Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), located in the northern suburbs of Mumbai, is one of the world’s largest national parks within a metropolitan area. It offers a lush green escape from city life, with rich biodiversity, historical sites like the Kanheri Caves, and fun activities such as safaris, boating, and cycling. For anyone planning a visit to this iconic park in 2025, understanding the ticket prices and fees for various activities is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
General Entry Fee
The basic entry ticket to Sanjay Gandhi National Park in 2025 is priced differently for Indian residents and foreign tourists. Indian adults are charged Rs 85 to Rs 103 depending on the source, while children aged 5 to 12 years get a concessionary ticket priced between Rs 45 and Rs 50. Children below 5 years are usually granted free entry. Foreign visitors pay a higher fee, approximately Rs 287, reflecting standard pricing policies for international tourists at Indian national parks.
These entry fees provide access to the park grounds and its general hiking trails, nature viewing, and visitor amenities. The park is open every day except Monday, typically opening for day visitors from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM and for morning walkers (pass holders) from 5:30 AM to about 7:30 AM or 8:00 AM.
Additional Charges for Popular Attractions
Beyond the general entry, visitors interested in exploring key attractions and availing park facilities must pay additional fees:
- Kanheri Caves Entry: The rock-cut Buddhist Kanheri Caves are among the most famous historical sites within the park. Indian visitors pay Rs 10 to Rs 25 for entry, while foreigners pay Rs 200. A shuttle bus service from the park entrance to the caves is available at Rs 12 to Rs 60 per person.
- Safaris: The park offers both lion and tiger safaris, which are a major crowd-puller. Tickets cost around Rs 64 to Rs 124 for adults and Rs 25 to Rs 50 for children. Foreign nationals may pay higher rates. These safaris allow visitors to see captive big cats and other wildlife in naturalistic enclosures.
- Boating: Pedal boats on the park’s lakes are a popular recreational option, with prices like Rs 85 for two-seater boats and Rs 173 to Rs 190 for four-seaters.
- Cycle Rentals: Renting a bicycle in the park is another great way to explore. Cycle rentals cost about Rs 80 for two hours, with incremental charges for extra time. A refundable deposit and ID proof are required for rental. Bringing one’s own cycle can also incur a small fee.
- Mini Train & Buggy Tours: The park runs buggy tours for adults at Rs 50 and children at Rs 25. The mini train is occasionally operational and charges vary.
Photography Charges
Visitors wishing to carry cameras should note there are extra charges. The still camera photography fee is around Rs 235 to Rs 259, while video cameras carry an additional charge of Rs 50. These fees help regulate professional and semi-professional photography in the park.
Vehicle Entry and Parking
While private vehicles were once permitted inside the park at varying fees depending on vehicle type (e.g., Rs 61 for motorcycles, Rs 242 for cars, Rs 428 for buses), recent updates indicate that personal vehicles may no longer be allowed within the park premises. Paid parking is available near the park entrance.
Tips for Visitors
- Timing Your Visit: The best months to visit the park are from October to March when the weather is cooler and wildlife visibility is higher. Arriving early in the morning ensures a more peaceful visit and better chances to see animals.
- Advance Ticket Booking: It is advisable to buy tickets online through official or trusted third-party platforms to avoid long queues, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Morning Walk Passes: Frequent visitors may opt for annual or monthly morning walk passes priced around Rs 287, granting early access before the general crowd arrives.
- Facilities: The park has developed visitor amenities, including guides, restrooms, and refreshment stalls. Guides are available at variable rates depending on the trail and group size, typically Rs 500 to Rs 800.
Understanding the Value
The various ticket prices and activity fees at Sanjay Gandhi National Park are structured to maintain the park’s infrastructure, support conservation efforts, and enhance visitor experience. While the fees might seem multiple, they provide access to a protected urban wilderness area, an ecological treasure with historically significant sites, a wildlife sanctuary, and recreational options all rolled into one location.
This comprehensive guide highlights the current ticket prices and essential visitor information to help plan a memorable excursion to Sanjay Gandhi National Park in 2025. Whether you plan a quiet nature walk, an adventurous safari, or a cultural visit to the Kanheri Caves, knowing the ticket structure in advance will help you budget and optimize your visit efficiently.
