Mumbai’s Sanjay Gandhi National Park gets a thrilling Leopard Safari
Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), one of the world’s only national parks within city limits, just got more exciting! A brand new leopard safari has been launched, adding to the latest updates in Mumbai’s wildlife scene.
Ashish Shelar Inaugurates New Safari and Adopts Lion Cubs
Maharashtra’s Information Technology and Cultural Affairs Minister, Ashish Shelar, who also looks after Mumbai’s suburban district, officially opened the leopard safari. He also showed his support for wildlife conservation by adopting two lion cubs, Bharat and Bharati, who came from Gujarat on January 26. He will take care of them for a year.
New Addition to Existing Safaris
SGNP already has lion and tiger safaris. Now, with the leopard safari, visitors will have another amazing experience. The safari is designed to be safe for both people and the leopards.
What to Expect on the Leopard Safari
The leopard [[safari]] is within a special 30-hectare area made to look like the leopards’ natural home. This new project, estimated to cost around INR 5 crores, gives people a safe way to see these amazing animals up close. Right now, SGNP has 17 leopards, and there might be more in the future. You might see them relaxing in the sun, climbing trees, or even playing with each other.
Education and Awareness
The safari isn’t just for fun; it’s also educational. You’ll learn about leopard conservation, their importance in the environment, and how humans and wildlife can live together peacefully in a growing city. With leopard sightings happening in areas like Aarey Colony and nearby homes, the safari wants to teach people about these often misunderstood animals. By letting people see them safely, the park hopes to reduce fear and encourage everyone to live together peacefully.
More to Do at Sanjay Gandhi National Park
SGNP is a great place for people in Mumbai to escape the busy city. Besides the safaris, there’s a lot to do. You can visit the ancient [[Kanheri Caves]], go on nature trails, cycle, take a mini train ride, visit the butterfly garden, go boating on the lakes, or visit the Gandhi memorial. With over 254 types of birds, 40 types of mammals, 78 types of reptiles and amphibians, 150 types of butterflies, and 1,300 types of plants, it’s a nature lover’s paradise!
