Navi Mumbai, often referred to as the “Flamingo City,” becomes a haven for flamingos during the winter months. These elegant birds migrate from regions like Iran and Africa, making Navi Mumbai’s wetlands and mangroves their seasonal home. The peak season to witness these stunning creatures is between January and March, when their numbers are at their highest. As February 2025 marks the beginning of the flamingo season, it’s the perfect time for bird enthusiasts to explore and admire these magnificent birds in their natural habitat.
Here are some of the best spots in Navi Mumbai to catch a glimpse of flamingos:
1. TS Chanakya Wetlands & DPS Lake (Nerul):
- A popular bird-watching destination, this area attracts a large number of flamingos during the season.
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings (around 7:00 AM) or late afternoons (after 4:00 PM) from January to March.
- Directions: Located near the Indian Maritime University (TS Chanakya Campus) and Delhi Public School in Nerul. Take the Harbour Line to Nerul Railway Station and then a short auto-rickshaw ride to the wetlands.
2. Seawoods Flamingo Point (Seawoods, Nerul):
- Situated near Seawoods-Darave station, this spot offers a breathtaking view of flamingos in the wetlands. Boat rides are available for a closer experience.
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings during high tide between January and March.
- Directions: Exit Seawoods-Darave Railway Station on the east side and head towards the wetlands behind the station, near Seawoods Grand Central Mall.
3. Panje Wetlands (Uran):
- One of the most significant wetlands in the region, Panje is a hotspot for flamingos and other migratory birds.
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings during high tide from January to March.
- Directions: Drive via the Sion-Panvel Expressway towards Uran. From Uran, follow local directions to Panje Village, where the wetlands are located.
4. Talawe Wetlands (Nerul, near Seawoods):
- A serene location where flamingos gather in large flocks, ideal for photography and nature walks.
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons between January and March.
- Directions: Located near Palm Beach Road, behind the NRI Complex in Seawoods. A short auto-rickshaw ride from Seawoods-Darave Railway Station will take you there.
5. Airoli Flamingo Sanctuary (Thane Creek):
- Managed by the Maharashtra Mangrove Conservation Unit, this sanctuary offers boat safaris for an up-close view of flamingos.
- Best Time to Visit: November to April, with boat rides depending on high-tide timings.
- Directions: Accessible via the Eastern Express Highway. The sanctuary is near the Airoli Bridge. From Airoli Railway Station, take a short auto-rickshaw ride to the Coastal and Marine Biodiversity Centre.
6. Jewels of Navi Mumbai (Nerul, near Seawoods-Palm Beach Road):
- This urban lake and park provide a scenic and peaceful environment for birdwatching, making it a hidden gem for spotting flamingos in Navi Mumbai!
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) or late afternoons (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM) between January and April.
- Directions: Located near Nerul Sector 28, close to Palm Beach Road. Easily accessible by car, bike, or auto-rickshaw from Seawoods-Darave or Nerul Railway Station. Visitors can park near the entrance and walk towards the lake where flamingos gather.
Enjoy your bird-watching adventure in Navi Mumbai, and don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of these graceful flamingos!