Mumbai is often only seen as a collection of humans, but it’s rather much more than that. It was once a beautiful set of islands with creeks and mangroves, birding paradise and coastal settlements plenty of which survive even today! While the city is known as a commercial capital and a shopping destination most of which people flock to, here’s a hidden side to the city that’s good for health freaks, wildlife enthusiasts, those that jog, run, walk their way to fresh air, good health and a great start to the day.
1. Bhandup Pumping Station
Bhandup Pumping Station has a unique biodiversity and has become a great spot for bird watching, cycling, and jogging, with large flocks of flamingos often spotted around the lake. Flanked by a mangrove system, different species of birds, insects can be found here which is a wonderful sight. Let this beautiful place be your motivation to hop on your cycles on a Sunday morning when the roads are empty to explore the wetlands.
Things to note:
- Walking stretch is around 1.5 to 2km one way
- Jetty at the end of the road has boat hires to take you in and around the creek
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2. Mogliche Talao, Dighe
Constructed during British rule by the Central Railways, this gem is 9 Kms from the suburbs of Mumbai. It is a perfect tourist getaway even though the route to this lake is slightly undeveloped, the mesmerizing beauty of this lake can only be relished in person which often motivates many to visit it regardless through cycling or walking. Many also visit the dam for a picnic or to sit by the pond nearby. There is a beautiful hike to a nearby mountain as well, and the waterfalls are an absolute must-see for all those who love Mumbai in the monsoons.
Things to note:
- Location is easily accessible for people from Thane, Kalwa, Dighe and Airoli
- If you love photography, sunrise & sunset is the best time to be here
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3. Yeoor Hills, Thane
This beautiful place near Thane is a great spot for adventure lovers. A must-visit trekking spot, you need to head towards Tikujiniwadi near Manpada to get there. The lush green jungle has Upvan Lake flowing through it which is a good picnic spot for tourists (depending on season). People often set up their tents near the lake and indulge in bird watching while taking time off from the digital world. A must visit for joggers, to breathe some fresh air while they let the beauty of these hills sink in.
Things to note:
- Enter the forest before 7am if you really want to enjoy the morning pleasant climate
- There is an entry fee into the area but many trekking trails inside to explore
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4. Kharghar Hills, Panvel
This diamond is a great weekend escape for people living near Navi Mumbai and for people into trekking. People often describe this site as extremely soothing and calming making it a nice weekend detour for nature lovers. To top it all, during the monsoons there is a waterfall and stream too for visitors who wish to enjoy the rawness of nature. Fishing and fish farming make it a haven for bird and animal species.
Things to note:
- The place is good for a picnic, but you have to carry your own food
- Be careful trekking since the trails cut through dense forests with hidden wildlife
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5. Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Borivali
Dating back to 4th century BC, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is also known as the lung of the city, and is the only park present within the city that offers peace and serenity. You can opt for a safari or choose to visit the Kanheri Caves. There are multiple treks and nature trails that one can go for with their family. Apart from these activities, you can simply visit the butterfly garden or cycle around the park – the latter of which is available on rent as well. Boating and Camping are other attractions too.
Things to note:
- There’s a tiger and lion safari, boating and other activities for the entire family
- Visiting hours for the park are 7.30am to 6.30pm
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6. Madh Island
It’s just the right time to take a break from the city’s crazy traffic, then it’s time for you to take a short trip to Madh Island, a beach-peninsula located on the North West coast where u can visit the Madh fort, explore the Erangal Village, visit the church, or even pay a visit to the Killeshwar Mahadev Temple. Walk, cycle or jog around with your loved ones as you all feel relived from that everyday work stress.
Things to note:
- Small fishing villages, local businesses surround the place and it can get busy
- The place has a panoramic view of the Arabian sea
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7. Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary
Pink feathered flamingos are one of the main tourist attractions here as it brings people closer to nature. It’s the perfect place for a long walk during the sunrise and would surely refresh your mind, as it’s a total paradise for nature lovers. It is advised to visit during 6am to 10 am. One can even cycle around while capturing beautiful birds as they hover in the sky.
Things to note:
- The museum, boating point, mangroves and bird watching point are a must see
- Best way to reach here is by catching a train to Airoli and cycling to the place
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8. Bandstand, Bandra
It’s one of the most popular Landmark in Mumbai where you have multiple options lined up for you and your family to choose from. There’s a long 1.2 kilometer long walkway along the sea which is simultaneously a popular hangout spot, a jogging track and a park. You can choose to visit the church or explore the famous tourist attraction Bandra Fort. The best thing to do here is to go for a long walk, or jog around the Promenade and visit quaint seaside cafes as you make beautiful memories.
Things to note:
- At the end of the promenade is the amphitheatre, hosting cultural events and concerts
- Not far away are the Bandra Fort and Sea Link, popular tourist attractions.
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9. Parsik Hill, Navi Mumbai
The hill is located almost in the middle of the city of new Mumbai. It gives a great panoramic view of the city and on clear days one can see Mumbai across the creek. At the foothills is a nice tree lined road and on clear days one can jog or walk slowly up the hill. There’s also a temple located at the crest with a vipasana meditation center. The Parsik hill is full of nature, surrounded by trees, with fresh air and unimaginable serenity.
Things to note:
- At the end of the promenade is the amphitheatre, hosting cultural events and concerts
- Not far away are the Bandra Fort and Sea Link, popular tourist attractions.
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10. Sewri Fort
Built by the Portuguese in the 1600s, the Sewri fort in Mumbai was used as a watch tower, overlooking the Mumbai harbor. As it is in a very accessible location, it has become a very popular attraction for cycling, jogging and to watch the sun rise. People often plan small trips with their family to witness the beauty of this historical gem. If you are lucky, you might spot flamingoes too.
Things to note:
- In the courtyard is a large tree that is an excellent spot to grab some shade from the sun
- During the month of February, one can spot pink flamingos from the fort
Get out of your home and get charged for the day and the week ahead. Bookmark this post and plan a visit to all of these hidden gems around your favorite city.
If you are looking for more fun things to do today, check out these Outdoor Games from your childhood to bond over, watch some wonderful Hollywood movies, read these Inspiring Books or just get the family together to make these delish Salads
