10 places to explore near Mumbai for wildlife lovers

Escape the city bustle—discover 10 incredible wildlife havens just a drive away from Mumbai, where nature’s wonders await every explorer. (Image: Canva)

Mumbai’s frenzied rhythm rarely allows a pause. Yet, step beyond its concrete borders, and you’ll find yourself in a landscape transformed—lush forests, winding ghats, bird sanctuaries, and tiger reserves that seem worlds away from the city's clamour. For wildlife lovers seeking a breath of raw nature, these destinations offer a welcome reprieve—and in many cases, a rich glimpse into India’s ecological wonders.

Here are 10 exceptional places near Mumbai that promise untamed encounters and quiet, unforgettable communion with the wild.

1. Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Borivali
Distance: ~25 km
Few cities can boast of a wilderness reserve within their limits. Sanjay Gandhi National Park—home to leopards, langurs, and over 270 bird species—is Mumbai’s ecological crown jewel. Meander through dense paths or explore the rock-cut Kanheri Caves for a history-meets-nature experience. Early morning safaris offer your best chance at sightings.

2. Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary, Thane District
Distance: ~100 km
This quiet sanctuary around Tansa Lake is a mosaic of forested hills and grasslands, teeming with leopards, hyenas, and a symphony of birdlife. Ideal for those who prefer their wildlife experiences without the tourist trappings.

Karnala Bird Sanctuary, Raigad District (Image: Canva)

3. Karnala Bird Sanctuary, Raigad District
Distance: ~60 km
A birder’s paradise just a short drive from Mumbai, Karnala’s forested trails and hilltop fort are alive with over 220 bird species. Visit during migration season to witness nature’s most colourful winged performers.

4. Matheran, Raigad District
Distance: ~80 km
Though not a sanctuary, Matheran’s automobile-free status has preserved its natural ecosystem remarkably well. From shy snakes to playful monkeys and vibrant butterflies, its forest trails are full of gentle surprises.

5. Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, Alibaug
Distance: ~140 km
A coastal evergreen forest tucked between Murud and Alibaug, Phansad remains one of Maharashtra’s best-kept secrets. Wild boars, barking deer, and jungle cats prowl under its dense canopy—largely undisturbed by crowds.

6. Malshej Ghat, Western Ghats
Distance: ~130 km
A monsoon lover’s paradise, Malshej Ghat is famed for its misty cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and seasonal arrival of flamingos. Leopards, peacocks, and myriad species call its dramatic terrain home year-round.

7. Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary, near Pune
Distance: ~250 km
Come winter, Bhigwan transforms into a flamingo haven, often drawing comparisons to Bharatpur. Painted storks, bar-headed geese, and other migratory visitors turn this otherwise sleepy wetland into an avian spectacle.

8. Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Chandrapur
Distance: ~700 km
For the serious wildlife traveller, Tadoba is worth the longer journey. As Maharashtra’s oldest and most prolific tiger reserve, it offers real chances to spot the elusive Bengal tiger, along with sloth bears, leopards, and over 190 species of birds.

9. Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, Satara District
Distance: ~300 km
Part of the Western Ghats’ UNESCO World Heritage Biosphere, Koyna’s dense green expanse harbours gaur, leopards, sambar deer, and even tigers. A post-monsoon visit reveals the sanctuary in its most verdant form.

10. Melghat Tiger Reserve, Amravati DistrictDistance: ~650 km
Set in the rugged folds of the Satpura range, Melghat offers a more off-grid tiger tracking experience. The reserve’s undisturbed forests support not only big cats but also Indian bison, civets, and over 250 bird species.

From birdwatching to big-cat tracking—explore the wild side of Maharashtra with these top 10 nature escapes near Mumbai. (Image: Canva)

Mumbai’s proximity to these wild retreats offers a rare luxury: the ability to step out of the everyday and into the elemental. From short drives to long weekend expeditions, these destinations allow you to swap screen time for safari trails, and city noise for the call of the wild.

Whether you’re drawn to the elusive tiger, the soft stirrings of migratory birds, or the serenity of forest silence, these ten wildlife escapes near Mumbai are waiting.