Natures Trails and treks at the Sanjay Gandhi National Park SGNP borivali east in mumbai

Kanheri Caves Trail:

• • Description: This trail leads to the ancient Kanheri Caves, a significant Buddhist archaeological site. The trek involves a gentle climb through the park’s forest, ending at the caves, which are over 2400 years old.

  • Difficulty: Moderate due to the length and the climb to the caves.

  • Highlights: Historical Buddhist caves, panoramic views from the hilltop.

    Upper Kanheri Trail is the 3rd highest point in SGNP and is a beautiful breezy trail with lot of surprises.

    Climb up to small opening along a rocky edge of the mountain and experience a panoramic view of Mumbai. It almost feels like window to the world.

    Cross the gurgling waterfall along the way surrounded by Sita Ashoka trees and after a short climb later, you’ll be at the plateau of 2000 year old Kanheri Caves.

    Kanheri Caves Trail is a 5 km moderate-level hike located within Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), Borivali, Mumbai. The trail leads to Kanheri Caves, ancient Buddhist rock-cut monuments dating back to 1st century BC. The hike offers scenic views of surrounding forests, hills, and the caves’ intricate carvings. Would you like more details on the itinerary or entry fees (₹33 adults, ₹21 children)?

    The Kanheri Caves Trail is a popular and historically rich trek within Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), Mumbai. Here’s a detailed overview based on the web results:

    Location and Accessibility

    • Location:ThecavesarelocatedinsideSGNP,nearBorivali,makingitoneofthemostaccessibleancientsitesforresidentsandvisitorsofMumbai.

    • Access:ThetrailstartsfromnearthemainentranceofSGNPatBorivali.Youcanusethepark’sshuttleserviceorwalktothebaseofthetrail.Entrytothecavesinvolvespurchasingaparkticket.

    Trail Details

    • Length:Thehiketothecavesisapproximately2to3kilometersfromthebase,withthetrailleadingthroughdenseforestandupagentleincline.

    • Difficulty:Thetrailisconsideredeasytomoderate.Whileit’snotoverlystrenuous,thepathdoesincludesomeuphillsectionswhichmightmakeitmorechallengingforsome.

    Highlights of the Trail

    • Historical Significance:TheKanheriCavesareacomplexof109cavesdatingbackfromthe1stcenturyBCEtothe10thcenturyCE,representingoneoftheoldestBuddhistmonasticsettlementsinWesternIndia.ThesecaveswereusedbyBuddhistmonksformeditation,study,andliving.

    • Architectural Features:Thecavesincludestupas,prayerhalls,andlivingquarters,withsomehavingdetailedsculpturesandinscriptions.Cave3,inparticular,isnotableforitsstupaandthescaleoftheprayerhall.

    • Nature and Biodiversity:Thetrailthroughtheforesttothecavesisrichinbiodiversity,offeringsightingsofvariousfloraandfauna,includingbutterflies,birds,andoccasionally,signsoflargeranimalslikeleopards.

Mulund Mountain Loop:

• • • Description: This trail is near Mulund Colony and takes hikers to Mulund Peak and Cyprus Hills, offering scenic views of the city and the park.

    • Difficulty: Moderate due to elevation gain.

Gaimukh Trail:

• • • • Description: Known for leading to Gaumukh Point, which is one of the highest points in the park, offering a view of the surrounding areas.

      • Difficulty: Moderate, as it involves a climb to about 1000 feet above sea level.

      • Highlights: Waterhole at the base, wildlife spotting.

         Gaimukh trail cost 750 . Grade difficult

Gaimukh Trail is a 2 km moderate-level hike located near Thane West, Maharashtra, offering scenic views of Ghodbunder Fort, Vasai Creek, and surrounding hills. The trail starts near Gaimukh Gaon and leads to a historic temple and viewpoint. Ideal for short morning or evening hikes. Key points:

• • • Distance: 2 km

• • • Duration: 1 hour

• • • Difficulty: Moderate

• • • Best Time: Morning or evening

Here’s a detailed Gaimukh Trail itinerary:

Starting Point: Gaimukh Gaon bus stop, Thane West
Distance: 2 km out and back
Duration: 1 hour
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time: Morning or evening
Landmarks:

• • • Gaimukh Gaon starting point

• • • Ascend through forested area

• • • Historic temple ruins

• • • Viewpoint overlooking Ghodbunder Fort and Vasai Creek

• • • Return to Gaimukh Gaon starting point

Tips:

• • • Carry water and snacks

• • • Wear comfortable shoes

• • • Respect temple ruins and surroundings

Malad Trail Line:

• • Description: An easy trail that goes past an artificial watering hole, where you might spot some wildlife. It eventually leads to where the park meets the suburban area of Malad, showcasing the transition from nature to urban life.

  • Difficulty: Easy.

  • Highlights: Wildlife observation, urban-nature interface.

    SGNP Malad Trail is a 3 km moderate-level hike within Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), starting from Malad Gate, Mumbai. Key points:

    • Distance: 3 km loop

    • Duration: 1.5 hours

    • Difficulty: Moderate

    • Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon

    • Entry Fee: ₹53 per person (adult), ₹28 per person (child)

    • Starting Point: Malad Gate, SGNP

    • Malad trail cost 600 rupees

    • Landmarks:

      • Malad Gate entrance

      • Forested trail start

      • Gandhi Tekdi viewpoint

      • Dense forest area with potential wildlife sightings

      • Return to Malad Gate

      Tips:

      • Carry water, snacks, and sun protection

      • Wear comfortable shoes and clothes

      • Respect wildlife and park rules

    

Jambhulmal Trek / Highest Point of Mumbai Trail:

1. • Meeting Point: Cycle Stand, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Borivali

     Charges: ₹1000/- Per Participant

     Led by experienced naturalists, this trek offers a chance to explore the lush greenery of SGNP, learn about its rich biodiversity, and enjoy panoramic views of Mumbai like never before.

     Essentials to Bring:

     – Comfortable trekking shoes

     – A water bottle and light snacks

     – Cap and sunscreen for comfort

     Important:

     – Prior registration and payment are mandatory.

     – A minimum of 10 adult participants is required for the trek to commence.

     For more details and to register, contact or WhatsApp SGNP (09:00 AM – 05:30 PM):

     +91 7738778789 / +022 28868686

     

   • Description: This trail leads to Jambhulmal, the highest point in Mumbai within SGNP, offering a 360-degree view of various lakes and cities around.

   • Difficulty: Moderate due to elevation gain.

   • Highlights: Highest point in Mumbai, panoramic views of Vihar Lake, Tulsi Lake, Powai, and Dahisar.

   • Highlights –

     Leopard scrape marks and scat.

     Wild boar digging marks.

     Camera trap.

     Ghost tree.

     Ladybug.

     Red cotton silk stainer.

     Hanuman or gray langur.

     Kusum tree.

     Harvester ant.

     Crystallized blood stains.

     Wild fig tree.

     Cicada calls.

     Under the guidance of an experienced naturalist, participants were exposed to a rich ecosystem of the forest where we had indirect sittings like leopard scats and the calls of Hanuman langur. Through blooming trees and sightings of Black Kites and Greater Coacal, the monsoon rains gave a chilling vibe throughout the forest making it more thrilling.

     This trek was alive buzzing from carpenter bees to stick mantis climaxing in enchanting swordtail butterfly’s courtship flights. The path ways of the trek were filled with arachnids such as two tailed spider, nursery web spider as well as jumping spider. During the trek, we were able to hear the melodious songs of the forest birds such as puff-throated babbler, Oriental magpie robbin, Black hooded oriole and common Tailor bird.

     The determination during the trek led to a breathtaking view from the summit showcasing three beautiful lakes below Tulsi, Vihar and Powai Lakes making every step taken during the trek worth it.

     During the trek, the participants were not only able to experience the beauty of the forest but also observed and learnt about the diverse flora and fauna present in the heart of Mumbai. At the end of the trek, they enjoyed the scenic view of SGNP.

     The highlights of the trek were the Milk and Wine lily (Crinum lily), Hill turmeric, and the Golden-eyed grass, which rise during the first monsoon showers. In addition to this, many butterflies and other insects such as bugs, beetles, and mantises were seen in great numbers; birds like the Malabar whistling thrush, Coppersmith barbet, and Racket-tailed drongo was heard and an amazing view of the Crested serpent eagle was seen. At the end of the trek, we came across a leopard kill, which was an adult sambhar deer that lay concealed on the forest floor.

     The participants throughout the trail were shown a variety of plant species by the naturalist leading the trail. Few of the flora observed was the bloom of the pretty little Mickey mouse flower, Naag mani, Cobra lily, Teak, Sita ashoka and the Vitamin rich Begonia. Through out the trail the Common Leopard Butterfly could be been fluttering around along with the Danaid eggfly and Tailed jay.

     ‘Jambulmal’ is considered as the highest point in Mumbai at a staggering height of 468 meters (1535 ft) above sea level. Enveloped by a dense forest in the core area of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, the trail is 2.5km from the gate of Kanheri Caves.

     This trail is ideal for beginner trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts. At the top of Jambulmal, one witnesses an absolute amazing view of Tulsi and Vihar lakes along with a panoramic view of Powai to Dahisar.

     Some other sightings were of the Orb Weaver, Lynx spider, Scorpion fly, Ink cap mushroom and the Bull frog.

     Itinerary
     07:00 AM – Assemble at SGNP main gate + Breakfast
     07:15 AM – Depart to the forest in SGNP vehicle.
     08; 00 AM – Introduction and start trekking from Bamboo Hut.
     11:00 PM – Reach the Highest point
     1:30 PM – Board the BEST bus to the gate

     Charges: INR 750/- per participant.

     Charges don’t include your vehicle entry fee at SGNP main gate.

     Instructions:
     1. Wear proper walking and rainy shoes. No sandals or slippers, please.
     2. Carry an ample amount of water for yourself.
     3. Rain gear: poncho/umbrella, a spare set of clothes
     4. This is a long trek, so carrying snacks won’t be a bad idea (but don’t litter in the forest).
     5. Refrain carrying costly items (except cameras) and jewelry for the trek.
     6. Walking sticks are available on loan at NIC, and are of great help in a forest trek.

Ashoka Van Trail:

• • Description: This is a popular public walking trail that winds through thick forest areas, leading to a dense cluster of Ashoka trees.

  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate.

  • Highlights: Dense forest, resting spot under Ashoka trees.
  • Ashoka Van Trail is a 2 km easy-level hike within Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), near Borivali, Mumbai. The trail features:
    • Distance: 2 km loop
    • Duration: 1 hour
    • Difficulty: Easy
    • Best Time: Morning or late afternoon
    • Entry Fee: Included in SGNP entry fee (₹53 adult, ₹28 child)

    • Starting Point: Ashoka Van entrance, near SGNP Main Gate

    • The trail passes through streams, Rocky elevations , plateaus, bamboo jungles, Ashoka van (canopy of ashoka trees ). We walked and enjoyed through this beautiful dense forest and reached the watch tower.

    

Yeoor Trail

• • Description: Situated near Yeoor village, this trail offers views of the park’s lush greenery and is known for its biodiversity.

  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate.

  • Highlights: Birdwatching, butterfly observation, serene natural surroundings.

    As we walked, the melodious calls of the Malabar Whistling Thrush filled the air, and we spotted this magnificent bird among the trees. We were fascinated by the fan-shaped edible jelly fungus we encountered along the trail. The highlight of our exploration was undoubtedly the stunning fruit-piercing moth caterpillar, with its vibrant yellow and black patterns that resembled a painted galaxy.

    
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Sasupada Trail Nagla Block Trail SGNP

• • Description: Located along the Mumbai-Ahmedabad highway, this trail is great for birdwatchers and those interested in observing butterflies.

  • Address: 7WX4+9X6 Sasupada, National Highway 8, Sasunavghar, Navghar, Maharashtra 401107

  • Difficulty: Easy.

  • Highlights: Mangrove cover, wildlife observation.

    Sanjay Gandhi National Park, North (NIC – Yeur) is organizing a Nature Trail at Nagla block!

    Details of the Trail:

    Meeting Point: Entry Gate, Nagla block https://maps.app.goo.gl/JxXRTYssP1Hp8BVEA

    Time: 08:00 am – 10:30 am

    Charges – 300/- Adult (above 12 yrs) 150/- Kids (between 5-12 yrs)

    To register:

    Email: sgnp.nic.yeur@gmail.com

    Whatsapp: +91 8591382079

    The Sasupada Trail, also referred to as the Nagla Block Trail, is a nature trail within the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) in Mumbai. Here’s an in-depth look at this trail based on the web results:

    Location

    • The trail is located in the northern part of SGNP, near Thane, along the Mumbai-Ahmedabad highway. It starts from Sasupada village and ends near Vasai Creek.

    Description

    • Length: The trail is approximately 3 kilometers long, making it a relatively short but rewarding trek.
    • Difficulty: It’s considered an easy trail, suitable for families, birdwatchers, butterfly enthusiasts, and those new to hiking.
    • Vegetation: The trail winds through scrub-land that transitions into dense, tall evergreen forest, showcasing a variety of plant species. It’s also home to some of Mumbai’s healthy mangrove cover.

    Highlights

    • Biodiversity:
      • Bird Watching: The area is known for its rich avian life, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Species spotted include the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher, White Rumped Shama, Indian Pitta, and various woodpeckers.
      • Butterflies: It’s a hotspot for butterfly watching with species like Psyche, Blue Tiger, and Striped Tiger being observed.
      • Mammals: Though less common to spot, the area has a population of leopards, and there have been sightings of a tigress in the past.
    • Natural Features: The trail includes streams, which are particularly vibrant during the monsoon season, offering scenic views and a chance to wade through clear water.
    • Cultural Aspect: The village of Sasupada lies along the trail, where the local community benefits from tourism, providing small-scale services like food stalls.

    Accessibility

    • Entry: The trail requires an entry fee payable at the forest office in Sasupada village. No guide is mandatory for this trail, unlike some others in SGNP, but guided tours are available for those who prefer them.
    • Transport: Visitors typically arrive by driving or taking public transport to Vasai, then either walking or using local transport to reach the trailhead.

    Organized Activities

    • Various groups and organizations, including the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), conduct guided nature walks, photography walks, and educational treks along this trail. These can include sessions on the ecology, history, and conservation of the area.

    Experience

    • The Sasupada Trail is celebrated for offering an authentic slice of nature just outside the hustle of Mumbai. It’s less crowded than some other trails in SGNP, providing a more serene experience.

    Seasonal Considerations

    • The trail is particularly lush during the monsoon, attracting more visitors for its beauty, though one should be prepared for mud and possibly leeches. The dry season might offer better wildlife sightings but with less green cover.

    Safety and Tips

    • Visitors are advised to wear appropriate clothing, bring water, use mosquito repellent, and be mindful of wildlife. It’s also wise to check for any recent updates or changes in park regulations before your visit.

    This trail is a gem for anyone looking to experience nature in Mumbai, providing both recreational and educational value.

These trails provide a range of experiences from easy walks for families to more challenging treks for avid hikers, all while offering a chance to engage with nature, observe wildlife, and explore the rich biodiversity of SGNP. Remember, some trails might require permission or guided tours due to their location within restricted areas of the park.

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