Tulsi Lake

Tucked away within the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Tulsi Lake isn’t just a body of water. It’s a vital artery for Mumbai, the “Bollywood city of India”. Tulsi Lake, the second largest lake in Mumbai, quenches the thirst of the city’s southern reaches. It offers a tranquil escape, a breath of fresh air amidst the urban hustle. The lake, surrounded by lush greenery, is a haven for a variety of flora and fauna. It’s also home to the mugger crocodile, also known as the marsh crocodile. These freshwater crocodiles add a touch of the wild to this serene oasis. Tulsi Lake’s history intertwines with the city’s need for water. The idea to create this reservoir sparked in 1872. Construction finished in 1897, damming the Tasso River and linking it to Vihar Lake. This created a reservoir covering 1.35 square kilometers, with an average depth of 12 meters. It holds a staggering 2,294 million imperial gallons at full capacity. From this vast reserve, about 4 million imperial gallons flow daily to Mumbai, meeting a significant portion of the southern part’s water needs. Access to Tulsi Lake is restricted. Permission from the Sanjay Gandhi National Park authorities is a must before visiting. This is primarily for safety, due to the presence of crocodiles and other reptiles. It’s also a sanctuary for many migratory birds. While obtaining permission might require a bit of effort, it’s well worth it to experience this hidden gem.