Stampede-Like Situation At Mumbai's Sanjay Gandhi National Park: Here's How To Avoid It (VIDEO)

As the rains turn Mumbai lush and alive, the city's favourite monsoon retreat, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, becomes a hotspot for nature lovers. But on Sunday, what should've been a peaceful day in the greens turned into chaos as the park witnessed a stampede-like situation, reminding us how overcrowding can turn a scenic escape into a stressful experience.

What happened at SGNP?

A recent video posted by the popular 'Mumbai Rains' page on X (formerly Twitter) showed an overwhelming crowd packed into the park’s entry area, with a caption warning visitors, "If visiting the National Park during monsoon, beware of stampedes. It gets that crowded.”

Located in Borivali, Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) is one of Mumbai's most frequented spots for trekking, cycling, and nature walks, especially during the monsoon when its forests are at their greenest best. But as Sunday’s incident showed, its popularity can also lead to dangerous overcrowding, particularly on weekends.

Check video here:

How to avoid crowds at SGNP

If you’re planning to visit SGNP, here are a few ways to stay safe and avoid the rush:

Visit on weekdays: Skip weekends and public holidays to avoid heavy footfall.

Go early: Arrive at the park around opening hours (7:30 AM) to enjoy the trails before the crowd pours in.

Avoid peak monsoon weekends: Late July and early August see the highest influx; time your visit accordingly.

Stay informed: Follow local weather and park updates on social media before heading out.

Plan alternate routes: Use lesser-known entry points or trails within SGNP for a quieter experience.

Looking for quieter alternatives? Try these monsoon spots near Mumbai:

If you want the beauty of the monsoon without the chaos, here are five peaceful destinations that offer serenity and stunning views:

Devkund Waterfall (Near Bhira Village)

Hidden deep in the forests near Bhira, this twin-tiered waterfall is a 6-km trek filled with scenic bridges and lush greenery. The turquoise plunge waterfall makes it worth every slippery step.

Ashoka (Vihi) Waterfall, Kasara

Just off the Mumbai-Nashik highway, this wide and shallow waterfall is perfect for families. A short 45-minute walk leads to this lesser-known gem that’s both refreshing and photogenic.

Malabar Hill Elevated Nature Trail

A green escape within the city, this elevated walkway offers a Singapore-style treetop experience. Featuring a glass-bottom deck, sea views, and a bird-spotting zone, it’s a quiet delight tucked away in South Mumbai.

Matheran’s Hidden Viewpoints

While Matheran gets weekend traffic, spots like Panorama Point and Echo Point stay quieter and offer breathtaking misty views. Pair your visit with local snacks and tea from hillside cafés.