Family-Friendly Itinerary: Exploring Borivali and Kandivali
Monday, August 28: Borivali
Start your trip by visiting the Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Borivali. This sprawling park offers a refreshing escape from the city, with lush greenery, a variety of flora and fauna, and scenic trails. Spend the morning exploring the park and visiting attractions like the Kanheri Caves, a series of ancient Buddhist rock-cut monuments. In the afternoon, head to EsselWorld, a popular amusement park in Gorai, which offers thrilling rides, water slides, and entertainment for all ages. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Global Vipassana Pagoda, a serene Buddhist monument that offers panoramic views of the surroundings.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park: Entrance Fee - INR 53 (per person), Time Spent - 3-4 hours
Global Vipassana Pagoda: Free Entry, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Cafe Coffee Day is a popular choice for a hearty breakfast in Borivali. They offer a variety of options, including sandwiches, pancakes, and omelets. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Lunch: Saffron Spice is a must-visit restaurant in Borivali for delectable Indian cuisine. They serve a variety of dishes like biryani, kebabs, and curries. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Dinner: The Fusion Kitchen in Kandivali is a great place to enjoy a delicious dinner. They offer a fusion of Indian and international cuisines with dishes like pasta, sushi, and tandoori specials. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, August 29: Kandivali
Start your day by visiting the Kanheri Caves in Kandivali, a complex of Buddhist rock-cut monuments dating back to the 1st century BC. Explore the intricate carvings and ancient Buddhist sculptures as you walk through the caves. In the afternoon, head to Water Kingdom, Asia's largest water theme park, located in Gorai. Enjoy thrilling water rides, wave pools, and slides that are sure to keep the whole family entertained. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Gorai Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning sunset views.
Water Kingdom: Ticket Price - INR 1,000 (per person), Time Spent - 4-5 hours
Gorai Beach: Free Entry, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Vrindavan. This family-friendly restaurant offers a wide variety of breakfast options including sandwiches, omelettes, and traditional Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Urban Tadka. This restaurant specializes in North Indian cuisine and offers a great selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The ambiance is lively and the service is friendly. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Village - The Soul of Maharashtra. This restaurant serves authentic Maharashtrian cuisine in a rustic setting, giving you a true taste of the local culture. Enjoy traditional dishes like vada pav, puran poli, and kolhapuri chicken. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, visit the Mandapeshwar Caves in Borivali, an ancient rock-cut Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. These caves are believed to be around 1,500 years old and offer an intriguing glimpse into the region's history. Another hidden gem is the Chhota Kashmir Park in Kandivali, a peaceful park with lush gardens, boating facilities, and a mini train ride, perfect for a relaxing family outing. Don't miss trying out the local street food in both Borivali and Kandivali, offering a variety of delicious treats like vada pav, pav bhaji, and bhel puri.