Mumbai has introduced its first elevated tree top walk at Malabar Hill, offering a refreshing nature retreat right in the heart of the city. Inspired by Singapore’s renowned ‘Tree Top Walk,’ this elevated walkway provides visitors with an unparalleled experience of walking amidst lush greenery, high above the forest floor.
A Walkway Amidst the Trees
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has developed this nature-friendly project with the aim of bringing people closer to Mumbai’s natural beauty while ensuring minimal environmental impact. The 485-meter-long and 2.4-meter-wide trail stretches between Kamala Nehru Park and the Doongerwadi woods, offering visitors a scenic route surrounded by diverse tree species like Gulmohar, Almond, Jamun, and Banyan. These trees not only enhance the trail’s aesthetic appeal but also provide a habitat for various birds, including kingfishers, bulbuls, and parakeets, as well as small reptiles like lizards and pythons.
Highlights of the Tree Top Walk
One of the most striking features of the trail is the Sea Viewing Deck, which offers breathtaking views of Mumbai’s coastline, including Girgaon Chowpatty and the Arabian Sea. Walking at an elevated height while soaking in the coastal beauty creates a truly serene and immersive experience.
For wildlife enthusiasts, the trail includes a birdwatching zone, providing a perfect spot to observe Mumbai’s vibrant avian population. Additionally, the glass-bottom viewing deck offers visitors a thrilling perspective of the forest floor below, adding an adventurous twist to the experience.
Eco-Friendly Design and Accessibility
The walkway has been carefully designed with sustainability in mind. Built primarily from wood with minimal use of concrete, it ensures that the natural water flow of the hill remains undisturbed and that wildlife movement is not obstructed.
The tree top walk is open daily from 5 AM to 9 PM, allowing visitors to enjoy a morning or evening stroll through the greenery. Entry tickets are reasonably priced at ₹25 for Indian citizens and ₹100 for foreign visitors, making it an affordable getaway for nature lovers. The entry and exit points are located at Siri Road, behind Kamala Nehru Park, ensuring easy accessibility.
A Green Initiative for Mumbai
Initially planned with a budget of ₹22 crore, the project eventually cost ₹25 crore due to additional taxes, including GST. Construction was carefully managed to comply with Malabar Hill’s status as a silent zone, restricting work to specific hours. Despite the challenges, the walkway is now nearly 90% complete and already welcoming visitors.
Mumbai’s first elevated nature trail is more than just a scenic pathway; it represents the city’s commitment to environmental conservation. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, birdwatcher, or someone seeking a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle, this stunning trail is a must-visit destination.
