Sanjay Gandhi
India
About Sanjay Gandhi
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a protected area in Mumbai, featuring rich biodiversity within an urban setting. The park contains ancient Kanheri caves carved from basaltic rock. It serves as the lungs of Mumbai and hosts diverse wildlife including leopards, macaques, and over 250 bird species.
Fauna
The park supports rich wildlife diversity, including approximately 40 species of mammals, 250 species of birds, 150 species of butterflies, and numerous reptiles. Notable residents include leopards, spotted deer, sambar deer, Indian macaques, and the endangered Bengal tiger. The park is also recognized as an Important Bird Area, hosting both resident and migratory bird species.
Flora
The park hosts a diverse range of vegetation types, including moist deciduous forests, semi-evergreen forests, and mangroves. Over 1,300 species of plants have been documented, including teak, kadamba, karanj, and bamboo varieties. The park's flora plays a crucial role in maintaining Mumbai's ecological balance and serves as an important carbon sink for the metropolitan area.
Geology
The park's terrain consists primarily of metamorphic rocks, predominantly basalt from ancient volcanic activity. The landscape features rolling hills reaching heights of up to 467 meters at Jambulmal, the highest point. The park's geological formation includes exposed rock faces, deep valleys, and two major lakes - Vihar and Tulsi - that serve as important water sources for Mumbai.
Climate & Weather
Located in Mumbai, Sanjay Gandhi National Park experiences a tropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons. Summers (March-May) are hot and humid with temperatures reaching 35°C, while monsoons (June-September) bring heavy rainfall averaging 2,500mm annually. Winters (November-February) are mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 12-25°C, making it the ideal time for visitors to explore the park.
History
Established in 1996, Sanjay Gandhi National Park was previously known as Borivali National Park. The area has a rich historical legacy dating back to the 4th century BCE, as evidenced by the ancient Kanheri Caves within its boundaries. The park was renamed to honor former Prime Minister Sanjay Gandhi and has since become one of Asia's most visited national parks, serving as Mumbai's vital green lung.
Notable Features
Key attractions include the 2,400-year-old Kanheri Caves, featuring over 100 rock-cut Buddhist structures, the popular toy train (narrow gauge railway), two artificial lakes, and numerous hiking trails. The park also houses a tiger and lion safari, butterfly garden, and various educational facilities. Its location within Mumbai's metropolitan area makes it one of the world's unique urban national parks.