Known as the elder sister of Mumbai, Thane offers the perfect mix of nature, culture, and leisure. From serene lakes and vibrant bird sanctuaries to ancient temples, scenic parks, and family-friendly attractions, the city has something for every traveller.

Situated on the outskirts of Mumbai, Thane is a beautiful city offering a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored. It is fondly known as the ‘City of Lakes’ because it houses 33 small lakes within its boundaries, scattered throughout the city. With its natural beauty on one side and rapid industrial growth on the other, Thane has grown into one of India’s most well-balanced metropolitan cities.

Whether you are a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or just someone looking to explore a new city, Thane will not disappoint. So, if you are planning a trip to Mumbai’s neighbouring city, here is your guide to some of the top places to visit in Thane for an unforgettable experience:

8 Best Places to Visit in Thane

Be it the serene Masunda Lake and Upvan Lake, the vibrant shopping markets or the tranquil nature trails, Thane promises something for every traveller.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Thane:

• Upvan Lake
• Masunda Lake (Talao Pali)
• Yeoor Hills
• Ovalekar Wadi Butterfly Garden
• Tikuji-ni-Wadi
• Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary
• Vardhman Fantasy Park
• Kalibari Temple
• Kelwa Beach
• John the Baptist Church

Upvan Lake

Upvan Lake is an artificial, eco-friendly lake, built in 1880 by the Thane Municipal Corporation. Set in the backdrop of Yeeor Hills, the lake is known for its scenic view, making it one of the best places to explore in Thane. Travellers can go to the lake for picnics, strolls, or even boat rides. The lake also hosts the Sanskruti Arts Festival annually, a must-see for art and culture enthusiasts.

Location: Pokhran Road No. 2, Thane West

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 24 hours

Masunda Lake (Talao Pali)

Masunda Lake, also called Talao Pali by the locals, is one of the oldest and biggest lakes in Thane. With its charming atmosphere and scenic views, the lake is the perfect spot for an evening stroll or a night out with friends. One can also indulge in some mouthwatering street food at the small food joints situated around the lake, serving local lip-smacking snacks like Vada Pao, Missal Pao and Bhel Puri. The lake also has Balloon vendors and sweet candy stalls to keep the children entertained, making it an ideal spot for families with kids.

Location: Shivaji Road, Thane West

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 24 hours

Yeoor Hills

If you want to get away from the chaos of a metropolis, then Yeoor Hills are the perfect place to visit in Thane. The hills are a part of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park and are known for their flora and fauna and picturesque views. Locals and travellers often come here for trekking, bird watching, jogging, cycling, or simply to be amidst the serene nature. One can also visit the hills to witness much-endangered flora and fauna, including wildlife such as leopards, pythons, cobras, bamboo pit viper and other such species.

Location: Yeoor Hills, Thane West

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 24 hours

Ovalekar Wadi Butterfly Garden

If you are a wildlife enthusiast, then there is no better place to see in Thane than the Ovalekar Wadi Butterfly Garden. Situated in Ovale Village, Thane, the Ovalekar Wadi Butterfly Garden is home to over 500 species of butterflies. The garden also has 80 species of plants that serve the butterflies in the nectar and breeding process. The best time to visit the garden is from October to December and  April to June, which is when the butterflies migrate. One can see butterfly species, such as Swordtail, Bluebottle, Commander, Common Crow, Gaudy Baron, Striped Tiger, Crimson Rose, Monkey Puzzle and Grass Demon.

Location: Ovale Village, Thane West

Entry Fee: INR 100 (Adults), INR 50 (Children)

Timings: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Sundays only)

Tikuji-ni-Wadi

Tikuji-ni-Wadi is a popular amusement park and resort, situated on the outskirts of Thane. The park spans around 20 acres of land, offering a range of activities for families, including water rides, amusement rides, and lush green landscapes to roam around. Some popular rides, suitable for both children and adults, include spinning cups, Ferris wheels, and roller coasters. Besides these thrilling rides, the park also offers comfortable accommodation options, a well-maintained garden, and food courts serving delicious meals. Overall, if you are looking for a family-friendly spot away from the city’s noise, Tikuji-ni-Wadi is one of the best places to explore in Thane.

Location: Manpada, Thane West

Entry Fee: INR 750 (Adults), INR 650 (Children)

Timings: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary

If you love bird watching, then the Creek Flamingo Sanctuary is one of the best places to go near Thane. Home to thousands of flamingos and other migratory birds, the sanctuary remains one of Maharashtra’s lesser-explored gems. Travellers can take a tour around the creek on a boat ride while spotting many flamingos and birds like the Sandpiper, Egrets, Black-headed Ibis, Grey Heron, Plover, Whimbrel, Northern Shoveler, and more.

Location: Airoli, Navi Mumbai

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Vardhman Fantasy Park

Vardhman Fantasy Park is an amusement park, designed with an aim to create a world as close to fantasy as possible. The park features seven different zones, including Texas Cowboy, Greek Village, Colo Theatrum, Viva Las Vegas, Wonders of the World, Lake Venetia and Spanish food. Besides these entertainment zones, the park has a massive food court and a range of thrilling rides for both adults and kids. Overall, visiting the Vardhman Fantasy Park is among the best things to do near Thane for adults and children alike.

Location: Mira Bhayandar Road, Mira Road East

Entry Fee: INR 20

Timings: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Weekdays), 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Weekends)

Kalibari Temple

Kalibari temple is a pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Kali, a deity belonging to the Hindu religion. The architecture of the temple resembles that of ancient temples in Orissa, featuring the exquisite black statue of Goddess Kali in the centre. The idol is adorned with bright, colourful lights and fragrant flower garlands, leaving anyone who gazes upon it in awe. So, if you are seeking a place of spirituality, peace and serenity, the Kalibari temple is the perfect place to visit.

Location: Borivali West, Thane

Timings: 6:00 AM - 1:00 PM; 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Entry Fee: No entry fee

Kelwa Beach

Spanning over 8 kilometres, the Kelwa beach is among the best places to visit near Thane station for beach lovers. With pristine shoreline and mesmerising sunsets, the beach is the perfect spot for a relaxing day trip or a weekend escape. Travellers can spend their days basking in the sun and strolling along the vast sea.

Location: Kelwa, Thane District

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 24 hours

St. John the Baptist Church

Christianity has been an integral part of Than since the 16th century, and the St John the Baptist church is a living proof of it. Built over 500 years ago, the church is among the oldest in Thane. It is surrounded by the beautiful Masunda Lake, offering a picturesque view to the tourists. Whether you are a Christian or not, make sure to visit this century-old church at least once.

Location: Thane West

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Best Time to Visit Thane

The best time to visit Thane is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the average temperature hovers around 22 degrees. Generally, Thane experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, with most of its rainfall occurring in June and July. This makes winter the ideal season for sightseeing in Thane, offering comfortable conditions that are neither too hot nor too rainy.

 

However, if you can withstand the heat, Thane can also be visited during the summer season, spanning from April to June. You will find budget-friendly travel and fewer crowds, making it a great time to explore the city.

 

As we conclude our exploration of the best places to visit in Thane, it is clear that the city is brimming with a range of attractions and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local culture, Thane offers something for everyone. So, next time you plan a visit to Mumbai, don’t forget to add Thane to your Maharashtra tour package.

To make your trip even more special and enjoyable, consider exploring the range of India tour packages offered by Veena World. From accommodation and transportation to day-to-day itineraries, we will take care of everything.

FAQs

Q1. Why is Thane called the ‘City of Lakes’?

Because it’s dotted with scenic lakes like Upvan, Talao Pali, and Kachrali, which offer peaceful promenades, boating, cultural events, and great sunset spots.

Q2. What nature or outdoor experiences can I expect?

Thane borders the Yeoor Hills and Sanjay Gandhi National Park, making it ideal for short treks, birdwatching, monsoon green trails, and quiet forest escapes.

Q3. Are there any heritage or historical attractions?

Yes, sites like St. John the Baptist Church, old Portuguese-era remnants, and colonial lanes around Thane Station offer glimpses of its layered urban history.

Q4. What’s the food scene like?

Thane has a growing café culture, authentic Maharashtrian joints, seafood spots, and lively markets—Khau Gallis and lakeside eateries are especially popular.

Q5. Is Thane good for shopping and leisure?

Definitely, malls like Viviana and Korum, plus boutique stores and lakeside cultural festivals, make it a great place for relaxed urban exploring.