Mumbai • Park
Aarey Milk Colony
Aarey Colony (now Aarey Milk Colony Forest) is a 1,287-hectare green zone in Goregaon East, combining dairy farmland, forest cover, and tribal hamlets that form Mumbai's last large rural landscape. Its biodiversity includes leopards, langurs, and over 80 butterfly species.
Overview
Aarey Colony (now Aarey Milk Colony Forest) is a 1,287-hectare green zone in Goregaon East, combining dairy farmland, forest cover, and tribal hamlets that form Mumbai's last large rural landscape. Its biodiversity includes leopards, langurs, and over 80 butterfly species.
Highlights
- Leopard Safari: While sightings aren't guaranteed, Aarey is part of Mumbai's famous leopard corridor.
- Chhota Kashmir: A small lake and garden popular for morning walks.
- Tribal Hamlets: Several Warli tribal villages are accessible via forest paths.
History
Established in 1951 as a government milk-production colony, Aarey evolved into a de facto forest reserve. It became the centre of a major environmental controversy in 2019 when Metro construction threatened to fell hundreds of trees, sparking nationwide protests.
Visitor Tips
- Early mornings: Best for wildlife sightings and bird watching.
- Don't wander off marked paths: Leopards are genuinely present.
- Duration: 1.5–2 hours.