Park/Museum

Most Attractive Parks,Museum,Zoo,Nature in Mumbai

From Children parks to famous gardens, Mumbai has a huge list to please with. Our City has special Botanical gardens, Zoo, National Park, Amusement parks like Essel World and Yazoo, which are ideal for both kids and adults, Special Joggers parks, Birds Sanctuary like one at Sion, Old and famous like Nehru Center and Hanging Garden, Victoria, Kamla Nehru, Butterfly and Tactile Garden, and those along the posh residence like Priyadarshini Park in South of Mumbai.

Mumbai, the financial capital of India, boasts of several magnificent museums and galleries. The museums of Mumbai portray the vibrant culture, traditions and art of the city through rare sculptures, relics, paintings and various other antique items dating back to the prehistoric era. Apart from displaying the art, the museums also serve as a rich pool of knowledge that attracts the people from around the world. It is an unforgettable experience visiting the museums during Mumbai tour as they offer a great insight about the history and culture of India. Here is a list of some wonderful museums in Mumbai that must not be missed during the tour for a mesmerizing experience.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park Overview.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a significant wildlife reserve which impresses visitors with its diverse flora and fauna. It was formed in 1969 by merging different forest reserves with the Borivali National Park, which was 20.26 sq km in area. The geographical expanse of the national park thus formed was 104 sq km. 

The landscape of this park is made of sparkling lakes, gurgling rivers, beautiful valleys and undulating hills. More than 800 types of flowering plants have been recorded here, which include karvi, a flower that blossoms once in a period of eight years. The rich fauna of this park includes 36 mammal species, 62 varieties of reptiles and 5000 kinds of insects. Leopards, lions, tigers, rhesus monkeys, hare, sambars, langurs, macaques and chitals are some of the animals that can be seen roaming freely in the premises of this reserved zone. Atlas Moth – the largest moth species of the world – can also be spotted in this national park. 

You can opt for a wildlife safari organised by the park authorities here. A prominent highlight of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is the group of 2400-year old caves, known as Kanheri Caves. Carved from rock cliffs, these ancient caves attract historians, archaeologists and several other people from places near and far.

Opening Closing Time

9 am – 5:30 pm

9 am – 1 pm (Safari)

Open all days, except Monday

Sanjay Gandhi National Park offers abundant scenic vistas that are worth clicking. The rich fauna of this national park is a treat for wildlife photographers who get a wonderful chance to click pictures of various animals in their natural habitat.

The vegetation and wildlife of this national park provides a fabulous learning opportunity to children. In addition to this, they learn about the importance of conserving flora and fauna.

Entrance Fee

Rs. 10 per Person

Location

Borivali East, Mumbai, 600066, Maharashtra

Hanging Gardens.

Hanging Gardens Overview

Hanging Gardens, also referred as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, are beautiful terraced gardens that are set atop the western side of Malabar Hill. Established in the 1880s, this garden was designed by Ulhas Ghapokar to protect a nearby water reservoir from getting polluted. 

This painstakingly manicured garden is spread in a vast area that has well-laid pathways. The colourful flower clock at the centre and numerous animal-shaped hedges are the unique features of this park. You can also enjoy spectacular views of the Arabian Sea from the Hanging Gardens. 

The Boot House or Old Woman's Shoe, completely made up of stone, is another interesting feature that would make your visit a memorable one. Whether with family or alone, visitors will definitely have a great time amidst the serene surroundings of these beautiful gardens. Its well-maintained pathways are perfect for a jog or stroll around the park.

Opening Closing Time

5 am – 9 pm

Open all days

The Hanging Gardens offer many beautiful photo opportunities. The greenery and creative hedges make for amazing backdrops.

Hanging Gardens is an excellent spot for family outings. The garden has basic rides like swings, slides and see-saws to ensure that kids have a great time.

Location

Malabar Hill, Mumbai, 400075, Maharashtra

Shivaji Park.

Shivaji Park Overview

One of the largest parks in Mumbai, Shivaji Park is situated in Dadar. A popular hub for political and social meetings, this park holds great historical and cultural significance since before India got independence. Named after the heroic leader- Chhatrapati Shivaji, this park was established by the Mumbai Municipal Corporation in 1925, during the British regime. The British acknowledged this name, owing to Shivaji's great command over the Marathi population. The park has a huge statue of Shivaji leading the way with his one arm outstretched. The entrance of this place also has a life size idol of Meenatai Thackeray, late wife of Bal Thackeray. 

Samarth Vyayam Mandir (gymnasium), Children's Park, Nana-Nani Park and Udyan Ganesh Temple are important highlights of this park. It has well-laid pathways, lined with towering trees on either side, which are ideal for leisure walks. This park is also famous among cricket lovers and has been a training ground for many famous international cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar and Vinod Kambli.

Opening Closing Time

Open all days

Playground, temple, statues and more in the Shivaji Park provide ample photo opportunities. It is always fun to click children enjoying various rides and games. The old Ganesh Temple and the countless huge trees in the park also serve as ideal backdrops for clicking pictures.

Shivaji Park has a Children Park where kids can enjoy different rides

Location

Dadar West, Mumbai, 400028, Maharashtra

Five Gardens.

Five Gardens Overview

Rejuvenate your senses at the beautiful Five Gardens! Created by Mancherji Joshi about 80 years ago, this plot lies between King's Circle and Dadar in Mumbai. Locals visit this beautifully manicured garden for spending moments of repose. At this garden, kids come to play while adults and old people come for jogging, meditation or relaxing amidst verdant environs. 

One of the gardens has been converted into a maidan, which is currently used as an outdoor gymnasium and sports ground. People of all ages come to the gymnasium to stay fit while the sports ground is the centre for inter colony matches. For kids, there is a special garden that features a small Ferris Wheel and Shooting Booth. 

The Brihan Mumbai Municipal Corporation has designated one of the gardens as the nana-nani garden. This garden is a hub for old people, where they sit and chat on various issues like generation gap, inflation, Indian politics and their other topics of interest. If you are exhausted with the hustle and bustle of city life, take a break and head to Five Gardens!

Taking snapshots of your kids playing around happily or grandparents meditating is always delighting.

Five Gardens is an ideal place for children. For kids, there is an exclusive garden with a Shooting Booth and small Ferris Wheel.

Location

Lady Jehangir Road, Dadar East, Mumbai, 400014, Maharashtra

Kamala Nehru Park.

Kamala Nehru Park Overview

Nestled in the posh Malabar Hill locality of Mumbai, Kamala Nehru Park is a tourist hotspot and popular picnic haunt in the city. This shoe-shaped park spans over an area of about 4000 sq ft that is covered with greenery. Shady trees are planted all across this green space. Colourful flowers adorn its pleasing landscape and make it all the more beautiful. 

There is a unique structure called Boot House in this park, which draws inspiration from a nursery rhyme that narrated the story of a woman who resided in a boot. The park never fails to attract visitors and is a favourite leisure destination for kids as well as grown-ups. Another thing that attracts visitors to this park is that it is a perfect vantage point, which offers spectacular views of Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beach.

Opening Closing Time

5 am - 9 pm

Open all days

The most interesting thing to capture at Kamala Nehru Park is the Boot House. This place offers stunning views of Mumbai's downtowns and coastline, which should be captured in the camera without a doubt.

Children can play different games in the open space of this park. The most fascinating thing for them would be the colourful Boot House, which is based on a childhood rhyme.

Location

Malabar Hill, BG Kher Road, Mumbai, 400006, Maharashtra

Victoria Gardens or Jijamata Udyan.

Victoria Gardens or Jijamata Udyan Overview

Jijamata Udyan, formerly known as Rani Bagh or Victoria Gardens, is a popular place of interest in Mumbai. Also known as Veermata Jijabai Bhonsle Udyan, this beautiful garden houses the popular Mumbai Zoological Park and Bhau Daji Lad Museum. This entire property was originally owned by Jewish businessman David Sassoon, who later donated it to the Municipal Corporation of Mumbai. 

The garden is spread over an area of 48 acres and is surrounded by small houses known as chawls. The presence of a quaint Victorian Tower and Statue of King Edward VII (made of black stone) in the garden add to the appeal. An ornamental gateway with arched screens is one of the major highlights of this garden. Established in the year 1861, the zoo in this garden is one of the oldest of its kind in India and boasts of rich flora and fauna. 

The on-site Bhau Daji Lad Museum (formerly called the Victoria and Albert Museum) possesses a valuable collection of archaeological artefacts, including a giant statue of an elephant from Elephanta Caves.

Ancient structures flaunting different architectural designs, vivid flora and fauna and rich archaeological artefacts are proud possessions of Jijamata Udyan. Each of these is unique, eye-catchy and worth a snapshot.

Location

Dr. Ambedkar Road, Byculla East, Mumbai, 400027, Maharashtra

Mumbai Port Trust Garden

Mumbai Port Trust Garden Overview

Located in Colaba at the southern tip of Mumbai, Mumbai Port Trust Garden (sometimes known as Sagar Upvan) is an ideal retreat. This beautiful green site is owned and maintained by the Mumbai Port Trust, which is evident from its name. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) contributes in the maintenance and beautification of the garden. 

Spread over an area of 12 acres, this garden is graced with beautifully manicured lawns and mounds. The closeness to the expansive Arabian Sea has enhanced its overall beauty. The garden boasts of a variety of flora, which includes medicinal and ornamental plants. Coppersmith barbets, squirrels and lizards are often spotted in the garden. The gorgeous on-site Rock Garden and Cacti Section attract countless nature enthusiasts every year. Neatly paved walking tracks and sea-facing benches under trees are perfect for a leisurely stroll and relaxation.

Opening Closing Time

6 am – 11 am

4:30 pm – 8:30 pm (Daily)

The Mumbai Port Trust Garden offers surroundings with verdant flora and vivid fauna in addition to the views of the Arabian Sea it offers. Visitors must carry their cameras so that they do not miss clicking these wonderful sights.

Location

WG Union Road, Colaba, Mumbai, 400005, Maharashtra

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Overview

Earlier referred to as the Prince of Wales Museum of Western India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS) is one of the top cultural museums in India. The foundation stone of the museum was laid in 1905 by the Prince of Wales, and on 10th January, 1922, it was opened for public. The museum was renamed in the late 20th century after Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. 

The museum boasts of a voluminous collection of artefacts and to display them in order, it has been divided into three sections- Art, Archaeology and Natural History. Each of the 50,000 art and historical objects that belong to ancient India is a proud possession of the museum. Worth-mentioning among the items showcased here are artefacts from the Harappan sites, terracotta objects, bronze sculptures, Indian miniature paintings, European paintings, and porcelain and ivories from China and Japan. In addition to these, there are exquisite statues of Shiva and Bahubali, fascinating Mughal jewellery box, folios of Ramayana and old Songtsen Gampo. 

Built in brilliant Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, this museum itself is a sight worth beholding. The presence of a beautiful garden area, towering palm trees and flower beds in the surroundings add to the beauty of the museum.

Opening Closing Time

10:15 am – 6 pm (Tuesday – Sunday)

(Last admission at 5:45 pm)

10:15 am – 5:30 pm (Monday)

Open all days, except 26th January, 1st May, 15th August and 2nd October

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya is a place where children would get to know about the glorious past of India and other parts of the world. A visit to the museum's special Natural History section, which has dioramas, diagrams and charts to depict Indian wildlife, is an interesting and informative one for kids.

Rs. 60 for Visitors (above 12 years) Rs. 25 for College Students (bearing their college identity card) Rs. 10 for Children (5 - 12 years) Rs. 10 for Students coming through Schools Rs. 300 International Visitors (above 12 years of age; includes complimentary audio guide) Rs. 25 for International Students (bearing school/college identity card) Rs. 10 for International Child Visitors (5 - 12 years) Rs. 40 Ex-defence and Retired Government Officials Rs. 40 Group Concession Available (25 or more Adults) Free for Differently-abled Visitors

Museum

Location

159-161, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Fort, Mumbai, 400023, Maharashtra

Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sangrahalaya

Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sangrahalaya Overview

Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sangrahalaya is an old two-storey building, which serves as a museum and research centre. Formerly a house of Shri Revashankar Jagjeevan Jhaveri – a friend and host of Mahatma Gandhi, this place served as Gandhiji’s home whenever he visited Mumbai. It was from here that Gandhiji initiated various non-violent movements against the British Government, including Satyagraha. In 1955, the building was dedicated as a lasting memorial to Mahatma Gandhi and to the revolutionary activities he initiated from the bhavan. Gandhian Literature, framed letters, photographic exhibits and tableaux inside the museum depict his stature and strength. 

In the museum's 'Gandhi Room', one can see his charkha (spinning wheel), charpoy (rope bed) and books. There is also a library, which consists of a large number of Gandhian Literature, books and periodicals. People who want to know more about the great leader can request to play his documentaries and speech recordings at the on-site auditorium. In the picture gallery, there are many photos, framed posters, important letters, documents and articles that offer a glimpse into Gandhiji's life. The museum also features a sales counter where one can buy Gandhi Postage Stamps, photographs, Gandhian Literature and statues as souvenirs of the tour.

Opening Closing Time

9:30 am – 6 pm

9:30 am – 6 pm for Library (Closed on Second and Fourth Saturday and Public Holidays)

Open all days

Location

19, Laburnum Road, Gamdevi, Mumbai, 400007, Maharashtra

RBI Monetary Museum

RBI Monetary Museum Overview

RBI Monetary Museum is a unique museum set up by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) – the most important financial institution of the country. Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam – the former President of India, inaugurated the museum in 2004. It aims at depicting the evolution of money in the Indian subcontinent, right from the ancient days of barter system to the present era of plastic money. There are various galleries in the museum where coins, paper money and other monetary artefacts are preserved. 

Those interested in numismatics would be fascinated on exploring the rich monetary collection of this museum. The coinage section here has a huge assortment of coins that range from 6th century BC to present day. Evolution of paper money and financial instruments is explained in this museum through the display of currency notes, paper bonds and certificates. Visitors can also see important anecdotes, bank seals and other related things. 

There are special kiosks in the RBI Monetary Museum which provide information about currencies in an interesting way. Visitors coming to the museum can buy souvenirs like posters on currency and coins, greeting cards and postcards.

Opening Closing Time

10:30 am – 5 pm

Open all days, except Monday

RBI Monetary Museum displays a fine collection of coins, currency notes and other such artefacts that would teach children about the evolution of money in India. They can play games at the kiosk which is an interesting way to learn about monetary evolution.

Entrance Fee

Rs. 10 for Indians

Rs. 10 for Foreigners

Location

Ground Floor, Amar Building, Sir Phirozeshah Mehta Road, Fort, South Mumbai, 400001, Maharashtra

Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum

Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum Overview

Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum of Mumbai earns recognition as the oldest museum in the city and the third oldest across the country. It was inaugurated in 1857 as an exhibition of India's beautiful art and crafts. The present site of this museum came into existence in 1872, when it was known as Victoria & Albert Museum. It was renamed as Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum in 1975 to honour the visionary who significantly contributed to its formation. After an extensive restoration process by Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), this museum was opened on 4th January 2008. In present times, it is under the administration of the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai. The fine assortment of decorative arts by skilled artists makes this place interesting for patrons of art and heritage. 

There are six main sections in this museum, namely Origins of Mumbai, 19th Century Paintings, Industrial Arts, Kamalnayan Bajaj Special Exhibitions Gallery, Kamalnayan Bajaj Mumbai Gallery and Founders' Gallery. Highlights of these galleries are Indian art and craft pieces that were in huge demand across European markets. Paintings made during early workshops by Sir J.J. School of Art are also preserved here. 

Maps, photographs and watercolour illustrations related to the early days of Mumbai can be seen in one of the galleries of this museum. It also provides a peek into the earlier culture of the city and its transformation over the years. The Founders' Gallery familiarises visitors with people who worked hard to establish this museum. 

Another prized possession of Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum is its library which houses a fabulous collection of books about the city's history. There is a special shop in the premises, from where visitors can purchase souvenirs like hand-painted mugs, trays, key chains, T-shirts, trays and several other things. 

It also serves as a venue of art exhibitions, cultural workshops and educational seminars. Owing to its sincere efforts in the direction of heritage preservation, it received the UNESCO Award for Excellence in the related field.

Opening Closing Time

10 am – 6 pm

Open all days, except Wednesday and few Public Holidays

For Kids

On visiting Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum, children would get a chance to learn about the rich heritage of Mumbai.

Entrance Fee

For Indians:

Rs. 10 for Adults, Rs. 5 for Children (5 - 15 years of age), Rs. 2 for Students

Free for Children (below 5 years of age) 

Location

91 A, Rani Baug, Veer Mata Jijbai Bhonsle Udyan, Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Marg, Byculla East, Mumbai, 400027, Maharashtra

Nehru Science Centre

Nehru Centre Overview

Nehru Centre is a unique memorial complex dedicated to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Established in 1972, it pays tribute to this luminary leader in a distinct way by incorporating fresh ideas, promoting new talent and preserving the heritage of the nation. The building of this modern centre is as contemporary and exclusive as its concept. Having several storeys divided into various sections related to India, this edifice stands tall as a prominent landmark spot in the city. 

The star attraction of this science museum is Nehru Planetarium which is a centre for astronomical studies and meetings of renowned science personalities. Telescopes outside this planetarium enable visitors to explore secrets and special phenomena of distant sky. Several programmes and competitions are organised here for students. 

Discovery of India, the 100000 sq ft exposition of Nehru Centre, aims at depicting literary, architectural, artistic and philosophic achievements of the country. It has 14 vivid galleries, which have 50000 exhibits and 3D models that provide a clear picture of India's heritage and progress through several years. 

The Culture Wing of this centre organises events, workshops and seminar related to performing arts. There is also an Art Gallery for the art buffs. New artists and students from art colleges are allowed to display their work in this gallery. It is a venue of major art exhibitions, which are attended by notable personalities from the field. The centre also has a library which has a collection of more than 25000 books, periodicals and study materials. It also plays host to manyliterary workshops.

Opening Closing Time

Planetarium (Sky Show: Secret Lives of Stars):

12 pm and 4:30 pm (Hindi)

1:30 pm (Marathi)

3 pm (English)

Library:

10 am – 6 pm (Monday – Friday; 1st, 3rd and 5th Saturday)

Library:

Open all days, except Sunday

Nehru Centre is an opportunity for children to discover various aspects of the country, right from its history and culture to performing arts and sciences. Kids coming to this place can participate in the science workshops and other such interactive sessions which would be wonderful learning experiences for them.

Entrance Fee

Planetarium:

Rs. 55 for Adults

Rs. 30 for Children (4 - 12 years)

Location

Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai, 400018, Maharashtra

Indian Museum Ship Vikrant

Indian Museum Ship Vikrant Overview

Indian Museum Ship Vikrant is an aircraft carrier that was opened as a public museum during the Navy Week celebrations of 2012. Assembled in 1945 and purchased in 1957 by the Indian Navy, INS Vikrant is presently docked near the Gateway of India. It served the country during the Indo-Pak war of 1971 and played a prominent role in India's victory. Other than this historic war, the ship was involved in liberating the state of Goa from the Portuguese rule. It provided a perfect base for military aircraft and helicopters during these defence operations. 

Converted into a naval museum, the ship reminds people of its enormous significance during times of war. Naval artefacts showcased here include uniforms, armaments and things related to rescue operations, diving and launching of war missiles. There is a dedicated section in the museum that provides detailed information about war operations of 1971 and INS Vikrant's contribution. To reach this ship museum, visitors have to take a ferry ride from the dockyard near the Gateway of India.

Opening Closing Time

11 am – 4:30 pm

Open all days, except Monday

As this ship museum throws light on the glorious war victories of India, it serves as a source of knowledge for children.

Entrance Fee

Rs. 85 per Person

Location

Mumbai, Maharashtra

Bombay Natural History Society.

Bombay Natural History Society Overview

Founded on 15th September 1883, Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) is one of the largest conservation and biodiversity research centres in India. Located in the Fort area of Mumbai city, this conservation and research centre is among the nation's biggest non-government organisations. 

This place is a treat for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. They can participate in a number of activities like debates on issues of conservation of nature as well as biodiversity. It is Mumbai's finest place to indulge in exciting one day programmes like birding, nature walk and trail. National and international camps are organised at popular wildlife destinations that include national parks, sanctuaries and forests. Various workshops and training programmes pertaining to subjects of natural concern, such as Herpetology and Ornithology, are also conducted by BNHS. 

The society houses one of India's oldest and largest libraries on Natural History. The collection of preserved fauna at BNHS is equally rich and boasts of more than 29000 common and rare species of birds. Dining facilities are organised for visitors, on providing prior information. From avian and aquatic to terrestrial and amphibious – admire the gifts of Mother Nature at Bombay Natural History Society!

BNHS offers various opportunities to revel in photography. Camps and trails organised by the society expose you to picturesque vistas, compelling you to click pictures. The collection of rare species of flora and fauna at BNHS also demand snapshots.

Be it the rich collection of books at the library or exotic varieties of flora and fauna, everything about this place bounds you to bring your kids along. From camping to being acquainted with vivid species of plants, birds and animals – there are plenty of stimulants for the young visitors. A perfect amalgamation of education and fun - BNHS is truly the ideal place for kids to be!

Location

Colaba Causeway, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, 400001, Maharashtra

Sewri Jetty.

Sewri Jetty Overview

Sewri Jetty is a popular birdwatching haunt in its namesake suburb of South Mumbai. A large portion of this jetty is under the administration of the Bombay Port Trust. Its distinct ecosystem comprises mangrove swamps, mudflats and creeks that make it a protected area. 

As winters arrive, a large population of lesser flamingos migrate to this region from Rann of Kutch. These birds come for breeding and feeding on the algae growth that is present here. This area is also flocked by other avian species like egrets, herons, gulls, ibises, plovers, terns and sandpipers. The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) conducts nature walks in the region during the migratory season (October to March).

This birdwatching paradise makes for a wonderful photography spot as several flamingos and other birds can be spotted and photographed here.

Location

Sewri, Mumbai, Maharashtra

Jogger's Park.

Jogger's Park Overview
Jogger's Park is a 400 metre long jogging track along the beautiful coastline of Bandra in Mumbai. It is located near Otters Club, one of the premier clubs of the city. Late Sir Oliver Andrade gifted the Jogger's Park project and initiative as a token of love to the city. The pleasing environs and serenity of this little park attracts people who like to spend some peaceful time away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The park is a great place to click pictures. It has charming surroundings with coconut groves and endless waters of the Arabian Sea.

Location
Ramakrishna Paramahansa Road, Government Colony, Bandra East, Mumbai, 400051, Maharashtra.