7-Day Nature Itinerary in Mumbai, September 2023

1. Day 1: Sanjay Gandhi National Park
   1 hour (17.2 km) from Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport Mumbai

   Start your trip with a morning hike at Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Spot exotic birds and animals in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit the Kanheri Caves, a complex of Buddhist rock-cut monuments. End the day with a sunset at the Tulsi Lake.

2. Day 2: Elephanta Caves
   1 hour 15 minutes (23.9 km) from Sanjay Gandhi National Park

   Take a morning ferry to Elephanta Island to explore the ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures. In the afternoon, visit the Hanging Gardens and enjoy the panoramic views of the city. End the day at Marine Drive promenade for the beautiful sunset.

3. Day 3: Karnala Bird Sanctuary
   1 hour 20 minutes (50.6 km) from Elephanta Caves

   Start your day with a bird watching tour at Karnala Bird Sanctuary. Spot over 200 species of birds and enjoy a peaceful nature walk. In the afternoon, visit the Karnala Fort, a hill fort surrounded by lush greenery. End the day at the nearby Prabalgad Fort for a stunning sunset view.

4. Day 4: Alibaug Beach
   1 hour 40 minutes (58.2 km) from Karnala Bird Sanctuary

   Spend a relaxing day at the Alibaug Beach, a clean and calm beach with clear water. In the afternoon, visit the Kolaba Fort, a historic fort situated in the midst of the sea. End the day with a sunset boat ride at Mandwa Beach.

5. Day 5: Vasai Fort
   1 hour 30 minutes (56.8 km) from Alibaug Beach

   Get an early start to visit the Vasai Fort, a Portuguese fort built in the 16th century. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the fort. In the afternoon, visit the Arnala Beach for a relaxing swim. End the day with a sunset view from the Arnala Fort.

6. Day 6: Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
   4 hours 20 minutes (212 km) from Vasai Fort

   Take a day trip to Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area for the Indian Giant Squirrel and other endangered species. Enjoy a guided nature walk and visit the Bhimashankar Temple, a Jyotirlinga shrine. End the day with a sunset at the Bhimashankar Dam.

7. Day 7: Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
   2 hours (66.1 km) from Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary

   End your trip with a visit to Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, a forest reserve with diverse flora and fauna. Take a morning nature walk to spot wildlife and visit the Tungareshwar Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Vasai Beach for a relaxing swim. End the day with a sunset view from the Vasai Fort.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the Elephanta Festival if it's happening during your trip. Take a side trip to the Matheran Hill Station for a scenic railway journey and panoramic views. To maximize your fun, try the local street food and visit the Crawford Market for souvenirs. Don't miss the opportunity to watch a Bollywood movie at the iconic Regal Cinema.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Sanjay Gandhi National Park (4 hours, £3)
• Kanheri Caves (2 hours, £2)
• Tulsi Lake (1 hour, Free)
• Elephanta Caves (4 hours, £8)
• Hanging Gardens (1 hour, Free)
• Marine Drive (1 hour, Free)
• Karnala Bird Sanctuary (4 hours, £2)
• Karnala Fort (2 hours, £1)
• Prabalgad Fort (1 hour, Free)
• Alibaug Beach (6 hours, £5)
• Kolaba Fort (1 hour, £1)
• Mandwa Beach boat ride (1 hour, £5)
• Vasai Fort (4 hours, Free)
• Arnala Beach (3 hours, Free)
• Arnala Fort (1 hour, Free)
• Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary (8 hours, £10)
• Bhimashankar Temple (1 hour, Free)
• Bhimashankar Dam (1 hour, Free)
• Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary (6 hours, £5)
• Tungareshwar Temple (1 hour, Free)
• Vasai Beach (3 hours, Free)
• Total Estimated Costs: £51