Tucked in the bustling suburb of Mumbai, Borivali is often associated with its crowded train station and apartment blocks. But beyond the chaos lies a green paradise – Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), one of the world’s rare national parks located within a city. This urban jungle offers a refreshing escape for hikers, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts. With well-marked trails, ancient caves, and panoramic views, Borivali is a surprising hotspot for trekking. Here’s a complete guide to the best hiking routes in and around Borivali.
Essential Information Before You Trek
Before you hit the trails, here are some important things to know:
| Category | Details (As of July 2025) |
| Park Timings | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays) |
| Entry Fee (SGNP) | INR 103 (Adults), INR 55 (Children), INR 287 (Foreigners) |
| How to Get There | Local train to Borivali Station → Rickshaw (INR 40) or BEST Bus to SGNP gate |
| Online Booking | Available via SGNP’s official portal |
| Best Season | October–March (Pleasant); June–September (Lush & Green, but slippery) |
| Things to Carry | Water (2–3L), good trekking shoes, cap, snacks, rainwear (monsoon), leech socks (monsoon) |
Top 5 Hiking Trails in Borivali
Kanheri Caves & Upper Kanheri Plateau Trail
Distance: 6 km (to caves) + 2 km (plateau)
Duration: 3–4 hours round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Paved forest road + stone stair climb
Cave Timings: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Additional Fee: INR 25 (Indian adults), INR 200 (Foreigners)
Highlights:
- Over 120 ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves carved between 1st century BCE and 10th century CE
- Panoramic views from the Upper Kanheri Plateau
- Optional shuttle service (INR 50 one-way) for those who prefer cycling or walking less
Best For: History lovers, first-time trekkers, photography enthusiasts
Gaumukh Trail to Jambhulmal Peak (Mumbai’s Highest Point)
Distance: 10–11 km (round trip)
Duration: 5–6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Trail Type: Forest path, rocks, some steep sections
Guided Entry: Mandatory (INR 850–INR 950 per person including park fee)
Highlights:
- Reaches Jambhulmal, the highest natural point in Mumbai (≈ 465 meters)
- Walk past bamboo groves, ancient water cisterns, and rich forest biodiversity
- Leopard sightings are rare but not unheard of
Best For: Adventure seekers, fitness hikers, wildlife enthusiasts
Shilonda Trail – Perfect for Beginners
Distance: 2.5 km one way
Duration: 2–3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Flat, shaded forest path with a stream
Fee (Guided): INR 799–INR 950 (includes SGNP jeep ride and guide)
Highlights:
- Great for kids and beginners
- Educational forest walk with naturalists
- Stream crossings and butterfly/bird spotting in monsoon
Best For: Families, school groups, beginner hikers
Bamboo Hut Circuit via Jambhulmal
Distance: 12 km (loop)
Duration: 5–5.5 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Type: Steep rocky descents, dense foliage
Guided Entry: Required (Same as Gaumukh Trail fee)
Highlights:
- Starts like Gaumukh but loops back via Horse-Saddle Ridge
- Dense forest, tall grass, and lesser-used trails
- Clear monsoon views over Dahisar and Tansa forest corridors
Best For: Experienced trekkers, monsoon explorers, wildlife trackers
Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary Trail (Near Borivali)
Location: Vasai East (45–60 min from Borivali)
Distance: 6 km one way to temple summit
Duration: 3–4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Rocky forest path, open ridgelines
Entry Fee: INR 48–INR 50 (INR 25 for students)
Highlights:
- Shiva temple at the summit
- Waterfalls, streams, and sal forests in monsoon
- Lesser crowds and birdwatching hotspots (kingfishers, whistling thrush)
Best For: Weekend explorers, spiritual trekkers, quiet trail seekers
Safety Tips & Responsible Trekking Etiquette
- No littering: Carry your trash back, including biodegradable items.
- Stick to trails: Venturing off-path disturbs wildlife and can be dangerous.
- No loud music or drones: Strictly prohibited inside SGNP and TWS.
- Wildlife protocol: If you encounter animals, remain calm and slowly move away.
- Dress smart: Full sleeves, trekking shoes, and rain protection (in monsoon).
- Hydrate and fuel up: Carry electrolyte sachets and light snacks.
Summing Up
Borivali proves that you don’t need to leave the city to connect with nature. Whether you’re climbing to Mumbai’s highest point, walking along a monsoon stream, or exploring ancient cave monasteries, each trail offers its own magic. With recent upgrades, guided tours, and easy online booking, exploring Borivali’s hiking trails in 2025 is more accessible than ever.
So pack your bag, charge your camera, and breathe deep – Borivali is waiting to surprise you.
