Khar Danda, Mumbai

Khar Danda, nestled in the dynamic city of Mumbai, stands as a testament to the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the region. As a part of Khar, an affluent suburb of Mumbai, Khar Danda is strategically positioned north of Bandra and south of Santacruz. This area was originally one of the villages that constituted the larger Bandra. The suburb of Khar itself is bifurcated into Khar West and Khar East, providing a diverse range of living experiences. The Khar Road railway station, part of the extensive Mumbai Suburban Railway network, serves the area, ensuring seamless connectivity to the rest of the city.

The name 'Khar' is derived from the Marathi word 'Khāra,' which translates to 'salty'. This nomenclature harks back to the historical salt pans near the Khar Danda seashore, where salt farming was a prevalent local practice for centuries. The area is also home to the historic fishing village of Khar Danda, one of Mumbai's oldest settlements. 

Khar Danda, known for its tranquillity, offers a stark contrast to the often frenetic pace of Mumbai. Its rich heritage is still evident in the community's lifestyle, predominantly in its fishing business and picturesque natural harbour, which attracts the film industry for beachside shoots.

Khar Danda is well-connected through various modes of transportation. While it primarily relies on the Santa Cruz railway station, the area is efficiently linked by roads, facilitating easy travel to other parts of Mumbai. This connectivity adds to its allure as a convenient and desirable place to work.

What’s Good v/s What Can Be Better

Physical Infrastructure and Livability Index 

Mumbai’s Khar Danda is a residential area that offers a diverse mix of housing units for all interested buyers. The locality boasts a range of amenities, including schools, restaurants, parks and shopping centres. The area caters to all its residents’ needs. The locality's strong infrastructure and the convenience of living make it a preferred choice for many. 

In terms of connectivity, Khar Danda is well-linked not only by the Mumbai Suburban Railway network but also through an extensive road network. The Santa Cruz railway station, in particular, plays a pivotal role in connecting the rest of Mumbai. This easy accessibility is a key factor in the locality's appeal as a residential and commercial hub. Khar Danda also prioritises healthcare, with facilities like Hinduja Healthcare Surgical, Mahavir Hospital, Ram Krishna Mission Hospital, and Beams Hospital. These medical centres ensure the health needs of the community are well taken care of.

The enhancements in Khar Danda along with its vibrant social environment contribute to a significantly high livability index in the area. The locality's rich cultural diversity coupled with a hospitable community and well-kept neighbourhoods guarantees a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle for its residents.

Social Infrastructure - Restaurants

Khar Danda is a gastronomic paradise, providing its residents with a diverse range of dining options. From authentic Bengali tastes to contemporary and global culinary delights, the area's well-loved restaurants contribute to a lively social atmosphere.

• Poco Loco Tapas and Bar

• The Soul Food Co

• The Korner House

• Real Zaika Restaurant

• Sushi Koi

• Kiki & Pastor

• Tawa hOUSE

• Biryani By Kilo

Banks/ Metro Stations/ Airport/ Bus Terminal/ Railway Stations/ Parks

Banks & ATMs

• Citizen Credit Co-Operative Bank Ltd. 

• Canara Bank

• Punjab National Bank

• Yes Bank

• Axis Bank ATM

• HDFC Bank ATM

• ICICI Bank ATM

• Punjab & Sind Bank ATM

Metro & Railway Stations

• VIVO DN Nagar (Versova Andheri Ghatkopar Corridor) Metro Station

• Andheri West (Yellow Line) Metro Station

• Western Railway Station - Khar

• Proposed Santacruz Station

Bus Terminals

• Khar Danda Bus Stand

• Santacruz Bus Stand

• Juhu Beach Bus Stand

• Bandra Bus Station

Airport

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj international Airport

Public Parks

• Jogger’s Park

• Union Park

• Foman Nagar Ground

• Madhu Park

• Shri Sunil Dutt Park

• Almeida Park

Popular Roads in Khar Danda, Mumbai

Khar Danda has a robust road network that makes accessibility to and from the locality easier. Some of the most important roads are: 

Khar Danda Road

This is one of the major arterial roads in Khar Danda, connecting it to other suburbs and finally merging into the Western Express Highway. It is one of the main expansive roads across the locality. 

Danda Coastal Road

The Danda Coastal road runs adjacent to the Western Ferry Line by the Arabian Sea. It links various lanes and bylanes, acting as a major link for inter-city travel. Other important regional roads are the Juhu Tara Road and the Dr. Ambedkar Road, adding to the network, among others. 

Western Express Highway

The closest major highway to the locality is the Western Express Highway. Although it does not pass through the locality, the highway is a crucial link, making access to other localities close to Khar Danda easier. 

Nearby Localities to Khar Danda

How Do People Rate Khar Danda

Khar Danda has been favourably received by its residents, earning an impressive average rating of 4 out of 5. This locality is celebrated for its unique blend of historical significance and modern amenities. The residents particularly appreciate the tranquillity and scenic beauty it offers amidst the bustling city of Mumbai. The proximity to essential services such as local markets, schools, and healthcare facilities is highly valued. Additionally, the excellent connectivity provided by both road and rail infrastructure is a significant advantage noted by the residents. The vibrant social scene, bolstered by a variety of dining and shopping experiences, adds to the appeal of Khar Danda.

However, like many urban areas, Khar Danda faces challenges typical of modern city living. Residents have expressed concerns over issues like traffic congestion and rising pollution levels, common in rapidly urbanising areas. Despite these concerns, Khar Danda remains a sought-after and well-regarded locality in Mumbai.

How to Visit Khar Danda

Accessibility across the locality is facilitated by a well-established road, rail and air system. Here are some routes which can be used to visit Khar Danda in Mumbai.

By Road

In addition to the Western Express Highway, the locality has a well-established network of roads, with the Danda-Coastal Road and Khar Danda Road running internally. Various buses run frequently across the locality and can be easily caught. 

By Rail

Visitors from neighbouring cities can access the locality by the Yellow and Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar Corridor metros. Additionally, people can use the local trains to commute from neighbouring localities to Khar Danda.

By Air

Khar Danda is conveniently located just 5 kilometres from the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, making it easily accessible for domestic and international travellers commuting to and from this locality.

Places to Visit Near Khar Danda

Situated along the coastline, this locality boasts a variety of tourist attractions and leisure destinations that are a must-visit. Here are some of the most renowned tourist spots in the vicinity.

Juhu Beach

Just 18 minutes away, Juhu Beach stands as a favourite destination among those residing in Khar Danda. Renowned for its golden sands and calming waves, it's an ideal location for relaxed walks, picturesque sunsets, and family outings. A short drive from the locality, Juhu Beach is lined with various food stalls serving local delicacies like bhel puri and pav bhaji. Beyond its culinary offerings, the beach is a hub for leisure activities, including horse riding, entertaining monkey shows, and the occasional cricket match. Visitors to this area can experience the vibrant yet serene atmosphere of the city in the lively Juhu Beach.

Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Mount

St. Mary's Basilica, or the Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount in Bandra, Mumbai, is a must-visit shrine with deep religious and historical significance. Known for the Nativity of St. Mary festival on September 8th and the vibrant Bandra Fest, the basilica attracts visitors of all faiths who come to make wishes at this revered site, believed to possess miraculous powers. Perched 80 metres above sea level, the basilica offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. With a rich history dating back to British-era Bombay and a statue of the Virgin Mary from the 16th century, the basilica symbolises harmony and dialogue among diverse communities in Mumbai.

Nehru Planetarium

The Nehru Planetarium in Mumbai is a must-visit for tourists, providing a unique blend of education and entertainment in astronomy. Established in 1990, it serves as a hub for scientific study and offers enjoyable learning experiences for visitors. The planetarium hosts discussions and lectures on stellar events, giving insights into the wonders of the universe. Located within the Nehru Center, it also features exhibition halls on the ground and second floors showcasing a variety of artistic talents, from renowned artists to students. With a focus on promoting young talent and hosting cultural events, including music programs and art exhibitions, the Nehru Planetarium and Center offer an enriching experience for those interested in science, arts, and the cosmos.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) in Mumbai is a fantastic place. It has history, beautiful nature, and lots of different plants and animals. Since 1969, it has been welcoming over 2 million visitors every year. The park is like the lungs of the city, making the air clean. There's a dense forest with 800 kinds of plants and even a few leopards. SGNP is a haven for endangered species, including 1,000 types of plants, 251 kinds of birds, 5,000 types of insects, and 40 types of mammals. It's a must-see for tourists who want to explore history and wildlife in the heart of Mumbai.

KidZania

Although located over an hour's drive away from the area, KidZania offers a delightful entertainment experience tailored for children. With over 100 role-playing activities, this unique getaway provides a platform for kids to learn and develop. The attraction features child-sized replicas of a real city complete with streets, buildings, and neighbourhoods. KidZania assigns roles such as police officers, doctors, pilots, and more, fostering a sense of responsibility and awareness in the young participants. 

Locality Comparison

Khar Danda in Mumbai is a unique place with a mix of history, calmness, and easy access. Compared to Khar Danda, Juhu is lively, with a famous beach and fancy homes, attracting celebrities and wealthy residents. Versova has a lively fishing community, adding cultural richness. But with easy accessibility and comfortable proximity to all lifestyle amenities, Khar Danda is easily one of the most favourable localities for potential homeowners.  

Key Takeaways

Khar Danda offers an ideal environment for residents, boasting a blend of evolving physical infrastructure and a vibrant social scene that contribute to the area's well-rounded appeal. This locality stands out in the bustling city of Mumbai thanks to its unique cultural heritage, modern urban conveniences, and efficient connectivity. It is particularly appealing to high-income families seeking contemporary living standards, as it provides a harmonious mix of tradition and modernity in one of Mumbai's most dynamic suburbs.