Description
About the birding site:
Haji Malang, also known as Shri Malanggad, is a haven for birdwatchers. It is considered to be one of the last remaining habitats for grassland species in the Mumbai Metropolitan region. The area includes small hills, farmlands, grasslands, shrubs, river banks, and open woodlands.
As a result of its diverse habitats, this area is home to 220 species of birds that can be seen throughout the year. After the monsoon season, the place is teeming with passage migrant birds such as the European Roller, Eurasian Cuckoo, Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, and Painted Francolin. It is also one of the few places around Mumbai where you can spot raptors (birds of prey), such as the Eastern Imperial Eagle, Steppe Eagle, GSE, ISE, Indian Eagle-owl, and harriers, which are abundantly found here during winters. This is thanks to the presence of farmlands that harbour a significant population of mice and snakes, and the poultry waste from nearby poultry farms.
What to Expect?
Raptors like Indian and Greater Spotted Eagles, Steppe Eagle, Eastern Imperial Eagle, Peregrine and Laggar Falcons, Montague and Pallid Harrier, Black-winged Kite, etc, Grassland birds like Red Headed Bunting & Black Headed Buntings, Baya Weavers, Tricoloured and Red Munias, and Grasshopper Warblers. During late September and October, birds like the Painted Francolin, Pied Cuckoo, Cinnamon Bittern, European Roller, Eurasian Cuckoo, and cheeked Bee Eaters.
What is the plan? 11 January 2026
- Meet Jungle Buddies Expert Mr Milind Ganatra at Morvica Sarees shop just outside Dombivli Station, East Side – Kalyan End footover bridge at 6.30 AM.
- We will drive to Haji Malang hills in a private Ertiga vehicle.
- Birding across the Haji Malang Hills till 11 AM.
- End the tour with a group picture and happy memories with Jungle Buddies.
- Drop back to Dombivli Railway Station.
PS – This tour requires participants to walk in uneven terrain, but hiking or trekking is not involved.
Pricing: INR 1700/-
Group Size: 5 Participants + 1 Leader
Price Includes:
- Jungle Buddies Expertise
- Traditional Breakfast
- Non-AC car transfers from Dombivli to Haji Malang & back to Dombivli
Nearest railway station: Dombivli Station (Central Line)
The suggested travel mode to Malang would be a local train that reaches Dombivli station by 6.30 AM (Central Line – Central Railways), both fast and slow train works.
How to Register: Click on Join Our Tours tab on 4 January 2026 – Sunday by 9 PM
