The short answer
Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary: what visitors should know first
Go in winter or just after the monsoon for a quiet forest walk and the temple, starting early. Trails can be steep, and the monsoon brings leeches and slippery ground. Confirm entry rules with the forest office.
History and context
The story behind Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
The area was declared a wildlife sanctuary on 24 October 2003. It covers about 85.7 sq km and links the national park to the south with the Tansa sanctuary to the north.
Useful facts
Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary facts at a glance
- Location
- East of Vasai and Virar, Palghar district
- Area
- About 85.7 sq km
- Declared
- 24 October 2003
- Known for
- Forest trails, birds, butterflies, the Tungareshwar temple
- Managed by
- Maharashtra Forest Department
- Access
- East exit of Vasai Road station, then autos to the gate
Why it matters
Why Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is worth your time
Tungareshwar protects a rare block of forest in the Vasai-Virar belt, one of the most densely built parts of the Mumbai region. It acts as a corridor between Sanjay Gandhi National Park and the Tansa sanctuary, which matters for the wildlife that moves between them.
It is also a place of living worship. Heavy pilgrim footfall to the temple has disturbed wildlife, so visiting quietly and keeping to trails is part of treating it well. For birdwatchers and walkers in Vasai it is the nearest real forest, and a reminder that pilgrimage, wildlife and urban growth all share this one plateau. Visit lightly, carry out your waste and keep to the trails.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Tungareshwar temple
A Shiva shrine within the forest, reached by a trail.
- 02
Birds and butterflies
Over 250 bird and about 150 butterfly species recorded.
- 03
Forest corridor
Links Sanjay Gandhi National Park with Tansa.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Reach the main gate early, on the east side of Vasai Road station, where shared and private autos run. The sanctuary covers about 85.7 square km of forested plateau rising to roughly 665 m, and it forms a green corridor between Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary. Keep to marked paths.
Most visitors walk or ride to the Tungareshwar Mahadev temple, about 3 to 4 km from the gate. Take it slowly and expect crowds on festival days. If you want wildlife rather than worship, go on a quiet weekday morning. The sanctuary is home to over 250 bird species, 150 kinds of butterfly and about 36 species of reptiles and amphibians, along with grey langurs.
The summit treks are long, about 11 km from the base or 8 km from Parol, and should be done only with experience and local advice. For a gentle visit, the temple trail and the forest around the gate are enough.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Go early on weekdays
- Wear sturdy shoes and use insect repellent
- Carry water and snacks
- Do not feed or disturb wildlife
- Confirm fees and entry rules with the forest office
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- East of Vasai and Virar, Palghar district; reached from the east side of Vasai Road station
- Time needed
- Half a day
- Best time
- Winter and just after the monsoon, in the morning
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The route to the temple is partly a climb and is shared with devotees on busy days. Shade is good but seating is limited. The higher summit trails are steep and long and not recommended for older visitors.
- Tickets and access
- Entry is managed by the Maharashtra Forest Department. Fees, timings and any trek or permit rules are not published here; confirm with the forest office or at the gate. Seasonal restrictions may apply in the monsoon.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The route to the temple is partly a climb and is shared with devotees on busy days. Shade is good but seating is limited. The higher summit trails are steep and long and not recommended for older visitors.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How do I reach the sanctuary?
Take the Western line to Vasai Road, exit on the east side and use shared or private autos to the gate. It is also reachable by road along NH 48.
Is the temple inside the sanctuary?
Yes, the Tungareshwar temple is in the forest, about 3 to 4 km from the gate.
Can I trek to the summit?
Treks are long and steep; do them only with experience and local advice.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
