Located on the outskirts of Mumbai, Thane, fondly known as the “City of Lakes,” is renowned for its lush parks, charming lakes, and flawless fusion of contemporary architecture with the natural world. Increasing urbanisation in the region has attracted tourists and real estate developers, who have invested in creating a residential haven with lots of green space, good connectivity, and various recreational activities.
Whether you are a family looking for adventure, a couple seeking peaceful gateways to spend some quality time, or a group of friends in search of thrilling activities, Thane has something to offer everyone.
In this blog, we’ll explore some amazing places to visit in Thane and examine how its real estate market supports and enhances this vibrant way of life. But first, let’s cover a few interesting facts about the Thane district.
About Thane District
Situated in the western part of the Indian state of Maharashtra, Thane spans an area of more than 147 square kilometres. With a rich history that dates back to the 13th century, Thane has seen British, Portuguese, and Maratha rule.
In addition to the stunning lakes, Thane is a great place for trekking because it is surrounded by the Sahyadri Hills. It is also home to several gardens, resorts, and forts. Boat rides on the lakes are another option.
Besides being a popular tourist place, the district serves a variety of delectable traditional street delicacies, such as Pav Bhaji and Bhajiyas. Now, let’s explore some of the best places in Thane to visit with friends and family and romantic settings for couples.
Best Places to Visit in Thane
Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary
For those who enjoy observing birds, Thane Creek Sanctuary is the ideal location. This sanctuary, surrounded by mangrove woods, is home to a variety of bird species. It’s hard to look away from these birds since they add so much colour to the entire area, with the pink-coloured flamingos as its main attraction.
The sanctuary is a great spot to unwind and escape from the city’s bustle. It’s especially worth visiting in April when the flamingos migrate here. In addition to enjoying the views of these magnificent birds, you can enjoy refreshments, take a cool stroll through the outdoors, and take pictures of the lovely birds.
Location: Mangrove Forest, Coastal Marine Biodiversity Center, Airoli Creek, Diva Nagar Road, Thane, Maharashtra—400708
Time to Visit: 09:00 AM–06:00 PM
Entry Fee:
For Adults: INR 50 per person
For Children: INR 25 per person
Elvis Butterfly Garden
The Elvis Butterfly Garden, one of Thane’s most popular tourist places, is a habitat for more than 132 different species of vibrant butterflies. This outdoor butterfly garden provides a singularly educational experience for guests of all ages.
The garden’s owner gives each visitor a tour of the garden while describing the different stages of the butterfly’s development. In their natural environments, visitors can also see all the butterflies at various stages, including larvae, pupae, caterpillars, and finally, butterflies.
Location: Ward No. 1, Village Road, Gowniwada, Owale, Thane, Maharashtra – 400615
Time to Visit: 08:00 AM–12:00 PM (open only on Sundays)
Entry Fee:
For Adults: INR 100 per person
For Children: INR 50 per person
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
With over 40 mammal species, 254 bird species, 150 butterfly species, and 78 reptile and amphibian species, Sanjay Gandhi National Park covers 103 sq km and is actually around 20% of Mumbai’s total geographical area.
Apart from animal species, it also habitats more than 1,300 plant species. At the park‘s exit gate, there is a gift shop with artefacts, coffee table books about SGNP Biodiversity, clothing and trekking equipment, literature about Maharashtra’s tribes, organic food, and forest fruit.
Location: Borivali East, Mumbai, Maharashtra—400066
Time to Visit: 09:00 AM–06:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee:
For Adults: INR 85 per person
For Children: INR 45 per person
Upvan Lake
Upvan Lake, an artificial but environmentally friendly lake in Thane, Maharashtra, was constructed in 1880 by the Thane Municipal Corporation. However, the lake’s beauty and serene, picturesque surroundings draw both locals and visitors. It is currently one of Thane’s most visited tourist destinations. Its surroundings make it the ideal location for a family picnic or a mental-reviving stroll in the evening.
Moreover, it features pleasant spots to sit and read a book under the trees, as well as running lanes for fitness aficionados. There is also a boating facility for those who want to see the lake and the surrounding flora.
Location: Pokhran Road No. 2, Thane West
Entry Fee: Free
Time to Visit: Open 24 hours
Talao Pali
Known for its natural beauty, Talao Pali, or Masunda Lake, is one of the most popular places to visit in Thane for water activities and relaxation, making it a favourite for locals and visitors alike.
Location: Shivaji Road, Thane West
Entry Fee: Free
Time to Visit: Open 24 hours
Ovalekarwadi Butterfly Garden
Ovalekar Wadi Butterfly Garden, home to more than 500 species of butterflies, is among Thane’s most picturesque tourist places. Colourful butterflies are trudging over the wide sky as the park is covered in cocoons, eggs, and larvae. You can learn a lot about these lovely critters and take great pictures in the verdant garden.
Location: Ovale Village, Thane West
Entry Fee: Rs. 100 for Adults, Rs. 50 for Children
Time to Visit: 8:00 AM–12:00 PM (Sundays only)
Shree Kopineshwar Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Shri Kopineshwar Temple is one of Maharashtra’s most recognised tourist destinations. At five feet tall, it houses one of Maharashtra’s largest statues of Lord Shiva.
The monument’s gate, an architectural wonder in itself, welcomes the pilgrims with a massive sculpture of Shiva’s bull, Nandi. Devotees particularly like the temple during Mahashivratri, which it commemorates with great fanfare and grandeur.
Location: Jambli Naka, Thane West, Thane, Maharashtra—400601
Entry Fee: Free
Time to Visit: 6:00 AM–9:00 PM
Yeoor Hills
The Yeoor Hills, one of Thane’s top destinations for those seeking a brief escape from the bustling metropolis, provide the ideal retreat in the middle of nature. The Yeoor Hills are a perfect place for a picnic because they are teeming with native plants and animals.
Numerous small tribal communities can also be found here, providing a wealth of sightseeing options. A popular location for trekking and cycling vacations on its lengthy and winding routes, it is one of the most amazing places for couples in Thane.
The area is made even more charming by the numerous streams and waterfalls that can be found here. If you’re fortunate, you may also see some wildlife here, including vipers, cobras, and leopards.
Location: Yeoor Hills, Thane West
Entry Fee: Free
Time to Visit: Open 24 hours
Suraj Water Park
Suraj Water Park is one of Thane’s best entertainment destinations, spanning 11 acres. Thanks to its pools and slides of all sizes and heights, all family members will be active all day. The park has a number of thrilling slides for adventurers, and the wave pool is a great place for leisurely people to spend a day.
Additionally, the Water Park features a rain dance space that is fully furnished with a DJ spinning hip-hop music. Locker facilities and rental systems are also available at the facility.
Location: Dongripada, Thane West, Thane, Maharashtra—400615
Entry Fee:
For Adults: INR 800 per person
For Children: INR 650 per person
Time to Visit: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Vardhaman Fantasy Park
One of Thane’s newest attractions is Vardhaman Fantasy Amusement Park. Inspired by Disney World, this amusement park has seven different zones: Wonders of the World, Texas Cowboy, Greek Village, Colo Theatrum, Viva Las Vegas, Lake Venetia, and Spanish cuisine. Along with rides that promise to keep kids and adults active all day long, the amusement park also features an inclusive food court.
Location: Shivar Garden, Mira Road East, Mira Bhayandar, Maharashtra—401107
Entry Fee: INR 2
Time to Visit: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM
Bottom Line
With its charming lakes, beautiful parks, historical landmarks, and a wide variety of activities, Thane genuinely provides a well-rounded lifestyle for anyone, whether you’re a family seeking adventure, a group of friends eager to have fun, or a couple seeking quiet getaways. Its prime position on Mumbai’s outskirts offers the ideal balance of urban and natural experiences, making it a popular choice for both tourists and prospective residents.
With a lot to offer in terms of location and lifestyle, Thane is quickly rising to the top of Mumbai’s real estate market, drawing in both visitors and real estate investors. If you’re looking to make your home at Mira Road, Thane, AsmitA India Realty offers an excellent range of housing options, including the AsmitA Grand Maison.
Spanning 1.36 acres, this project features thoughtfully designed 1 BHK and 2 BHK apartments and includes resident-centric amenities such as a gym, swimming pool, tennis and basketball courts, a children’s play area, a gated community with 24/7 security, and more. Enjoy a truly elevated lifestyle with AsmitA Grand Maison!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Thane so renowned?
Thane is celebrated for its lakes, scenic landscapes, and delightful street food.
When is the ideal time of year to travel to Thane?
October to March is ideal for sightseeing in Thane, with mild temperatures and pleasant weather.
Which beaches in Thane are the most well-known to visit?
Several beaches in Thane are worth visiting, including Malgund Beach, Aksa Beach, and Kelva Beach.
What are the best tourist places to visit near Thane?
The best places to visit near Thane include Mumbai (19 km), Matheran (40 km), Lonavala (68 km), Alibag (63 km), and Manori (19 km).