Water Kingdom
Water Kingdom, situated in Gorai, Mumbai, is one of Asia's largest water parks, drawing crowds of tourists, particularly in the scorching summer months, which is also the best time to visit Water Kingdom. Spanning an impressive 64 acres, this park offers an impressive collection of 50 water rides and attractions to cater to visitors of all age groups. Divided into distinct zones, each with its unique theme, it boasts the thrilling Aqua Loop, Boomerang and Shoot The Rapids in the Adults Zone, making it the best choice for adventure seekers. In the Family Zone, perfect for a family day out during the summer, you can find attractions suitable for everyone, such as the Wave Pool, Lazy River and Family Slide. The Kids Zone features rides tailored for younger children, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for them. Apart from the water rides, Water Kingdom offers additional entertainment options, including a rain dance floor, wave pool and lazy river. To complete your experience, the park provides a diverse range of dining options and souvenir shops.
Elephanta Caves
The Elephanta Caves, situated on Elephanta Island just 2 km west of Jawaharlal Nehru Port, houses a collection of caves primarily dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva. This historical site encompasses five Hindu caves, a few Buddhist stupa mounds dating back to the 2nd century BCE and two Buddhist caves with water tanks. Dating from the mid-5th to 6th centuries AD, these caves are renowned for their exceptional rock-cut architecture, carved meticulously from solid basalt rock. Within these caves, one can discover an array of sculptures, reliefs and inscriptions. Most notably, the Trimurti Sadashiva, a 5.45m high relief portraying the three-faced Shiva, graces the caves. The caves also contain a number of panels throughout the site that depict scenes from Hindu mythology, such as the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, the Elephanta Caves draw in numerous tourists each year, offering a captivating glimpse into India's rich cultural and artistic history.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is one of the few national parks in the world located completely within the city's limits. Established in 1969, this park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including leopards, deer, monkeys, snakes and various bird species. The park is also home to the historical Kanheri Caves, a cluster of over 100 Buddhist caves, carved out of rocky cliffs between the 2nd and 9th centuries BC. Visitors can partake in activities like jeep safaris, nature walks, boating on Tulsi Lake and exploring the park's educational centres. With over 1,000 plant species, 251 bird species, 5,000 insect species and 40 mammal species, this park uniquely showcases the coexistence between animals and humans, making it a valuable hub for nature appreciation and conservation awareness.
Vasai Fort
Located in the coastal town of Vasai, Vasai Fort is a historic site with a diverse past. Originally constructed by the Portuguese in 1533, the fort saw subsequent captures by the Marathas in 1739 and the British in 1802. Today, it is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India. Once a bustling port city and a significant trade hub, the fort served both commercial and military purposes, strategically positioned along the Arabian Sea coast. Inside the fort's walls, visitors can explore the remnants of churches, chapels, mosques and other structures, offering glimpses into its multicultural history. Notable structures include the 17th-century Church of St. Gonsalo Garcia, still in use and the Treaty House, where the 1802 Treaty of Bassein marked the British ascent and the Maratha Empire's decline. Today, Vasai Fort is a popular tourist attraction providing insights into its rich history and offering panoramic views of Vasai Creek and the Arabian Sea.
Karnala Bird Sanctuary
Karnala Bird Sanctuary, situated in Maharashtra's Raigad district, stands as the state's first bird sanctuary and is one of the most popular birding destinations near Mumbai. Hosting a diverse avian population comprising over 150 bird species, both resident and migratory, this sanctuary offers a network of nature trails for immersive exploration. The renowned 3-4 km Karnala Fort Trail leads visitors to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding forest while presenting excellent bird-watching opportunities. Additional favoured trails, such as the Bhagwan Mahavir Trail, the Nature Trail and the Butterfly Trail are equally enticing. Beyond its avian residents, the sanctuary shelters an array of wildlife, including mammals, reptiles and amphibians, with possible sightings of monkeys, squirrels, snakes and lizards. Karnala Bird Sanctuary is an ideal day trip destination from Mumbai, beckoning nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike with its tranquil, natural ambience.
