Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) is a 104 sq km protected forest located in Borivali, Mumbai Suburban district, Maharashtra — within the limits of India's largest metropolis. Home to 40+ leopards, 5,000+ plant species, and the 2nd-century BCE Kanheri Cave Buddhist complex, it is the most-visited national park in the world, receiving over 2 million visitors annually.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Mumbai's Wild Heart — Leopards, Lakes & Ancient Caves in the City
A Glimpse into History of Sanjay Gandhi National Park
From Reserved Forest to National Park
The area was first declared a Reserved Forest under British colonial administration. After independence, it was designated Krishnagiri National Park in 1969, then renamed Borivali National Park. In 1981, it was renamed Sanjay Gandhi National Park in honour of Sanjay Gandhi. The park spans Thane and Mumbai Suburban districts.
Kanheri Caves — Ancient Buddhist Heritage
Within the park lie 109 Kanheri Caves, excavated from basalt rock between the 1st century BCE and 10th century CE by Buddhist monks. The caves served as a major monastic university on the ancient maritime trade routes. Cave 3 features one of India's largest Buddha rock carvings — a 7-metre standing figure.
Urban Wildlife Coexistence
SGNP is unique globally — a fully functional national park surrounded by a 20-million-person metropolis. Its 40+ leopards regularly venture into adjacent urban colonies, creating a complex human-wildlife interface studied by conservation biologists worldwide. The park also supplies drinking water to Mumbai via Vihar and Tulsi Lakes within its boundaries.
Ecological & Cultural Significance
SGNP is the world's only forest inside a megacity that houses a self-sustaining leopard population. The park contains 1,000+ plant species, 251 bird species, 36 reptile species, and 50 butterfly species. Vihar Lake inside the park has been Mumbai's water source since 1860, providing 7% of total city water supply even today.
Events & Experiences
Nature Festival & Wildlife Week
Every October during Wildlife Week, SGNP organises nature trails, bird-watching camps, and wildlife photography competitions open to the public. The Forest Department's mini-train safari and lion & tiger safari enclosure are additional highlights drawing school groups and families year-round.
Kanheri Heritage Visits
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) manages the Kanheri Caves, which are open daily from sunrise to sunset (₹40 entry for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners). The caves host occasional classical music and cultural performances inside the cave amphitheatres during the Maharashtra Tourism festival calendar.
Did You Know?
Sanjay Gandhi National Park holds a Guinness-equivalent record as the most visited national park in the world — surpassing even Yellowstone and Kruger in annual footfall. Its leopard density of 21.4 per 100 sq km is one of the highest for any large cat species in the world, making it a landmark case study in urban wildlife research.
Travel Guide to Sanjay Gandhi National Park
How to Reach
By Air: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) — 18 km; ~30 min drive via Western Express Highway to Borivali gate.
By Train: Borivali Railway Station (Western Line) — 3 km from the main park entrance (Auto/taxi available).
By Road: Western Express Highway to Borivali, then follow signboards to SGNP main gate on Sanjay Gandhi National Park Road.
Best Time to Visit
October to May is best — dry season means trails are accessible and wildlife sightings improve near water sources. Early morning (6–9 AM) park entry is ideal for bird-watching. Monsoon (June–September) is lush and dramatic but leech-prone on trails. The Kanheri Caves are visited comfortably November through February.
Local Attractions Nearby
Kanheri Caves: Inside the park — 109 Buddhist caves from 1st century BCE.
Vihar & Tulsi Lakes: Inside the park — scenic reservoirs supplying Mumbai's water.
Gorai Beach: 12 km — secluded beach with Global Pagoda nearby.
Essel World: 8 km from Borivali — Mumbai's largest amusement park.
Tips for Visitors
Entry fee: ₹70 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners. Park open 7:30 AM–6 PM (closed Mondays). Buy tickets at the main Borivali gate.
Trail safety: Do not enter forest trails alone or after dark. Leopard advisories are issued — follow all Forest Department safety signage.
Mini-train safari: Available from the main gate for a scenic ride through the park's interior — ₹30 per person, great for families with children.
Birdwatching tip: The Kanheri trail at dawn (before 7:30 AM entry fee time) is excellent for spotting Malabar hornbills, kingfishers, and flamingos near Tulsi Lake.