These 7 Urban Forests Offer a Slice of Wilderness Inside Indian Cities

Srimoyee Chowdhury 15 July 2025

City life can feel loud and tiring. Yet, tucked within the noise are hidden green spaces where you can slow down, breathe easy, and truly feel alive. These urban forests are right in your city — waiting to welcome you back to yourself.t.

Credits Urbanshift

1. Sanjay Van, Delhi Tucked between Mehrauli and Vasant Kunj, this 443-acre forest is one of Delhi’s last wild lungs. Walk past peacocks, nilgai, and crumbling ruins as you breathe in cleaner air. It’s a top spot for birdwatchers and early risers looking to escape the city’s thrum.

Credits Blue Darwaza

2. Turahalli Forest, Bengaluru Just 20 km from the city centre, Turahalli is a dry, deciduous forest of rocky trails and sunlit glades. Loved by morning hikers and cyclists, its fig and eucalyptus trees draw parakeets, drongos and butterflies. A rare, untouched patch still open to all.

Credits Tripadvisor

3. Godrej Mangrove Forest, Mumbai Hidden in Vikhroli, this 1,750-acre mangrove forest quietly protects Mumbai from flooding and pollution. It shelters flamingos, herons and mudskippers — acting as the city’s natural filter. Access is limited, but occasional guided walks are offered by the Godrej team.

Credits Godrej Change

4. Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary, Kolkata Once a mango orchard, now a lush sanctuary of 150+ bird species, butterflies and shy reptiles. Locals call it ‘Kayaler Bagan’, a green retreat tucked into the city’s southern edge. It’s a favourite haunt of birders, artists and anyone craving stillness.

Credits Wikipedia

5. Vetal Hill Forest, Pune Pune’s highest hill, Vetal Tekdi, feels worlds away from city life. Walk through breezy grasslands and shaded trails, past a 400-year-old temple and views that stretch far beyond the skyline. A beloved spot for sunrise walks and solo unwinding.

Credits Thrillophilia

6. Kerwa Forest, Bhopal Nestled near Kerwa Dam, this forest is a quiet blend of water and woods. Expect rustling leaves, darting birds, and the occasional monkey swinging by. Ideal for short hikes or laid-back picnics, especially in the early mornings.

Credits  Flickr

7. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, Kochi In the middle of Kochi’s chaos lies this tiny mangrove haven. Often called the city’s green lungs, it’s home to migratory birds and silent walkers. A gentle reminder that even the smallest forests make a big difference.

Credits Tripadvisor

Why urban forests matter Urban forests aren’t just nice to have — they’re a lifeline. They cool cities, clean air, protect wildlife, and give us breathing room. In a busy world, they’re where we go to feel calm and connected.

Credits PTI