Maharashtra is a land of various miracles, breathtaking hill stations, and an expansive coastline. Whereas the traveller crowds into the Gateway of India, or the caves of Ajanta, there is a quiet, undiscovered world that awaits him.
Aquarium parks are distinctive in terms of education, relaxation, and adventure, and hence are ranked among the most ideal tourist destinations in Maharashtra. You can be an enthusiast in nature or an ordinary parent in need of an answer to the question of a fish aquarium park near me.
These hidden treasures offer a refreshing break from city life. A visit to these aquatic sanctuaries will make you observe the colourful biodiversity of our oceans and rivers directly in the centre of the state.
1. KSR Global Aquarium
KSR Global Aquarium stands out as India’s first “Fish Theme Park,” offering much more than just rows of glass tanks. This park is situated in the picturesque Sindhudurg district and is planned in the form of an immersive experience combining nature with adventure.
It boasts a huge array of exotic and marine fish, a special Bird Park, and a Butterfly Park that is about to be opened. Restaurant KSR Global Aquarium is strictly considered the pioneer in agro-tourism, whereby visitors get to experience it firsthand.
Fees
- Adults: ₹100
- Children (under 12): ₹50
- Fish Foot Massage: ₹30
Timing
- Open Every Day: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (even on Sundays and Public holidays).
Where it is located
- The village of Karawad, near Danoli, Sawantwadi, Sindhudurg District, Maharashtra.
How to reach
- Airport: The closest is the Mopa Airport (North Goa), which is within 1.5 km.
- By rail: Sawantwadi Road Railway Station is the nearest and biggest railhead, which is about 16.5 km away from the park.
- By bus: Sawantwadi is served by State transport buses and also by the private luxury buses. At Sawantwadi bus terminal, local taxi or rickshaw service can be availed at the expense of Danoli village.
What activities are available there to enjoy
Tourists are also able to enjoy the marine and freshwater aquarium tours, visit the Bird Park, which accommodates exotic animals such as Emus or engage in adventure games such as the Go-Karting, River Crossing, and Ziplining.
2. Taraporevala Aquarium
Introduction to Taraporevala Aquarium.
Taraporevala Aquarium is the first aquarium in India and a landmark on the coastline of Mumbai. It has undergone a complete renovation, and it currently has a 12 feet long, 180-degree acrylic glass tunnel where visitors can feel fully enclosed by the sea creatures. Having more than 400 species, such as moray eels, turtle and sharks,
Fees
- Adults: ₹60
- Children (3–12 years): ₹30
- Foreign Tourists: ₹200
Timing
- Tuesday-Sunday: 10: 00 AM to 8: 00 PM (Closed on Mondays).
Where it is located
- near Charni road station, Marine drive, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400002.
How to reach
- Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is approximately 22 km; by taxi using the Sea Link will cost 4560 minutes.
- By Rail: Charni Road Station (Western Line) is only a 5-minute walk. CST (Central) is 4 km away.
- By Metro: The closest directly ahead station is Vidhan Bhavan Metro Station, but in the meantime, local trains are the most effective ones.
- By Bus: There are various BEST buses that pass at the intersection of Marine Drive/ Charni Road.
What activities are available there to enjoy
The major one is the 180deg glass tunnel and the Touch Pool, in which children can freely play with harmless aquatic animals.
3. EsselWorld Fish Paradise
Fish Paradise is a contemporary aquatic show that transports the wonder of the ocean to the suburbs of Mumbai, located in the legendary EsselWorld complex. It has more than 2,500 fish in thematic areas.
Fees
- Regular Fee: 1000-1500 (seasonal and age-related).
Timing
- Open Daily: 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
Where it is located
- Gorai, Pagoda Road, Globe, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400092.
How to reach
- Railway Station: Go to Borivali Station (west) and hire a bus or auto-rickshaw to Gorai Creek and then take a short ferry ride to the park.
- By Air: The airport is about 40km away, and a taxi service is the most comfortable.
- By Bus: There are special BEST buses operating between the stations of Borivali and Malad and directly to the Gorai ferry point.
What activities are available there to enjoy
Besides fish-watching, there is the adjacent Bird Park, the Global Vipassana Pagoda, which visitors can enjoy.
4. Marine Aqua Zoo (Dadar)
Overview of Marine Aqua Zoo
Half-lost by the legendary Shivaji Park, the Marine Aqua Zoo is a boutique attraction that boasts a surprisingly large assortment of aquatic and reptilian life. It is a smaller aquarium but a smaller experience than the state-run aquariums. It is especially renowned for its exhibit of exotic turtles and freshwater fish.
Fees
- Entry Fee: ₹20 – ₹50 (Subject to change).
Timing
- Open Daily: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Where it is located
- 400028 Maharashtra, Dadar West, Mumbai, India, near Shivaji Park.
How to reach
- By Rail: Dadar Station (Central and Western) is only 1.5 km distant.
- By Metro: The Metro can now be approached by a short taxi ride at the Metro construction areas of Dadar.
- By Bus: Any bus that will take you to Shivaji Park or Dadar Chowpatty will put you within walking distance.
What activities are available there to enjoy
It also provides educational tours of the zoo, and during certain afternoons, it is possible to interact with some reptiles under supervision. It is a very nice place to take pictures.
5. Under Water Fish Tunnel Expo (Borivali)
Although commonly an Expo (seasonal or long-term), but not a permanent structure, the Underwater Fish Tunnel at Borivali has gone viral. It has a huge travelling tunnel, which resembles the experience of the luxury international aquariums. It is meant to be a travelling wonder, usually remaining in one place for several months to serve the suburban crowd.
Fees
- General Entry: ₹100 per person.
Timing
- Hours of Operation: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM (My hours can change depending on the time of the year).
Where it is located
- Borivali West, Ground No. 2, Kora Kendra opposite, Mumbai.
How to reach
- By Railway Station: Borivali Station (West) is approximately 2 km away; readily accessible through an auto-rickshaw.
- By Airport: 20 km along the Western express highway of the Mumbai Airport.
- By Bus: It will be convenient to take any bus that serves S.V. Road or Borivali West.
What activities are available there to enjoy
The 180-degree underwater walk is the major attraction. The food packs, toy stores, and small children’s rides carnival section.
Conclusion
Maharashtra is a land of water in which the standard sightseeing trails do not even begin to surface. The KSR Global Aquarium in Kesari, Maharashtra offers an innovative agro-tourism model, and the glass tunnels of the coastline of Mumbai are historic and give a lifeline to the undersea world.
It does not matter whether you are looking to have a quick weekend outing and want to have a fish aquarium park near me or whether you are visiting the state with a greater interest in the marine life and want to explore the best tourist places in Maharashtra, these secret gems have something to offer to everyone.
FAQ
- What are the most appropriate times to visit these aquarium parks?
The best months are during the post-monsoon season (October to March) because the greenery of the Amboli Ghats is at its best.
- Are photography and video permitted indoors?
Yes, although the majority of sites have an extra fee.
- Is pre-booking necessary for these visits?
In the case of destinations such as EsselWorld, online booking is advisable in order to save money. In the case of KSR Global and Taraporevala, there is a general option of buying tickets at the counter.
