Maharastra Nature Park

Mahim Nature Park in Mumbai is one of the city’s most inspiring examples of environmental restoration and urban biodiversity. Developed on reclaimed land that was once a dumping ground, this eco friendly sanctuary now stands as a living classroom, a peaceful recreation hub and an important green lung for the people of Mumbai. With dense plantations, shaded pathways and carefully designed habitats, the park encourages visitors to rediscover nature in its pure and simple form.

The park’s lush landscape supports hundreds of plant species, colourful butterflies and several resident as well as migratory birds. It is especially popular among students, naturalists and families who come to explore its nature trails, observe wildlife and participate in environmental programs.

• Over 15,000 trees offering dense canopy and shade

• Diverse birdlife, including migratory species during winter

• Dedicated butterfly garden attracting native species

• Educational tours and sustainability workshops

• Walking trails for photography and nature observation

Visitors appreciate the calmness of the park despite its central location near Sion and Dharavi. The greenery, bird calls and cool pathways create a refreshing nature escape.

For eco tourism lovers, Mahim Nature Park highlights sustainability, waste management awareness and hands on learning. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, student or casual visitor, the park reconnects you with nature.

Mahim Nature Park, a significant environmental landmark in Mumbai, was developed in the early years of Maharashtra’s urban conservation movement. The area was originally a massive garbage dumping ground along the Mithi River.

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, environmentalists, NGOs and the Maharashtra Government collaborated to reclaim the land and convert it into a living ecological reserve. Over the following years, thousands of saplings were planted, wetlands were restored and pathways were created to encourage people to connect with the natural world.

• Initiated as a restoration project in the 1980s
• Created through joint efforts of the Maharashtra Government and environmental groups
• Developed on reclaimed land near the Mithi River
• Transformed from a garbage dump into a thriving biodiversity park
• Established as an eco education hub for schools and colleges

Mahim Nature Park is one of Mumbai’s most important natural reserves, offering ecological, educational and recreational value. The park’s biodiversity and landscape design make it a strong example of urban ecological restoration. Its key numbers highlight the scale of effort and natural richness.

• Spread across approximately 37 acres of reclaimed land
• Home to more than 15,000 trees of native species
• Over 200 species of birds spotted throughout the year
• Around 90 species of butterflies documented
• Hosts thousands of students annually for eco education tours
• Located near major junctions like Sion and Dharavi
• Acts as a green buffer along the Mithi River

Mahim Nature Park continues to serve as a vital ecological zone in Mumbai, drawing walkers, students and nature lovers throughout the year. The park remains well maintained with regular care of trees, clean pathways and ongoing biodiversity monitoring.

Its peaceful environment and central location help it remain one of the most accessible green spaces for city residents. Environmental programs and community learning activities continue to strengthen the park’s role.

• Consistently maintained with periodic plantation and cleanup drives
• Popular for birdwatching, especially during winter mornings
• Hosts eco workshops, nature trails and awareness sessions regularly
• Higher weekend footfall from families and photography enthusiasts
• Functions as a buffer against urban pollution
• Future plans include improved visitor amenities and learning facilities

Mahim Nature Park is a thriving ecological zone supporting native trees, shrubs, insects and birds. Its restored habitats provide visitors with a natural environment that is rare within Mumbai. Students, botanists and photographers often visit to observe the city’s urban biodiversity.

• More than 15,000 native trees including banyan, neem and ficus varieties
• Seasonal flowering plants attracting pollinators
• Over 90 butterfly species recorded
• Reptiles like garden lizards and geckos in shaded areas
• Dragonflies, damselflies and insects near wet patches
• Occasional small mammals in dense vegetation

Mahim Nature Park is one of Mumbai’s best birdwatching locations, with resident and migratory species active throughout the year. Water bodies, greenery and open patches create ideal bird habitats, especially during early mornings.

• Over 200 bird species recorded annually
• Migratory birds visit from November to February
• Common species include kingfishers, sunbirds, herons and drongos
• Wetland birds appear near the Mithi River section
• Best time is from 6 AM to 9 AM
• Long lens recommended for photography

Mahim Nature Park is one of Mumbai’s best birdwatching locations, with resident and migratory species active throughout the year. Water bodies, greenery and open patches create ideal bird habitats, especially during early mornings.

• Over 200 bird species recorded annually
• Migratory birds visit from November to February
• Common species include kingfishers, sunbirds, herons and drongos
• Wetland birds appear near the Mithi River section
• Best time is from 6 AM to 9 AM
• Long lens recommended for photography

Mahim Nature Park is one of Mumbai’s best birdwatching locations, with resident and migratory species active throughout the year. Water bodies, greenery and open patches create ideal bird habitats, especially during early mornings.

• Over 200 bird species recorded annually
• Migratory birds visit from November to February
• Common species include kingfishers, sunbirds, herons and drongos
• Wetland birds appear near the Mithi River section
• Best time is from 6 AM to 9 AM
• Long lens recommended for photography

Mahim Nature Park offers multiple walking trails that pass through greenery, butterfly patches and shaded paths. These easy routes are ideal for families, walkers and photographers exploring nature at a relaxed pace.

• Marked trails suitable for slow walks and photography
• Butterfly-friendly areas along inner paths
• Wetland-side trail with views of the Mithi River
• Shaded tree corridors perfect for morning walks
• Benches and rest spots at intervals
• Walking duration between 35 to 60 minutes

Mahim Nature Park can be visited year-round, but certain seasons provide a more enjoyable nature experience. Pleasant weather, active birdlife and greenery make specific months ideal for walks and wildlife observation.

• November to February is best for birdwatching and long walks
• Early mornings offer cool weather and more bird activity
• Monsoon brings lush greenery though paths may be slippery
• Summer afternoons are less comfortable due to heat
• Ideal visit time is 1 to 1.5 hours

Mahim Nature Park operates with simple timings and rules that make it convenient for walkers, families and students. Early mornings are encouraged as they offer cooler temperatures and more wildlife activity. Entry fees are generally low and support maintenance and educational work.

• Visiting hours from 7 AM to 5 PM
• Entry fee is nominal and may differ for groups or school tours
• Photography allowed for nature and birds
• No littering or disturbing wildlife
• Walk only on marked trails
• Groups and school tours may need prior permission

Disclaimer: Timings and fees may vary. Please check their contact or verify locally before visiting.

Mahim Nature Park is centrally located near the Sion Bandra Link Road, giving visitors easy access from different parts of Mumbai. It is well connected by air, rail, metro and road, making travel convenient for locals and tourists.

• By Air – Nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, 8–10 km away. Taxis via BKC or Santacruz reach the park in about 25–30 minutes.
  
  
• By Train – Closest station is Sion (2 km). Bandra station (3.5 km) is also nearby. Autos, buses and taxis are easily available.
  
  
• By Metro – Nearest option is around BKC, followed by a short taxi or auto ride.
  
  
• By Road – Located right off the Sion Bandra Link Road near Dharavi and the Mithi River bridge. Buses from Kurla, Sion, Bandra and Mahim serve this route.

Mahim Nature Park offers a peaceful nature experience, and visitors can make the most of it by following simple tips. Comfortable clothing, early timing and mindful behavior help ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

• Visit early morning for pleasant weather and more bird activity
• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Carry water, especially in warmer months
• Avoid loud noises to keep the environment calm
• Stay on marked paths for safety
• Photography lovers should carry a zoom lens
• Exercise caution during monsoon due to slippery patches

Mahim Nature Park offers a calm nature experience suitable for both local and international visitors. Its shaded paths, birdlife and greenery make it ideal for peaceful walks and eco learning.

• For Local Tourists – Good for morning walks, relaxation, photography and family visits.
  
  
• For International Tourists – Provides insight into Mumbai’s biodiversity and conservation work.
  
  
• Suggested Visit Slot – Between 7 AM and 10 AM for the best nature activity.
  
  
• Ideal Duration – About 1 to 1.5 hours inside the park.

Food options around Mahim Nature Park include street food, cafés and budget restaurants across Sion, Dharavi and Bandra. Visitors can enjoy snacks, meals or quick bites after exploring the park.

• Guru Kripa (Sion) – Samosas, chole bhature, ₹150–₹250 per person
• Café Gulshan (Mahim) – Irani meals, ₹150–₹300 per person
• Madras Café (Sion) – South Indian dishes, ₹100–₹200 per person
• Bandra East Street Food – Rolls and shawarma, ₹100–₹250 per person
• Dharavi Eateries – Budget snacks and meals, ₹50–₹150 per person
• BKC Cafés – Light snacks, ₹250–₹400 per person
• Indian Coffee House (Sion) – Classic meals, ₹100–₹200 per person

Must Try Dishes

• Chole bhature at Guru Kripa – ₹150
• Irani chai at Café Gulshan – ₹80
• Masala dosa at Madras Café – ₹120
• Street shawarma in Bandra East – ₹120

Suggested Options by Budget

• Budget (₹60–₹150) – Dharavi eateries, Madras Café, tea stalls
• Mid-range (₹150–₹300) – Guru Kripa, Café Gulshan, Bandra street food
• Higher range (₹300–₹500) – BKC cafés and casual dining

Mahim Nature Park has a distinctive history as a restored ecological space in Mumbai. The park’s transformation from a dumping ground to a thriving nature zone inspires conservation efforts across the city.

• Built on reclaimed land that was once a garbage dump
• Hosts regular clean-up drives and eco activities
• Migratory birds return every winter
• Butterfly garden attracts rare species
• Used as a location for nature-based educational films
• Acts as a natural sound buffer between Sion and Dharavi