Hanging Gardens — Attraction in Mumbai

Timeless Tranquility Above the Arabian Sea: Hanging Gardens, Mumbai

Nestled atop Malabar Hill, floating gently above the city’s din and overlooking the Arabian Sea, the Hanging Gardens of Mumbai—officially known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens—offer a sanctuary not just of greenery, but of perspective. This is not merely a public garden; it is a verdant amphitheatre of history, memory, and floral artistry, gracefully perched above the chaos of one of the world’s most populous cities.

Laid out in 1881 during the British colonial era, the gardens were named after Sir Pherozeshah Mehta, a prominent Indian political leader, barrister, and municipal reformer often dubbed the “Father of Bombay Municipality.” These terraced gardens were strategically designed atop a vast water reservoir built in 1880 to protect the potable water stored beneath from contamination—a rare fusion of aesthetic charm and functional urban planning. The term “hanging” refers to their tiered structure, reminiscent of the ancient Hanging Gardens of Babylon, though in a uniquely Mumbai avatar.

Spread over 3.5 hectares, the gardens are a botanical canvas of seasonal blooms, trimmed hedges shaped into peacocks and elephants, and walking paths lined with bougainvillea and hibiscus. Early mornings here are cloaked in dew and golden silence, while evenings unfurl a soft breeze laden with the scent of champa and nostalgia.

The gardens serve not only as a leisure spot but also as a historic lookout point. From the stone-laced edges of the garden, one can gaze upon the Queen’s Necklace—the crescent curve of Marine Drive sparkling at dusk like a diadem of diamonds. The panoramic views extend to Chowpatty Beach and the domes of colonial Mumbai, framed by frangipani branches and monsoon clouds. On clear days, you can trace the outline of Back Bay and the far-off industrial silhouettes of Mumbai’s docks, all quietly pulsating beneath you.

What’s lesser known is the role this garden has played in Mumbai’s socio-cultural evolution. Malabar Hill, where it resides, has long been home to the city’s governors, business magnates, and cultural stalwarts. The garden has been a silent witness to morning walks of poets, twilight musings of artists, and first dates under lampposts. It has absorbed the shifting decades—from the horse-drawn carriages of colonial Bombay to the digital hush of smartphone joggers today.

Flora-wise, the garden is home to more than 300 plant species, from native shrubs to exotic ornamental trees. The iconic topiary animals are pruned with extraordinary dedication—a form of green sculpture that evokes both whimsy and discipline. Birdsong is a regular visitor, with over 40 species documented in the area. And if you come at sunrise, you may catch a fleeting glimpse of parakeets, mynas, and even the occasional Brahminy kite soaring above the palm-lined horizon.

The gardens are open to the public from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily, and entry is entirely free—a democratic gift of peace in the middle of a bustling megapolis. Benches are generously placed under ancient banyans and jamun trees, and the walking loops stretch to about 1.2 kilometers—perfect for a meditative morning or leisurely evening stroll. Adjacent to the Hanging Gardens lies Kamala Nehru Park, forming a twin green space that doubles the delight for walkers and picnickers alike.

It’s easy to forget that beneath your feet lies one of the city’s largest water tanks, built during the late 19th century to supply fresh drinking water to South Mumbai. To build a blooming paradise atop a utilitarian tank speaks volumes of the city’s ability to balance necessity and beauty—a rare feat, especially in the urban sprawl of modern India.

In a city constantly negotiating between its past and its future, the Hanging Gardens offer a still point—a place where history lingers not in museums, but in the fragrance of flowering shrubs and the silence between leaves.

Come not just for a walk—but to rediscover how quietly a...

The Hanging Gardens of Mumbai, also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, is a well-known green oasis located on the western side of Malabar Hill, opposite Kamala Nehru Park. Here’s a detailed review of its various features:

About Oxygen Area One of the most appealing aspects of the Hanging Gardens is the lush greenery that serves as a significant oxygen source. The abundance of trees and plants provides a refreshing escape from the city's pollution, making it a popular spot for nature lovers. The well-maintained flower beds and topiaries add to the charm, creating a serene environment where visitors can breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the natural beauty.

Garden The garden itself is beautifully designed, featuring meticulously manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and intricate hedges shaped into various animals. The colorful blooms, particularly during the flowering season, create a picturesque setting that is perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxation. The garden’s layout is thoughtfully planned, with winding pathways that allow visitors to explore different sections at a relaxed pace.

Picnic Area For those looking to spend a day outdoors, the Hanging Gardens provide an excellent picnic area. Families and friends often gather here, spreading out blankets and enjoying meals amidst the tranquil surroundings. The shade provided by the large trees makes it comfortable even on sunny days. The picnic area is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.

Morning Walk Early mornings at the Hanging Gardens are particularly delightful. The cool breeze, chirping birds, and dew-kissed plants create a perfect setting for a morning walk. The pathways are frequented by joggers and walkers who appreciate the quiet and refreshing atmosphere. The garden opens early, allowing visitors to start their day with a healthy dose of exercise and nature’s beauty.

View One of the highlights of the Hanging Gardens is the stunning view it offers. Located atop Malabar Hill, the garden provides panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the iconic Marine Drive, also known as the Queen’s Necklace due to its sparkling lights at night. This vantage point is perfect for photography enthusiasts and those looking to soak in the scenic vistas of Mumbai’s coastline. Sunset views from the garden are particularly spectacular, drawing many visitors who come to witness the sky’s changing hues over the sea. The Hanging Gardens of Mumbai is a true gem, offering a blend of natural beauty, recreational spaces, and breathtaking views. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to read a book, a picturesque setting for a family picnic, or a scenic location for a morning walk, this garden caters to all. Its well-maintained greenery and serene environment make it a must-visit for anyone in Mumbai, providing a refreshing escape from the urban...

The fate might not be hanging -- but the prestige is

Not far from the sea and amongst the most famous gardens in the city, Hanging Gardens, located at the highest point in South Mumbai, might not be in a state of despair but in a state where its status ( quo ) can be viewed askance.

The walking track, undeservingly deprived of the waft which was probably a misfortune of mine, is entirely covered with mud -- which is flattened, hard and consistent -- throughout the garden. The advantage is that it helps keep the temperature down by a Fahrenheit or two; one won't see many gardens with such tracks in the city. Another benefit is having a jog on such a track feels better. However, apropos the track material, don't let the prima facie belief settle down on you, and I don't mean any rebuking by stating so. One doesn't relate the above-mentioned characteristics with mud; some leg taps should be enough to plausibly convince one that the track isn't entirely of mud but only has a layer of it. The base is very likely than not cement on top of which the mud has been layered.

Having several of them, the garden's sub-tracks take one through numerous small lawns, a number of which were dug up when I went here. Ideally, the digging should have commenced prior to the monsoon; what transpired the garden authorities to start in the middle of monsoon probably only the authorities would know the best. A third of the lawns had dry, untrimmed grass, which surprisingly lacked any freshness despite the monsoon season. Another third of the lawns had plants with about 8-10 types of flowers. At various points, empty carts -- flipped -- were seen, sometimes stacked on top of one another.

There are benches at the regular stretches, and the park is tidy. The benches at the nooks are hotspots not because of the scenery they offer but because of the privacy they offer to certain audiences. The green tunnels are only a handful and small, and they aren't densely, but reasonably covered by leaves. It feels cool to sit under them and schmooze. There are no medium-sized or large trees in the park, and this means there isn't any shade in a significant majority of the park's area. This means the sun will hit you hard if you are there in the afternoon, and as such, late evenings are the best time to visit.

Located at one of the ends of the city, the garden is free from outside noise. There are no entrance fees, and there is a solitary lavatory & drinking water establishment inside. A small nursery is available in the park, selling some plant species. One might also consider visiting Kamla Nehru Park, which is a road asunder. The tranquillity is quite worth it to spend some time here. However, a booming garden in a better state than now would make it definitely worth a visit.

Overall, the park, given the above, looks like a work in progress despite being fully operational. The park is open...