Hilltop Haven

From a barren hill,Parsik Hills was developed by planting over 50,000 trees. In May last year,a 4,000-sq m garden,situated on top of a water reservoir,was constructed here and it gained popularity amongst locals. From couples to families coming in large SUVs,the view of the entire satellite city from the garden draws many. On weekends,people usually come in large numbers to watch the sunset. At a height of 72 metres above sea-level,the 8-metre- tall water tank is part of the Kalamboli-Digha water pipeline project that supplies potable water from Morbe dam to the city.

Parsik Hills is also a shelter for several kinds of birds and animals. Though there were a few clusters of residential buildings in the past,rapid commercialisation and real estate development have resulted in disapproval from many quarters. D N Chapke,secretary of Parsik Hills Walkers Association (PHWA) said,“This is a great place for trekkers and a valuable open space in close proximity to citizens. But we fear the fast paced selling of land to builders may destroy the sanctity of this place.”

One of the biggest attractions on the hill is a lotus-shaped temple,Bhagavat Dham,started by Swami B S Tirtha Maharaj,the founder acharya of the Gaudiya Vaishnava Association. The temple can be seen from the busy highway intersections below. Once you spot this landmark,you’ll know you have found a place to hang out. The temple is a beautiful structure,modern though,surrounded by gardens.

The hill offers two spectacular views; one is from Vashi to Belapur and the other from Belapur to Panvel. The view of Palm Beach Road with vehicles zooming along the open stretch can be interesting. One can track vehicles moving towards Belapur station,past Cidco Bhavan and Konkan Railway Headquarters,before changing route to move ahead. So if you are tired of spots like Khandala and Lonavla,a nearer and cheaper Parsik Hills can be the perfect rainy day getaway.