Parks and Gardens |
The numerous parks and gardens in Mumbai are an absolute necessity to the people. Not only are they important for promoting tourism but also for promoting a much-needed healthy and enlivening atmosphere to Mumbaikars. As desired, these picturesque, green and beautiful landscapes developed at different locations of Mumbai have been serving that very purpose to perfection. Abounding with copious natural beauty and attractive man-made constructions, these parks and gardens provide the city crowd with plenty of clean air to breathe in, a place to de-stress and revitalise and a reprieve from the dust and pollution. The Horniman Circle Gardens, Hanging Gardens, Kamla Nehru Park etc are the most visited such places in the city among others
Near the Charni road station in Mumbai, there is a beautiful garden called the Balodyan. The first president of India Dr. Rajendra Prasad had inaugurated the gardens on 24th February 1952, for encouraging and developing creativity among the children. Only children and ladies are allowed to enter the garden. It is open on all days from 8.00 am to 12.00 noon and 4.00 pm to 7.00 pm.
Hanging Gardens
Hanging Gardens |
Also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, the Hanging Gardens were built in 1880 and renovated in 1921. These gardens are popularly known as Hanging Gardens, because of their location on the slope of a hill. The terrace garden looks south from Malabar Hill towards Colaba, and affords a panoramic view of the city with a beautiful sunset. It is built over three reservoirs, which store 30 million gallons of water pumped here for cleaning before being supplied to the town.
Horniman Circle Gardens
Located in the affluent section of the Fort District in South Mumbai, the Horniman Circle Gardens resemble an emerald in the midst of a concrete jungle. The gardens provide respite to the many office-goers of the area, lined with office complexes housing the most successful banks of India. The Horniman Circle Gardens have been built in close resemblance to London’s famous Park Crescent. A small park, neatly constructed walkways and a string of trees are all part of the Horniman Circle Gardens; however a stylish porch built in a neo-classical design and a lively ornate fountain are its high-points.
Kamala Nehru Park
On top of the Malabar hills are the Hanging Gardens and Kamala Nehru Park. The Park was built in 1952 and is named after the wife of India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. This park covers an area of 4,000 sq. yards and from here one can enjoy the magnificent view of Marine Drive i.e. the 'Queen’s Necklace'.
Jijamata Udyan Zoo
Jijamata Udyan Zoo |
Rani Jijamata Udyan or Victoria Gardens houses the Mumbai's Zoo. It is home to several rare and endangered species of animals and birds. The gardens are spread over 48 acres in Byculla, on the central side of Mumbai, surrounded by low income housing colonies or "Chawls". At the main entrance to the gardens is a clock tower, reminiscent of Italian renaissance. The gardens boast large trees, some of which are very old. Within the gardens is the Albert museum that houses a host of local archaeological findings.
Chhota Kashmir
Chhota Kashmir |
It is a colourful garden developed in the Aarey Colony area just near the Aarey Dairy. As the name suggests the beauty of this garden is reminiscent of the natural beauty of Kashmir. The garden has countless colourful flowers, which blossom in all seasons round the year. The evergreen lawns of the garden, the tall coconut trees, and the beautiful palm trees grown remind us of the natural beauty of Kashmir. As the garden being one of the very popular places in the Aarey Colony, people often come here for a trip or picnic with prior permission. It is also a popular place where sessions of outdoor film shootings are held.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park |
The Sanjay Gandhi wild life sanctuary, better known as "Borivali National Park" is situated in the hill ranges around the suburb of Borivali in Mumbai. It takes one hour from Mumbai to reach the place by train. The park is an appropriate place for picnic and excursion. Nature lovers can have panoramic views of hills, valleys and lakes that can provide purity to mind and soul. The main attractions of the park are Kanheri caves, Lion safari, Tiger safari and trekking. It is surrounded by deciduous forests, a wealth of birdlife and fauna.