A Slice of Paradise in the City: Discovering Chhota Kashmir
While Mumbai is often associated with its bustling crowds and high-rise buildings, there is a corner of the city that offers a surprisingly serene escape. Chhota Kashmir, located within the lush expanse of Aarey Milk Colony, is a picturesque retreat that has earned its name by offering a landscape reminiscent of the beautiful valleys of Kashmir.
1. Introduction & Location Overview
Chhota Kashmir is a peaceful park and lake situated in the heart of Aarey Milk Colony in Goregaon East, Mumbai. Known for its abundant greenery and tranquil atmosphere, it serves as a refreshing sanctuary from the city’s urban chaos.
It is conveniently located near the Western Express Highway and is nestled within a vast green zone that also houses a dairy farm. The area is divided into two main parts: a well-manicured garden on one side and a scenic 4-acre lake on the other.
2. Why This Place Is a Hidden Gem
What makes Chhota Kashmir a true hidden gem is its ability to transport you to a different world without leaving the suburbs. While many tourists flock to more famous landmarks, this spot remains a favorite for locals seeking a quiet place for picnics, romantic strolls, or nature photography. Its unique charm lies in its “mini-paradise” feel, where the only sounds you might hear are the chirping of birds and the gentle rustling of leaves.
3. History & Background of the Place
The surrounding Aarey Milk Colony was established in 1949 with the vision of revolutionizing the dairy sector in Mumbai. It was inaugurated in 1951 by India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.
Chhota Kashmir gained prominence over the decades as a popular filming location for Bollywood. In earlier years, when filming in actual Kashmir or Shimla was difficult, directors used this park as a stand-in for scenic hill station songs. Today, it remains a nostalgic site that reflects a greener, quieter era of the city.
4. What Makes This Place Special
- The Kashmir Connection: The park is designed to resemble the scenic landscapes of Kashmir, featuring vibrant flowerbeds and lush lawns.
- Aarey Lake (Kashmir Lake): This 4-acre lake is the only water body within the city limits where visitors can enjoy rowboats and paddleboats.
- Bollywood Legacy: Walking through the garden feels like stepping onto a vintage film set, given its history as a substitute for Himalayan locations.
- Birdwatcher’s Haven: The dense greenery attracts various species, including egrets, parrots, cuckoos, and sunbirds.
5. How to Reach This Hidden Gem
- By Local Train: The nearest railway station is Goregaon Station on the Western Line. From there, Chhota Kashmir is about 5 kilometers away and easily accessible by auto-rickshaw.
- By Road: It is well-connected via the Western Express Highway (WEH), the Jogeshwari-Vikhroli Link Road (JVLR), and the Marol Depot Road.
- By Bus: Several BEST buses ply between Goregaon and Aarey Colony.
- By Taxi/Cab: Major cab services like Ola and Uber can drop you directly at the Aarey Police Station, which is opposite the lake.
6. Entry Fees, Timings & Permissions
- Entry Fee: Access to the garden is approximately ₹20 per person.
- Boating Charges: A 30-minute boat ride costs around ₹20 per person.
- Timings: The garden is generally open daily from 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM. Boating facilities typically operate from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
- Permissions: There is a nominal fee (around ₹20) for using a camera within the park.
7. Best Time to Visit
- Winter (November to February): This is the ideal time as the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and walking.
- Monsoon (June to September): The entire Aarey Colony turns into a lush green paradise, though the lake area can be damp.
- Best Time of Day: Early mornings are perfect for birdwatching and avoiding crowds, while late afternoons offer a beautiful “golden hour” for photography.
8. Things to See at This Hidden Gem
- Lotus Pond: A serene part of the lake where beautiful lotuses bloom.
- The Garden Mount: The garden is situated on a small hillock, providing a gentle overlook of the surrounding forest area.
- Swan-Shaped Boats: The colorful, swan-themed paddleboats are a signature sight on the lake.
9. Things to Do Near This Hidden Gem
- Film City: Located just a short drive away, you can explore famous Bollywood sets and studios.
- Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP): Another massive green lung of the city located nearby for trekking and wildlife spotting.
- Aarey Picnic Point Pond: A smaller, quieter pond further down the road from Chhota Kashmir.
- Aarey Bhaskar Garden: A well-maintained spot nearby, popular with morning joggers and fitness enthusiasts.
10. Local Experience & Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Chhota Kashmir is one of quiet nostalgia. Unlike modern malls or crowded beaches, it feels like an “old-school” Mumbai picnic spot. You will find families sharing snacks on the lawns and couples enjoying a slow boat ride. It is a place that encourages you to slow down and enjoy simple pleasures like the fresh air and the sound of the water.
11. Safety Risks & Things to Be Careful About
- Wildlife: Since it is part of the Aarey forest, be mindful of the natural environment and avoid straying deep into thickets.
- Mosquitoes: As with any forest area, mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near the water.
- Slippery Ground: During the monsoon, the hilly paths and stone steps in the garden can become very slippery.
12. Safety Precautions
- Boating Safety: Always wear the provided life jackets and follow instructions from the boating staff.
- Supervise Children: Keep a close watch on children, particularly near the lake edge.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry your own water, as formal facilities inside the garden may be limited.
13. Things to Carry Before Visiting
- Water and Snacks: While there are vendors nearby, carrying your own water and a small picnic basket is recommended.
- Insect Repellent: Useful to ward off mosquitoes.
- Comfortable Footwear: Essential for walking the nature trails and getting in and out of boats.
- Camera: To capture the scenic landscapes and local birdlife.
14. Travel Tips (Local Secrets)
- Weekday Escape: Visit on a weekday or early morning to have the garden and lake almost entirely to yourself.
- The “Silent” Boat Ride: If you go early, the lake is incredibly still, offering the best reflection of the surrounding trees for photos.
- Nearby Dairy Booths: While in Aarey, don’t forget to visit a local dairy booth to try fresh Aarey milk or lassi—a quintessential local experience.
- Eco-Friendly Visit: Avoid carrying disposable plastic, as the area is a vital part of the city’s eco-sensitive zone.
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