Urban jungle dwellers of Mumbai now have a chance to immerse themselves in nature, as Malabar Hill introduces an elevated micro-forest trail, weaving lush greenery into the city's urban landscape.
In the bustling city of Mumbai, India, a new architectural and ecological gem has emerged - the Malabar Hill Elevated Nature Trail. This innovative project, designed by IMK Architects, offers an elevated walkway through one of the city’s last remaining natural tropical forests[1].
History and Design
The trail, which took nearly four years to construct and opened in early 2025, was designed by Rahul Kadri, partner and principal at Mumbai practice IMK Architects[2][3]. The trail draws inspiration from Singapore’s famous Tree Top Walk and aims to create a simple, unobtrusive experience focused on enjoying the forest rather than adding extravagant features like glass-bottom observation decks. The maximum height of the walkway is about 5 meters to minimize disturbance to the forest floor and maintain harmony with the surrounding environment[1].
Flora, Fauna, and Experience
The walkway is enveloped by vibrant greenery with over 100 species of plants such as gulmohar, almond, jamun, and banyan trees[2]. It attracts various bird species including kingfishers, bulbuls, and parakeets, as well as reptiles like lizards and pythons, offering visitors a rich natural experience in the heart of the city[2]. The trail connects Kamala Nehru Park and Doongerwadi Woods, providing seamless access to green spaces for city dwellers[2].
Impact
Since its opening, the trail has generated increased public and governmental interest in conserving urban green spaces and emulating nature-led design projects elsewhere. The architects are already in the early stages of planning a similar elevated forest walkway in Pimpri-Chinchwad, another industrial city near Mumbai, indicating a trend toward urban ecological conservation and public engagement[1].
Managed by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the project cost around Rs 25 crore and features controlled visitor access with capping of 200 visitors per hour to prevent overcrowding and protect the environment[2][4].
Visitor Information
Visitors can book hour-long slots online via the official website or through WhatsApp bookings, a system updated to handle growing demand[4]. Opening hours are from 5 AM to 9 PM daily[2]. Entry fees are Rs 25 for Indian citizens and Rs 100 for foreign nationals[2]. Food is not allowed to avoid attracting monkeys, but water bottles are permitted[2]. Entry and exit points are located at Siri Road behind Kamala Nehru Park, making it accessible within the city[2].
In summary, the Malabar Hill Elevated Nature Trail is a thoughtfully designed timber walkway that enhances urban biodiversity awareness and conservation while providing a serene nature experience in Mumbai. Its success is fostering wider interest in similar projects, reflecting an innovative urban ecological and cultural impact[1][2][4].
Some visitors have expressed disappointment due to their expectation of more manmade features, but the trail's minimalistic design is intentional, focusing on preserving the natural environment. Despite this, the trail has been popular, with people traveling from other cities and architect groups visiting[5].
It's important to note that by the 1990s, the area was being used for liquor brewing and drug-consumption and had become a dumping ground for rubbish and construction waste. However, the local government department that owns the land sealed it off, and Kadri rediscovered the forest during the first Covid lockdown[6].
Due to high demand, booking a ticket in advance is necessary, as it's almost impossible to get a ticket at short notice. The trail's lighting is designed to not spill into the forest to minimize disturbance to nocturnal wildlife[7].
References: 1. The Hindu 2. The Indian Express 3. Mumbai Mirror 4. Malabar Hill Elevated Nature Trail 5. Architectural Digest 6. The Times of India 7. Mumbai Live
- As interest in sustainable living continues to grow, the Malabar Hill Elevated Nature Trail offers an excellent example of how environmental-science principles can be applied in home-and-garden projects, encouraging a more harmonious coexistence between cities and nature.
- To further minimize climate-change impacts, visitors are encouraged to opt for public transportation or carpooling when visiting the Malabar Hill Elevated Nature Trail, thereby reducing harmful emissions and promoting a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
- In aspiration of fostering a culture of urban ecological conservation and public engagement, committing to sustainable-living practices can extend beyond the home-and-garden sphere, with the Malabar Hill Elevated Nature Trail serving as a testament to this unique approach to integrating science, nature, and lifestyle.
