Exploring Sanjay Gandhi National Park
What? It’s a day of exploring in my own way. I waking up at 4 am for unexpected adventure at Sanjay Gandhi National Park,
While most people were still sleeping, I was getting ready for travel to Borivali, Mumbai.
I wanted to explore this place in my own way, without rushing, without depending on anyone, and without knowing what the day had planned for me.
I took a local train from Navi Mumbai towards Mumbai and travelled to Borivali East. Finally, at around 7:30 AM, I reached the park entrance. There was a small queue, and I got my entry ticket for ₹113.
And just like that, my day of unexpected adventures began!
After Reached there my First Goal Was Health! 🚴♀️
My first priority was to stay consistent with my health and fitness. So, instead of rushing towards the usual tourist attractions, I headed straight to the cycle rental counter.
I rented a cycle for ₹80 per day and deposited ₹300 as a refundable security deposit.
And honestly, if you’re planning to visit early in the morning, I would highly recommend choosing a cycle first!
If you asking Why?
First, you get to work on your fitness while exploring nature. Second, early mornings give you a chance to spot animals near the cycling routes. And the best part? You can stop whenever you want, take your time, observe the surroundings, and enjoy the moment without following anyone else’s schedule.
For me, this was the perfect combination of fitness, freedom, and travel.
I started cycling through the beautiful green surroundings, enjoying the fresh morning air and the peaceful atmosphere. For a while, I forgot about my everyday routine and simply enjoyed being there.
And guess what? I spotted a group of deer!
Watching them in their natural surroundings felt so special. These are the little moments that remind me why I love exploring new places. You don’t always need a big adventure; sometimes, a simple encounter with nature can make your entire day.
Along the way, I also noticed local tribal hamlets within the park. It was interesting to see this side of the place, beyond the usual tourist attractions.
A Stranger Who Made My Journey More Special
During my cycling adventure, I met a girl who lived nearby and cycled there regularly.
She spoke to me so nicely and shared information about the park and the things I could explore. I love meeting people like her while travelling. You start your journey as a stranger, but sometimes a small conversation makes you feel more connected to a place.
As a solo traveller, I have realised that not every beautiful travel memory comes from a famous attraction. Sometimes, it’s the kindness of a stranger, a little conversation, or a helpful suggestion that stays with you.
I continued cycling, enjoying my own company and the freedom to explore at my own pace.
And then, after all that cycling, my stomach reminded me of something very important!
Girl, you need food too! 😂
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A Little Hunger, an Aunty's Stall, and Something Yummy!
After cycling for a while, I started feeling hungry, so I stopped at a small stall run by an aunty.
I had something sweet, and it was so yummy!
Honestly, food hits differently when you’re tired from exploring and surrounded by nature. That little break felt like exactly what I needed before continuing my adventure.
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Sometimes, the simplest things—a homemade sweet, a friendly smile, and a few minutes of rest—make a travel day feel even more beautiful.
After refuelling myself, I was ready for the next part of my journey: the famous Kanheri Caves.
Exploring Kanheri Caves: A Ride I Didn't Expect 🛺
After cycling, I headed towards Kanheri Caves on a buggy ride driven by a local woman.
And one thing that genuinely caught my attention was seeing a woman operating the buggy. It felt like a small but meaningful moment of women empowering themselves through their work.
As a woman who enjoys exploring independently, I always appreciate seeing other women confidently doing their jobs and making their own way in the world.
It reminded me that empowerment doesn’t always have to be a big speech. Sometimes, you see it in everyday life, through women working, travelling, and living independently.
I reached Kanheri Caves along with some foreign visitors and started taking in the atmosphere of this historic place.
But wait… did I think my day would go smoothly from here?
Of course not! My unexpected adventure had another surprise waiting for me. 😂🐒
A Monkey Tried to Investigate My Bag!
Just when I was enjoying my visit, a little monkey came towards my bag and started searching for food!
And what, I was SHOCKED.
My mind immediately went into panic mode.
What should I do now? How do I rescue myself and my bag from this little explorer?
I was not expecting this kind of encounter at all!
After a little while, a guide came over with a stick, and the monkey moved away.
Honestly, that moment scared me, but looking back, it also became one of the most memorable and unexpected stories from my day.
One important lesson I learnt: when you’re exploring places where monkeys live, keep your food and belongings secured. Never try to feed, touch, or grab anything from a monkey, and give the animal plenty of space.
My little monkey adventure was over, and I could finally relax and continue exploring!
The official tourism portal for Rajasthan is Tourism Department, Government of Rajasthan – tourism.rajasthan.gov.in
Additionally, the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) offers travel packages and accommodation at heritage hotels: rtdc.tourism.rajasthan.gov.in
From Ancient Caves to a Tiger Safari!
After exploring Kanheri Caves, I decided to book the tiger safari.
What a day it was already! I had started with cycling, spotted deer, met a friendly local, enjoyed something sweet at a small stall, experienced a buggy ride with a local woman, and had a surprise encounter with a monkey.
And now, it was time for the tiger safari!
The excitement was completely different. I was curious about what I might see and what kind of experience was waiting for me.
During the safari, I got to see a tiger, and that became one of the biggest highlights of my visit.
There’s something about seeing such a powerful animal that makes you pause for a moment. You feel excited, amazed, and suddenly very aware of the incredible wildlife that exists around us.
For me, this was more than just another tourist activity. It was a reminder that even a place within a busy city like Mumbai can offer experiences that make you feel connected to the wild.
And Finally, I Explored the Hidden Jungle on the Toy Train!
After the tiger safari, I headed for the toy train ride.
By this point, I had already experienced so much in a single day, but I still had one more little adventure to enjoy.
The toy train gave me another way to experience the park’s green surroundings. It felt like a lovely way to slow down after a day filled with cycling, walking, wildlife, and unexpected encounters.
The toy train gave me another way to experience the park’s green surroundings. It felt like a lovely way to slow down after a day filled with cycling, walking, wildlife, and unexpected encounters.
I had started my morning at 4 AM with a simple plan: explore Sanjay Gandhi National Park and stay consistent with my health.
But the day turned into something much bigger than that.
I spotted deer, met a kind girl, enjoyed a sweet treat, witnessed a woman at work, had a funny-but-scary monkey encounter, saw a tiger during the safari, and ended my visit with a toy train ride.
I came here with a plan, but I left with so many unexpected memories.
Travel Guide and Things To Do
If you’re planning a visit to Sanjay Gandhi National Park, there are several activities you can consider depending on your interests and how much time you have.
Things to Do in Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mumbai
Explore the ancient Kanheri Caves: If you enjoy history, architecture, or peaceful places, make time for the Kanheri Caves. These ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves feature carved sculptures, prayer halls, and spaces once used by Buddhist monks. As someone with an architecture background, I find places like these particularly interesting because they connect history, craftsmanship, and the landscape.
Experience the Tiger and Lion Safari: Wildlife lovers can check out the park’s designated Tiger and Lion Safari. The safari operates using closed vehicles, offering visitors an opportunity to observe the animals in a managed setting. Check the latest operating schedule before visiting.
Enjoy a ride on the Van Rani mini train:Travelling with friends or family? The Van Rani mini train is one of the park’s long-running attractions. It’s a fun option if you want to experience the park without spending the entire day walking.
How to Reach Sanjay Gandhi National Park from Mumbai
One of the best things about Sanjay Gandhi National Park is that you don’t need to travel to another city to experience a large green space.
The main entrance is in Borivali East, Mumbai.
By local train: Take a Western Railway local train to Borivali station.
By auto or taxi: From Borivali station, take an auto-rickshaw or taxi towards the national park entrance.
By road: You can drive or take a cab, depending on your starting point in Mumbai.
My suggestion is to start early, especially if you want to explore more than one attraction. If you’re travelling solo, check your return transport in advance and keep enough time to get back comfortably.
Best Time to Visit Sanjay Gandhi National Park
The park has a different charm in different seasons.
Monsoon (June–September): Enjoy lush greenery and a refreshing forest atmosphere. However, trails and steps can become slippery.
Winter (November–February): A pleasant season for outdoor exploration, photography, and walking.
Summer (March–May): If you visit during hotter months, start early, carry water, and plan breaks.
The Maharashtra Tourism website highlights the monsoon and winter months as attractive times to experience the park’s natural beauty. Weather and activity availability can vary.
Is Sanjay Gandhi National Park Worth Visiting?
My answer is yes, especially if you want to experience a different side of Mumbai.
What makes this destination special is the combination of nature, wildlife experiences, and history within the city. You can spend time exploring green surroundings, learn about ancient Buddhist heritage at Kanheri Caves, or enjoy some of the park’s recreational activities.
For solo travellers, nature lovers, photographers, and people looking for a short escape, it can be a rewarding day trip.
And if you’re someone who thinks you need to travel hundreds of kilometres to feel refreshed, this place might change your perspective.
Sometimes, the adventure you need is closer than you think.
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Hello!
Hi, I’m Pooja Mokashi, a passionate storyteller and travel content creator behind Travel Meet World. Based in Mumbai, I love discovering local cultures and helping travelers explore the world with confidence and smart planning.
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