Van Rani returns to Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Van Rani returns to Sanjay Gandhi National Park – Nostalgia on Track
Mumbai families will soon get to relive a childhood favorite: Van Rani returns to Sanjay Gandhi National Park. After a four-year gap, the park’s iconic “Queen of the Jungle” toy train is being relaunched. Officials have rebuilt the entire 2.3 km track (all 15 bridges) with modern coaches, and say the heritage ride should reopen by late July 2025.
This is welcome news for Mumbaikars: the bright red-and-blue Van Rani first chugged through the park in the early 1970s and has delighted generations of children and nature lovers. In its original form the three-car train could carry up to 60–80 passengers at a time, and for over fifty years it has been a must-do family outing on Mumbai’s western fringe.
As word spreads that “Van Rani returns to Sanjay Gandhi National Park”, memories of long lines of smiling schoolkids and tourists are coming back. Park officials – backed by Union Minister Piyush Goyal and Maharashtra’s forest minister – have overseen the reconstruction of tracks and stations.
The test runs in early July were successful, and a full public relaunch is anticipated just before the monsoon’s peak. While a precise opening date has not been announced, late July 2025 is the target. (Visitors can plan around typical SGNP hours – the park generally opens by 7:30 AM and closes by early evening, with Mondays off.)
The Van Rani ride itself is as scenic as ever. Strung like beads through forest glades and hills, the narrow-gauge train winds through tunnels blasted out of basalt and rumbles past wooden bridges. Along the roughly 15–20 minute loop, passengers are treated to lush jungle views.
It’s common to glimpse spotted deer grazing by the huts in the Deer Park, or to see playful monkeys and peacocks watching the train go by. Even shy wild boars have been known to dart across the tracks in quieter moments. The vintage steam-engine styling (a new battery-powered Vistadome coach will offer panoramic views) and the charming forest scenery make the ride nostalgic yet educational. Informational panels on board now highlight the park’s plants and animals, turning a fun ride into a mini wildlife tour.
Park Attractions Beyond the Train
Sanjay Gandhi National Park offers much more to explore. One major highlight is the Kanheri Caves deep inside the forest. These 109 ancient Buddhist caves (carved into solid rock between the 1st century BCE and 10th century CE) served as monasteries and prayer halls for monks.
Families often hike or bike up to see the elaborate rock-cut sculptures, cisterns and inscriptions; the ridge above the caves provides sweeping views of the green landscape. (SGNP’s other natural sights include the Tulsi and Vihar lakes, which offer boating in the cooler months.)
The park also has a network of nature trails and walking paths. Easy marked trails like the famous “View Point” trek to Jambhulmal peak – Mumbai’s highest hill – reward hikers with 360° vistas of the park’s lakes and ridges. Newer guided trails such as the Shilonda and Malad routes let small groups explore deeper jungle areas. Along these shaded paths (with a rustic bamboo hut rest-spot along one route), visitors can spot birds, butterflies, and even leopards if lucky.
Another perennial favorite is the Lion and Tiger Safari. This fenced drive-through enclosure lets people view Indian lions and Bengal tigers in a semi-wild setting. Guests sit in secure vans as the animals wander close by – a thrilling way to see big cats without leaving the city. (SGNP’s mini-zoo and deer park – which the Van Rani rolls past – are also fun for younger children.)
Entry to SGNP is very affordable. Park admission for adults is only around ₹60–70 (children are charged less), and typical activity fees are modest. In past years, a Van Rani toy-train ticket cost on the order of ₹85–100 per rider. Officials have not yet announced the exact fares for the new coaches, but families can expect similarly low prices.
After months of anticipation, Van Rani’s return to Sanjay Gandhi National Park promises a joyful reunion of memory and nature. This family-friendly ride – now spruced up and safer – will let parents share their childhood wonder with a new generation.
Along with a trip to the Kanheri Caves, a bit of safari, or a forest walk, the revived Van Rani adds a perfect vintage touch to a day out in SGNP. Nature lovers and city dwellers alike can soon reserve tickets and plan a visit, hoping to hear once again the whistle of the little jungle train winding through Mumbai’s green heart.
