with the calm forests of SGNP.

Bamboo Hut Trail/ Gaumukh Trail

Among the most popular birding trails in the forest, this one is gentle but long. It leads you to the highest point in the park at 1,000 feet above sea level and to the well-known Gaumukh point at the top of Kanheri Caves. Right at the base of the trail is a serene and picturesque water hole, which the locals refer to as ‘Phansacha Paani’. This waterhole is a magnet for wildlife all through the year and if you avail of the requisite permissions from the forest department, you can sit in one of the two tall watchtowers overnight and experience some thrilling wildlife moments in the forest.

Highest Point Trail

At other times continue walking along the Bamboo Hut trail, cross streams, negotiate rocky hill slopes, and breathe in the beautiful forest vistas as you continue to quench your thirst for a nice invigorating trek. If you do manage to reach the highest point, then you have a surreal panorama of the 3 lakes viz. Tulsi, Vihar and Powai in front of you against the back drop of the city. Along the way you will pass through ‘Ashok Van’ – a dense groove of Sita-Ashok (Saraca indica) trees. Make sure you spend some time here in this well shaded and peaceful place. According to the legend of Ramayana, the demon Ravana had also held Sita in captivity in one such similar grooves. The highest point trek is indeed a trekkers delight and that too right within the financial capital of India.

Kashimira Trek

This interesting trek begins closer to the Lion Safari Gate inside SGNP and proceeds further north of the forest. The trek route entices the trekker with the silence only this forest can offer amid the bustling city.

Nagla Block Trail

One of the most exhilarating trails lies along the Mumbai- Ahmedabad highway at Sasupada. Around 17 per cent of SGNP’s land lies in the relatively pristine forestland beyond the Bassein/Bhayander creek and is a favourite among butterfly and bird watchers, and nature enthusiasts. A nature interpretation centre sits at the base of the gentle hilly walk. This trail reveals the confluence of mangrove and forest ecosystems in all their grandeur and this patch of forest harbours some of the most undisturbed and healthy growth of ecologically significant mangrove vegetation along the island of Mumbai.

In 2003, a tigress was found to have taken up residence in this area. No one had answers to where she had come from and where she eventually went. But that is the beauty of nature, it never ceases to surprise us. Hit the Naga Block Trail and make your own discoveries.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park: The Complete Guide

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Things to Do

• Best Hikes & Trails

Exploring Buddhist Caves

Where to camp, where to stay nearby, how to get there, tips for your visit, sanjay gandhi national park.

Mumbai's Sanjay Gandhi National Park is one of six national parks in Maharashtra state. The park is an amalgamation of forest and agricultural land that has been carried out over multiple decades (it was initially formed under the Bombay National Park Act in 1950). The site may not be as large or exotic as some of the top national parks in India , but its luring basalt rock formations and accessibility make it very appealing. It's the only national park in India that lies within city limits, and it's full of more than 100 ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves, a lake, and a lion and tiger safari zoo. The park is a great destination for families to enjoy nature amid the bustling city center, complete with plenty of activities to keep both adults and kids entertained.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park covers 104 square kilometers (65 miles) and is divided into three areas: a buffer area, a tourist area, and a core area. There are seven hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty found within the core area. Two prominent temples are located inside the park—the Trimurti Digambar Jain temple, complete with three towering white statues of Lord Adinath, Lord Bahubali, and Lord Bharata, and the Mahadeo Shiva temple near the Kanheri Buddhist Caves.

Those Kanheri Caves are a park highlight and are worth a visit on their own. Scattered throughout a hillside and hand-carved out of volcanic basalt rock, the caves contain ancient carvings, Buddha statues, and prayer halls. Just look out for the monkeys while exploring.

The Vanrani (Forest Queen) Toy Train takes visitors on a scenic 20-minute joyride around the park. And the lion and tiger safari (which contains two lions and four tigers kept in enclosures) provides a trip highlight for families with children.

You can also paddleboat Vihar and Tulsi Lakes, and learn about the different species of resident wildlife through one of the Nature Information Center's guided activities. The center's butterfly garden is also a popular park destination.

Best Hikes & Trails

Hiking Sanjay Gandhi National Park's trails take visitors out of a city deemed "the financial capital of India" and into what feels like the remote wilderness. Seven designated nature trails meander into the Kanheri foothills, through varied ecosystems and up to 1,000 feet above sea level. However, it's not possible to hike along most of the nature trails without being accompanied by a naturalist, guide, or tour agency, so you'll need to plan ahead for an authentic experience.

• Shilonda Trail : This gently meandering trail winds its way from the low-lying scrubland into a dense evergreen forest. Once an area occupied by a tribal settlement, nature has reclaimed this space, allowing trekkers to explore the tundra and wade through refreshing crystal clear forest streams.
• Malad Trail Line : Another easy trail, the Malad Trail Line takes you past a manmade watering hole frequented by the park's wildlife. Along the route, you will see several deciduous trees, including teak, red silk cotton, palash, Laburnum, and bamboo. The trail ends at the suburb of Malad, where the forest and city meet.
• Highest Point Trail : This invigorating trek starts at the Bamboo Trail trailhead and then crosses streams and negotiates rocky hillsides to the highest point in the park. From here you get a panoramic view of all three of the park's lakes against the backdrop of the city.
• Nagla Block Trail : This trail is considered the park's most rewarding. However, it's situated in a remote northern part of the park. The trail entrance starts outside the park at the nature center in Sasupada Village, and then ends on the banks of Vasai Creek. It's a hilly hike through a pristine area suspected to be the home of a tigress, and is frequented by butterfly and bird enthusiasts. This trail doesn't require booking a guide in advance, but before you venture out on your own, you'll need to pay an entry fee at the forest office in the village.

The Kanheri Buddhist Caves date back to the 1st century BC, when a wide trading route brought Buddhism to the region. Kanheri was a major settlement for Buddhist learning up until the 10th century AD, and contained the biggest Buddhist university in western India. The subsequent decline in Buddhism in the region resulted in the abandoned caves, which have now become a tourist attraction.

Cave 3 is among one of the most impressive caves, as it contains the largest number of intact carvings—including two imposing Buddha statues—and one of the biggest prayer halls in India. If you continue up to the hilltop from the caves on the Kanheri Upper Trail, you're rewarded with a panoramic view of Mumbai.

There is one campground located within the grounds of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, offering stays in tents, pine huts, and guest houses. Five permanent safari tents provide a comfortable night's sleep, as well as protection from the elements and wildlife. Each tent comes complete with bedding, blankets, fold-down canvas windows, a porch, and a picnic spot; a few tents are air-conditioned. Community bathrooms are available on site, and organized hikes and activities can be booked with your stay.

Several lodging options encircle Sanjay Gandhi National Park. You can stay right in the heart of Mumbai, experiencing both the park and the metro scene, or choose a budget hotel on the outskirts of town or an upscale business-savvy stay in Thayne.

• Royal Hometel Suites : Located along the Western Express Highway in Mumbai, the Royal Hometel Suites is just a few miles west of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, making it a good home base. The hotel offers five different categories of rooms and suites, as well as three dining options: a restaurant that serves Indian, Asian, and continental cuisine, a bar that serves custom drinks and food, and a lobby lounge with fast food, beverages, and snacks. When you're not exploring the park, relax by the pool, take advantage of the hotel's complimentary Wi-Fi, or get in a workout at the on-site fitness center.
• Hotel Samadhan : Hotel Samadhan is a budget hotel located in the Mumbai suburb of Kandivali, just a three-minute walk from the rail station. Choose from a room with one double bed, a flat-screen television, and air conditioning, or a deluxe room with a king-size bed, flat-screen television, air conditioning, a bathtub and shower, and a dining area. Airport pickup, free parking, and a laundry service are available with your stay.
• Fortune Park Lake City : An upscale business hotel situated on the eastern side of the park in Thayne, Fortune Park Lane is surrounded by the picturesque hills of Yeoor and Parsik, as well as 30 lakes. This hotel offers three styles of rooms: a standard room with a king and twin bed, a Fortune Club room with multiple king beds, and a suite with a king bed, a separate living area, and a spacious bathroom. Two restaurants are located on site and offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park lies between Borivali, Thane, and Palgar on the northern outskirts of Mumbai. The park's main entrance is on the Western Express Highway in Borivali East, 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of the city center. The nearest airport is 15 kilometers away in Mumbai and most hotels offer free transport from the airport.

The closest Mumbai railway station is in Borivali on the Western Line . This is the best way to access the park, as you can hire a rickshaw or taxi from the station to take you to the park's entrance. If you're driving, access the main entrance from the Borivali East exit off of the Western Express Highway.

A shuttle bus runs between the park entrance and Kanheri Buddhist Caves, with departures every hour (except during lunch and on Mondays). Separate tickets are required to visit the caves and need to be purchased from the ticket office near the cave entrance. Private vehicles (including bicycles) can be taken inside the park, after paying an entry fee. Having your own transportation once inside allows you to fully experience all the park has to offer.

• Sanjay Gandhi National Park opens early in the morning, at 5.30 a.m., for walkers. It remains open for day visits from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily. There is a day-use fee and children under five are free.
• The park is managed by the government, so expect some inconveniences. For instance, all tourist attractions and facilities (except Gandhi Tekdi and the Kanheri Buddhist Caves) are closed over lunch from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., and also on Mondays. Information and facilities for tourists are lacking, and many of the park's sparse signboards are written in Marathi (the state's language), making directions unclear.
• Food options are limited inside the park. There's a canteen with a basic vegetarian Indian menu. You can also buy snacks and water from enterprising locals.
• In an effort to keep the park litter-free, you'll need to pay a refundable deposit to bring plastic water bottles and food items inside. Bags are usually searched by park officials at the entrance.
• Bicycles can be rented inside the park, or at Harry's Bicycle Rental Shop , situated 500 meters before the park entrance. You'll need to provide an appropriate photo ID when renting a bike, and if you visit on a weekend, expect a long wait, as the demand to rent is high.
• Anyone caught venturing off the park's main roads and designated areas will be fined 25,000 rupees.
• If you prefer not to hire a hiking guide, the Bombay Natural History Society organizes guided walks on the weekends.
• For the most peaceful experience, visit the park during the week, as it gets very crowded on weekends, especially on Sunday.

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Highest Point Trek SGNP

• Locations Maharashtra
• Fixed Departure September 7, 2024 September 7, 2024 July 20, 2024
• Trip Type Adventure , Trekking & Hiking
• Activities Hiking , Trekking
• Group Size 20 pax

Highest point trek in SGNP is highest point of Mumbai with an elevation of 1535 feet or 468 meters inside SGNP. It is also known as Jambhulmal trek within SGNP.

• Group Size 1 Min - 20 Max
• Reviews 0 Reviews
• Trip Outline
• Trip Includes
• Trip Excludes
• Things to Carry
• Important Note

Don’t let the above quote disenchant you from the fabulous city of Mumbai. These words of John Muir are as much applicable to Mumbai as they might be to any other pristine landscapes in the country’s hinterland. For here, in this city, in our backyard lies one of the most astounding biological treasures. Mumbaikars’ are indeed blessed to be living in a bustling metropolis and yet have pristine wilderness in their backyard as well.

The forest as we know it is probably one of the most dynamic systems of the planet and rest assured no two moments are going to be similar here. But the forest has its own way of revealing itself and all it demands is that you have to be quite and patient for the myriad dramas of life going around you to unfold.

The quiet and peaceful trail initiates along the plains just before the Kanheri foothills and winds along gently to make a good long hike. An erstwhile tribal settlement resettled itself from here and allowed the wilderness to reclaim its stake again. And nature has now completely reclaimed this territory. As you move along the trail one can see the gradual gradation in the forest vegetation: from a scrub like forest at the beginning to good, tall evergreen vegetation ahead. This trail is one of the most pleasurable walks as it criss-crosses a small but a rapid forest stream at many points and wading across this knee-deep, crystal-clear water is nothing less than therapeutic for a city-sick soul. This stream also offers amazing opportunities to encounter myriad life forms and some really quiet and essential solitude. If you do have time on your hand, then avail the trail that takes you to the farthest distance possible along this trail. Your legs might complain a bit, but your mind and soul will be pleasured and relaxed to the maximum!

Type:                    Trek

No of days:         01

Grade:                 Difficult

Region:                Borivali Range:                SGNP

Trail time:           2 – 3Hrs

Meeting point:

Main Entrance of Sanjay Gandhi national park Borivali

Itineraries

Time : 7:00 am, highest point hike.

06:45 AM - Assemble at Cycle stand, near souvenir shop, SGNP. 07:10 AM - Depart to the forest in an SGNP vehicle. 07:20 AM - Introduction and start trekking from Bamboo Hut. 10:00 AM - Reach the Gaimukh Plateau. 11:00 AM - End our trek at Kanheri caves.

• Main Gate Entry Fee
• Nature Trail entry Fee
• Camera Charges
• Kanheri caves tickets
• Transportation from Main gate to Trek start and return 
• Naturalist from Team Tern
• Any other transport from origin of participant to meeting point.
• Additional meals or services
• Any expense of personal nature
• Any other item specifically NOT mentioned in includes.

• Sunglasses with UV protection
• A dust protection mask
• Personal Bottle (To avoid plastic use – 1LtrsX2)
• Small backpack (10Ltrs)
• Only dull coloured clothes (Green, brown, Beige, Camouflage)
• Camera (At owners risk) with proper equipment for photography (As per need)
• Energy bars
• Wildlife safaris/Bird watching is a matter of luck and opportunity. No guarantee of any sighting is made. Neither of our associates will quote that, although we try our best to spot and show you as much as nature allows us to.
• Birdwatching is a hobby and not a race, hence request all birders to maintain discipline at all times.
• Bird watching is an art of silence and key observation.
• Avoid Pointing out directly to a bird that might flush the bird away.
• Do not get too close to a bird for a photograph that you flush it away.
• Birdwatching should be enjoyed by binoculars and the fun is to spot them, identify them and if you still have some time with the bird photograph them.
• Never enter the forest with an intention of spotting a single species, it will only disappoint you. The forest is a gift packet with a lot to surprise with. Listen to our naturalist for more wonderful experience.
• Our walks are not target species specific (Unless specified)
• We explore everything we find uncommon and need to be explained.
• Any demand for spotting a single species in any jeep will not be entertained by the guide or the tour leader as there are other travellers who would want to see the birds etc.
• Respect & honour everything that is in the forest and it has to offer you.
• Enjoy being in the forest and you will feel much happier away from the concrete chaos.
• Respect the local, tribes, guards, guides, drivers, officers and all animals.
• Front seat of the Gypsy is always reserved for the Guide or Guard.
• No extra room will be made for photographers, respecting other travellers. (For photographers it is recommended to opt for higher options)
• No littering in the forest strictly. (what goes comes back the same way)
• Camera fees & guide tips to be paid separately & directly.
• Kindly follow the instructions given by the tour leader and the guide for your own safety.

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