The Butterfly Gardens in Thane, including the Ovalekar Wadi Butterfly Garden and Elvis Butterfly Garden, offer a vibrant escape into nature, where visitors can witness hundreds of butterfly species in their natural habitats and gain educational insights on their life cycles.
Overview & Location
Thane’s butterfly gardens are nestled in Ovala Village and Gowniwada, on the city’s outskirts. These open-air parks are celebrated for hosting over 130 species of butterflies, such as the Gaudy Baron, Striped Tiger, Bluebottle, Commander, and the exotic Crimson Rose.
Attractions & Activities
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Guided Walks: Experts and garden hosts explain the butterfly life-cycle, enabling visitors to spot eggs, larvae, pupae, and adult butterflies in dedicated observation areas.
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Photography: The gardens are a paradise for photographers, providing countless opportunities to capture close-ups of butterflies and vibrant flora.
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Educational Experience: Informational boards and interactive sessions with guides make it ideal for families and children seeking to learn about nature.
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Relaxing Outdoors: Stroll among over 80 nectar and host plants, observing butterflies’ interactions in a peaceful setting with plenty of shade.
Timings, Entry & Tips
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Ovalekar Wadi Butterfly Garden:
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Open only on Sundays, 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM; plan to arrive early.
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Entry Fee: ₹100 per person; simple facilities, best suited for nature enthusiasts.
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Elvis Butterfly Garden:
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Open Sundays, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM; guided tours available.
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Entry Fee: ₹100 for adults, ₹50 for children.
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Carry water, wear comfortable full-sleeve clothing, and bring sun protection. These gardens do not have elaborate tourist infrastructure—come prepared for a simple, nature-focused experience.
Best Time to Visit
October to December and April to June are peak butterfly migration periods, providing the most colorful displays and an abundance of species to spot. Early mornings yield the best sightings and cooler temperatures.
How to Reach
Located around 10 km from Thane station, the gardens are accessible via auto, taxi, or local bus, with a short walk from the Ovala Gaon stop.
Who Should Visit?
Nature lovers, families, school groups, and anyone interested in ecology or photography will find Thane’s butterfly gardens an enriching weekend destination, perfect for connecting with nature and learning about local biodiversity.
Thane’s Butterfly Gardens stand out as peaceful havens in the city—inviting visitors to pause, observe, and marvel at the delicate beauty of hundreds of butterflies in a gentle, educational setting.
