India’s First Mangrove Park Set to Open in Mumbai’s Gorai by Mid-August, Features 750m Boardwalk, Nature Centre and More

Mumbai is gearing up to unveil a one-of-a-kind green retreat — the country’s first dedicated mangrove park — in the coastal village of Gorai. Spearheaded by Maharashtra’s Mangrove Cell, this landmark eco-tourism project is in its final construction phase and is scheduled to open to the public by mid-August, just ahead of Independence Day.

Developed at a cost of ₹33.43 crore, the park spans 8 hectares of protected mangrove forest. It aims to balance ecological preservation with public access, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore and learn about mangrove ecosystems through immersive, eco-friendly experiences.

🚨India’s first Mangrove Park getting ready in Mumbai’s Gorai, final work under progess. pic.twitter.com/MaKKJwpopM

— Indian Infra Report (@Indianinfoguide) June 8, 2025

A Walk Through Nature

The highlight of the park is a 750-metre-long elevated wooden boardwalk that meanders through dense mangrove trails and ends at a serene viewing deck overlooking a creek. Built with sustainable materials and minimal environmental impact, the design takes cues from Malabar Hill’s elevated walkway, tailored specifically for the sensitive mangrove environment.

Bird’s-Eye Views for Wildlife Enthusiasts

An 18-metre watchtower stands tall within the park, offering panoramic views ideal for birdwatching and nature observation. The area is known to host a variety of resident and migratory bird species, making it a hotspot for photographers, naturalists, and wildlife lovers.

Learning at the Core

Education is central to the park’s mission. A two-storey Nature Interpretation Centre will serve as an interactive hub, featuring a mini library, educational displays, and informative panels on mangrove ecology. It’s designed to attract students, researchers, and eco-curious visitors looking to deepen their knowledge of coastal biodiversity and environmental sustainability.

Powered by the Sun, Built to Preserve

Sustainability is a key focus — all park infrastructure is elevated to minimize ecological disruption and is powered by solar energy. Visitors can also enjoy a rooftop café and browse a nature-themed gift shop that promotes eco-conscious products.

Hearing that this Mangrove Park in Gorai that we started work on in October 2021, will finally be open to everyone soon.

Happy to see that just like the “Tree Top walk” in Malabar Hill, “Urban Forest” in Marol that I had the honour and privilege to initiate as Minister in the… https://t.co/TzrQyJmezT

— Aaditya Thackeray (@AUThackeray) June 3, 2025

Ticketing and Conservation

The state government is currently reviewing a proposal for entry fees. Officials have confirmed that any revenue generated will be reinvested into park maintenance and conservation programs, ensuring long-term ecological stewardship.

Nearing Completion

Construction began in 2021, following the site’s declaration as a forest reserve. With structural work now complete, finishing touches such as landscaping, lighting, and painting are underway. The park is on track to open its doors by mid-August.

Aaditya Thackeray, former Environment Minister and Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA who initiated the project, recently expressed pride in its near-completion: “Happy to see yet another project I had the honour of launching coming to life,” he posted online.

Once open, the Gorai Mangrove Park is set to become a landmark in Mumbai — blending recreation, education, and conservation in one of the city’s most vital natural habitats.