Van Rani’s Return to Sanjay Gandhi National Park Sparks Global Eco-Tourism Aspirations

The eagerly awaited revival of the Van Rani toy train in Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), located in the heart of Mumbai, is being hailed as far more than a nostalgic reopening. With its deep roots in heritage and a fresh vision aligned with modern sustainability goals, this reimagined ride is expected to become a model for eco-tourism innovation that could inspire cities worldwide.

As global tourists increasingly seek purposeful, green, and heritage-based experiences, Van Rani’s comeback has begun to symbolize the kind of travel that appeals to today’s values: meaningful engagement, environmental consciousness, and cultural preservation. The blending of these elements into a single ride reflects a new kind of tourism—one that goes beyond sightseeing to foster learning and reconnection with nature.

Experts believe that this initiative has the potential to influence how other urban parks and conservation areas present themselves to travelers—transforming local attractions into global case studies for post-pandemic tourism recovery.

Reviving a Cherished Legacy with a Vision for the Future

The Van Rani, affectionately referred to as the “Queen of the Jungle”, has been a beloved fixture in Mumbai since 1974. Over the decades, this miniature train carved out a unique place in the hearts of locals, becoming a must-do ride for children, school groups, and nature lovers. For generations, it served as a gentle journey through SGNP’s rich biodiversity, sparking joy and curiosity along its scenic route.

However, in 2021, the ride was suspended after Cyclone Tauktae caused significant damage to its tracks and supporting infrastructure. With safety risks looming, the once-popular attraction had to shut down indefinitely. Now, after four years, the train is making a triumphant return—completely refurbished, upgraded, and realigned with environmental learning and sustainable tourism values.

Redesigned Experience Focused on Wildlife and Learning

This new version of Van Rani is no longer just about a fun ride through greenery. The experience has been transformed into an educational adventure, offering riders detailed insights into SGNP’s flora and fauna. Informational panels aboard the train will introduce passengers to native species, conservation stories, and the significance of the park’s ecosystem.

As the train winds through the park, passengers will be treated to stunning views of the Deer Park, lush vegetation, and a route designed to showcase the area’s environmental diversity. This approach is expected to captivate not just children but also curious travelers of all ages seeking to combine leisure with learning.

In this form, the train becomes more than a memory from the past—it becomes a mobile classroom, designed to nurture a stronger appreciation for urban wilderness and environmental stewardship.

Major Overhaul of Route and Infrastructure

In preparation for Van Rani’s return, a full-scale upgrade of its infrastructure has been carried out. The entire 2.3-kilometer track has been completely rebuilt, including the reconstruction of all 15 bridges to ensure smoother, safer rides.

A brand-new train unit has arrived, and trial runs began on June 30, 2025, followed by a successful full-capacity trial on July 5. These tests mark a critical phase in confirming the train’s readiness for public relaunch.

Two of the ride’s major stations have also been modernized:

• Krishnagiri Station has been upgraded with new platforms, improved buildings, and accessibility ramps to accommodate passengers with different mobility needs.
• Teenmurthy Station has undergone platform redevelopment, and the new station shed is set for completion by July 25.

These updates emphasize safety, inclusivity, and user convenience, making the ride not just enjoyable, but also accessible and dependable for all.

A Fusion of Heritage and Environmental Responsibility

While the restoration of Van Rani evokes strong feelings of nostalgia, its redesign clearly reflects a commitment to eco-conscious practices. The Van Rani 2.0 is being positioned as a benchmark for sustainable tourism, where green values blend seamlessly with historical preservation.

By including educational elements, reducing its environmental footprint, and highlighting local biodiversity, the train seeks to raise awareness while also creating joyful experiences. This blend of emotion and mission could influence other urban green spaces looking to rejuvenate their image through sustainable heritage tourism.

Planners and stakeholders have shared hopes that this revival will spark similar transformations in parks and reserves, especially in urban areas where the demand for accessible nature experiences is growing rapidly.

Mumbai’s Green Marvel Ready to Welcome the World

Sanjay Gandhi National Park, covering 106.95 square kilometers, is one of the largest national parks within a city anywhere in the world. With final preparations underway, the park is gearing up for a wave of visitors upon the train’s expected reopening in late July 2025.

This launch is expected to have wide-reaching impacts:

• Local tourism will likely receive a significant boost, especially as families and schools resume travel routines.
• Eco-tour itineraries involving Mumbai could now include SGNP as a major highlight.
• Urban travelers, both domestic and international, may increasingly prioritize parks like SGNP when choosing destinations with green, meaningful activities.

As more people seek open-air, educational, and sustainable travel experiences, Van Rani’s revival is well-timed to tap into this evolving market. It could also provide inspiration to other metro cities seeking ways to reconnect residents and visitors with nature.

What’s New in the Van Rani Experience

• Track Revamp: Complete 2.3-km route rebuilt, with all 15 bridges reconstructed for safety and reliability.
• New Train in Service: Arrived and tested successfully in late June and early July 2025.
• Station Upgrades: Krishnagiri Station enhanced with accessibility features; Teenmurthy Station set to finish by July 25.
• Wildlife Panels: Educational displays added to boost environmental awareness.
• Opening Date: The ride is expected to reopen to the public by the end of July 2025.

The return of Van Rani is not just about reliving the past—it’s about creating a future where heritage meets sustainability, and where nature becomes an integral part of urban travel. As travelers become more conscious of how they explore the world, attractions like this one—revived, redesigned, and repurposed—could lead the charge in reshaping global tourism norms. This beloved ride through the wild heart of Mumbai now carries a message much bigger than itself: that connection, conservation, and curiosity can—and should—ride together.