Jungle Safari Near Mumbai: Wilderness In Maharashtra

A scenic view of a wildlife sanctuary near Mumbai with lush greenery and diverse fauna.

Only a few hours from Mumbai, these wildlife sanctuaries and nature reserves provide an adventure and also provide an escape for nature enthusiasts. Ranging from wooded jungles with inhabited tigers and leopards to peaceful hill stations and green flatlands with wildflower carpets, every destination is different from one another. Be it a more adventurous safari, a calm scenic trek, or just a beautiful place close to nature with no one around, the jungle safari near Mumbai will take you deep inside the wilderness, and that too in a very positive way.

Top Jungle Safari Near Mumbai

Some of the popular jungle safaris near Mumbai include:

1. Sanjay Gandhi National Park

An image of the jeep safari in Sanjay Gandhi National Park with lush greenery.

Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons

Owing to its proximity to the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is located only 35 km away from most city dwellers. The park has jeep safaris that enable visitors to view leopards and monkeys, as well as many different types of birds. Additionally, it has hiking trails, the ancient Kanheri Caves, and even a lion and tiger safari, which is a rare chance to see the large felines. The park is suitable for people who wish to explore the wilderness while remaining very close to a city.

Distance From Mumbai: 35 km
Entry Fee: ₹50
Best Time To Visit: November to April

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Maharashtra

2. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

An image of the jeep safari in Tadoba Tiger Reserve, with a tiger sighting in the background.

Photo: Asif N Khan / Wikimedia Commons

Tadoba, approximately 700 km away from Mumbai, is one of the best places for wildlife adventure in Maharashtra. Famous for the tens of tigers present in the reserve, it is also home to leopards, wild dogs, and a myriad of birds. Travelers can also enjoy Jeep safari rides wandering around the thick woods looking for tigers and other wild animals in their natural environment. The most favourable months to visit the park are from November through June since one gets to appreciate the beauty in the wild.

Distance From Mumbai: 700 km
Entry Fee: ₹200 – 400
Best Time To Visit: October to June

3. Bhandardara (Wilson Dam)

An image view of Wilson Dam and lush greenery in Bhandardara during monsoon season.

Photo: Adwait / Wikimedia Commons

Bhandardara, which is around 165 km away from Mumbai, is one of the picturesque places that have landscapes, waterfalls, and the Wilson Dam. The place provides nature treks and a chance to see animals like leopards, sambars, and wild boars. It is also an ideal place for camping and other physical excursions. The period of monsoon (June to September) is the most appropriate season to visit as the place will have vegetation and active waterfalls, making it convenient for tourists who love nature and activities as well.

Distance From Mumbai: 165 km
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: June to March

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4. Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary

An image of the forest in Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, the best jungle safari near Mumbai.

Photo: Mansanyas / Wikimedia Commons

Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, which is situated close to Mumbai at a distance of about 200 km, provides a perfect getaway into the wilderness. The sanctuary has a rich variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, deer, and several birds. There are some treks, nature walks, and jeep safaris available in the dense forest for all visitors. The quietness of the region, in conjunction with the Sajjangad Fort nearby, makes it a stimulating yet peaceful place to visit. It can be visited from November to March, as this period offers the best weather for such activities.

Distance From Mumbai: 200 km
Entry Fee: ₹25 – 50
Best Time To Visit: November to March

5. Koynanagar (Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary)

An image of the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary with scenic views of the hills and forest.

Photo: Bangal Priti / Wikimedia Commons

Positioned 330 kilometres away from the city of Mumbai, Koynanagar is a calm destination blessed with nature and its fauna. The Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, which is rich in flora and fauna, consists of elephants, tigers, leopards, and several varieties of birds, among others. For those who wish to take strolls through the woods and go on wildlife safaris in the sacred Koyna National Park, the best time to do so is between October and March when the climate is favourable and there is more frequent spotting of the wildlife.

Distance From Mumbai: 330 km
Entry Fee: ₹50 – 100
Best Time To Visit: October to March

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6. Panchgani And Mahabaleshwar

An image of the misty mountains from the hill stations of Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar.

Photo: B Balaji / Wikimedia Commons

Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar, at a distance of 250 km from Mumbai, are scenic and adventure-filled hill stations. These places offer some outdoor sports activities such as trekking, birdwatching, and wandering through beautifully green grounds. Even though Mahabaleshwar has a lot of viewpoints and strawberry gardens, which are appealing to tourists, it is mostly known for its quiet and numerous viewpoints. This is certainly the best Mumbai jungle safari. The best time to do so is between October and June when the climate is favourable and there is more frequent spotting of the wildlife.

Distance From Mumbai: 250 km
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to June

7. Kaas Plateau (Kaas Pathar)

An image of the beautiful wildflowers at Kaas Plateau, the best jungle safari near Mumbai.

Photo: Pratishkhedekar / Wikimedia Commons

Situated at a distance of 280 km from the city of Mumbai, the Kaas Plateau is a UNESCO World Heritage Site believed to have striking seasonal wildflower blooms. The plateau is rich in various flora and fauna, having several unique types of orchids and butterflies. Those who wish to explore the plants, birds, and insects can enjoy some informative guided nature trails. The most appropriate time to visit the plateau is from August to October when the plateau is filled with beautiful blossoms.

Distance From Mumbai: 280 km
Entry Fee: ₹20 – 50
Best Time To Visit: August to October

Suggested Read: Explore The Best Things To Do In Lonavala

8. Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary

An image of the dense forests of Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, the best jungle safari near Mumbai.

Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons

Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, considered a great getaway for wildlife lovers, is situated at a distance of only 150 km from Mumbai. The sanctuary has leopards, spotted deer, and wild boar, along with many other birds. Either a Jeep safari or an expedition through the sanctuary provides an exhilarating chance to view animals in their natural surroundings. The park is full of forests and hills, which render it an adventurous place for nature walks and bird watching. The most favourable period to visit the place is between October and April since the weather is conducive to outdoor activities.

Distance From Mumbai: 150 km
Entry Fee: ₹50 – 100
Best Time To Visit: October to April

9. Alibaug (Khanderi And Underi Forts)

An image of Khanderi Fort and the coastline of Alibaug, the best jungle safari near Mumbai.

Photo: Yamini vijay lawhate / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Alibaug is situated about 95 km away from Mumbai and is a coastal town famous for its beaches, forts, and scenic apparitions. Khanderi and Underi forts can be explored by boat. The region also has bird watching and nature walks along the sea with dolphin and seagull sightings. Alibaug can be best visited from November to March, a seemingly short but adventurous and peaceful history-inspired trip from Mumbai. For Jungle Safari Near Mumbai ticket price, the price may vary from ₹200 to ₹1,500.

Distance From Mumbai: 95 km
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: November to March

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10. Karnala Bird Sanctuary

An image of a small bridge at the Karnala Bird Sanctuary in Mumbai.

Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons

Karnala Bird Sanctuary is a bird-watching and nature-spotting reserve located 50 km away from Mumbai, which is often frequented by guests. The sanctuary has over 150 varieties of birds, including winter-visiting birds. The main attraction of the sanctuary is the hill-seated, well-trained army of Karnala Fort, which offers the thrill of trekking in addition to breathtaking views. The ideal period to plan a trip here is between November and March, as this is the most comfortable weather with optimum opportunities for birdwatching.

Distance From Mumbai: 50 km
Entry Fee: ₹40
Best Time To Visit: November to March

Whether you are a nature lover, a hiker, or a person who just wants to relax in nature, these jungle safaris and natural retreats close by have something for everyone. Be it the Tadoba jungle, which is infested with tigers, or the parrot-filled aviary in Karnala, there are plenty of such getaways that not only offer adventure but also the chance to commune with nature, thereby making them ideal for the busy city working class. So plan your next vacation with TripXL and enjoy the horrifying experience in this top jungle safari near Mumbai.

Cover Photo: Incredible Mother Earth / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

While tiger country, great migration, birding sites, or historical places, each of these destinations has something unique to offer and takes adventure to a new level.
Definitely. Most of these safaris, particularly in protected areas like Sanjay Gandhi National Park or even Karnala Bird Sanctuary, are child-friendly and can be undertaken easily. However one must always post caution as advised by the park management.
Yes, destinations like Bhandardara or Kaas Plateau are also active vegetatively during the rainy season. However, it is better to be cautious about the argument about weather effects because red mud becomes very slippery and rains heavily.
Some safaris may be undertaken without any guidance; however, the presence of a guide in these instances is encouraged as they help in learning about the plants and animals and the existing local environment.
Dress up in loose clothes and sturdy shoes meant for walking, trekking, and other activities. Last but not least, don’t leave out some essentials like binoculars and cameras, sunblock, and bug spray.

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