Sanjay Gandhi National park : The 104 sq km protected area of forested hills on the city's northern fringe, has some interesting flora, birdlife and butterflies, a small poplation of leopards and a fenced area with captive tigers, including two white tigers. The best time to see birds is Oct to April and butterflies August to November. Enrance fee Rs 20. From the main gate one can travel to Kanheri caves by mini bus Rs 20 (one way).

The main attraction of the National park is lion and tiger safari, which depart from the tiger orientation centre, 1 km from the main gate. Ticket Rs 30 for a whirlwind 20 minute jaunt by mini bus through the two seperate zareas of the park housing the tiogers and lions. Safari bus leave roughly eveery 20 minutes from 0900 h to 1240 h and 1400h to 1720 h daily except Monday.

The national park has a mini toy train Rs 15. One can also climb by steps to a garden at a height to get an aerial view of the area. During the safari it will be difficult to spot a lion or a tiger. If you are lucky, you can get a glimse of 2 to 3 lions/tigers. Tigers are kept somewhat in cages. If you want to see lion/tiger in close proximity visit any of the zoo (Byculla Jijabhai Udyan).

Kanheri caves : Mini bus operates from the main gate of the National park, Rs 20 (one way). Entry fee to the caves is Rs 5. Timing : 0930 to 1730 h daily except Monday. The 109 Buddhist caves are 5 km away from the northern park entrance. They were used by Buddhist monks between the 2 nd and 9 th centuries as viharas (monasteries) and chaityas (temples).

Location : Borivali (By train from Churchgate station, Mumbai, Maharashtra in one hour). An auto at Rs 10 takes you to the park entrance. Visit the Kanheri caves first and on return getdown for the lion safari. A 5 minute walk take you to the mini train in the park.

Kanheri caves Photos