Explore the verdant city and its surroundings as the skyline turns grey this monsoon
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Lush greens, misty trails, and the rhythmic drumming of rain on leaves — the monsoons have a way of making our city bloom. Amongst the infinitely tall skyscrapers and sweeping bridges, one can often forget that Mumbai has a green side too. As tempting as it is to snuggle under a blanket with chai and a book, this week, Sunday Midday lists some classic and newer forest getaways that are worth stepping outside for, this monsoon.
Hiking at Karnala
Just an hour’s drive from Mumbai, Karnala Fort offers a perfect blend of history and nature. PThis 14th-century hill fort once guarded the Bor Pass, a key trade route between the Konkan coast and the Deccan plateau. The views are breathtaking, and Pandu’s Tower, a 125-foot basalt pillar, stands like a silent sentinel of time. During the monsoon, the surrounding Karnala Bird Sanctuary transforms into a lush green haven. Treks and Trails offers a guided trek, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours. With over 220 bird species recorded here, it’s a paradise for bird and nature lovers.
When: June 8, 2025
Where: Raigad, Maharashtra
Price: Rs 699 – 799
Contact: treksandtrails.org
Walk with a view
PIC COURTESY/MCGM.GOV.IN
Modelled after Singapore’s Tree Top Walk, the Malabar Hill Forest Trail is like an oasis in the heart of SoBo.
When: 5 am to 9 pm daily
Where: Malabar Hill, Mumbai
Price: Rs 25
Contact: naturetrail.mcgm.gov.in/booking
Among the mangroves
PIC/SATEJ SHINDE
For something more offbeat, head to the Gorai Mangrove Park with its 740 m elevated walkway. Go at high tide to spot crabs, kingfishers and herons.
Where: Gorai Creek, Mumbai
Price: N/A
Time for a trail
REPRESENTATIONAL PIC/GETTY IMAGES
Craving a quiet escape? Sanjay Gandhi National Park offers a range of beautiful trails that come alive with rain-drenched foliage and birdsong.
Where: Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Borivali
Contact: 022-28868686/77387 78789 or sgnp.maharashtra.gov.in
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