About Joggers Park
Joggers Park is a roughly 4-acre seaside public park on Carter Road at Bandra West, Mumbai (indianexpress.com ). It’s an oval-shaped green space bordering the Arabian Sea on two sides, next to the Otters Club. The park was dreamed up and developed in 1990 by local sports coach and civic leader Oliver Andrade (fondly called “Sir”) on what was formerly a garbage dump (mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com ) (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ). Andrade secured funding from top Bandra builders and actors to transform the site into a beachfront jogging track and garden (mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com ) (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ). Today Joggers Park is maintained by the city (BMC) and volunteers, and draws about 1,500 visitors per day thanks to its clean, open design (mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com ) (indianexpress.com ). In fact, as of 2022 the BMC formally approved naming it “Sir Oliver Andrade Park” in honor of its founder (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ) (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ). Joggers Park is notable not only for exercise but also locally famous: it was one of Mumbai’s first gardens with a soft synthetic running track, and even hosted the city’s first laughter therapy club (indianexpress.com ) (indianexpress.com ). A plaque at the entrance reads “From Sir, With Love” in memory of Oliver Andrade’s work (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ) (indianexpress.com ). Its lawns, sunset-facing benches and seaside views make it a beloved green lung in the upscale Bandra neighbourhood, often cited by residents as a community landmark (indianexpress.com ) (indianexpress.com ).
Events and Activities
Joggers Park isn’t a formal event venue, but a lively community gathering spot. It’s busiest every morning and evening when athletes, joggers and walkers come to exercise on the 400-meter oval track (with both rubberized and mud sections) (mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com ) (indianexpress.com ). Locals regularly organize group runs, yoga sessions and family outings here. The park was the launch site for Mumbai’s first laughing club, a fun weekly meetup that still draws people (indianexpress.com ). Youth often socialize on the central lawn by the ornamental pond and bridge, and street musicians or impromptu fitness classes occasionally appear on weekends. Joggers Park even inspired a Bollywood film: the 2003 movie *Joggers Park* was set around a romantic spot at this garden, highlighting its reputation for friendships and love (mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com ) (indianexpress.com ). No commercial concerts or large ticketed events are held here – the focus is on fitness and relaxation. (Since entry is free, there are no formal ticket prices; visitors simply enter during opening hours.)
Admission and Hours
Entry to Joggers Park is free for everyone. (Previously there was a small ₹2 entry charge under the old trust, but when the BMC took over in 2017 it was abolished (mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com ).) The park is open daily in two shifts: early morning and late afternoon/evening. Reported opening hours span roughly 5:00–10:00 AM and 4:00–9:30 PM, closing during the afternoon for maintenance (www.knocksense.com ). In practice it opens around sunrise and stays open until about 9–9:30 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or around 5–7 PM, when it isn’t too hot and many people come for sunset views (www.knocksense.com ) (indianexpress.com ). Park maintenance staff close the gates outside these hours. While women’s restrooms were only added recently (and remain limited), everyone should plan accordingly. Visitors should note that the park is well-monitored and generally safe in daylight; personal belongings should be kept secure as it can get crowded during peak hours.
Layout and Facilities
Joggers Park is thoughtfully designed around fitness and leisure. The whole site is an oval laid out with multiple jogging tracks of different surfaces (indianexpress.com ) (mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com ): a soft mud path, a rubberized synthetic lane (one of the city’s first), a cobblestone loop and a concrete path for walkers (indianexpress.com ) (mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com ). At the entrance, a children’s playground on the left side has slides, swings, climbing frames and sponge flooring, making it very inviting for ages 2–7 (indianexpress.com ). On the right side there are a few scattered gym equipment pieces (though they are used less often). All walk and run lanes are clearly marked. The center of the park features open lawns, a landscaped pond with a small decorative bridge, and even a flock of ducks and geese that attract selfie-takers (indianexpress.com ). Wooden benches and single chairs line the outer ring of the park under the palms, with the best spots facing west so joggers can enjoy the sunset over the sea (indianexpress.com ). The park’s edges are planted with coconut trees and shrubs to buffer the sea breeze. A key recent addition (opened in 2022) is a 9,000 sq. ft. inclusive play area for children with disabilities, with 32 adaptive swings, hand-pedals and play boards (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ). Plans by the BMC have also included extra lighting along paths and improved fencing for safety (mumbaivotes.com ). Restrooms on site are basic: one block of toilets is just inside (though women note facilities remain minimal for a park this size). There is no on-site café or food stalls, so visitors usually bring water or walk out to nearby cafes after their exercise. A few small first-aid kits or emergency phone points may be available through the park staff, but guests should plan ahead as with any open public space.
Getting There and Parking
Joggers Park is located at Sangeet Samrat Naushad Ali Road (Carter Road), Bandra West (near the Otters Club). It’s easily reached by local transit: the nearest railway station is Bandra (on Mumbai’s Western Line), about 2–3 km away. From Bandra station or the Khar Road station (Harbour Line) one can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi down Carter Road. Several BEST buses also run to the area – for example, routes 220, 51, 56, C-86 and 211 have stops along Carter Road near the park (moovitapp.com ). Note that private vehicles must park outside the park. Until 2024 locals often stopped on the adjacent road for free, but the BMC has recently implemented an on-street pay-and-park scheme, charging fees for cars parked near the park (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ). The move was controversial: area residents (including local MLA Ashish Shelar) have protested, arguing that taxing park-goers is unfair (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ) (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ). In practice, anyone driving in should look for marked paid parking spots on Carter Road or nearby Link Road (fee rates are set by the city), and overflow parking may be found at nearby public lots or at Batliwala Market (a short walk to the south). In general, public transit is often more convenient. App-based cabs (Uber/Ola) drop off directly at the park gate, while shared rickshaws cannot enter the narrow Carter Road but will drop visitors a block away at Traffic Park on Turner Road.
Inside the Park
Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by a clean, green courtyard atmosphere. There are no security checkpoints or ticket booths, but park attendants may be present near the gate (they used to collect the ₹2 fee prior to 2017 (mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com )). Visitors typically lock down strollers or bikes at the concrete benches by the entrance (small cycles are sometimes seen, but official bike racks are not provided). The wide paths are smooth and even, making them good for walking or jogging – most people use running shoes. The ocean breeze keeps the air fresh. There are no vendors inside; impromptu sari vendors or roaming magicians sometimes appear on festival days, but otherwise it’s mostly park staff and visitors. A small open area near the pond is often occupied by children and youths playing, and the lawns see informal games of cricket or catch. The environment is family-friendly and relaxed. Coin-operated laundry does not exist – visitors should not expect heavy amenities. Restrooms on site are basic and public-museum style (one block). They are often cited as lacking, especially for women, so it’s wise to use a restroom beforehand (www.knocksense.com ). Water fountains (west-style stone ones) may be present but travelers often prefer to bring bottled water. Park rules prohibit alcohol and smoking, and trash bins are placed around – visitors are expected to keep it clean (www.knocksense.com ). As an open public space, there is no official coat check or locker service, and Wi-Fi is not provided (though mobile data works well here). There’s a small souvenir stand near the entrance on occasion (selling park stickers or snacks during big events), but no permanent gift shop. Overall, expect a casual outdoor atmosphere: a gated community park vibe with jogging track markings, plenty of seating, fresh landscaping, and a safe, social ambiance.
Nearby Amenities
While there are no restaurants inside, Joggers Park sits in one of Mumbai’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Just across Carter Road is the famous Candies Café – a beloved retro eatery – where many park-goers grab coffee or sandwiches after a workout (www.knocksense.com ). Other nearby dining spots include the kosher Pancake House *Elco*, the old‐school ice cream parlours (China Garden), and small cafes like Taki Soya around the corner. Hill Road and Linking Road (just a few minutes’ drive or 10-minute walk from the park) offer dozens of casual diners, bakeries and fast-food outlets if you want a fuller meal. For a sit-down meal or a drink, residents often walk up 200–300 meters to Pali Hill, where bars like *Stonehead* and eateries like *Rainbow Restaurant* are popular. Grocery stores and banks line the main roads, so basic supplies (water, snacks) are easy to find. If you’re staying overnight in Bandra, many hotels are within 2 km: the upscale Taj Lands End is up near Bandstand, while more budget guesthouses line Hill Road and Waterfield Road. Most visitors plan to arrive 15–30 minutes early to enjoy the ambience or a quick snack in bandra before a morning jog. After dark, Bandra West still has rickshaws and taxis running till about 10–11pm, but if you stay very late (past closing), note that METRO Line 2 (Santacruz–Bandra-Kurla complex) and the occasional off-hour train to Bandra can help you get home.
What Makes This Park Special
Joggers Park is unique among Mumbai’s urban green spaces for its seaside setting and grateful origin story. It was lovingly built by a teacher-cum-coach (Oliver Andrade) along with his former students, transforming a dump into a garden (mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com ) (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ). A commemorative plaque and now an entire naming proposal remember him – this backstory of community spirit is woven into the park’s identity (it’s often said “this park was made with love, from Sir” (indianexpress.com ) (timesofindia.indiatimes.com )). Architecturally, the multi-surface loop is rare; Joggers Park was only the second park in Mumbai to install a synthetic running track (indianexpress.com ). It also has historical claim to fame: Mumbai’s first “laughter club” started here in the early 2000s, long before the global laughter yoga trend (indianexpress.com ). Culturally, the park is a local icon – a Bollywood film was named and shot here, celebrating how strangers often meet while exercising. Its sunset-facing benches under coconut trees are legendary photo spots (seen across Bandra Harbour), offering views of the sea and the Worli Sea Link bridge. Locals also recount quirky tales – for example in 2021 a mysterious monolith sculpture appeared overnight in the park (part of a worldwide art trend to raise wildlife awareness) (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ). In short, Joggers Park is beloved not just as a place to run, but as a neighbourhood landmark whose character reflects Bandra’s community values, history of fitness and protest (the 2017 “Save Joggers Park” civic campaign is still remembered), and continuous public stewardship (mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com ) (indianexpress.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Joggers Park welcomes people of all ages and fitness levels, but there are a few pointers for a good visit. Arrive early in the morning (5–8am) for a crowd-free run and cooler air (www.knocksense.com ). Weekends see the highest footfall (1,000+ visitors by evening) so expect more people, especially families with kids, at those times (indianexpress.com ). Wear running shoes or rubber-soled walking shoes for comfort on the tracks, and bring a water bottle (carry it in or purchase outside – there are no vendors inside). Since the park closes midday (often 10am–4pm), plan either a morning or evening session. There’s no entry permit or membership, and gate attendants do not search bags, but for hygiene please dispose of litter properly (www.knocksense.com ). Do not bring prohibited items: smoking is banned inside, and eating is discouraged (keep the park clean) (www.knocksense.com ). Pack a towel or change of clothes if you plan to exercise heavily. The air is generally fresh but it can be humid or breezy by the water – dress in light layers. Although it’s well-lit after dusk, avoid high heels or open-toed shoes if running. Children should be supervised on the play equipment since the playground is unsupervised. For wheelchair or stroller access, the main paths are flat and there is an accessible play section (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ), but restroom access and some grass areas have steps or uneven ground. Mobile phone reception is good, so download maps before you arrive or use local ride-hailing apps to plan your route. Finally, note that service animals are not officially catered to in this park (a pet dog might not be allowed on the track), so it’s best to leave pets at home. The atmosphere at Joggers Park is generally casual – while some fitness buffs arrive in full athletic gear, others jog in streetwear – but modest sportswear is advisable. Overall, treat Joggers Park as a shared community space: follow posted rules, respect others’ space on the track, and leave with a good feeling of having enjoyed one of Mumbai’s friendliest fitness spots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entry fee or ticket required for Joggers Park?
No tickets are required. Joggers Park is free to enter. It used to charge a small ₹2 fee under private management, but when BMC took over maintenance in 2017 the fee was discontinued (mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com ). You can walk in at opening time without paying.
What are the opening hours of Joggers Park?
The park is open daily in the early morning and late evening. Reported hours are roughly around 5–10 AM and 3:30–9:30 PM (www.knocksense.com ), with a midday closure for maintenance. In practice it opens at sunrise and closes around dusk (about 9–10 PM), so plan your visit accordingly.
Where exactly is Joggers Park located, and how do I get there?
Joggers Park is on Carter Road (Sangeet Samrat Naushad Ali Road) in Bandra West, Maharashtra (near the Otters Club). The closest suburban train station is Bandra (Western Line). Several BEST bus routes (e.g. 220, 51, 56, C-86, 211) stop along Carter Road near the park (moovitapp.com ). Auto-rickshaws and taxis can drop off at the main gate. If driving, you must park on the street; note that BMC now charges for parking on Carter Road near the park (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ) (locals have protested this, as many used to park free in front of the park).
Are there seating or benches inside Joggers Park?
Yes. Wooden and concrete benches line the outer edges of the park, especially on the west side facing the sea. Many visitors claim these sunset-facing benches (under coconut trees) are the most coveted spots (indianexpress.com ). There are also a few single chairs scattered around and grassy lawns where people sit. However, most of the park is track space, so if you’re not running you may need to wait for a bench. There are no reserved “VIP” or paid seats; seating is on a first-come basis.
Is Joggers Park accessible for people with disabilities?
Joggers Park has wide flat pathways that are generally accessible to wheelchairs. In 2022, the park opened a 9,000 sq.ft. inclusive play area with wheelchair-accessible swings and ramps (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ). The main jogging and walking tracks are smooth enough for wheelchairs and strollers. However, note that there are few curb cuts leading to the lawn areas, and restroom facilities remain limited. Overall it is more accessible than many Mumbai parks, but may still present small obstacles (like steps) in some areas, so use caution.
Can I bring pets or eat food inside the park?
Pets are generally discouraged in Joggers Park, especially on the running track, to protect hygiene and other users (there are no dog facilities). As for food and drink, it is not allowed to eat or smoke inside the park to keep it clean (www.knocksense.com ). Carry a water bottle if needed (glass bottles should be avoided) and finish any snacks outside. The park has waste bins for drinking water bottles and wrappers; please use them.
Are there restrooms available at Joggers Park?
Yes, there are basic public restrooms inside the park near the main entrance. However, facilities have been limited (especially for women). Visitors have often reported only one block of toilets and no dedicated ladies’ restroom for many years (www.knocksense.com ). It’s a good idea to use a restroom before you arrive. Future upgrades or renovations may add more washrooms, but currently plan accordingly.
What is special or unique about Joggers Park?
Joggers Park’s seaside location and history make it special. It was hand-built by coach Oliver Andrade in 1990 from a former garbage dump, which is commemorated by a “From Sir, With Love” plaque (mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com ) (indianexpress.com ). It boasts one of Mumbai’s earliest rubberized running tracks (indianexpress.com ), and even hosted the city’s first laughter club sessions (indianexpress.com ). Bollywood also took notice – a romantic film called *Joggers Park* was set here. Bent on preserving its character, locals have organized to fight off unwanted makeovers (e.g. a proposed Zen-garden redesign in 2018 was halted). The park’s palm-lined outer ring offers stunning sunset views over Worli Sea Link (indianexpress.com ). All this community lore – from protest movements to art installations (like the viral 2021 monolith for wildlife) – contributes to Joggers Park’s unique charm (mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com ) (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ).
Is photography or filming allowed in Joggers Park?
Yes. Joggers Park is a public park, so personal photography or video is allowed (many people take photos of the sea and path). Professional filming or drone use may require permission from the BMC as with any public space, but casual photos are fine. If you plan to shoot a video or large group event, check with park attendants. Otherwise, there is no general ban on cameras – indeed the pond area sees many “selfie” shots (indianexpress.com ). Do be considerate and avoid blocking paths while taking pictures.
Are there any age restrictions or dress codes?
No age restrictions apply – families, children, seniors, and pregnant women all use the park freely. There is no formal dress code, but casual activewear or modest comfortable clothing is normal (some joggers wear sports gear, others walk in regular day clothes). Shoes must be worn on the tracks (no barefoot running). If you plan to exercise intensely, sports attire is advisable; otherwise regular relaxed clothing is acceptable as long as it does not disturb others.
How far is the park from Bandra station and is it safe at night?
Joggers Park is about 2–3 kilometers north of Bandra station. From the station you can hail an auto or cab (tell the driver “Carter Road near Otters Club”). After dark, the neighborhood is usually safe with regular traffic, and the park is well-lit after sunset. The park itself closes by about 9–9:30 PM, so you should exit by then. Always use normal city precautions when alone at night, but many locals do walk or jog into the evening without incidents.
Who manages and maintains Joggers Park?
Originally Joggers Park was managed by a private trust formed by Oliver Andrade and community members. In February 2017 the BMC (city municipal corporation) took over maintenance, promising to keep the same high upkeep standards (mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com ). Today it is operated as a public park by BMC engineers and gardeners, with input from local sports NGOs. Area citizens’ groups still help with cleanliness drives, but there is no membership required – it’s open to all residents and visitors at all times.
Is Joggers Park used for any fitness events or competitions?
As of now, Joggers Park itself does not formally host large organized races or competitions on its grounds. It is primarily a daily-use park. That said, local running clubs sometimes meet there for informal group runs, and yoga instructors may hold classes on the lawn under permit. Small charity walks or exercise flash mobs have occurred occasionally, but attendees continue to use the existing paths – no special stage or arena is built. If a community group wants to organize an event (like a charity fun run), they typically coordinate with the BMC ward office. For planning such an event you’d need a permit; otherwise anything spontaneous is on your own schedule with other park-goers.
Which band , "Sir Oliver Andrade Park?"
Joggers Park is often informally called “Sir Oliver Andrade Park” in honor of its founder. However, officially it is still known as Joggers Park (the formal renaming was approved by the city in 2022). You’ll see both names used locally. The key thing is that Andrade’s plaque (“From Sir, With Love”) is at the entrance, and the community refers to him affectionately for creating the park (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ) (indianexpress.com ).
