India's first mangrove park nears completion in Mumbai's Gorai; likely to open in August
Mumbai’s Gorai village is almost ready to welcome visitors to India’s first dedicated mangrove park, developed at a cost of approximately INR 33.43 crore over eight hectares. The Maharashtra Forest Department’s Mangrove Cell, which started work in October 2021, is targeting a grand opening by mid-August.
There is a 750-metre elevated wooden boardwalk at the heart of the park, which has been constructed with eco-friendly materials to protect the underlying mangrove ecosystem. This winding path culminates in a scenic viewing deck overlooking Gorai Creek, perfect for tranquil nature observation. Complementing this is an 18metre-tall watchtower, designed for birdwatchers to spot both local and migratory species from a vantage point high above the canopy.
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A two-floor Nature Interpretation Centre will serve as the educational heart of the park. Featuring informative displays, panels, and even a small library, the centre aims to engage students, researchers, and curious visitors alike. Top it off with a rooftop café and a nature-themed gift shop, and you’ve got a perfect blend of relaxation and environmental learning.
All about the park The park’s design prioritises sustainability: eco-friendly materials were used throughout, elevated pathways minimise disturbance, and solar panels power the facilities . Moreover, the site has been officially classified as a forest reserve, ensuring long-term ecological protection.
As per the reports, the park will be ticketed once it opens, however the state government has not yet approved the precise admission costs. To ensure the park's viability for many years to come, all funds raised will go towards conservation and park maintenance.
A senior forest official confirmed that final touches—painting, lighting, surface polishing, and landscaping—are currently underway, with public access expected within the next month.
Read more: Kenya's Great Migration in July: Safari travel tips and timing
This mangrove park is more than a walk in the woods—it’s an eco-tourism landmark designed to promote awareness of coastal ecosystems and inspire conservation. As it opens this August, Gorai could well become a model for urban nature preservation, proving that with thoughtful planning, development and ecology can coexist in harmony.
There is a 750-metre elevated wooden boardwalk at the heart of the park, which has been constructed with eco-friendly materials to protect the underlying mangrove ecosystem. This winding path culminates in a scenic viewing deck overlooking Gorai Creek, perfect for tranquil nature observation. Complementing this is an 18metre-tall watchtower, designed for birdwatchers to spot both local and migratory species from a vantage point high above the canopy.
Read more: White tigers in India: Top 6 zoos to see the majestic creature
A two-floor Nature Interpretation Centre will serve as the educational heart of the park. Featuring informative displays, panels, and even a small library, the centre aims to engage students, researchers, and curious visitors alike. Top it off with a rooftop café and a nature-themed gift shop, and you’ve got a perfect blend of relaxation and environmental learning.
All about the park The park’s design prioritises sustainability: eco-friendly materials were used throughout, elevated pathways minimise disturbance, and solar panels power the facilities . Moreover, the site has been officially classified as a forest reserve, ensuring long-term ecological protection.
As per the reports, the park will be ticketed once it opens, however the state government has not yet approved the precise admission costs. To ensure the park's viability for many years to come, all funds raised will go towards conservation and park maintenance.
A senior forest official confirmed that final touches—painting, lighting, surface polishing, and landscaping—are currently underway, with public access expected within the next month.
Read more: Kenya's Great Migration in July: Safari travel tips and timing
This mangrove park is more than a walk in the woods—it’s an eco-tourism landmark designed to promote awareness of coastal ecosystems and inspire conservation. As it opens this August, Gorai could well become a model for urban nature preservation, proving that with thoughtful planning, development and ecology can coexist in harmony.
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