Nagla Block – A less explored trail

Nagla Block – Monsoon Trail for Birding & Herping Near Mumbai

Nagla Block, tucked away at the northern edge of Sanjay Gandhi National Park beyond Vasai Creek, is one of Mumbai’s most biodiverse and lesser-known forest trails. Ideal for birdwatchers, herpetologists, and nature enthusiasts, this secluded sanctuary offers a unique mix of coastal mangroves and moist deciduous forest, making it a hotspot during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.

The Nagla Block trail is a gentle 2-km walk, accessible only with permission from SGNP and best explored with expert naturalists. The rich flora includes native trees like Terminalia, Ficus, and teak, along with seasonal wildflowers such as balsam, commelina, and smithia carpeting the trail in color.

This region is a dream for wildlife enthusiasts. Birdlife includes Black-hooded Orioles, Drongos, Grey Hornbills, Woodpeckers, and Flycatchers. Raptors like Shikras and Honey Buzzards are also spotted here. The herpetofauna is particularly diverse—with sightings of Green Vine Snakes, Brahminy Blind Snakes, Bush Frogs, and even Caecilians during wet spells.

Butterfly lovers will find an abundance of species including Blue Tiger, Common Jezebel, and various skippers and moths. With its tranquil environment and minimal footfall, Nagla Block offers a pristine, educational escape just outside the city.

Whether you're into macro photography, wildlife study, or simply looking for serene nature walks near Mumbai, Nagla Block is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored.

Type:                     Nature Trail

No of days:         01

Grade:                  Easy

Region:                Vasai Creek 
Range:                 SGNP

Trail time:            2 – 3Hrs

Meeting point: Nagla Block gate

• Entry fees for park
• Professional Wildlife Naturalist host of the experience
• GST 5%
• Complimentary pocket field guide 

• Any other transport from origin of participant to meeting point.
• Camera Fee
• Parking charges of their own vehicle 
• Tips to Naturalist
• Additional meals or services
• Any expense of personal nature
• Any other item specifically NOT mentioned in includes.

• A Hat
• Rainwear/Umbrella 
• Insect repellent 
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• A dust protection mask
• Personal Bottle (To avoid plastic use – 1LtrsX2)
• Small backpack (10Ltrs)
• Bird books
• Sun screen
• Only dull coloured clothes (Green, brown, Beige, Camouflage)
• Camera (At owners risk) with proper equipment for photography (As per need)
• Fleece/Jacket (temperatures drop in the forest to below 10 degree Celsius on safaris in winters)
• Binoculars
• Energy bars

• Wildlife safaris/Bird watching is a matter of luck and opportunity. No guarantee of any sighting is made. Neither of our associates will quote that, although we try our best to spot and show you as much as nature allows us to.
• Birdwatching is a hobby and not a race, hence request all birders to maintain discipline at all times.
• Bird watching is an art of silence and key observation.
• Avoid Pointing out directly to a bird that might flush the bird away.
• Avoid wearing bright colours and half pants. 
• Do not get too close to a bird for a photograph that you flush it away.
• Birdwatching should be enjoyed by binoculars and the fun is to spot them, identify them and if you still have some time with the bird photograph them.
• Never enter the forest with an intention of spotting a single species, it will only disappoint you. The forest is a gift packet with a lot to surprise with. Listen to our naturalist for more wonderful experience.
• Our walks are not target species specific (Unless specified)
• We explore everything we find uncommon and need to be explained.
• Any demand for spotting a single species in any jeep will not be entertained by the guide or the tour leader as there are other travellers who would want to see the birds etc.
• Respect & honour everything that is in the forest and it has to offer you.
• Enjoy being in the forest and you will feel much happier away from the concrete chaos.
• Respect the local, tribes, guards, guides, drivers, officers and all animals.
• Front seat of the Gypsy is always reserved for the Guide or Guard.
• No extra room will be made for photographers, respecting other travellers. (For photographers it is recommended to opt for higher options)
• No littering in the forest strictly. (what goes comes back the same way)
• Camera fees & guide tips to be paid separately & directly.
• Kindly follow the instructions given by the tour leader and the guide for your own safety.