All About Soon-To-Be-Shut Mumbai's Hanging Gardens

The 136-year-old Hanging Gardens in Mumbai may be torn down due to a project to fix an old reservoir under Malabar Hill. As per reports, this project will take about 7 years and completely change the garden, including removing and transplanting about 350 trees nearby.

The decision to undertake the INR 698 crore plan for reconstructing the reservoir came after a structural audit in 2017, which showed that it was deteriorating and threatened the entire structure.

Officials said that the reservoir's fragile condition makes it impossible to consider partial demolition despite it currently holding 147 million litres of water. The reservoir has five chambers and is about 22,000 square meters big.

People living nearby are worried due to the ongoing removal and movement of trees. Reports further suggest that, of almost 400 trees, 189 might be taken down, and 200 will be transplanted. Some of these are old and special trees.

Mumbai faces a challenging decision–the need to modernise vital infrastructure while preserving the environment. A significant meeting with the city's leader is on the horizon to deliberate the way forward. This decision highlights the delicate balance between advancement and environmental conservation.

About The Hanging Gardens

The Hanging Gardens, also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, are located on Malabar Hill in Mumbai. They sit across from Kamala Nehru Park and offer beautiful sunset views of the Arabian Sea. These gardens have hedges cut into animal shapes, created in 1881 by Ulhas Ghapokar on top of Mumbai's main reservoir, possibly to protect the water from the nearby Towers of Silence.

Why Is It Called Hanging Gardens?

The Hanging Gardens got their name because they are terraced gardens built on a slope. This layout offers visitors scenic views of the Arabian Sea and the city skyline. These gardens are famous for their neat lawns, colourful flower beds, and hedges shaped like animals.

What To See

The Flower Clock

The Hanging Gardens cover a large area in bustling South Mumbai, providing ample greenery and trees. You'll find animal-shaped hedges and a notable flower clock at the centre of the gardens. 

The Old Woman's Shoe

Another highlight at the Hanging Gardens is the "Old Woman's Shoe," a giant shoe-shaped structure where kids can play. It's an iconic symbol of the gardens and a favourite spot for photos.

Besides, the Sundial Clock and fountains also make for a great spot to capture photos at the park.

Places To Visit Nearby

The surrounding area offers many attractions. Nearby, Kamala Nehru Park and the historic Banganga Tank attract with their ancient charm. Malabar Hill's upscale neighbourhood invites leisurely exploration, while the Walkeshwar and Babulnath Temple provide spiritual solace. Don't miss the Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum, a tribute to India's beloved leader. Girgaum Chowpatty and Marine Drive offer seaside delights.

Getting There

Travellers can take a train from the nearest railway stations, like Grant Road or Charni Road on the Western Line. Or else they can hire a taxi or take a bus to Malabar Hill. The Kamal Nehru Park is a crucial landmark to reach here, just opposite the garden.

Location: Ridge Road, Simla Nagar, Malabar Hill, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400006