The History Of The Hanging Gardens Of Mumbai In Minute

Green spaces in Mumbai are sparse. The situation is even worse in the historic and constantly developing South Mumbai. And so, Mumbaikars deeply cherish the few parks and gardens that grace the city. The Hanging Gardens on the western side of Malabar Hill have been a source of solace and wonder for locals and tourists for over a century.

Origins

The Gardens, also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens were first built in 1881. Designed by Ulhas Ghapokar, it is said to have been built over one of Bombay’s main water reservoir to protect it from getting polluted, particularly by the nearby towers of silence. It was primarily dedicated to Pherozeshah Mehta, a prominent Parsi political leader, activist and lawyer, whose contributions to the city led to him being named The Lion of Bombay. Indicative of his many accomplishments, Mehta served as the President of Bombay Municipality four times (1884, 1885, 1905 and 1911) and as the president of the Indian National Congress in 1890. The garden was renovated to its current state in 1921.

The Flower Clock

The Hanging Gardens spread out over a vast area that offers plenty of green space and trees amongst the heavily congested South Mumbai. Along with numerous hedges carved into the shapes of animals, the gardens feature a prominent flower clock at its very center. Another source of attraction for tourists is the ‘Old Woman’s Shoe’ or the ‘Boot House’ – a giant boot structure made out of stone and brick. Children can climb into the house. In addition, the spectacular view of the Arabian Sea offered by the gardens is its main highlight and tourists flock to the park during late evenings to take in one of the most beautiful sunset views in the city.

With plenty of space, and well-maintained pathways for yoga or jogging, the vast, lush, green garden is a popular spot for morning workouts as well. Its location right next to the Kamala Nehru Park, another favorite haunt of green-lovers in South Mumbai.

The Old Woman’s Shoe

One of the main attractions in the Hanging Gardens is the “Old Woman’s Shoe,” which is a giant shoe-shaped structure that children can play inside. It has become an iconic symbol of the gardens and is a popular spot for photography.

Why it was made

The Hanging Gardens were designed to be terraced gardens that slope down the hillside, hence the name “Hanging Gardens.” The terraced layout allows visitors to enjoy stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the city skyline. The gardens are known for their well-maintained lawns, vibrant flower beds, and numerous hedges that are carved into various animal shapes.

Modern Day Use

Over the years, the Hanging Gardens have remained a cherished place for locals and tourists alike to relax, enjoy nature, and appreciate the panoramic views of Mumbai. The gardens have undergone renovations and improvements to enhance the visitor experience while preserving their historical significance.

Malabar Hill, Mumbai

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.