What is arguably the last remaining virgin islands of greater Mumbai, possibly owes its accidental preservation or lack of “development” to poor connectivity to the heart of the metropolis. Ironically, this isolation presents a unique and powerful opportunity for encouraging recreation and tourism. This first prize winning International Tourism Destination development plan for Manori-Gorai-Uttan are was based on a simple 3-step mantra: Preserve! Invigorate! Integrate!

This 42 sq. km. plan preserves the natural, the built & the cultural assets of the area. These include, 19 sq.km of wetlands, over 234 different tree species and 16 types of mangroves along with sand dune vegetation; historical buildings that stand testimony to the original Koli fishing villages to the Parishes the Portuguese colonists built; and local Koli culture and annual cultural events that have attracted people from afar for centuries.

The plan leverages the existing assets and invigorates it by introducing compatible land uses to create the critical mass & mix required to make a world-class tourist destination. The plan provides for a rich variety of experience to the visitor including, Nature exploration, beaches, resorts, cultural & religious destinations, amusement parks, sports, edutainment, museums, retail, entertainment, and resort style living.

As part of the third and final step of the mantra, the plan seamlessly integrates all of the above with a multi-modal transit connectivity within and to the city of Mumbai. The plan encourages live-work & sustainable design.