Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Park

Chhtrapati Shivaji Maharaj Park in Mumbai is more than just a playground - it is a landmark woven deeply into the city’s history, sports culture, and social life. Spread across approximately 28 acres, this vast ground in Dadar West was established during the British era and named in honour of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the revered Maratha warrior king.

Over the years, it has become a symbol of pride for Mumbaikars and an open arena for everything from cricket matches to public gatherings. The park is famously known as the nursery of Indian cricket because many legendary cricketers, including Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, and Ajit Wadekar, honed their skills here under the guidance of veteran coaches.

Its multiple cricket nets, open training sessions, and sports clubs continue to nurture the next generation of talent. Apart from sports, Shivaji Park holds a special place in India’s freedom and political history, as it has hosted numerous rallies and social movements over the decades.

Today, visitors can enjoy a blend of recreation and reflection. The park’s tree-lined pathways attract morning walkers and joggers, while families gather in the evenings to relax by the lawns. The statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj stands majestically at the park’s centre, symbolising valour and unity. Around the park, visitors can find iconic eateries, local vendors, and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, especially from the nearby Shivaji Park beach area.

Highlights of Shivaji Park:

• A historic landmark with cultural and sporting legacy
• Training ground for India’s cricket legends
• Venue for social gatherings, rallies, and festivals
• Located close to major attractions like Siddhivinayak Temple and Dadar Chowpatty
• Popular among walkers, joggers, and families seeking open green spaces

A visit to Shivaji Park offers not just a glimpse of Mumbai’s sporting spirit but also its vibrant local life. It’s where tradition meets leisure, making it one of the most loved and lively destinations in the city.

Shivaji Park, a historic open ground in Dadar West, Mumbai, dates back to the British colonial period. It was established in 1925 and named in honour of the great Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Over time, the park became a hub for social gatherings, public meetings, and sports training. During India’s freedom struggle, it served as a venue for several political rallies, adding to its historical significance. After independence, it continued to play a key role in shaping Mumbai’s sporting and cultural identity.

Key Highlights:

• Established in 1925 during the British colonial era
• Named after Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, symbolising Maratha pride
• Venue for major political rallies during India’s freedom movement
• Birthplace of several Indian cricket legends trained under iconic coaches
• Continues to serve as a landmark of unity and public life in Mumbai

Shivaji Park is among the largest and most famous open spaces in South Mumbai. It covers an area of about 28 acres and has a unique blend of historical, sporting, and cultural significance.

The park’s central statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is its most defining feature, surrounded by lush trees, walking tracks, and cricket pitches. Known as the heart of Dadar, it has been a gathering place for generations of Mumbai residents.

The park also houses several renowned sports clubs and gymkhanas that have trained numerous national-level athletes.

Key Facts:

• Total area: approximately 28 acres
• Established: 1925
• Location: Dadar West, Mumbai
• Dedicated to: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
• Home to famous cricket clubs like Shivaji Park Gymkhana and MIG Cricket Club
• Open for public recreation, sports, and cultural gatherings

Today, Shivaji Park continues to be one of Mumbai’s most beloved public spaces, serving as a recreational, social, and cultural hub for the city’s residents. The park is well-maintained by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), with upgraded pathways, seating zones, and fitness areas.

Morning walkers, athletes, and senior citizens frequent the area daily, while evenings see families and young people enjoying the open air. The park also becomes lively during public festivals like Shivaji Jayanti and Ganesh Chaturthi, reflecting Mumbai’s communal harmony.

Current Highlights:

• Regularly maintained by BMC with improved amenities and cleanliness drives
• Hub for morning walks, jogging, and fitness activities
• Hosts cultural events, rallies, and community gatherings throughout the year
• Surrounded by local food stalls, playgrounds, and children’s activity zones
• Serves as a social landmark uniting people across generations

The best time to visit Shivaji Park in Mumbai is between November and February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. During these months, the park’s lush greenery and cool breeze from the nearby Arabian Sea make evening walks and picnics especially enjoyable.

Summers can be humid, while the monsoon season often brings waterlogging, so those months are less recommended.

Visitors planning to attend local festivals like Shivaji Jayanti or Ganesh Chaturthi can experience the park’s lively cultural side, filled with music, lights, and traditional celebrations.

Best Visit Tips:

• Ideal months: November to February
• Morning and evening hours are most comfortable for walks and sightseeing
• Avoid peak monsoon (June to September) due to heavy rains
• Visit during local festivals for a vibrant cultural experience
• Carry light cotton wear, sunscreen, and water for comfort

Shivaji Park in Mumbai is open to the public throughout the day, with the most popular hours being early mornings and late evenings when the weather is pleasant. There is no entry fee, making it accessible for everyone. Visitors can enjoy walking, jogging, or simply relaxing on the lawns. However, certain activities like organized events or sports training may require prior permission from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The park also encourages cleanliness and prohibits littering, smoking, and loud music to maintain a peaceful environment.

Details:

• Timings: Open 24 hours (best visited between 5 AM and 10 PM)
• Entry Fee: Free for all visitors
• Photography: Allowed for personal use
• Restrictions: Avoid littering, loud music, and commercial filming without permission
• Facilities: Jogging tracks, benches, sports zones, and food stalls nearby
• Managed by: Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)
  
  Disclaimer: Timings and rules may change; visitors are advised to check locally or visit the official BMC website for updated information

Shivaji Park is centrally located in Dadar West, making it easily accessible from all parts of Mumbai. The park enjoys excellent connectivity through various transport modes, including trains, buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws.

Its strategic location near major city roads and the Dadar railway station makes it a convenient spot for both locals and tourists.

Transport Options:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, located about 11 km away. From the airport, visitors can hire taxis or use app-based cabs to reach Shivaji Park via the Western Express Highway.
  
  
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Dadar, one of Mumbai’s busiest junctions, situated just 1 km from Shivaji Park. Visitors can easily walk or take a short cab ride from the station.
  
  
• By Road / Metro: The park lies close to key roads like Gokhale Road and Ranade Road, with frequent BEST buses and taxis available. The upcoming Mumbai Metro lines will further enhance accessibility to the Dadar area.

A visit to Shivaji Park in Mumbai is best enjoyed with a bit of planning, especially if you want to explore its full charm. Early mornings and late evenings are ideal for walks and photography, while afternoons are quieter and better for relaxation.

The area around the park is safe, family-friendly, and well-lit, but it’s always advisable to keep personal belongings secure. Local food stalls nearby offer great snacks, but bottled water and sunscreen are must-haves for comfort.

Travel Tips & Hacks:

• Visit early morning or around sunset for the best atmosphere and photography
• Carry water, cap, and sunscreen for sunny days
• Try local snacks like pav bhaji and vada pav from nearby stalls
• Avoid visiting right after heavy rains due to minor waterlogging
• Be respectful of joggers and sports trainees using the tracks
• Keep the park clean and avoid littering
• Parking is limited; prefer local transport or walking if nearby

Shivaji Park offers something for every kind of visitor — from sports enthusiasts and history buffs to families and solo travellers.

Local tourists often come here for morning jogs, street food, and to soak in the old-world charm of Dadar.

International tourists can explore the cultural side of Mumbai by visiting Shivaji Park along with nearby heritage sites and temples.

Spending an hour or two here gives a genuine taste of Mumbai’s daily life, community bonding, and relaxed seaside mood.

Recommendations:

• For Local Tourists:
  
  • Enjoy early morning walks or sunset strolls along the park’s periphery
  • Join casual cricket or football matches with local groups
  • Relish snacks from nearby joints like Aaswad and Prakash Uphar Kendra
    
• For International Tourists:
  
  • Visit with a local guide to understand Shivaji Park’s historical and cultural importance
  • Explore nearby attractions such as Siddhivinayak Temple, Dadar Chowpatty, and Portuguese Church
  • Capture candid photographs of Mumbai’s community life and sporting culture
  • Spend time in the evening for a peaceful yet vibrant Mumbai experience

The area around Shivaji Park in Dadar West is a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from traditional Maharashtrian snacks to modern cafés and restaurants.

Visitors can enjoy authentic local flavours, refreshing beverages, and popular Mumbai street food within walking distance of the park.

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there are options to suit every budget.

Nearby Food Options:

• Aaswad Upahar & Mithai Gruh – Famous for Maharashtrian dishes like misal pav, poha, and modak (Approx. ₹150 per person)
• Prakash Uphar Kendra – Traditional snacks like sabudana vada, batata vada, and thalipeeth (Approx. ₹120 per person)
• Cafe Madras – Authentic South Indian tiffin meals (Approx. ₹200 per person)
• Gypsy Corner – Street-style chaats and fusion dishes (Approx. ₹150 per person)
• Natural Ice Cream – Fresh fruit ice creams, ideal for a post-walk treat (Approx. ₹100 per person)
• Budget Options: Local vada pav stalls and juice counters along Ranade Road
• Mid-Range Options: Aaswad, Gypsy Corner, and Prakash Uphar Kendra
• Premium Options: Fine dining spots in Shivaji Park area and nearby Prabhadevi

Shivaji Park is not just a historic ground but also a cultural icon that mirrors Mumbai’s evolving identity. It has been featured in several Bollywood films and continues to be a backdrop for advertisements and documentaries.

The park’s cricket legacy has earned it the nickname “Cradle of Indian Cricket”, as numerous international players began their careers here. Every evening, you’ll find a mix of people — from children playing cricket to senior citizens sharing stories — making it a true reflection of Mumbai’s vibrant community life.

Fun Facts:

• Known as the “Cradle of Indian Cricket” for nurturing cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar
• Venue for major political and cultural rallies since pre-independence
• The statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj faces south, symbolising vigilance against foreign invasions
• Hosts community events, morning yoga sessions, and art workshops
• Mentioned frequently in films and books celebrating Mumbai’s spirit