Essel World, Mumbai: A Nostalgic Journey Through India's Iconic Amusement Park
For over three decades,Essel World stood as a beacon of joy and excitement in Mumbai, captivating the hearts of millions. Located in Gorai, this sprawling amusement park, along with its aquatic counterpart, Water Kingdom, offered an unparalleled blend of thrill, relaxation, and entertainment. Though the park has been closed since April 2022, its legacy continues to evoke fond memories among visitors.
A Glimpse into the Past
Established in 1989, Essel World was among India's pioneering amusement parks. Spanning over 65 acres, it featured a diverse array of attractions catering to all age groups. From adrenaline-pumping rides to serene spots for relaxation, the park was a microcosm of fun and adventure.
Thrills and Chills: The Rides
Essel World was renowned for its eclectic mix of rides:
Family Rides: Attractions like the Zipper Dipper and Alibaba Adventure Maze provided wholesome fun for families.
Thrill Rides: For the daredevils, rides such as Shot-N-Drop, Top Spin, and the Zyclone rollercoaster offered heart-racing experiences.
Children's Rides: Young visitors delighted in rides like the Rio Grande Train and the Junior Go-Kart Arena, ensuring smiles all around.
Unique Attractions
Beyond the conventional rides, Essel World boasted several unique features:
Monsters in the Mist: Inaugurated in 2010, this 6,000 sq. ft. indoor dark ride took guests on a four-minute journey through misty terrains filled with animatronic creatures, offering a spine-chilling experience.
Arctic Circle: Mumbai's first-ever ice-skating rink, maintained at a constant 4°C, allowed visitors to glide on ice, a novelty in the city's tropical climate.
Riki’s Rocking Alley: A six-lane bowling alley complemented by an arcade and the Tandoori One restaurant, it was a hub for both gaming enthusiasts and food lovers.
Water Kingdom: The Aquatic Paradise
Adjacent to Essel World, Water Kingdom stood as Asia's largest water-themed park. Spanning over 30,000 sq. ft., it featured:The Lagoon: India's largest aqua play pool, perfect for families.
What-a-Coaster: A high-speed water slide for thrill-seekers.
Wetlantic: The world's largest wave pool, offering ocean-like waves in a controlled environment.
With lifeguards stationed at all pools and strict safety guidelines, Water Kingdom ensured a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Culinary Delights
Essel World catered to diverse palates with its array of eateries:
Happy Singh Da Dhaba: Serving authentic Punjabi cuisine.
La Mensa: An Italian eatery offering a range of pastas and pizzas.
Ohh Mumbai: A place to savor local Maharashtrian delicacies.
Tai Pan: Specializing in Chinese dishes.
These establishments ensured that visitors remained energized throughout their day of fun.
Entertainment Beyond Rides
Essel World was more than just rides and food:
Dance Floor: A glass dance floor with colored lights and high-definition audio played a mix of Bollywood and Western tracks, inviting visitors to dance their worries away.
Merchandise Stores: Shops selling Essel World-branded accessories, toys, and souvenirs allowed guests to take a piece of the park home.
Accessibility
Reaching Essel World was convenient:
By Road: Approximately 44 km from Mumbai Airport, a cab ride would take around 70 minutes via Mira-Bhayander.
By Train and Ferry: Alight at Borivali station, take an auto-rickshaw or bus to Gorai Creek, and then a ferry to the park.
Legacy and Closure
Despite its immense popularity, Essel World faced challenges over the years, including controversies related to land acquisition and environmental concerns. These issues culminated in its closure in April 2022.
However, the memories forged within its premises continue to live on in the hearts of countless visitors. Essel World wasn't just an amusement park; it was a cherished chapter in Mumbai's cultural tapestry.
Final Thoughts
Essel World remains an emblem of joy, adventure, and nostalgia. Its diverse attractions, commitment to safety, and dedication to providing unparalleled entertainment made it a beloved destination for generations. While its gates may be closed, the echoes of laughter and excitement continue to resonate, reminding us of the magic that once was.
