(Featured image courtesy Times of India)
Amidst Mumbai’s fast-paced life, a new green escape has taken shape in Malabar Hill. The city’s first elevated nature trail, a 485-metre-long wooden walkway, has been designed to let visitors experience the city’s natural beauty from a whole new perspective.
Built by the BMC to promote urban biodiversity, the trail winds through Kamala Nehru Park and Firozeshah Mehta Garden, offering a peaceful retreat among towering trees. The highlight? A sea-viewing deck that frames the Arabian Sea in all its glory—a quiet reminder that amidst Mumbai’s chaos, nature still finds a way to shine.
The trail is a haven for biodiversity enthusiasts, offering a rare glimpse into Mumbai’s rich urban wildlife. Lined with over 100 species of trees, including the vibrant Gulmohar, the shady Banyan, and the fruit-bearing Almond and Jamun, the walkway immerses visitors in a lush green canopy.
For bird watchers, the trail is a delight — colorful kingfishers, cheerful bulbuls, and vivid green parakeets can often be spotted flitting between branches, their calls adding to the serene atmosphere. Look a little closer, and you may even catch sight of garden lizards basking in the sun or, if you’re lucky, the elusive Indian rock python, silently blending into its surroundings. Whether you’re a nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this trail offers a unique chance to experience Mumbai’s thriving ecosystem up close.
Plan your visit
Good news for early risers and sunset chasers! The elevated nature trail is open daily from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM, giving visitors plenty of time to soak in the sights — whether it’s the golden sunrise filtering through the trees or the cool evening breeze by the sea.
Entry is affordable and accessible:
Indian citizens: Rs 25 per person
Foreign nationals: Rs 100 per person.
A small price to pay for a peaceful retreat in the heart of Mumbai!
How and where to book?
With growing interest in Mumbai’s first elevated nature trail, the BMC has introduced an easy online booking system to help visitors plan their trip without long waits or overcrowding. Booking in advance ensures you get a hassle-free entry and enough time to soak in the experience.
To book your visit, head to the BMC website and follow a few simple steps—choose your date and time slot, enter your details, and make the payment. That’s it, you’re all set! If you’re unsure about the process, BMC’s official update provides a detailed guide.
For those who prefer spontaneity, a limited number of on-the-spot bookings may be available, but there’s no guarantee. Given the popularity of the trail, planning ahead is the best way to ensure a smooth visit.
Prior booking is recommended; limited on-site bookings may be available, subject to slot availability.
Things to know before you go
To make your visit smooth and enjoyable, here’s what to keep in mind:
- Limited capacity: Only 200 visitors are allowed at a time, and each time slot is one hour long to ensure everyone has space to enjoy the trail.
- Food restrictions: To prevent attracting wildlife such as monkeys, food is not allowed on the trail. You can, however, bring your water bottle to stay refreshed.
- Safety and security: The trail is equipped with surveillance systems and emergency exits, ensuring your safety while you explore.
- Location: The trail is easily accessible, located at Siri Road, behind Kamala Nehru Park, for a seamless entry and exit.
By keeping these simple guidelines in mind, you can enjoy the tranquility of the elevated nature trail and fully connect with the natural beauty around you.
Edited by Leila Badyari Castelino
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