Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a large protected area located in the northern part of Mumbai, Maharashtra. Thane is a bustling city just northeast of Mumbai, making this route popular for nature lovers and weekend travelers seeking a quick escape from city life.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Thane to Sanjay Gandhi National Park. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, fares, and useful tips to plan your trip smoothly and comfortably.

Getting from Thane to Sanjay Gandhi National Park – Main Options

Train

Taking the train is a popular and affordable way to reach Sanjay Gandhi National Park from Thane. The suburban railway network connects Thane to nearby stations close to the park.

• The nearest railway station to the park is Borivali on the Western Line, about 20 km from Thane. Trains run frequently between Thane and Borivali, taking around 45 to 60 minutes.

• Local trains cost between ₹15 to ₹30 depending on the class and time of day, making it a budget-friendly option for most travelers.

• Trains can get crowded during peak hours (morning and evening), so plan your travel outside these times for a more comfortable journey.

• From Borivali station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to the park entrance, which is about 3 to 4 km away and takes 10 to 15 minutes.

• During monsoon season, train services may face delays due to waterlogging or track maintenance, so check live updates on the Indian Railways or IRCTC app before traveling.

Bus

Buses provide a direct and economical way to travel from Thane to areas near Sanjay Gandhi National Park. State transport and private buses operate on this route.

• Mumbai Metropolitan Region Transport System (MMTS) and BEST buses run from Thane to Borivali and Kandivali, which are near the park’s entrances.

• The bus journey takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic, covering around 25 to 30 km via the Western Express Highway and National Highway 48.

• Bus fares range from ₹20 to ₹50, depending on the type of bus (ordinary, AC, or non-AC) and distance traveled.

• Buses can be crowded during rush hours and weekends, especially during holidays when visitors flock to the park.

• Rest stops along the highway offer basic food stalls and tea shops, but it is advisable to carry water and snacks for the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Thane to Sanjay Gandhi National Park is convenient for travelers who prefer flexibility and comfort. The route is well connected by highways.

• The distance between Thane and the park’s main entrance at Borivali East is about 25 km, taking roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour by car depending on traffic.

• Use the Eastern Express Highway (NH 48) and Western Express Highway for the fastest route; tolls may apply on some stretches.

• Parking is available near the park entrance, but it can get crowded on weekends and public holidays, so arrive early to secure a spot.

• Driving allows you to stop at roadside eateries or rest points along the way, which are common on NH 48.

• During the monsoon, roads can be slippery and visibility low, so drive cautiously and check weather conditions before starting your trip.

Taxi / App-Based Cab

Hiring a taxi or booking an app-based cab like Ola or Uber is a comfortable and hassle-free option for traveling from Thane to Sanjay Gandhi National Park.

• The ride covers about 25 km and usually takes 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic conditions on the highways.

• Fares typically range from ₹400 to ₹700 one way, depending on the cab type and surge pricing during peak hours or weekends.

• Prepaid taxis are available at Thane railway station, but app-based cabs offer easier booking and fare estimates.

• Using a cab allows door-to-door service, which is helpful if you are carrying luggage or traveling with family.

• Traffic congestion is common during evening hours and weekends, so plan your return trip accordingly to avoid delays.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If this is your first time traveling from Thane to Sanjay Gandhi National Park, follow these simple steps to ensure a smooth journey.

• Check the weather forecast and park timings to choose the best day for your visit, as the park closes early in the evening.

• Book your train or bus tickets in advance using the IRCTC app or MSRTC website to avoid last-minute hassles and confirm seat availability.

• If traveling by car or taxi, plan your route using Google Maps or a GPS device, and check for any traffic updates or road closures.

• Pack essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes since the park involves some trekking and outdoor activity.

• On arrival at Borivali station or bus stop, use prepaid auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs to reach the park entrance safely and at reasonable fares.

• Carry a valid ID and park entry ticket, which can be booked online or at the entrance, to avoid waiting in long queues.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded trains and buses, as pickpocketing can occur in busy Indian transport hubs.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your trip to avoid stomach issues, and carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated inside the park.

• Book your train or bus tickets early during weekends and holidays since this route is popular and tickets sell out quickly.

• Use local transport apps like Ola and Uber for last-mile connectivity from stations to the park entrance to avoid bargaining and overcharging.

• Travel light as the park involves walking and some uphill paths; avoid carrying heavy luggage or large bags.

• During monsoon, carry a raincoat or umbrella and wear non-slip shoes, as trails can be muddy and slippery inside the park.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Sanjay Gandhi National Park from Thane is during the cooler months from October to February. The weather is pleasant, making outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Avoid traveling during the heavy monsoon months of July and August when the park trails can be closed due to safety concerns and local transport may face delays.

• Avoid weekends and public holidays if you prefer less crowded trains and roads, as the park attracts many visitors during these times.

• Fog and low visibility can affect early morning train and bus services in winter, so plan to start your journey after sunrise.

• Early morning departures help you avoid city traffic and reach the park before it gets crowded, especially on weekends.

• Summer months (March to June) can be hot and humid, so carry sun protection and start your trip early to avoid afternoon heat.

Arrival at Sanjay Gandhi National Park & What to Expect

When you arrive at Sanjay Gandhi National Park, you will find several entry points, with the Borivali East entrance being the most popular. The park is well signposted from the main roads.

Local transport options include prepaid auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs that can take you from the railway station or bus stop to the park entrance. Inside the park, you can hire bicycles or use guided tours for easier exploration.

Nearby areas such as Borivali and Kandivali offer a range of accommodation options, from budget lodges to mid-range hotels, suitable for overnight stays if you want to explore the park over two days.

Conclusion

Traveling from Thane to Sanjay Gandhi National Park is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. The train and bus are economical and frequent, while cars and taxis offer greater comfort and flexibility.

Plan your trip by checking transport schedules and weather conditions, booking tickets in advance, and preparing for local travel inside Mumbai’s suburbs. With these tips, you can confidently enjoy a refreshing visit to this beautiful urban forest reserve just a short distance from Thane.